Soundbars have become a popular addition to home entertainment setups, offering an enhanced audio experience without needing a full-fledged home theater system. The Audizio SB90 Bluetooth Sound Bar is an option that aims to deliver impressive audio performance while keeping things simple and affordable. In this, we delve into the design and build quality, audio performance, connectivity options, and ease of installation and setup to help you determine if the Audizio SB90 is the right soundbar for your needs.
Design and Build Quality
The Audizio SB90 boasts a sleek, modern design that can easily complement most living room aesthetics. It features a slim profile with a matte black finish, making it visually appealing without being too obtrusive. The soundbar is 35 inches wide, making it suitable for TVs ranging from 40 to 65 inches.
The build quality is surprisingly robust, considering its budget-friendly price point. The soundbar feels solid and durable, with a metal grille covering the front and top. This adds to the aesthetic appeal and protects the internal components.
The included remote control is ergonomic and easy to use, with clearly labeled buttons for adjusting volume, changing audio modes, and more. Overall, the design and build quality of the Audizio SB90 are commendable, especially considering its affordable price.
Audio Quality
One of the primary reasons for investing in a soundbar is to enhance the audio experience of your TV, and the Audizio SB90 does not disappoint in this department. Equipped with two full-range drivers and two passive radiators, this soundbar delivers clear and balanced audio.
The sound quality is most impressive in the midrange frequencies, where dialogues and vocals come through crisply and with great clarity. The soundstage is wide enough to provide an immersive experience for movies and gaming, although it may need to match the depth of more expensive soundbars with dedicated subwoofers.
The Audizio SB90 also offers several audio modes, including Movie, Music, and News, which can be selected using the remote control. These modes help optimize the sound output for different types of content, enhancing the overall audio experience.
While the bass performance is decent, it lacks the deep rumble of a dedicated subwoofer. However, Audizio has included a subwoofer output, allowing users to connect an external subwoofer for an even more impactful low-end experience.
Connectivity Options
The Audizio SB90 offers a range of connectivity options, making it versatile and compatible with various devices. It includes Bluetooth 4.2, allowing easy wireless streaming from smartphones and tablets. This feature is particularly convenient for playing music or audio from streaming services directly through the soundbar.
Additionally, the soundbar has three different wired input options: optical, RCA, and AUX. The optical input is ideal for connecting to modern TVs, while the RCA and AUX inputs provide flexibility for older devices. Including these input options ensures that the Audizio SB90 can easily integrate into your existing home entertainment setup.
Ease of Installation and Setup
Setting up the Audizio SB90 is a straightforward process. The soundbar comes with all the necessary cables, including an optical cable, which simplifies the connection to your TV. If you use Bluetooth, pairing your smartphone or tablet is as easy as selecting the Audizio SB90 from your device’s Bluetooth menu.
The included wall-mounting kit allows for easy installation on the wall, saving space and creating a clean look in your entertainment area. Alternatively, the soundbar can be placed on a TV stand or shelf using the provided rubber feet.
One aspect worth mentioning is the lack of an HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) port. While this isn’t a deal-breaker, you won’t be able to control the soundbar’s volume using your TV remote. It would be best to rely on the included remote or the soundbar’s controls for volume adjustments.
Our Verdict
The Audizio SB90 Bluetooth Sound Bar offers an attractive combination of affordability, design, and audio performance. It may not deliver the same bass level as higher-end soundbars with subwoofers, but it excels in the midrange frequencies and provides an overall satisfying audio experience.
The ease of installation and multiple connectivity options make it user-friendly for those looking to enhance their TV’s audio without a complex setup. If you’re on a budget and seeking an upgrade from your TV’s built-in speakers, the Audizio SB90 is a compelling option that delivers excellent value for the price.
Remote Control and User Interface
The Audizio SB90 Bluetooth Sound Bar has a simple yet functional remote control that enhances the user experience. The remote is ergonomically designed with clearly labeled buttons for easy navigation and control. It allows you to adjust the volume, change audio modes, select inputs, and efficiently power the soundbar on or off.
The remote’s user-friendly interface makes it convenient to fine-tune your audio settings without the need to access the soundbar’s physical controls. Additionally, the remote provides quick access to EQ settings, allowing you to tailor the sound to your preferences. Overall, the remote control and user interface are intuitive and user-friendly, enhancing the overall usability of the Audizio SB90.
Speaker Configuration
The Audizio SB90 features a speaker configuration with two full-range drivers and two passive radiators. This setup delivers a balanced and immersive audio experience, particularly for enhancing TV audio and home entertainment.
The full-range drivers handle midrange and high-frequency audio, ensuring clear and articulate dialogues and vocals. They reproduce voices and sound effects with impressive clarity, making movie dialogues and TV show conversations easily understandable.
Including two passive radiators adds a layer of depth to the audio. These passive radiators are responsible for reproducing the lower frequencies, contributing to the overall bass performance. While the Audizio SB90 doesn’t have a dedicated subwoofer, the passive radiators help achieve a respectable level of bass, though it may not satisfy those who crave deep, booming bass.
Bass and Treble Performance
The Audizio SB90’s bass and treble performance is worth discussing in more detail. The absence of a dedicated subwoofer means the soundbar relies on its passive radiators to reproduce low-end frequencies. As a result, the bass performance is good for a soundbar in this price range, but it may need to reach the depth and impact of a dedicated subwoofer.
The bass response is tight and controlled, making it suitable for most types of content. It provides a noticeable improvement over the built-in speakers of most TVs, adding richness to music and enhancing the low-frequency effects in movies and games. However, if you’re a severe bass enthusiast, consider adding an external subwoofer to the setup via the subwoofer output.
On the treble side, the Audizio SB90 impresses with its clarity and detail. High-frequency sounds, such as cymbals and dialogue, are well-defined and don’t become harsh or distorted even at higher volumes. This makes it a versatile soundbar for various types of content, from action-packed movies to music with intricate instrumentation.
EQ Settings
One of the standout features of the Audizio SB90 is its EQ (equalizer) settings, which allow you to fine-tune the audio to your liking. The soundbar offers several EQ presets, including Standard, Music, Movie, and News. These presets adjust the sound profile to match different types of content and listening preferences.
The Standard preset is well-balanced and suitable for everyday use. Music mode emphasizes clarity and detail, making it ideal for music enthusiasts. Movie mode enhances the cinematic experience by emphasizing surround sound effects and dialogues. News mode emphasizes vocal clarity, making understanding news broadcasts and podcasts easier.
In addition to the presets, the soundbar allows for manual adjustments to the bass and treble levels. This level of customization ensures that you can tailor the audio output to suit your specific preferences and the content you’re enjoying. It’s a feature that adds significant value to the Audizio SB90, allowing users to optimize the sound to their liking.
Soundstage and Imaging
The Audizio SB90’s soundstage and imaging are noteworthy for a soundbar in its price range. While it may not deliver the same level of immersion as a full-fledged home theater system, it provides a satisfying audio experience that enhances your TV viewing and gaming.
The soundstage is wide enough to create a sense of space in your living room, allowing audio to fill the room rather than feeling confined to the soundbar itself. This enhances the overall immersion when watching movies or playing video games, making you feel more involved in the action.
Imaging, or the ability to pinpoint the location of sounds, is respectable on the Audizio SB90. While it may not achieve the precision of higher-end soundbars with advanced technologies like Dolby Atmos, it still does a commendable job of separating audio elements and delivering a convincing sense of directionality.
Surround Sound Performance
The Audizio SB90 is not marketed as a dedicated surround sound system but offers a pseudo-surround sound experience through its audio processing. This feature can simulate a broader sound field and enhance the immersion factor for movies and games.
While it won’t replace a full-fledged surround sound setup with multiple speakers around the room, it creates a sense of spatiality. The virtual surround sound mode effectively makes action scenes more engaging and expands the soundstage.
Remember that this feature’s effectiveness can vary depending on the room’s acoustics and your seating position. It won’t provide the same level of precision as true surround sound systems, but it’s a welcome addition for those seeking a more immersive audio experience.
Dialogue Clarity
One of the key aspects of any soundbar is its ability to enhance dialogue clarity, especially when watching movies or TV shows. The Audizio SB90 Bluetooth Sound Bar performs admirably in this department. Its speaker configuration, which includes two full-range drivers, ensures that dialogues and vocals clearly come through.
The midrange frequencies, where most human speech falls, are well-reproduced. This means you will be able to understand what the characters are saying, even during scenes with background noise or fast-paced dialogue. Whether you’re watching a drama or an action-packed thriller, the Audizio SB90 delivers clear and articulate dialogue.
Additionally, the soundbar’s EQ presets particularly the “News” mode, emphasize vocal clarity. This is particularly useful when watching news broadcasts, interviews, or talk shows. Overall, if dialogue clarity is a priority for you, the Audizio SB90 won’t disappoint.
Volume and Power Handling
The Audizio SB90 offers respectable volume levels and power handling for its size and price. With a maximum power output of 60 watts, it can fill a medium-sized room with sound without distortion, making it suitable for most living room setups. The soundbar’s ability to handle high volumes without significant distortion is commendable, ensuring that your audio remains clear and enjoyable even when cranked up.
It’s worth noting that while the Audizio SB90 can deliver impressive volume levels for its size, it may need to match the power and room-filling capabilities of larger and more expensive soundbars or home theater systems. However, it provides more than enough power to enhance your audio experience for everyday use and casual movie nights.
Bluetooth and Wireless Connectivity
One of the standout features of the Audizio SB90 is its Bluetooth connectivity. With Bluetooth 4.2 support, this soundbar allows seamless wireless streaming from compatible devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Pairing your device with the soundbar is straightforward, and once connected, you can easily play music, podcasts, or audio from streaming services directly through the soundbar.
Bluetooth connectivity adds a layer of versatility to the Audizio SB90, making it a versatile audio hub for your home entertainment needs. Whether you want to play your favorite tunes from your smartphone or wirelessly connect your laptop for a presentation, the Audizio SB90 has you covered.
Compatibility with TV and Other Devices
The Audizio SB90 is designed to be compatible with a wide range of devices, making it a versatile addition to your home entertainment setup. It features multiple input options, including optical, RCA, and AUX, ensuring you can connect it to your TV, gaming console, Blu-ray player, or any other audio source.
The optical input is particularly useful for modern TVs, providing a high-quality digital audio connection. The RCA and AUX inputs offer flexibility for older devices that may not have optical outputs. This compatibility ensures that the Audizio SB90 can seamlessly integrate into your existing setup without additional adapters or converters.
Streaming Services Support
While the Audizio SB90 primarily functions as a soundbar for enhancing your TV’s audio, it also serves as a versatile audio hub for streaming music and audio content. Thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity, you can stream music from popular streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon Music directly from your smartphone or tablet.
This streaming capability adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing you to enjoy your favorite music without needing a separate speaker or audio system. Pair your device with the soundbar, and you’re ready to enjoy your music with improved audio quality.
Audio Codecs Supported
The Audizio SB90 supports a range of audio codecs, ensuring compatibility with various audio sources. It can decode standard codecs like Dolby Digital, providing higher audio quality when watching movies or TV shows that offer Dolby Digital soundtracks. This support enhances the overall cinematic experience by reproducing surround sound effects more accurately.
While it may not support advanced audio codecs like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, the Audizio SB90 does an excellent job with the standard audio formats you’ll encounter in most media. It ensures you get the best audio quality possible from your content, whether a blockbuster movie or a TV series.
Size and Compatibility with Room
The physical dimensions of the Audizio SB90 are worth considering when evaluating its compatibility with your room. This soundbar is 35 inches wide, making it suitable for TVs ranging from 40 to 65 inches in size. Its slim profile and sleek design complement various room aesthetics without being obtrusive.
Regarding room compatibility, the Audizio SB90 is well-suited for medium-sized living rooms and bedrooms. It can fill these spaces with clear and balanced audio, enhancing your TV viewing and gaming experiences. However, for larger rooms or open-concept living spaces, you may find that the soundbar’s audio coverage becomes less effective at extreme distances.
In such cases, consider adding an external subwoofer or additional speakers to create a more comprehensive audio setup. While the Audizio SB90 performs well on its own, expanding your audio system for an even more immersive experience is always possible.
Brand and Reputation
The brand and reputation of a product can significantly influence purchasing decisions, especially when it comes to electronics and audio equipment. Audizio may not be as widely recognized as some other audio brands, but it has steadily made a name for itself in the budget-friendly soundbar market.
While Audizio may have a different extensive history and brand recognition than industry giants like Sony or Samsung, it has garnered a positive reputation for providing affordable audio solutions that offer good value for money. Many customers have praised Audizio for delivering reliable and functional soundbars that enhance their TV audio without breaking the bank.
It’s important to note that brand reputation can be subjective, and individual experiences may vary. However, Audizio’s commitment to providing affordable audio products with respectable performance has earned it trust among budget-conscious consumers.
Price and Value for Money
The Audizio SB90 Bluetooth Sound Bar is affordable in a market where premium soundbars can carry hefty price tags. When evaluating its price and value for money, it’s essential to consider what you’re getting in return for your investment.
At its price point, the Audizio SB90 offers a solid combination of features, audio performance, and convenience. It is an excellent entry point for those looking to enhance their TV’s audio without making a significant financial commitment. It provides a substantial improvement over built-in TV speakers and offers versatile connectivity options, making it suitable for various audio sources.
While it may not match the audio quality and features of higher-end soundbars, the Audizio SB90 delivers excellent value for its cost. It provides a balanced audio experience, emphasizing dialogue clarity and midrange frequencies, making it well-suited for everyday TV watching and casual movie nights.
Durability and Longevity
The durability and longevity of any electronic device are critical considerations, especially when purchasing audio equipment. The Audizio SB90 Bluetooth Sound Bar exhibits a build quality that suggests it can withstand regular use over an extended period.
The soundbar features a metal grille covering the front and top, which adds to its durability and protects the internal components. This design choice contributes to the soundbar’s longevity and enhances its visual appeal.
Additionally, Audizio has designed the SB90 to be energy-efficient, which can contribute to its long-term reliability. Minimizing power consumption during operation makes the soundbar less likely to experience overheating or wear and tear related to extended use.
Of course, individual experiences may vary depending on usage and environmental conditions. However, the Audizio SB90’s build quality and energy efficiency suggest that it is designed to provide reliable performance over time.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a consideration that often goes overlooked when evaluating audio equipment. However, it can have a significant impact on both your electricity bills and the environmental footprint of your devices.
The Audizio SB90 is designed with energy efficiency in mind. It uses minimal power during operation, which is cost-effective and environmentally responsible. Many soundbars are left connected to power sources for extended periods, and an energy-efficient design can help reduce electricity consumption.
Furthermore, the soundbar has an auto-power-off feature that activates when it detects inactivity. This ensures that the soundbar doesn’t remain powered on when unused, contributing to energy savings.
Suppose you’re conscious of your energy consumption and its impact on your wallet and the environment. In that case, the Audizio SB90’s energy-efficient design is a noteworthy feature that aligns with these concerns.
Portability and Convenience
Portability and convenience are important for many consumers, particularly if you move your audio equipment between rooms or take it on the go. The Audizio SB90 is a soundbar that balances portability and functionality.
Its slim and compact design makes the soundbar relatively easy to move around. Its dimensions make it suitable for placement on a TV stand, shelf, or wall-mounted setup. The included rubber feet provide stability when placed on a surface, ensuring that it stays securely in place.
The soundbar’s Bluetooth connectivity further enhances the convenience factor. This wireless feature allows you to stream music from your smartphone or tablet without additional cables or connections. It’s a handy feature for those who want to enjoy music without the hassle of physically connecting their devices.
While the Audizio SB90 is designed for home entertainment, its portability and wireless capabilities make it a flexible audio solution that can adapt to different situations and environments.
Mounting Options
The Audizio SB90 offers multiple mounting options, catering to various preferences and room setups. These options enhance the soundbar’s versatility and its ability to integrate seamlessly into your home entertainment area.
Wall Mounting: The soundbar comes with a wall-mounting kit, allowing you to secure it to the wall. Wall mounting saves space and creates a clean and uncluttered look in your living room. The kit includes the necessary hardware and instructions for easy installation.
TV Stand or Shelf Placement: If wall mounting isn’t your preference, the soundbar can be placed on a TV stand, shelf, or any flat surface using the included rubber feet. This versatility ensures you can position the soundbar where it complements your TV setup best.
Versatile Placement: The Audizio SB90’s slim profile and compact size make it versatile in terms of placement. You can easily move it between rooms or reposition it within your entertainment area to suit your needs.
The variety of mounting options allows you to customize the soundbar’s placement according to your room’s layout and aesthetic preferences. Whether you prefer a wall-mounted, tabletop, or shelf setup, the Audizio SB90 accommodates your choice.
Comparison with Similar Products
Let’s compare the Audizio SB90 Bluetooth Sound Bar with similar products to provide a comprehensive perspective.
Audizio SB90 vs. Vizio SB3821-C6
Audizio SB90:
- Affordable option.
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming.
- Good dialogue clarity.
- Suitable for small to medium-sized rooms.
Vizio SB3821-C6:
- Competitive pricing.
- Includes a dedicated wireless subwoofer for enhanced bass.
- Dolby Digital decoding for improved audio quality.
- Better suited for larger rooms.
Both soundbars offer budget-friendly options with solid performance. The choice between them depends on your room size and whether you prioritize enhanced bass performance with a dedicated subwoofer.
Audizio SB90 vs. Bose Solo 5
Audizio SB90:
- Significantly more affordable.
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming.
- Multiple EQ settings for audio customization.
- Slim and versatile design.
Bose Solo 5:
- Higher price point.
- Proprietary Dialogue Mode for enhanced vocal clarity.
- Remote control with universal remote functionality.
- Compact and stylish design.
The Bose Solo 5 is a premium soundbar option, while the Audizio SB90 focuses on delivering value for money. The decision comes down to your budget and preference for advanced features and brand reputation.
Buying Guide and Recommendations
When considering the Audizio SB90 Bluetooth Sound Bar for your audio needs, there are several factors to keep in mind:
Room Size: Assess the size of the room where you intend to use the soundbar. The Audizio SB90 is best suited for small to medium-sized rooms. For larger spaces, consider a soundbar with more robust audio output or the option to add a dedicated subwoofer.
Budget: Determine your budget for a soundbar. The Audizio SB90 offers affordability without compromising essential features, making it an excellent choice for cost-conscious consumers.
Audio Priorities: Identify your audio priorities. If you value clear dialogues and vocal clarity, the Audizio SB90 excels in this department. However, if deep bass is crucial, consider adding an external subwoofer for a more immersive, low-end experience.
Connectivity Needs: Evaluate your connectivity needs. The Audizio SB90 offers versatile input options, including Bluetooth, optical, RCA, and AUX. Ensure it can accommodate the devices you plan to connect.
Mounting Options: Consider your room’s layout and your preference for soundbar placement. The Audizio SB90 offers multiple mounting options, allowing you to customize its order.
Brand Preferences: Decide whether brand reputation and recognition are important to you. Audizio may not be as widely known as other brands, but it has earned a positive reputation for providing value-oriented audio solutions.
Additional Components: Determine if you require additional components, such as a subwoofer or rear speakers, to create a more comprehensive audio system. The Audizio SB90 offers a subwoofer output for this purpose.
Based on these considerations, here are some recommendations:
If you’re on a budget and prioritize dialogue clarity for TV and movie watching in a small to medium-sized room, the Audizio SB90 is an excellent choice.
If you crave deeper bass and have a larger room, consider investing in a soundbar with a dedicated subwoofer or the option to add one.
For those seeking a premium audio experience and are willing to invest more, explore options from well-established brands known for their advanced audio technologies.
Final Thoughts
The Audizio SB90 Bluetooth Sound Bar offers an appealing balance of affordability, performance, and convenience. It caters to budget-conscious consumers looking to enhance their TV’s audio without making a significant financial commitment.
With its emphasis on dialogue clarity, customizable EQ settings, and versatile connectivity options, the Audizio SB90 provides excellent value for money. While it may not match higher-end soundbars’ audio quality and features, it delivers a satisfying audio experience for everyday TV watching and casual movie nights.
Ultimately, the Audizio SB90 is reliable and cost-effective for those seeking an accessible audio upgrade. Its durable build, energy-efficient design, and multiple mounting options make it a versatile addition to any home entertainment setup. Whether you’re looking to complement your TV’s audio or enjoy wireless music streaming, the Audizio SB90 is a sound investment in affordable audio enhancement.