Monoprice launches affordable SB‑300 Virtual Dolby Atmos Soundbar
Thanks to the pandemic, more and more people are learning to enjoy their homes rather than go out. This makes sense, as TVs keep getting bigger and better -- you no longer need to go to an actual movie theater for a proper cinematic experience. Even though the COVID-19 virus is now fading away in the USA, it seems the home entertainment trend is here to stay.
Of course, a quality television is only part of the equation. To truly enjoy movies and TV shows at home, you will want to upgrade your audio gear too. And no, the speakers built into your TV are definitely not good enough. Thankfully, these days you can get by without investing big money into a giant bulky stereo system. Instead, an elegant soundbar can provide a high-end audio experience without cluttering your living room.
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Today, Monoprice launches its latest soundbar, and it looks like a winner. Called "SB‑300," it offers Virtual Dolby Atmos in a small package. There is no subwoofer here -- a big benefit for those that prefer a minimalistic aesthetic. Besides HDMI and optical connectivity, you can wirelessly connect to devices over Bluetooth too. Believe it or not you can even connect a flash drive full of mp3 files and play them.
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"The SB‑300 Virtual Dolby Atmos Soundbar delivers an expanded sound field for a terrific home theater experience! Two HDMI inputs, an HDMI eARC output, coaxial and optical digital audio inputs, and a 3.5mm analog audio input allow you to connect your various audio and video devices, while the wireless Bluetooth connection and USB input allow you to stream audio from your smartphone or PC," says Monoprice.
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The value-focused company further says, "Enjoy total control from the comfort of your easy chair using the included IR remote control. The wireless connectivity ensures a quick and easy setup and a clutter free appearance. The Monoprice SB-300 Virtual Dolby Atmos Soundbar delivers a spacious soundstage and a complete home theater experience."
Monoprice shares specifications below.
| Video Inputs | 2x HDMI |
| Video Output | HDMI with eARC |
| Audio Inputs | Digital Coaxial, Digital Optical, 3.5mm Analog |
| Audio Input Sensitivity | 500mV |
| Nominal Impedance | 2x 4Ω |
| Frequency Response | 40Hz ~ 20kHz |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 |
| Amplifier Power | 2x 50 watts |
| Supported Bluetooth Profiles | A2DP, AVRCP |
| Bluetooth Frequency Range | 2400 ~ 2483.5 MHz |
| Bluetooth Maximum Transmission Power | ≤ 5dBm |
| Supported USB Formatting | FAT32, FAT16 |
| Maximum Supported USB Capacity | 32GB |
| Supported USB File Format | mp3 |
| Remote Control Range | up to 19.6 feet (6 meters) |
| Remote Control Operating Angle | 0 ~ 30° |
| Remote Control Power Source | 2x AAA batteries (included) |
| Input Power | 100 ~ 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz |
| Maximum Power Consumption | 30 watts |
| Standby Power Consumption | ≤ 0.5 watts |
| Dimensions | 39.4" x 2.9" x 4.2" (1000 x 74 x 106 mm) |
| Weight | 6.0 lbs. (2.7 kg) |
The SB-300 Virtual Dolby Atmos Soundbar can be purchased from Monoprice directly here now. Just how affordable is it? Surprisingly, it can be had for just $179.99. This seems to be a great deal for a Dolby Atmos soundbar with these features.