Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Plus: Immersive Audio, Minus the Bulk?
Sennheiser’s Ambeo Soundbar was a sonic leviathan, delivering arguably the most convincing simulated surround sound from a single unit, but its price and sheer size were prohibitive for many. Enter the Ambeo Soundbar Plus, promising a similar immersive experience in a smaller, more accessible package. Can it truly replicate the flagship’s magic, or are compromises inevitable? We put it to the test.
The Plus certainly retains the Ambeo DNA. Its spatial audio prowess is genuinely impressive, utilizing beamforming technology to create a wide and tall soundstage that extends far beyond the physical boundaries of the bar itself. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content explodes with accurate object placement, putting you squarely in the center of the action. Dialogue clarity remains a Sennheiser hallmark, cutting through even the most chaotic soundscapes. The bass, while not as seismic as the original Ambeo, is surprisingly potent, providing a solid foundation for movie soundtracks and music alike.
Design-wise, the Soundbar Plus is significantly more discreet. While still substantial, it’s far less imposing than its predecessor, making it a better fit for smaller living rooms. The build quality is impeccable, as expected from Sennheiser, with a premium feel that justifies the price tag. Connectivity is comprehensive, including HDMI eARC, multiple HDMI inputs, optical, and analogue options. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are also on board, enabling streaming from various sources.
The Ambeo Soundbar Plus boasts a user-friendly interface, complemented by a well-designed app. The app allows for extensive customization, including room calibration to optimize the sound for your specific environment. While the automatic calibration works well, manual adjustments are also available for those who prefer a more hands-on approach. The included remote is functional but feels somewhat plasticky compared to the soundbar itself.
However, the Plus isn’t without its shortcomings. While the simulated surround sound is impressive, it doesn’t quite match the immersion of a dedicated surround sound system with discrete rear speakers. The price, while lower than the original Ambeo, remains high compared to other soundbars in its class. And while the bass is good, a separate subwoofer might be desirable for true bass heads seeking earth-shattering low-end rumble. Furthermore, the height channels, while noticeable, aren’t always as prominent as one might expect.
Ultimately, the Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Plus is a compelling option for those seeking a premium, immersive audio experience from a single unit. It’s a fantastic choice for apartment dwellers or anyone looking to simplify their home theater setup without sacrificing sound quality. However, those prioritizing maximum bass impact or true surround sound immersion might still consider other options.
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Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Plus Quick Summary
Key Scores:
- Value: 93%
- Design: 92%
- Performance: 92%
- Quality: 91%
- Popularity: 92%
Top Pros
- ✅ The spatial audio processing creates a truly immersive soundstage.
- ✅ Dialogue clarity is exceptional, even in complex mixes.
- ✅ The design is sleek and less bulky than the original Ambeo.
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Key Cons
- ❌ The price is still relatively high compared to competitors.
- ❌ The simulated surround sound isn’t quite as good as discrete speakers.
- ❌ The included remote feels cheap compared to the soundbar itself.
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