Question Is the Ambeo Max worth it in 2025 for a 2016 TV (Sony XD 9305)

[rahulthewall]

Hi,

I have the following TV: https://www.sony.co.uk/electronics/...s-lcd-tvs-android-/kd-55xd9305/specifications

The TV is definitely old. It has eArc support but no HDMI 2.1.

Is it worth it to pair this TV with an Ambeo Max soundbar? Or do I need a newer TV (with HDMI 2.1) to unlock the full potential of the soundbar?

Does my TV need to support Dolby Atmos for me to benefit from the max? Currently I use my Xbox to play everything, and in the Xbox I have selected Dolby Digital as the sound output with pass through enabled. I can't select Dolby Atmos as my TV doesn't support that.

I can't use the Dolby connect app from the Xbox as Dolby Atmos is not supported by my TV.

Will this be good enough for the max or should I first upgrade my TV?

 

[daytona600]

Soundbars are pants
2 active Speakers with ARC would be much better

 

[bigboss]

Soundbars are pants
2 active Speakers with ARC would be much better

That's a sweeping generalisation. It won't necessarily be better as the set up with 2 active speakers will lack a dedicated centre channel. Plus, the OP is specifically asking about Atmos support that active speakers cannot deliver.

Sennheiser Ambeo Max is one of the best soundbars out there. While many soundbars combine vast arrays of small drivers with a separate (often wireless) subwoofer, Sennheiser has opted for much larger drivers capable of covering a far more significant portion of the frequency range, intending to negate the need for an external sub.

Yes, the Ambeo Max will be a massive upgrade over TV speakers or most mid-range soundbars, even with your 2016 TV.

You don’t need a new TV unless you want HDMI 2.1 gaming features (VRR, 4K120) — not for audio.

Just make sure to plug your Xbox directly into the soundbar, and you’ll get Atmos, DTS:X, and excellent sound performance.