Sony has revealed the US pricing for its latest Bravia soundbars—and for products marketed as “budget-friendly,” the cost is anything but modest.
Sony Soundbar Pricing Overview
| Model | Setup Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bravia Bar 6 | 3.2.1 with Atmos | $649 |
| Bravia System 6 | 5.1 full surround | $769 |
| Theater Rear 8 (Pair) | Add-on rear speakers | $449 |
Both main soundbar models support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, though their hardware and audio profiles differ.
Key Differences Between the Models
- Bravia Bar 6: Includes up-firing drivers and a wireless subwoofer. It’s designed for a vertical audio effect and a more immersive soundstage.
- Bravia System 6: Offers full 5.1-channel sound with rear speakers. It supports Atmos via decoding but lacks vertical sound features.
Although similarly named, these two sound systems serve very different needs. Choose based on whether you want depth or surround.
Price History and Context
The Bravia Bar 6 replaces the HT-G700, which launched in 2020 for $599. Adjusted for inflation, a $50 increase seems fair.
But here’s the issue: US pricing is far higher than what UK consumers paid for the older model. The HT-G700 debuted in the UK at £449—around $560 at the time, with taxes included.
Sony hasn’t confirmed UK pricing for the new lineup yet. But if trends continue, the US could again see inflated rates.
How It Compares to the Competition
Competitors like Samsung’s HW-Q800D offer more features at a similar or lower cost. That system delivers Atmos support, powerful sound, and better tuning—all while staying competitive in pricing.
Sony’s systems do offer solid sound. The System 6, in particular, outputs up to 1000W and creates room-filling audio. But on paper, specs alone don’t explain the higher cost.
Is Sony Pricing in Tariffs?
There’s speculation that import duties may be baked into these price tags. Still, Sony hasn’t made any official statements on tariffs. Without clarity, it’s hard to justify the price hikes.
This isn’t an isolated case either. The new Bravia 8 II OLED TV launched with a similar pricing gap between the US and the UK—despite its main competitors undercutting it across the board.
Hands-On Impressions
Both soundbars deliver strong performance:
- Bar 6 sounds crisp and punchy. However, in demos, the mids felt slightly compressed.
- System 6 impressed with its large sound field and unique party audio mode.
Still, these early tests leave questions. With similar systems from Sonos, LG, and Vizio offering better specs or prices, Sony will need more than brand loyalty to win over buyers.
Final Take
Sony’s newest Bravia soundbars are solid in build and sound. But their US pricing puts them in a tough spot. Competitors offer more for less. Unless prices fall or features improve, buyers may find better value elsewhere.
FAQs
Do both models support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X?
Yes, both do. However, only the Bar 6 includes hardware for vertical sound delivery.
Can I add more speakers to these systems?
Yes. The Rear 8 speakers are compatible and sold separately for $449.
Are these really “budget” soundbars?
Not by US standards. Pricing places them closer to mid-range or even premium competitors.
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