By: CE Critic
Amazon has recently introduced its Fire TV Soundbar to the UK market, offering a compact and affordable audio upgrade solution for television viewers. Designed to complement Amazon's Fire TV range, the soundbar aims to enhance the audio experience for users without breaking the bank.
Technical Specifications
- Dimensions: 61 cm (width) x 6 cm (height)
- Weight: 1.8 kg
- Audio Channels: 2.0-channel speaker array
- Audio Formats: DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio
- Connectivity: HDMI (with eARC), Digital Optical Audio, Bluetooth
- Power Output: 2 x 20W
Design and Features
The Fire TV Soundbar boasts a compact design, measuring just over 60 cm in width, making it suitable for various TV setups. Despite its size, the soundbar is equipped with a two-channel speaker system that supports DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio, promising an immersive audio experience with enhanced clarity and depth.
One of the standout features of the Fire TV Soundbar is its "Fire TV Ready" functionality. This allows seamless integration with existing Fire TV devices, enabling users to control both the TV and soundbar using their Fire TV remote. It's worth noting, however, that the soundbar itself is not Alexa-enabled and does not support Alexa Home Cinema, requiring a separate Fire TV streaming media player or compatible smart TV for those features.
In terms of connectivity, the soundbar offers a single HDMI port with eARC support, along with a digital optical audio input for connecting various devices. Additionally, Bluetooth functionality allows users to wirelessly stream audio from smartphones, tablets, and other compatible devices.
Performance and Sound Quality
While not designed to compete with high-end soundbars, the Fire TV Soundbar delivers a noticeable improvement over standard TV speakers. Early reviews suggest that the sound quality is surprisingly good for its price point, with clear dialogue and a spacious virtual surround sound effect. However, some users have reported that the bass response could be stronger.
The soundbar also features multiple EQ modes, including Movie, Music, and Dialogue, allowing users to tailor the sound output to their preferences.
Availability and Pricing
The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar is currently available for pre-order in the UK at a discounted price of £99.99, with the regular price set at £112. Shipping is expected to begin on July 29, 2024.
Conclusion
The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar presents an attractive option for users seeking an affordable and easy-to-use audio upgrade for their TVs. While it may not offer the same level of performance as more premium soundbars, its compact design, Fire TV integration, and decent sound quality make it a compelling choice for those on a budget.
Whether you're a casual viewer or a dedicated movie enthusiast, the Fire TV Soundbar offers a convenient way to enhance your audio experience without breaking the bank. Its compatibility with Fire TV devices and Bluetooth connectivity make it a versatile addition to any home entertainment setup.
