Sony HT-NT5
SONY MID-RANGER THAT EXUDES CLASS.
ON THE LOW-TO-MID edge of the price spectrum comes this 2.1 channel HT-NT5, which, as you’d probably expect, doesn’t come with Dolby Atmos support but boasts, at least, hi-res audio support. A factor usually in favour of Sony’s soundbars is that they’re classy-looking systems, and the HT-NT5 is no exception, with a premium-looking angular design for the soundbar and — by contrast — a completely inconspicuous subwoofer. The angled design of the soundbar also neatly solves the problem of jamming some powerful speakers beneath the bezel of your TV (at least, it does for those not planning to wall mount this thing).
This device won’t exactly blow minds with its volume, though it’ll definitely fill a living room and doesn’t clip at higher levels. Clarity appears to be the priority here, and on these terms, the HT-NT5 delivers a perfectly readable and never murky sonic spectrum which carries through to its music playback, too. As is pretty much the norm now, multi-room is supported, and you’ve got the usual array of HDMI, optical and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as in-built Spotify and Google Cast support, and Apple AirPlay. Though for Spotify and the likes, a Bluetooth connection to your phone is usually a lot more convenient, though the SongPal app is required if you’re looking to set up a multi-room ecosystem.
The middle end of the soundbar market is pretty healthy by all indications, but this unit can stand healthily among its betters at this price point.