Sony’s high-end HT-A7000 soundbar now receives an update giving it access to 360 Spatial Sound Mapping calibration technology. Until now reserved for the HT-A9 model, 360 Spatial Sound Mapping combines two technologies called Sound Field Optimization and Monopole Synthesis. The first is a calibration algorithm taking into account the characteristics of the room as well as the distance between the different speakers (the soundbar and the surround speakers in this case). The second allows, thanks to the calibration, to create different phantom speakers all around the listening position in order to increase the feeling of immersion.
In addition to creating an immersive sound bubble, this technology also allows greater flexibility in the placement of the rear surround speakers. Sony should also release, next summer, a pair of rear surround speakers to pair with the HT-A7000 and greatly resembling the pads of the HT-A9 system: the SA-RS5. They will carry vertical speakers for Atmos effects but also a battery offering 10 hours of autonomy and will be offered at 800 € per pair. 360 Spatial Sound Mapping also works with the SA-RS3S surround speakers launched at €500 a pair.