And, while it can also support additional physical channels, they come at an extra expense.
This year, the potentially tricky-to-remember model numbers have been replaced with a much simpler Bravia branding.
As with the HT-A5000, this latest model is a standalone Dolby Atmos soundbar.
(Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
Elsewhere there is Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth for streaming music.
Although as for true Dolby Atmos it does fall a little short of the competition.
The only question youll need to ask yourself is if youd rather opt for theSonosArc.
(Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
Setting up the Bravia Bar 8 is incredibly easy.
Once done, youll want to run a calibration to ensure the soundbar is optimized for your specific room.
Hi-Res audio is supported from compatible sources along with Sonys LDAC wireless codec.
The Bravia Theater Bar 8 nestles perfectly in front Sony’s own 65-inch Bravia 8 OLED TV.(Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
it’s possible for you to also stream songs mixed in Sonys own 360 Reality Audio viaAmazonMusic Unlimited.
Dialogue was notably impressive, however, coming through crystal clear even when the volume was turned up.
The engine growl from the Batmobile was lacking impact and the chase as a whole lacked excitement.
Optional feet can be attached to the Bravia Bar 8, so that it slides over the feet of 2024 Sony Bravia TVs.(Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
I also streamed music to the Bravia Bar 8 via AirPlay from my iPhone using Amazon Music Unlimited.
Put simply, songs streamed in the latter format sounded much better.
However, switching it to the default setting did yield a more natural-sounding performance.
There are just two HDMI 2.1 connections on the Sony Bravia Theater Bar 8 soundbar, one of which is reserved for an eARC connection.
It wasnt such good news when moving over to the 360 Reality Audio version of the same song.
Plus, it makes use of phantom speakers with the intention of creating a bubble of sound.
The Bravia Theater Bar 8 is pretty attractive by soundbar standards.
(Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
An HDMI rig shines white, for example, while Bluetooth is expectedly blue.
The Bar 8 does work via HDMI-CEC, allowing you to adjust the volume using your TVs remote control.
Should I buy the Sony Bravia Theater Bar 8?
(Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
Plus, it handles music more confidently.
Wireless rear speakers and a subwoofer are included in the box to deliver a sensational home cinema experience.
I also moved it to a much larger room and connected it to an LG G4.
A small LED is the only indicator for power and input.
I also streamed music via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to test music playback.
I played hi-res audio, Atmos and Sony 360 Reality Audio tracks via Amazon Music Unlimited andAppleMusic.
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