Just a few days ago I started using Sony’s mid-range home theater system, the HT-S500RF, which is a sub-Rs 30,000 and offers 5.1 channel audio.
This audio system is from the latest pool of speakers released by the company and targets the segment looking to invest in a new home theater system, without compromising on brand value and also not looking to go beyond a certain budget.
A 5.1 Sony speaker for Rs 30,000 doesn’t seem to be a bad bargain, but then the thrifty side of me asked me a question: “Why not assemble something equally good and at a lower cost?”
Looking to Assemble?
Getting a 5.1 channel audio system assembled is no big challenge these days. A 2.1 channel soundbar, 2 speakers and a sub-woofer and you’re good to go. Since one needs to consider his/her budget, they can invest in the hardware accordingly. Rest assured the sound quality will be as good as your investment.
Though, assembling an audio system does give you benefits of customisation and the setup is much more economical, there are issues like compatibility and audio quality that one might have to compromise on. Not to mention there are no company warranties that you benefit from.
‘Brand Value’
Sony has been a pioneer in making audio systems for a while now therefore understands the aesthetics and what’s needed to deliver the perfect sound to the customer.
With a branded audio system you get the assurance of not only a quality product but also the benefits of warranties and customer service. There is also compatibility that comes into play as most branded audio systems are compatible to support any type of hardware.
Also, if you’re investing in a good brand, you get a promise of good quality hardware which will last you more than 15 years very easily.
So, before we dive into which one of the above you should go for, let’s look at one of the examples of a branded 5.1 home theater system from Sony, the HT-S500RF and what it offers for a price tag of Rs 28,500.
Sony HT-S500RF: What’s Good?
I used the S500RF with a 42-inch TV which didn’t feel underwhelming considering the sound output was good. The build quality is average and can’t be considered the most premium though isn’t flimsy by any means.
The soundbar can be wall mounted or just placed on a surface as the rubber cladding beneath keeps things steady. The rear satellite speakers also come with similar rubber at the bottom for extra grip and stability.
The sound quality from the 1,000 watt speakers is good enough for a medium size 14x10 room. The fact that the whole whole setup at 17 kilograms doesn’t weigh that much helps move it around easily.
The sub-woofer comes with an LED display pane right besides the USB port, which can be used to play songs from an external drive.
Where a traditional 5.1 system has one sub-woofer and four speakers, the Sony HT-S500RF comes with a soundbar that houses the front three channels in one soundbar.
Many feel that it might be a disadvantage as customisation is restricted, but rest assured you’re not compromising on sound quality.
Speaking of sound quality, the Sony S500RF is a good example of how Sony is serious about product quality and sound. Rich bass, appropriate treble and near perfect mid-tones ensure you’re not missing out on the “true cinema” experience and also get the perfect party-rocking jukebox.
NFC always comes in handy for quick connectivity. Just make sure that the rear speakers are at ear level so that you don’t miss out on your audio experience.
What’s Bad?
We are still in the age of “wires” and that is a bit of a compromise with the Sony S500RF. Though, there is no issue with the quality or the length of the wires, with the rear channel speakers you’ll need be very efficient with your wire management capabilities.
The touch control panel is prone to a lot of accidental or “ghost touches” so make sure it’s out of the reach of small children or someone who has some has a knack of fiddling with touch sensitive controls. Use the remote, much better.
Also, since most of the connectivity ports are behind the sub-woofer, you are restricted from moving the big box away from the TV.
Still Looking to Assemble?
Assembling a 5.1 home theater system can be a challenge especially if you haven’t done your market research.
Be it the online or the offline market, it’s relatively easy to find a 2.1 soundbar bundled with a sub-woofer under Rs 10,000. Brands like Phillips, Blaupunkt, JBL and even Panasonic offer similar audio systems in this range.
You can always buy a separate set of ceiling or in-wall speakers to go along with the 2.1 channel system, which won’t cost you more than Rs 5,000.
The Verdict
So, your overall spending on a customised 5.1 home theater system won’t be more than Rs 15,000-20,000. Also, it depends on how much you are spending on individual models. The more you spend the better output you get. It’s a universal formula.
If you’re tight on budget, definitely go for an assembled setup.
But, if you’re thinking of spending more than Rs 20,000 on a 5.1 home theater, then I’d recommend chip in the extra bucks and go for a branded audio system. In this case, the Sony HT-S500RF.
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