Initial reactions to the Bose Smart Soundbar were lukewarm, with many questioning if the upgrades justified the price. Now, a significant price drop is forcing a reevaluation of its potential.
Currently available for $399 – a $100 reduction from its original $499 – the soundbar is at its lowest recorded price. This discount opens the door to a different conversation about its value proposition.
The Smart Soundbar arrived as a successor to the already well-regarded Bose Smart Soundbar 600. Expectations were high, but reviews pointed out that the core hardware remained largely unchanged, leading to scrutiny of the increased cost.
Owners of the 600 model likely won’t find enough new features to warrant an upgrade, even at this reduced price. However, for those entering the premium soundbar market, it presents a compelling option.
One of the soundbar’s strengths is its ability to deliver satisfying bass without needing a separate subwoofer. This makes it particularly well-suited for smaller spaces like bedrooms or apartments where a full surround sound system isn’t practical.
Expansion is still possible, should you desire it. The soundbar is compatible with optional subwoofers and rear speakers for a more immersive experience.
An intriguing feature allows owners of Bose Ultra Open Earbuds to utilize them as wireless rear speakers, creating a personalized surround sound effect. This offers a unique, albeit individual, listening experience.
Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity enables seamless streaming via AirPlay or Chromecast, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and services. This simplifies the process of enjoying your favorite audio content.
The soundbar truly excels in its ability to clearly separate individual instruments within a track. This clarity is further enhanced by the AI Dialogue Mode, which intelligently boosts vocal frequencies for improved speech intelligibility.
While the Bose Smart Soundbar offers a premium experience, those with a larger budget might consider the Sonos Beam Gen 2, widely considered the best standalone soundbar available.
