Sony Launches the HT-B500 Soundbar: A 3.1-Channel Powerhouse Featuring Dolby Atmos and DTS:X

Sony has officially expanded its home audio lineup in China with the debut of the HT-B500 soundbar. Designed to elevate everyday home entertainment , this 3.1-channel system is currently available on JD.com for 2,341 yuan (approximately $342) .

Under the Hood: Sony HT-B500 Specifications

At its core, the HT-B500 boasts a 3.1-channel configuration anchored by a physical, front-facing three-channel array . A standout feature is the dedicated center speaker, which is specifically tuned to ensure crystal-clear dialogue . To round out the low end, Sony includes a robust wireless subwoofer engineered to deliver deep, room-filling bass .

#HT-B500 Soundbar:

Audiophiles will appreciate the soundbar’s native support for premium formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X . To maximize these technologies, the system relies on Sony’s Vertical Surround Engine (VSE), which convincingly simulates overhead sound without the need for dedicated ceiling speakers . This verticality is perfectly complemented by S-Force Pro Front Surround technology, which effortlessly widens the horizontal soundstage .

The HT-B500 also shines when handling standard audio, thanks to the integration of Sony’s one-touch 3D upmix surround technology . This smart feature takes traditional stereo or 2-channel sources and intelligently scales them into an immersive, three-dimensional audio experience , bringing a richer, more spatial feel even to basic streaming content . Additionally, the inclusion of AI Voice Enhancement 3.0 works in real time to isolate and boost dialogue against heavy background noise .

When it comes to connectivity, the HT-B500 is fully equipped for modern setups . It features Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless wireless streaming from laptops, tablets, and smartphones . Audio quality is further refined by Sony’s Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE), which actively restores lost details in compressed audio files . For wired connections, the unit offers both HDMI eARC output and an optical input .

Aesthetically, the soundbar embraces a sleek, minimalist profile characterized by a premium metal grille and soft, rounded edges . Its compact footprint offers excellent versatility, looking just as natural mounted on a wall as it does resting on a tabletop media console .

In other audio industry news , boAt recently expanded its portfolio with the Aavante Prime X—a massive 700W wireless 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos soundbar . Meanwhile, Samsung has given enthusiasts a glimpse into the future by unveiling its 2026 home audio lineup, highlighting brand-new Music Studio speakers alongside updated Q-Series soundbars .