Not sure what to buy: soundbar or wireless speaker?

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Hi there,

Been looking for a premium but somewhat affordable wireless audiosystem which suits my needs. But I can't figure out what's best for me personally, so that's why I need your advice *clapping*

I'm in love with the Naim Mu-So wireless speaker (immediately gives you an impression of what price range I'm in), cause I'm a big music enthousiast and gadget geek that prefers quality over price. Review here: http://www.whathifi.com/naim/mu-so/review

Now here comes the dilemma. I want to use it as a soundbar for my tv as well (for daily use!). But since it (only) has digital optical input and no HDMI input, I wonder if it is actually the PERFECT choice?

For me personally if I'd go with a high-end soundbar, it should offer the same connectivity options as the Naim Mu-So: Bluetooth aptX, AirPlay, UPnP, WiFi, perhaps Spotify Connect etc.

 

[hybridauth_Facebook_10156884386790434]

@ tino

I did not mean I am looking for a wireless speaker that looks like a soundbar (or vice versa). I actually want to know if there is any difference between a soundbar and a wireless speaker besides the design.

 

[tino]

Hi there,

Been looking for a premium but somewhat affordable wireless audiosystem which suits my needs. But I can't figure out what's best for me personally, so that's why I need your advice *clapping*

I'm in love with the Naim Mu-So wireless speaker (immediately gives you an impression of what price range I'm in), cause I'm a big music enthousiast and gadget geek that prefers quality over price. Review here: http://www.whathifi.com/naim/mu-so/review

Now here comes the dilemma. I want to use it as a soundbar for my tv as well (for daily use!). But since it (only) has digital optical input and no HDMI input, I wonder if it is actually the PERFECT choice?

For me personally if I'd go with a high-end soundbar, it should offer the same connectivity options as the Naim Mu-So: Bluetooth aptX, AirPlay, UPnP, WiFi, perhaps Spotify Connect etc.

Take a look at the Mission Aero ... £199 at Richer Sounds - no HDMI though. The Maxell SBP3000 is pretty good for the price and has HDMI. You could get both a soundbar (with HDMI) for under the TV, and a couple of Sonos Play 1s in stereo configuration, all for around £500. Best of both worlds,
,

 

[tino]

@ tino

I did not mean I am looking for a wireless speaker that looks like a soundbar (or vice versa). I actually want to know if there is any difference between a soundbar and a wireless speaker besides the design.

I have a soundbar for TV duties, and stereo hifi speakers for music. Soundbars sound a bit too compromised IMO for music, and I find the Muso too boxy sounding for my taste.
I went for soundbar (the Maxell I mentioned above) because of exactly the reason you mention - HDMI inputs (although it has no Dolby encoding) and it also has optical, aptx Bluetooth.

 

[tino]

PS The Muso does not support any multichannel formats through its optical input if you are thinking of hooking it up to your TV. That's a difference you will find when comparing it to some dedicated home theatre soundbars/soundbases.