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 ht-g700


Sony HT-G700 review: This Atmos- and DTS:X-enabled soundbar boasts a trifecta of virtual 3D modes, but no Wi-Fi

PCWorld

Sony doubles down on virtualized 3D audio with the HT-G700, a 3.1-channel soundbar that can deliver immersive 3D audio using not one, not two, but three competing audio technologies. While it lacks the upfiring drivers that most Dolby Atmos- and DTS:X-enabled soundbars employ for height effects, the HT-G700 simulates height and surround cues using virtual 3D solutions from Dolby, DTS, and Sony itself. The HT-G700 makes for an impressive showcase for how far virtualized 3D audio has come in recent years, yet it also betrays its weaknesses, particularly when it comes to Sony's aggressive--perhaps too aggressive--implementation. The HT-G700's $500 price tag might sound enticing given its array of 3D audio functionality, but it's also missing one huge feature: a Wi-Fi adapter. That means many of the wireless capabilities we've come to expect from soundbars in this price range--including multi-room audio, AirPlay 2 or Chromecast connectivity, direct support for streaming music services, and voice assistant support--are missing.