Sony HT-ST5000

File under ‘Flippin’ impressive’.

Beautiful build quality ; Excellent audio clarity and spatial presentation ; Generous compliment of HDMI inputs ; Hi-Res Audio file compatibility

Doesn't convince with overhead Atmos effects ; Frighteningly expensive for a soundbar-sub combo

With audiophile drivers and refined digital amplification, this high-end Dolby Atmos soundbar is as at home with High-Res Audio as it is with a film.

Excellent integration ; Weighty bass ; Fine detail ; Chromecast compatible

Remote could be better designed

This Sony delivers an accomplished Atmos sound that sends the competition hiding

Atmos and DTS:X support ; Spotify and Chomecast ; 3x HDMI inputs ; Sound quality ; 4K HDR and Dolby Vision pass-through ; Flexibility in setup

It's expensive ; There are no rear speakers separates ; Display doesn't confirm the playback format

While many seek out a soundbar for its subtle boosting of TV audio, the Sony HT-ST5000 steps well beyond subtle. Its physical size gives it serious looks which are backed up by serious sound performance, but all that comes at a serious price.

Lots of inputs, including eARC support. 7.1.2 channels in a compact, well-built design. Great amount of deep, rumbling bass.

Compresses and distorts noticeably at max volume. Disappointing surround performance. Few sound enhancement features.

The Sony HT-ST5000 is decent for mixed usage. It does alright with music, although it tends to compress at higher volumes and lacks a bit of detail. It’s a reasonable choice for watching the news or your favorite TV programs thanks to its dedicated...

The Sony HT-ST5000 is an elegant Dolby Atmos sound bar which sounds great and includes Wi-Fi music and 4K HDR compatibility. The sound-bar-and-subwoofer combination pack more punch than many competitors are capable of. Sony's inclusion of Chromecast...

There's no DTS:X playback on the Sony sound bar. The competitive Samsung HW-K950 is $300 cheaper, and it offers dedicated surrounds and sounds more immersive as a result.

The Sony HT-ST5000 Dolby Atmos sound bar may be expensive, but it offers excellent sound quality and decent flexibility.

The Sony HT-ST5000 is an elegant Dolby Atmos sound bar which sounds great and includes Wi-Fi music and 4K HDR compatibility. The sound-bar-and-subwoofer combination pack more punch than many competitors are capable of. Sony's inclusion of Chromecast...

There's no DTS:X playback on the Sony sound bar. The competitive Samsung HW-K950 is $300 cheaper, and it offers dedicated surrounds and sounds more immersive as a result.

The Sony HT-ST5000 Dolby Atmos sound bar may be expensive, but it offers excellent sound quality and decent flexibility.

Best-in-class Atmos ; Neutral / balanced sound ; Versatile – also for music

No rear speakers (not even optional) ; Only 3 HDMI inputs ; Dated remote control

Soundbars are marching relentlessly up-market, and Sony is right there with the Dolby Atmos- and DTS:X-capable HT-ST5000, which carries a list price of $1,500 and is being widely promoted this holiday season at $1,298 from the major retailers. It...