Denon DHT-S517 sound bar review immersive Dolby Atmos sound with wireless subwoofer

Description

Immersive Audio Quality with Advanced Features

I recently had the chance to test the Denon DHT-S517 Sound Bar with its wireless subwoofer, and I must say, the Dolby Atmos technology truly elevates the entire listening experience. The 3.1.2 channel configuration, coupled with two up-firing speakers, creates a 3D surround sound that immerses you in the action, whether you’re watching an intense movie or casually streaming a playlist. The dedicated center-channel driver ensures dialogue comes through crystal clear, which has been a game-changer for me during shows with overlapping sound effects.

The wireless subwoofer is another standout feature. Its 10-inch diameter delivers deep, resonating bass that’s perfect for music and action-packed scenes. It connects seamlessly, and I didn’t experience any lag or interruptions during use. The soundbar also has a Pure Mode, which eliminates additional processing, offering uncolored and balanced audio. This feature especially shines when I’m listening to music, as it maintains the integrity of the original recording.

Effortless Setup and Connectivity Options

Setting up the Denon DHT-S517 was refreshingly straightforward. With HDMI eARC compatibility, connecting it to my TV was as simple as plugging in a single cable. The inclusion of optical and HDMI cables in the box was a thoughtful touch—no scrambling to find the right cords. I was able to control the soundbar using my TV remote thanks to HDMI CEC, which avoids the hassle of juggling multiple remotes.

For those who love streaming music, the Bluetooth connectivity works flawlessly. Pairing my smartphone was quick, and streaming audio was seamless, with no noticeable lag or quality loss. The flexibility this offers is fantastic for casual gatherings or even just relaxing on the couch with a playlist running in the background.

Design That Fits Anywhere

The sleek black design of the soundbar is modern and understated, blending effortlessly into my living room setup. It’s just under 3 inches tall, which means it fits nicely under most TVs without obstructing the IR remote sensor. Though the product is wall-mountable, I chose to place it on a shelf, and it still looks great. The build quality feels solid but not overly bulky, striking a good balance between aesthetic appeal and functionality.

Customized Sound Modes for Every Occasion

One of my favorite things about this soundbar is the three distinct sound modes: Movie, Music, and Night. While watching action movies, the Movie mode enhances explosions and sound effects without drowning out dialogue. On the other hand, the Night mode tones down the bass and keeps the sound clear, making it ideal for late-night binge-watching. For music, the Music mode provides a balanced soundstage, bringing out the mids and highs beautifully without overwhelming bass.

The dialogue enhancer also deserves praise. It’s incredibly effective at amplifying voices without adjusting the overall volume. My parents often complain about unclear dialogues in shows, but this feature has made it easier for them to follow along.

Key Benefits

• Dolby Atmos technology creates an immersive 3D audio experience.
• Wireless subwoofer delivers deep, impactful bass.
• Effortless setup with included HDMI and optical cables.
• Multiple sound modes offer tailored audio for various content.
• Dialogue enhancer ensures clear conversation during movies and shows.

Areas for Improvement

• The remote control feels somewhat basic and lacks backlighting, which can be inconvenient in dimly lit rooms.
• There’s no voice assistant integration, which could have added more convenience.
• While the Bluetooth connectivity is reliable, it doesn’t support advanced codecs like aptX or LDAC for audiophiles.

Competing Products

Comparing the Denon DHT-S517 to similar products like the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) and the Bose Smart Soundbar 300, several distinctions stand out. The Denon excels in bass performance due to its included wireless subwoofer, which neither of those competitors provide at this price point. However, the Sonos Beam offers voice assistant capabilities with Alexa and Google Assistant, adding a layer of smart functionality missing in the Denon model.

The Bose Smart Soundbar 300, on the other hand, offers a slightly more refined audio quality for vocals, but it lacks the Dolby Atmos support that makes the Denon stand out for an immersive experience. Price-wise, the Denon sits comfortably in the mid-range, providing an excellent balance of features and affordability compared to its more premium competitors.

Value for Money

In terms of affordable quality, the Denon DHT-S517 offers significant value. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos, a wireless subwoofer, and multiple sound modes make it a strong contender for anyone looking to upgrade their home audio setup without splurging on ultra-high-end models. While it does have some limitations, especially in smart features and remote design, its audio performance and user-friendly setup more than justify the investment.

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