SONY HT-AX7 Review, Specs & Alternatives

The Sony HT-AX7, although niche, captivates small space dwellers with its effortless surround sound. This magical device transforms any area into a personal home theater, connecting seamlessly to tablets, laptops, or Bluetooth-enabled projectors. For music, its Bluetooth speaker aspect appears overpriced, yet its surround sound capabilities excel.

Pros:

Effortless Bluetooth surround sound
Remarkable battery life
Compact and stylish design
Mostly trouble-free operation

Cons:

The rear speaker volume requires adjustment
Subpar music quality for the price
Lack of HDMI, optical, or Wi-Fi
Vulnerable top speakers

The Sony HT-AX7 stands out as a portable Bluetooth-connected surround sound system. Its detachable mini ‘puck’ speakers, when placed strategically, immerse you in cinematic audio or disperse music effectively.

However, it doesn’t promise a conventional 5.1-channel setup. Instead, it employs Sony’s 360 Spatial Sound Mapping to create an immersive audio bubble based on the three units’ locations. The price, at $499 / $499 (approximately AU$960), may seem steep compared to standard Bluetooth speakers.

Unlike other Bluetooth speakers, the Sony HT-AX7’s setup is unique. While high-quality in its simplicity, its top panel houses buttons for various functions, including activating surround sound.

The satellite speaker pucks attach magnetically, simplifying the process. Although they are easy to remove, they are built durably. Despite their sturdiness, the fabric covering may be susceptible to damage.

Setting up the Sony HT-AX7 is a breeze, with surround sound quickly following. The Bluetooth pairing process is straightforward. Sony’s Home Entertainment Connect app allows adjustments for optimal sound.

Connected to a portable projector, the Sony HT-AX7 shines, offering genuine surround sound without the need for a permanent setup. It’s perfect for cinematic experiences, especially in small spaces.

The sound quality for movies is impressive, with ample bass and clear dialogue. The Bluetooth connection exhibits minimal lag, providing a coherent audio experience.

The Sony HT-AX7 offers additional audio modes, enhancing speech clarity and reducing bass for quieter movie nights.

For users who watch movies on their tablets or in small spaces, the Sony HT-AX7 is a convenient choice. However, its music performance doesn’t justify its premium price tag.

The sound quality of the music feels constrained due to the heavy bass. Compared to more affordable alternatives, its audio performance disappoints.

While its party trick disperses sound effectively, it doesn’t handle bass well, limiting its audio quality.

The absence of support for higher-quality sound and connectivity options like LDAC, Wi-Fi, or optical/HDMI connections may deter some users.

On the plus side, the Sony HT-AX7 offers multi-point pairing and exceptional battery life, exceeding Sony’s official estimates.

Despite its shortcomings, the Sony HT-AX7 excels at its intended purpose, serving as a portable soundbar for Bluetooth devices. It’s a valuable companion for cinephiles in small spaces.

In conclusion, the Sony HT-AX7 offers a unique solution for those seeking portable surround sound without the bulk of a traditional soundbar. While its price may be a hurdle, it caters to a specific niche, delivering an immersive cinematic experience.

SONY HT-AX7 Review: Price and Release Date

Price: $499 / $499 (approx. AU$960)
Released in August 2023

The Sony HT-AX7, priced at $499 (with an Australian release pending), competes with products like the Sonos Move 2, albeit without Bluetooth, making the UE Epicboom a more affordable alternative.

Comparing it to soundbars, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a competitor for projectors or TVs but lacks Bluetooth. The Samsung HW-Q800C, now available at a similar price, offers Dolby Atmos, multiple speakers, and a separate subwoofer. However, it’s not portable.