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Amazon advertises its Fire Soundbar Plus at three price points: $249 for the 3.1-channel version, $299 for the addition of an external subwoofer, and $489 for a 5.1-channel system with the subwoofer plus two surround sound speakers (the model I tested).
The Soundbar Plus’ predecessor — the 2023 Fire TV Soundbar (sans “Plus”) — lies at the bottom of the cost ladder as a 2.0 channel speaker for $119.
Besides including the extra hardware, the Fire TV Soundbar Plus’s design differs notably from the low-end 2023 model. The base model is shaped like an elongated, 24-inch pill with soft, curving edges. The Plus model maintains its rounded edges but is twice as deep as it is tall (5.2″ x 2.5″) and significantly longer at 37 inches. The cubical surround speakers and subwoofer also feature rounded edges for a conservative, streamlined form factor.
The shipment box, I should mention, also included a wall mount kit with brackets for the two satellite speakers. The soundbar’s remote is a compact four inches long, and, as with all Amazon electronics, it comes equipped with batteries.
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Setup was fairly easy. After plugging in the power cords for all four components, the only requirement was to push the “Connect” buttons on the backs of the sub and side speakers. After quickly pairing the system with an LG TV, I watched “Daredevil: Born Again” on Disney+ because it is replete with action scenes accompanied by intense symphonic movements.
Sure, compared with premium soundbars, the Fire TV Soundbar Plus presents a weaker midrange performance and a narrower stereo image. Highs can be peaky, while lowering treble can make the sound muddy and a bit cluttered. But only the most finicky audiophile would notice these nuances.
The Soundbar Plus supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS TruVolume, but it doesn’t have built-in video streaming functionality, so it’s purely a sound system without smart features. That is acceptable in light of its value-forward price tag, coupled with the fact that it sounds great.
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While the Fire Soundbar Plus is designed to work seamlessly with Fire TV devices, you can still control both the TV and soundbar with a single remote and even fine-tune the audio settings in the TV’s menu. It’s an excellent choice if you’re seeking to enhance your audio experience without the complexity of a high-end system.
ZDNET’s buying advice
The top-tier Fire Soundbar Plus
Source : ZDNet