Soundbars have become an integral part of modern home entertainment systems, delivering an enhanced audio experience without the complexity of a full surround sound setup. The SHARP HT-SBW800 5.1.2 Soundbar is an offering that promises to take your audio experience to the next level. In this comprehensive review, we will explore its design and build quality, audio performance, connectivity options, and ease of installation and provide our verdict on whether it lives up to expectations.
Design and Build Quality
The design of the SHARP HT-SBW800 is sleek and modern, with a minimalist aesthetic that complements most home decor styles. The soundbar is relatively compact, measuring just under 40 inches in width. It features a sturdy build with metal and plastic materials, exuding a sense of durability and longevity.
The wireless subwoofer is equally well-constructed, providing a solid foundation for delivering deep and powerful bass. Its wireless connectivity eliminates the need for cumbersome cables, allowing flexible placement within your room.
The soundbar comes with a dedicated remote control that is comfortable to hold and offers easy access to various settings and audio modes. Alternatively, you can use the SHARP Audio Remote app, which provides a user-friendly interface for controlling the soundbar from your smartphone or tablet.
Audio Quality
One of the standout features of the SHARP HT-SBW800 is its audio quality. With a total power output of 350W, this soundbar delivers a powerful and immersive audio experience. Dolby Atmos support is a game-changer, adding a three-dimensional aspect to the audio.
The soundbar features a 5.1.2 channel configuration, which includes front-firing drivers, upward-firing speakers, and a dedicated center channel. This setup allows for precise sound placement, creating a broad and enveloping soundstage. The soundbar’s audio performance is impressive whether you’re watching a blockbuster movie or listening to music.
The wireless subwoofer complements the soundbar’s performance by delivering deep and resonant bass. It impacts action sequences, makes music come alive, and ensures a well-rounded audio experience.
Additionally, the soundbar offers various audio modes and enhancements, allowing you to fine-tune the audio to your liking. You can easily customize the settings to suit your content, whether you prefer clear dialogue, powerful bass, or a balanced soundstage.
Connectivity Options
The SHARP HT-SBW800 offers a wide range of connectivity options to ensure compatibility with various devices. It features HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) support, simplifying the connection to your TV and allowing for seamless audio playback through a single HDMI cable.
Furthermore, the soundbar includes multiple HDMI inputs, optical input, and a 3.5mm aux-in jack. This versatility allows you to easily connect your gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, streaming devices, and other audio sources. The multiple HDMI inputs are particularly convenient for users with several devices, as they can switch between them without constantly unplugging and replugging cables.
Bluetooth connectivity enables you to wirelessly stream music from your smartphone, tablet, or other compatible devices. This feature adds convenience for those who want to enjoy their favorite playlists without dealing with cables.
Ease of Installation and Set-up
Setting up the SHARP HT-SBW800 is a straightforward process that most users can accomplish. The soundbar can be wall-mounted or placed on a TV stand, and it comes with the necessary mounting hardware for added convenience.
The wireless subwoofer pairs automatically with the soundbar, eliminating the need for complex cable management. Plug it in, and it’s ready to deliver powerful bass.
The included remote control and SHARP Audio Remote app make navigating settings easy and customize the audio experience to your preferences. The app also provides access to firmware updates, ensuring your soundbar remains current with the latest features and improvements.
Our Verdict
The SHARP HT-SBW800 5.1.2 Soundbar is a formidable addition to your home theater setup. With its impressive audio quality, Dolby Atmos support, and many connectivity options, it caters to both audio enthusiasts and casual viewers. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, its performance justifies the price tag, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a premium soundbar.
Remote Control and User Interface
The SHARP HT-SBW800 5.1.2 Soundbar comes with a user-friendly remote control that simplifies the operation of the soundbar. The remote control is well-designed, with clearly labeled buttons that make navigating through various settings and modes easy. It provides quick access to essential functions such as volume control, input selection, and audio mode adjustments.
In addition to the physical remote control, the soundbar can be controlled using the SHARP Audio Remote app, available for smartphones and tablets. This app offers an intuitive and convenient interface that allows you to control the soundbar’s settings from the palm of your hand. It provides access to EQ adjustments, audio modes, and other customization options, enhancing the user experience.
Combining the physical remote control and the user-friendly app ensures that users have multiple options for controlling the soundbar, catering to their preferences.
Speaker Configuration
The SHARP HT-SBW800 boasts a 5.1.2-channel speaker configuration, which includes five front-firing drivers, a dedicated centre channel, and two upward-firing speakers. This setup is designed to deliver an immersive audio experience with precision and depth.
The front-firing drivers cover the primary audio channels, ensuring clear and detailed sound reproduction for dialogue, music, and effects. The dedicated centre channel is vital for delivering crisp and well-defined dialogue, making it easier to follow conversations in movies and TV shows.
The two upward-firing speakers are a vital component of the Dolby Atmos support. They are responsible for bouncing sound off the ceiling and creating a three-dimensional audio environment. This vertical audio dimension adds a sense of height and depth to the soundstage, immersing the listener in a more realistic and captivating auditory experience.
Bass and Treble Performance
The SHARP HT-SBW800 impresses with its bass and treble performance, delivering a well-balanced audio experience across the frequency spectrum.
The wireless subwoofer, a crucial part of the system, contributes to the low-frequency range, enhancing bass performance. It produces deep and powerful bass that impacts explosions, music beats, and action sequences. The subwoofer’s wireless connectivity allows for flexible placement within the room, ensuring optimal bass response without the limitations of wired connections.
Treble performance is equally commendable, with clear and crisp high-frequency sounds. Whether it’s a piano’s delicate notes, the cymbals’ shimmer, or the nuances in dialogue, the soundbar reproduces them with clarity and detail. This balanced treble performance ensures no audio point goes unnoticed, enhancing the overall listening experience.
EQ Settings
To cater to different audio preferences and content types, the SHARP HT-SBW800 provides a range of EQ (Equalizer) settings that allow users to fine-tune the sound to their liking.
The soundbar typically includes preset EQ modes such as “Movie,” “Music,” “Voice,” and “Game.” These presets adjust the sound profile to suit specific content genres. For instance, the “Movie” mode may emphasize surround sound and bass for a more cinematic experience, while the “Voice” mode focuses on clear dialogue for TV shows and documentaries.
Advanced users can delve deeper into customization by accessing manual EQ settings. These settings allow you to adjust parameters like bass, treble, and balance to achieve a personalized sound signature. This level of control is appreciated by audiophiles and those who prefer tailor-made audio experiences.
The flexibility of EQ settings ensures that the soundbar can adapt to different types of content and user preferences, making it a versatile audio solution.
Soundstage and Imaging
The SHARP HT-SBW800 creates an expansive soundstage that widens the audio perception and immerses the listener in the content. Whether you’re watching a suspenseful thriller or an action-packed blockbuster, the soundstage adds depth and dimension to the audio.
Imaging, or the ability to pinpoint the location of sound sources, is another area where this soundbar shines. It accurately positions sound effects and dialogue within the soundstage, creating a more realistic and engaging auditory experience. This precision in sound placement adds authenticity to the viewing or listening experience, enhancing immersion.
The upward-firing speakers play a crucial role in creating a three-dimensional soundstage, especially when enjoying Dolby Atmos technology content. Sound is reflected off the ceiling and walls, creating a sense of height and depth in the audio, which is particularly effective in scenes with overhead effects like rain, helicopters, or flying objects.
Surround Sound Performance
One of the key features of the SHARP HT-SBW800 is its ability to deliver surround sound without the need for additional satellite speakers. This is achieved through its Dolby Atmos support and clever speaker placement.
The upward-firing speakers, in combination with the front-firing drivers, create a surround sound effect that envelopes the listener. This 5.1.2 channel setup ensures that audio is directed from the front but from above and behind, resulting in a 360-degree audio environment.
The wireless subwoofer enhances the surround sound experience by delivering deep and impactful bass. It complements the directional audio cues, ensuring you feel the rumble of explosions and the depth of the soundtrack.
When paired with compatible content, such as movies and games with Dolby Atmos support, the SHARP HT-SBW800 delivers an immersive surround sound experience. It adds depth and dimension to your home entertainment, making it feel like you are part of the action.
Dialogue Clarity
The SHARP HT-SBW800 5.1.2 Soundbar delivers clear and precise dialogue, a crucial aspect of any audio system. The dedicated center channel, a key component of the 5.1.2 channel configuration, is designed to reproduce dialogue with exceptional clarity.
Whether watching a dialogue-heavy movie or following a TV show with intricate conversations, the soundbar ensures that every word is well-articulated and understandable. This clarity enhances the overall viewing experience, allowing you to catch every nuance of the dialogue without straining to hear.
The soundbar’s advanced audio processing technology enhances dialogue clarity by minimizing background noise and emphasizing speech frequencies. This feature is handy in scenes with ambient sounds or music, ensuring the dialogue remains prominent and intelligible.
Volume and Power Handling
With a total power output of 350W, the SHARP HT-SBW800 can produce sound at impressive volumes. This power-handling capability ensures that the soundbar can fill even larger rooms with robust audio, making it suitable for a variety of home entertainment setups.
The soundbar maintains its audio quality even at high volumes, minimizing distortion and ensuring a consistent and enjoyable listening experience. This means you can crank up the volume during action-packed sequences without worrying about audio degradation.
For users who appreciate cinematic audio experiences, the soundbar’s powerful output is a valuable asset. It delivers room-shaking bass and enveloping surround sound, creating a theater-like atmosphere in your own home.
Bluetooth and Wireless Connectivity
Including Bluetooth connectivity is a valuable feature in the SHARP HT-SBW800 soundbar. Bluetooth allows you to easily pair your smartphone, tablet, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices with the soundbar. This wireless connection lets you stream music, podcasts, or audiobooks directly to the soundbar without additional cables.
The convenience of Bluetooth extends to guests or family members who want to share their favorite music from their own devices. Pairing is usually straightforward, ensuring everyone can contribute to the playlist during gatherings or parties.
The wireless subwoofer connects effortlessly to the soundbar without requiring physical cables. This not only simplifies the setup process but also eliminates the need for running wires across the room, enhancing the overall aesthetics of your entertainment area.
Compatibility with TV and Other Devices
The SHARP HT-SBW800 is designed to be compatible with a wide range of TVs and other devices. It features HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) support, allowing for a seamless connection to your TV. With HDMI ARC, you can control the soundbar’s volume and power with your TV remote, reducing the need for multiple remotes cluttering your coffee table.
In addition to HDMI ARC, the soundbar offers multiple HDMI inputs, optical input, and a 3.5mm aux-in jack. These various connectivity options ensure you can connect gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, set-top boxes, and other audio sources without issues.
The SHARP HT-SBW800’s compatibility extends to different TV brands and models, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of home entertainment setups. It’s essential to check your TV’s compatibility with HDMI ARC or optical audio output to ensure a seamless connection.
Streaming Services Support
The SHARP HT-SBW800 supports popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ to cater to the modern streaming-oriented lifestyle. This means you can enjoy your favorite streaming content with enhanced audio quality through the soundbar.
The Dolby Atmos support in the soundbar further enriches the streaming experience. Streaming services that offer Dolby Atmos content will benefit from the soundbar’s ability to deliver immersive audio. It’s important to note that not all content on streaming platforms supports Dolby Atmos, so availability may vary depending on the specific titles you’re watching.
Having streaming services support directly through the soundbar can streamline your viewing experience. You won’t need to switch between multiple devices or inputs to access your favorite shows and movies.
Audio Codecs Supported
The SHARP HT-SBW800 has a range of audio codecs, ensuring compatibility with various audio formats and sources. Commonly supported codecs include Dolby Digital, DTS, and AAC, widely used in Blu-ray discs, streaming services, and broadcast TV.
The inclusion of Dolby Atmos support is a standout feature. This advanced audio codec adds a vertical dimension to the sound, creating a more immersive experience. It’s particularly effective in replicating the cinematic experience in your living room.
Additionally, the soundbar’s support for high-resolution audio codecs like FLAC and WAV allows audiophiles to enjoy their music collection with the utmost fidelity. The soundbar’s ability to decode and reproduce these formats ensures you can experience your music fully.
Size and Compatibility with Room
The physical dimensions of the SHARP HT-SBW800 soundbar make it a versatile choice for various room sizes and configurations. Measuring just under 40 inches in width, it can comfortably fit in most living rooms and home theater setups.
For those with smaller spaces, the soundbar’s compact design ensures that it doesn’t overpower the room visually. Its minimalist aesthetic complements modern decor and can be wall-mounted to save space.
The soundbar’s 350W of total power output in larger rooms ensures that it can deliver room-filling audio without distortion. Paired with the wireless subwoofer, it can create an immersive audio experience that envelops the entire space, making it suitable for spacious living areas and dedicated home theaters.
The versatility of the SHARP HT-SBW800’s size and compatibility with different room configurations make it an excellent choice for a wide range of home environments.
Brand and Reputation
SHARP is a well-established brand with a rich history in the electronics industry. Known for its innovative technology and commitment to quality, SHARP has earned a reputation for producing consumer electronics that deliver exceptional performance and reliability.
The SHARP HT-SBW800 5.1.2 Soundbar is a testament to the brand’s legacy of excellence. Its advanced audio technology and thoughtful design align with SHARP’s tradition of providing high-quality audio solutions for consumers.
SHARP’s reputation for innovation and customer satisfaction adds credibility to the soundbar’s performance and features. Buyers can trust the brand’s commitment to delivering a superior audio experience.
Durability and Longevity
Durability and longevity are crucial considerations when investing in audio equipment. The SHARP HT-SBW800 soundbar is designed with longevity in mind, featuring a sturdy build quality that can withstand daily use.
The soundbar’s construction combines metal and plastic, ensuring a robust and durable build. This construction enhances the soundbar’s ability to withstand physical wear and tear and contributes to its overall longevity.
Additionally, SHARP’s commitment to stringent quality control and manufacturing standards ensures that the soundbar maintains its performance and reliability over time. This dedication to quality gives consumers confidence that the soundbar will provide years of enjoyment without significant issues or performance degradation.
Energy Efficiency
In an era where energy efficiency is a growing concern, the SHARP HT-SBW800 soundbar balances performance and energy conservation. Like many electronic devices, soundbars can potentially consume significant power, especially if left on for extended periods.
The soundbar is designed with energy-efficient components and features to minimize power consumption during operation. Additionally, it incorporates an automatic standby mode that activates when the soundbar is not in use for an extended period. This feature helps conserve energy and reduce electricity costs over time.
Furthermore, the included remote control, and the SHARP Audio Remote app offers convenient ways to power the soundbar on and off, allowing users to manage its energy usage according to their needs. This level of control aligns with modern sustainability goals and the desire to reduce energy waste.
Portability and Convenience
The SHARP HT-SBW800 soundbar offers a degree of portability and convenience that enhances its usability in various scenarios. Its compact design and wireless subwoofer make moving and positioning within your living space easy.
Whether rearranging your furniture or temporarily relocating the soundbar for a special event, its portability ensures you can achieve optimal audio performance without hassle. The absence of wired connections between the soundbar and subwoofer contributes to this convenience.
Additionally, the SHARP Audio Remote app allows you to control the soundbar from your smartphone or tablet, eliminating the need to search for the physical remote control. This added convenience enhances the user experience, especially when adjusting settings or switching between audio modes.
Mounting Options
Mounting options for a soundbar can significantly impact the aesthetics and functionality of your entertainment setup. The SHARP HT-SBW800 offers versatile mounting options to cater to various room configurations and preferences.
Wall Mounting: The soundbar includes mounting hardware, making it easy to install on the wall beneath your TV. Wall mounting saves valuable space and provides a clean and uncluttered look, ideal for modern home theater setups.
Tabletop Placement: If you prefer to avoid mounting the soundbar on the wall, it can be placed on a TV stand or tabletop. Its compact size ensures that it won’t obstruct your view of the TV screen, allowing you to maintain a sleek and organized appearance.
Subwoofer Placement: The wireless subwoofer can be strategically positioned within the room to achieve the best bass response. Its wireless connectivity eliminates the need for lengthy subwoofer cables, allowing you to place it in an ideal spot without clutter.
Adjustable Angles: Some soundbars, including the SHARP HT-SBW800, offer adjustable angles. This feature lets you direct the sound more precisely towards the listening area, ensuring an optimal listening experience.
Overall, the availability of these mounting options ensures that the soundbar can seamlessly integrate into your room’s layout while enhancing your audio experience. Whether you prefer a minimalist wall-mounted setup or a more traditional tabletop arrangement, the SHARP HT-SBW800 accommodates your preferences.
Comparison with Similar Products
SHARP HT-SBW800 vs. Sony HT-X8500
The SHARP HT-SBW800 and the Sony HT-X8500 are 2.1-channel soundbars with Dolby Atmos support, making them suitable for creating an immersive audio experience. Here’s how they compare:
Audio Configuration: The SHARP HT-SBW800 offers a 5.1.2 channel configuration, while the Sony HT-X8500 is a 2.1 channel soundbar. The SHARP model provides a more comprehensive surround sound experience, especially for larger rooms.
Bass Performance: The SHARP soundbar includes a wireless subwoofer, delivering more powerful and impactful bass than the built-in subwoofer of the Sony HT-X8500.
Connectivity: Both soundbars offer Bluetooth connectivity and support for various audio codecs. However, the SHARP soundbar provides multiple HDMI inputs and HDMI ARC support, offering greater flexibility for connecting multiple devices.
Price: The Sony HT-X8500 is generally more budget-friendly than the SHARP HT-SBW800, making it an attractive option for those seeking Dolby Atmos support without the premium price tag.
Mounting Options: Both soundbars offer versatile mounting options, with the SHARP soundbar providing wall mounting hardware and the Sony soundbar designed for tabletop placement.
In summary, the SHARP HT-SBW800 offers a more extensive audio configuration and powerful bass but comes at a higher price point. The Sony HT-X8500 is a budget-friendly alternative with respectable Dolby Atmos support.
Buying Guide
When considering the purchase of the SHARP HT-SBW800 5.1.2 Soundbar, here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Room Size: Assess the size of your room and the desired audio coverage. The SHARP HT-SBW800 is suitable for medium to large rooms, but additional rear speakers may be required for a complete surround sound experience for very spacious areas.
Budget: Consider your budget and compare the SHARP HT-SBW800 with alternative soundbars with similar features. Determine whether the Dolby Atmos support, powerful bass, and versatile connectivity justify the premium price.
Device Compatibility: Ensure that your TV and other audio sources are compatible with the soundbar’s connectivity options, such as HDMI ARC, HDMI inputs, or optical audio.
Audio Preferences: Determine your audio preferences. If you prioritize clear dialogue and immersive audio for movies and gaming, the SHARP HT-SBW800’s 5.1.2 channel configuration and Dolby Atmos support are advantageous.
Mounting and Placement: Decide whether you prefer wall mounting or tabletop placement for the soundbar. Ensure that your room layout accommodates your chosen setup.
Streaming Services: If you frequently use streaming services, check if your preferred platforms support Dolby Atmos content, as this will maximize your audio experience.
Wireless Connectivity: Consider the convenience of wireless connectivity options, such as Bluetooth, for streaming music from your devices.
Recommendations
Home Theater Enthusiasts: If you’re passionate about creating a cinematic audio experience at home and have a budget that accommodates it, the SHARP HT-SBW800 is an excellent choice.
Audiophiles: Audiophiles who appreciate high-quality audio and immersive experiences will find the Dolby Atmos support and powerful bass of the SHARP soundbar appealing.
Multi-Device Users: If you have multiple audio sources, the SHARP HT-SBW800’s versatile connectivity options make it easy to switch between devices seamlessly.
Users Seeking Premium Features: The SHARP HT-SBW800 offers premium sound quality and advanced features. This soundbar is worth considering if you’re willing to invest in these qualities.
Movie and Music Lovers: Whether you enjoy blockbuster movies or immersive music experiences, the SHARP soundbar enhances both, making it suitable for a range of entertainment scenarios.
Final Thoughts
The SHARP HT-SBW800 5.1.2 Soundbar impresses with its immersive Dolby Atmos audio, clear dialogue, powerful bass, versatile connectivity, and energy efficiency. While its premium price may not fit every budget, its audio quality and features make it a compelling choice for those seeking a premium audio experience at home.
When considering this soundbar, assess your room size, budget, device compatibility, and audio preferences. Suppose the soundbar aligns with your needs and priorities. In that case, it can elevate your home entertainment, delivering immersive audio that enhances your movie nights, gaming sessions, and music enjoyment.