Sony Pounds Out 3D-Capable Soundbars

By Geoff Duncan Updated April 21, 2010

If you’ve already decided to spent money for a 3D-capable television, you’re probably thinking that the time might be right to bring on a 3D-capable audio system…and Sony wants you to know they’re all ready for you: the new HT-CT150 and HT-CT350 soundbar systems support 3.1 3D audio, as does Sony’s new 5.1 HT-SF470 home theater system. All three models feature 3D pass-through with an HDMI repeater and a standby passthrough for HDMI devices.

“Sony is the only company innovating in every stage of 3D from creation to playback,” said Sony home audio and video VP Brian Siegel, in a statement. “Leveraging this depth of expertise and experience allows the company to deliver the best 3D devices for an unequaled entertainment experience.”

The HT-CT150 and HT-CT350 are soundbar-plus-subwoofer systems designed to work with Sony’s Bravia televisions. Both support lossless audio from Blu-ray titles via HDMI (three inputs, one output), along with Bravia Sync technology (so they can be controlled from the same remote as the TV), two digital audio inputs (optical and coax) and a Sony Digital Media Port so users can hook up iPods via a separate cradle. The CT150 offers offers three 85-watt channels and an 85-watt sub in a design matching Sony’s 32-inch Bravia sets; the CT350 is designed to attach to 40-inch and larger sets via a wall mount or tabletop stand, and jumps up to 100 watts per channel plus a 100-watt subwoofer.

If three channels isn’t enough, Sony is also introducing the HT-SF470 home theater system, which is also 3D-capable when paired with a 3D-savvy Blu-ray player. The systEm features four floor-standing satellite speakers pushing 157 watts each, plus a 167 watt subwooFer, 3D-passthrough via three HDMI inputs, an HDMI repeater, and an audio return channel. The system uses Sony’s S-Sair wireless technology and wireless multi-room capabilities (so you don’t have to run wires everywhere), sports a Sony Digial Media Port (again, connect your iPod via a separate cradle), and supports Sony Sync for single-remote bliss. The unit also sports coax and optical digital audio inputs, and offers an auto calibration feature for easy setup.

The CT150 and CT350 will be available in May for about $300 and $400, respectively; the SF470 system will launch in June for about $550.

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Geoff Duncan writes, programs, edits, plays music, and delights in making software misbehave. He's probably the only member…

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