As soundbars increase in popularity manufacturers need to make their offerings stand out from the crowd. Panasonic is now offering slim, wall-mountable soundbars meant to rest flush up against your HDTV. Time will tell what impact the form factor has on sound quality.
From High-Def Digest
"Panasonic has recognized the importance of bar-style home theater systems for both their design and audio functionalities," said David Fisher, Product Manager, Home Entertainment, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "This year, we have expanded our lineup, building upon past sound technology to deliver exceptional 5.1-channel surround sound in our SC-HTB880 model and enhancing audio functions like Clear-mode Dialog, to enhance the home theater experience for users."
All three models are wall-mountable and feature Delta Form Design and a triangular cross section to provide a slim size and dynamic audio. The premium SC-HTB880 offers 5.1 sound with a wireless subwoofer and includes 4K video pass through. The SC-HTB880 and the SC-HTB580 also use the company's Clear-mode Dialog which makes speech sound like it's coming from the center of the TV. Near Field Communication technology is integrated as well, allowing for simplified Bluetooth connectivity.
Exact pricing and availability have not been announced yet, but Panasonic says all three models will be available later this year on their website.
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