Hi-fi purists might be a little sceptical when they hear the words ‘soundbar” to describe a new home theatre system, reckoning that another manufacturer has come out with an all-in-one ‘convenience’ sound package that scores high on looks and low on functionality and performance.
And with some, that may be the case but it’s a trend Samsung is seriously looking to buck with its new HT-X810. Equipped with a DVD player that up-converts to 1080p over HDMI, Bluetooth functionality and HDMI-CEC compatibility allowing the operation of your entire system via a single remote control, the HT-X810 Sound Bar doesn’t skimp on the feature set.
A slot drive for the DVD player allows the designers to keep the entire unit looking smooth and streamlined, with no bulky moving doors or trays. Sound-wise, the unit chucks out 300 watts of total power plus, as a real bonus, the subwoofer uses 5.8GHz wireless technology, so there’s no cable required between the sub and Sound Bar.
The 2.1 virtual surround sound HT-X810 is available from June 2008, with an RRP of $999.
