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 Has Soundbars Improved to Usable Levels?

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NotTheOne
post Jul 17 2016, 06:37 AM

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Hi guys. Narrowed down to these:

1. Yamaha YAS-203 -- RM 1.9k or YAS-105 -- RM1.2k
2. Phillips HTL5140b -- RM1.25k
3. Sony RT5 -- RM1.85k
4. LG LAS750L -- RM1.3k

Since my TV is a LG (49UF640T), I'm more keen on the LAS750
My main concern is connecting via HDMI-CEC (TV manual doesn't mention HDMI-ARC)
So, my question is, will using a digital coax sacrifice the sound quality?

Mainly, I can live without rear speakers, and rely on the "virtual surround" (as SSJBen pointed out) 5.1 & 7.1 (from Yamaha's). I prefer good bass and clear crisp audio from movies. As I'm not an audophile, I'm not the best when it comes to discerning different frequencies (low, mid and high).
Quality of sound to price ratio is not really a concern as I look at this system to be in my living room for a long time (unless it dies on me). So a device that is "future proof" and versatile (although I know soundbars by definition are not meant to be versatile)

Will need your inputs guys especially those who are using LG TV's

@SSJBen, your input is much valued here if you have tested the YAS's and the other 3? Honestly, do the YAS's or even the LAS750 stand a chance compared to the RT5?

Thanks guys and hope to read your personal views if you guys have use the above 4 soundbars!

This post has been edited by NotTheOne: Jul 17 2016, 06:41 AM
NotTheOne
post Jul 18 2016, 05:51 AM

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@SSJBen:

(1) Using HTL5140, to play DTS 5.1/7.1 (which will be downsampled to 2.1)

(2) Using RT5, to play DTS 5.1/7.1 without powering the 2 rear speakers

Just to confirm, (1) wins?
If not, I am still OK to buy the RT5 and not use the 2 rear speakers for the time being (not convenient to power up the speakers and put them on a stand)


And, does the RT5 or HTL5140 allow USB playback for non .mp3 files (.wav etc etc)


Thanks again!

This post has been edited by NotTheOne: Jul 18 2016, 07:43 AM
NotTheOne
post Jul 19 2016, 03:06 AM

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Thanks SSJBen

Now, if I am able to connect a soundbar via ethernet (or wirelessly) to my router I can access and play any music from a computer, so the music format being played should not matter right?

That's why the RT5 or the LG LAS750 is a serious contender, it has an ethernet/wireless connectivity.

Need more comments and suggestions from guys that have experience using this method. Please let us know guys!


This post has been edited by NotTheOne: Jul 19 2016, 03:31 AM
NotTheOne
post Aug 12 2016, 10:51 AM

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QUOTE(SSJBen @ Jul 18 2016, 06:16 PM)
In stereo, yes; HTL5140 > RT5.

But in surround, virtual surround will never beat discrete surround.
*
I went to HLK and the HTL5140 sold for RM480 last month according to the SA, now stock finished! I asked him multiple times to confirm and he did - totally unbelievable to me as it is selling for RM1.3k++ online cheapest!

Now after talking to the SA and hearing few models I would like to know your recommendations:

1. S750M is bass heavy, what is your opinion on the S550H?

2. Please share performance of HTL2193 vs the HTL5140 (interestingly the HTL2193 has 3.1 vs the 2.1 on the 5140)



The SA also kept singing the praises of a particular sharp soundbar (he forgot which model as HLK no longer sells it and it isnt on his stock list)
But if you guys are aware of any Sharp soundbar in the RM1.5k below range that is a stiff competitor to other soundbars, please do let me know.

Highly appreciate your all views guys, especially SSJBen.


NotTheOne
post Aug 14 2016, 01:42 PM

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On top of my above message,
Has anyone compared the sound of the sharp sb602 soundbar?
Please advise guys. Thanks
NotTheOne
post Aug 24 2016, 11:39 AM

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Guys, looked at most soundbars below RM1.5k and the quality still fails to impress

Simple question

Which 2.1 HT system with a HDMI connection, do you guys suggest, that beats most soundbars. I don't mind the 2 speakers to be wired as the speakers will still be kept left and right of TV and wires can be somewhat hidden. And if the HT system can have BT connectivity it will be a bonus.

Thanks!!

NotTheOne
post Aug 25 2016, 01:00 AM

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QUOTE(SSJBen @ Aug 24 2016, 04:45 PM)
You didn't state a budget for a 2.1 setup, so the only answer is: just way too many to list.

Would be off-topic though, so head to the stickied HT thread for more questions.
Stop looking at rubbish bro. They're sold in tesco for a reason.
*
Looking at a budget of RM1.5k


Next option is an AVR (i have zero knowledge on AVR) but the task on learning how they work and are hooked up seems daunting to me to learn in this short time before deciding to make a purchase.

HTiB is a waste as I will be playing high quality streams or downloaded BD movies. The HT must be HDMI capable too. Also looking to play 4k content. Those are the Pre req for the HT

1. Which decent HT system you suggest that beats most soundbars at the RM2k range.

2. My preference is LR speakers with a playback device for now as I am aware that a decent AVR will set me back around RM1.5k in itself.

3. I know this is off topic here, can you please share the link for the HT thread as I was unable to find a relevant beginner level one. Once there, I will read up and ask further questions smile.gif

Thanks!!

 

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