Sony Launches New Receivers & Sound Bars

Sony has introduced four new sound bars, including two new models, the top-of-the-line HT-ST9 and intermediate $800 HT-NT3 and the replacement of two existing models.

Both new sound bars incorporate Bluetooth headphone support and Wi-Fi music streaming from Google Cast and SongPal Link, yet while the ST9 is a 7.1-channel unit, the less expensive speaker is a simpler 2.1-channel design. Both units feature concentric drivers,

The devices take audio from Google Cast-capable mobile and web apps, so that users won’t find any problem while sending music to TV’s speakers. Outside of the NT3, users also get alternatives like Bluetooth, Spotify Connect and (on the receivers) Apple’s AirPlay.

The NT3 also includes a wireless subwoofer, three HDMI inputs, Dolby TrueHD and DTS decoding, plus support for HDCP 2.2 for streaming 4K video.

The receivers start off with the $500 DN860, which delivers 150W across 7.2 channels, Bluetooth and WiFi support for both Google Cast and AirPlay. Among sound bars, the $700 NT3 is a 2.1-channel system with 450W of juice and Bluetooth, while the $1,500 ST9 kicks things up to 7.1 channels with 800W of total output.

Sony’s STR-DN860 and STR-DN1060 receivers were originally announced at CES and the newest feature to be unveiled is the addition of Bluetooth headphone support.