The compact and portable Sony HT-AX7 lets you take cinematic sound anywhere you want, and works great with your phone or tablet. This portable speaker system features two detachable satellite speakers that you can place behind you for 360-degree spatial sound. It sounds like a really cool device, and it is.
Quick specs
- Dimensions: 306 x 97 x 123mm (front speaker), 122 x 39 x 122mm (rear speakers)
- Battery life: 30 hours, 150 minutes with 10 minutes charge
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2 with A2DP, USB-C (charging)
The HT-AX7 comes clad in fabric, and feels really nice to touch. The two satellite speakers dock on top of the unit, giving the speaker a wide U-shape. The buttons are located on the top, and you can control music playback, volume, as well as turning on the Sound Field effect. You don't need to install any app to get this to work — just hit the button to turn it on. It works fine in apps such as Spotify or Netflix. However, the HT-AX7 doesn't have a HDMI port. So if you're thinking to connect it to a TV, you'll need to use Bluetooth, which isn't ideal.
Since the HT-AX7 connects via Bluetooth, you can use your phone or tablet to control the volume. If you want to turn on the Sound Field effect from a distance, you'll have to use the Home Connect app. The effect works best when you set it up in a triangle around you, with the main speaker in front and the two speakers behind you, and at the sides. There's really a difference when the Sound Field is turned on. With this feature disabled, the audio mostly sounds like it's coming from the front. Turn it on, and the sound immediately becomes more enveloping. This works for both music and video streaming. The HT-AX7 sounds great even when placed on the bed, where I feel it will likely see the most action.
Now, you can take one of the satellite speakers away with you to another room, but I don't recommend this. This small speaker isn't loud enough, and it won't sound as good. You will also have to turn off the Sound Field effect. Since the entire package with both satellites docked is merely 2kg, just bring it along with you if you're moving rooms. Battery life is great, with a reported 30 hours for the front speaker, and four hours each for the satellites. The speakers also get pretty loud, enough to fill up my bedroom, without any distortions even at max volume.
At S$759, the Sony HT-AX7 is an excellent buy for those who want to be surrounded by sound all the time. It's a great way to amp up the movie experience on your mobile device, or to play music anywhere at home. Get it from Shopee or Lazada.
Note: Review unit provided by Sony.
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