Sennheiser has unveiled its latest addition to the Ambeo Soundbar lineup - the Ambeo Soundbar Mini. With this release, Sennheiser aims to offer a more compact and affordable option for those seeking an immersive audio experience in their living spaces.
The Ambeo Soundbar Mini comes in at a price of $799 (€799 / £699), positioning itself as a more accessible alternative compared to its larger and pricier predecessors, the Ambeo Soundbar Max and Ambeo Soundbar Plus. Although the price tag may seem steep, it's significantly lower than the previous models in the lineup, making it an attractive proposition for audiophiles.
The compact dimensions of the Ambeo Soundbar Mini do not compromise its audio capabilities. Sennheiser has managed to pack four full-range speaker drivers and two 4-inch subwoofers into a chassis measuring just 70 cm in length and less than 10 cm in height. This design should ensure that the speaker can deliver an impressive audio output, with the ability to simulate a 7.1.4 home theater system, comprising seven speakers at ear level, four mounted overhead, and a subwoofer.
Key to the Ambeo Soundbar Mini's immersive sound is Sennheiser's proprietary Ambeo technology. The soundbar features four built-in microphones that adjust the audio output based on the room's acoustics, providing a tailored listening experience. While lacking dedicated upward-firing drivers for height channels, the soundbar relies on virtualization technology to recreate a three-dimensional audio environment.
The soundbar is equipped to handle a range of 3D surround sound formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, 360 Reality Audio, and MPEG-H. Its HDMI 2.1 (eARC) port provides seamless connectivity to your TV or display, although the soundbar's limited physical connectivity options should be noted. Sennheiser has chosen not to include optical or aux inputs, relying solely on the HDMI eARC port.
Wireless audio streaming capabilities are a highlight of the Ambeo Soundbar Mini. With support for Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, Chromecast built-in, and Apple AirPlay 2, users can easily stream their favorite audio content from various sources. The soundbar's built-in microphones also facilitate voice commands via popular voice assistants such as Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Siri.
Despite its smaller size and lower price, Sennheiser has endeavored to maintain the core features and immersive audio quality associated with the Ambeo Soundbar series. The Ambeo Soundbar Mini offers a blend of technology and aesthetics, aiming to deliver a premium audio experience to users seeking an unobtrusive yet impactful addition to their entertainment setup.
The Ambeo Soundbar Mini is set to be available for purchase starting September 1, offering audiophiles a chance to bring Sennheiser's renowned audio technology into their homes without the need for an extensive setup.