Sony Electronics Broadens Availability of 360 Spatial Sound Experience with Upgrade to HT-A7000 and HT-A5000 Premium Soundbars

Rhea-AI Summary

On January 4, 2022, Sony Electronics announced a software update for its HT-A7000 and HT-A5000 soundbars, introducing 360 Spatial Sound Mapping capabilities. This feature enhances audio experience when paired with the new SA-RS5 wireless rear speakers, available in spring 2022, or the existing SA-RS3S speakers. The 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology utilizes Sound Field Optimization to create an immersive sound environment. The SA-RS5 speakers, priced at $599.99, feature up-firing speakers, long battery life, and seamless integration with compatible soundbars.

Positive

• Introduction of 360 Spatial Sound Mapping capabilities in HT-A7000 and HT-A5000 soundbars.
• Launch of SA-RS5 wireless rear speakers enhances audio experience.
• SA-RS5 features up-firing speakers for improved sound immersion.
• Long battery life of up to 10 hours for SA-RS5 speakers.
• SA-RS5 priced competitively at $599.99.

Negative

• None.

SAN DIEGO, Jan. 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Electronics Inc. today announced a software update for the premium HT-A7000 and HT-A5000 soundbars, which will add the customer-loved 360 Spatial Sound Mapping capabilities that first premiered in the HT-A9 home theater system in 2021¹. Customers can access this innovative feature when connecting their soundbar to Sony's new SA-RS5 wireless rear speakers, launching spring 2022, or the currently available SA-RS3S wireless rear speakers.

Sony Electronics Broadens Availability of 360 Spatial Sound Experience - Upgrades to HT-A7000 HT-A5000 Premium Soundbars

With Sony's revolutionary 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology, customers can feel sound from every direction and distance. Using Sound Field Optimization, the soundbar uses built-in microphones to ingeniously measures the relative height and position of the soundbar and rear speakers. 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology then creates multiple phantom speakers by synthesizing sound waves based on positional information. Thanks to this technology, Sony's wide spatial sound field fills every part of the living space, so everyone gets the same sound experience, wherever they are in the room.

Customers can enhance the experience further by pairing with a compatible BRAVIA™ XR television. Using the Acoustic Center Sync² feature, both the soundbar and BRAVIA XR TV become the center speaker in the home cinema system as part of the 360 Spatial Sound Mapping setup^1,2, enabling sound to precisely match what's on the screen for clearer dialogue and a more immersive experience.

Add SA-RS5 optional wireless rear speakers for a richer and more immersive 360 Spatial Sound experience in spring 2022.

Sony's new SA-RS5³ wireless rear speakers deliver optimal sound quality and wide directivity for 360 Spatial Sound in combination with a compatible soundbar. They feature up-firing speakers for richer and more immersive 360 Spatial Sound as well as built-in battery power⁴ for up to 10 hours of playtime.  

SA-RS5 Wireless Rear Speakers' Key Features:

• Create immersive and clear sound: Up-firing speakers reflect sound off the ceiling for more immersive overhead audio. Both wide directivity woofers and soft dome tweeters create a rich, expansive soundstage that offers exceptional clarity. Dual passive radiators enhance low-end tones, giving bass a boost.
• Long-lasting battery life⁴: With up to 10 hours of battery life when fully charged, the speakers offer flexible installation to fit any living room setup. They can be charged out of sight and easily powered up to automatically make a wireless connection with a compatible soundbar. It's quick and easy with no need for messy cables. If in a hurry, just 10 minutes of charge will give 90 minutes of use⁵. SA-RS5 rear speakers also feature AC power connections for dual use.
• One touch sound calibration: The SA-RS5 comes with OPTIMIZE buttons and dual microphones in each speaker. Activate Sound Field Optimization by pressing the OPTIMIZE button on the unit and the speakers, combined with a compatible soundbar, will intelligently measure the distance between the speakers and ceiling using dual microphones.
• Easily integrated speaker design: These speakers are designed using an Omnidirectional Block concept to match Sony's compatible soundbars. The cylindrical shape represents a single solid block and their flat rear surface fits perfectly against a wall.

Pricing and Availability:
The SA-RS5 has a suggested retail price of $599.99 and will be available to order in spring 2022 at authorized dealers. For a full list of specs and information, please visit: https://electronics.sony.com/audio/soundbars/all-soundbars/p/sars5

About Sony Electronics Inc.
Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and an affiliate of Sony Group Corporation, one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world, with a portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures, mobile, gaming, robotics and financial services. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Sony Electronics is a leader in electronics for the consumer and professional markets. Operations include research and development, engineering, sales, marketing, distribution and customer service. Sony Electronics creates products that innovate and inspire generations, such as the award-winning Alpha Interchangeable Lens Cameras and revolutionary high-resolution audio products. Sony is also a leading manufacturer of end-to-end solutions from 4K professional broadcast and A/V equipment to industry leading 4K and 8K Ultra HD TVs. Visit http://www.sony.com/news for more information.

¹ Compatible rear speakers (SA-RS3S, SA-RS5) and a software update on the soundbar are required to enjoy 360 Spatial Sound by 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology. Software update available by spring 2022. Soundbar OTA (Over-The-Air) software update available by spring 2022. Network connection required for software updates.
² BRAVIA Acoustic Center Sync mode works with the following models: Z9K series, A95K series, A90K series, A80K series, X95K series, X90K series, Z9J series, A90J series, A80J series and X95J series. Product availability varies by country.
³ To use the SA-RS5, compatible soundbar (sold separately) is required: HT-A5000, HT-A7000.
⁴ Built-in battery charging time will take about 4 hours (when using the supplied AC adaptor). Actual charging time may vary from the time above due to the surrounding temperature and usage conditions.
⁵ When using the supplied AC adaptor.

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SOURCE Sony Electronics, Inc.

FAQ

What new features were announced for the Sony HT-A7000 and HT-A5000 soundbars?

Sony announced the introduction of 360 Spatial Sound Mapping capabilities for the HT-A7000 and HT-A5000 soundbars.

When will the SA-RS5 wireless rear speakers be available?

The SA-RS5 wireless rear speakers are set to launch in spring 2022.

What is the price of the SA-RS5 wireless rear speakers?

The suggested retail price for the SA-RS5 wireless rear speakers is $599.99.

How does the 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology work?

It uses Sound Field Optimization to measure soundbar and speaker positions, creating an immersive audio environment.