Overview

The Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer offers a balanced audio experience for those looking to enhance their home entertainment setup. This compact soundbar is designed to fit seamlessly under your TV, delivering clear, immersive sound. It includes a wireless subwoofer for deep bass without the clutter of extra cables. With support for Dolby Digital, it ensures an enhanced surround sound experience. Whether you're watching movies, playing games, or listening to music, this system improves overall sound clarity and quality, making it a great choice for small or medium-sized rooms.

Features & Benefits

The HT-S400 features S-Force PRO Front Surround technology, providing a cinematic experience with wide sound dispersion. The wireless subwoofer adds rich, powerful bass without the need for cumbersome wires, allowing for flexible placement. Thanks to Sony's X-Balanced Speaker Units, dialogue is crisp and clear, ensuring an immersive listening experience. It also boasts Bluetooth connectivity for easy streaming from your devices and is fully compatible with BRAVIA TVs, enabling effortless setup and control through a single remote.

Best For

This soundbar is ideal for users who want to elevate their home entertainment without dealing with complex setups. It’s perfect for TV and movie lovers who prioritize clear dialogue and immersive sound but are constrained by space. The compact design and wall-mountable feature make it a great choice for smaller rooms or apartments. If you're looking for a simple, efficient sound upgrade without a bulky audio system, this wireless subwoofer system provides an excellent balance of performance and convenience.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the HT-S400 for its powerful bass and easy installation. The wireless subwoofer delivers deep, punchy sound without the hassle of tangled cables, and the setup process is quick and user-friendly. Many report enjoying the enhanced clarity of dialogue and overall improved audio experience. However, some users mention occasional issues with the remote control not responding reliably, and a few feel that the sound quality could be further refined for music. Still, for the price, it’s highly praised for its overall value.

Pros

  • The wireless subwoofer provides deep, rich bass without the clutter of extra cables.
  • Users appreciate the clear and immersive sound, especially the dialogue clarity in movies.
  • Its compact design makes it perfect for smaller spaces, especially when wall-mounted.
  • Bluetooth connectivity ensures a quick and easy pairing with devices, adding convenience.
  • The S-Force PRO Front Surround feature enhances the cinematic experience with wide soundstage.
  • Many buyers find the setup process straightforward and hassle-free, even for non-technical users.

Cons

  • Some users report that the remote control has limited range and is not very responsive.
  • While the subwoofer adds powerful bass, it can be overwhelming in smaller rooms.
  • Not all Bluetooth connections are seamless, with occasional dropouts or lag.
  • The soundbar's build quality feels lighter than expected, making it less durable for heavy use.
  • A few users mention that the sound quality can suffer at higher volumes, especially in bass-heavy tracks.
  • Those without a BRAVIA TV might experience difficulties with full compatibility or features.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide across multiple platforms and languages, we’ve gathered both the strengths and pain points of the Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer. The feedback is authentic, filtered from spam, bots, and exaggerated claims. The scores reflect genuine user experiences, covering key aspects such as sound performance, ease of setup, and overall value for money.

Sound Quality
89%
Many users rave about the clear audio and rich soundstage provided by this device. The immersive experience is particularly notable for movies and music, with enhanced treble and mids that make listening enjoyable. The Dolby Digital support ensures a well-rounded sound, whether watching TV or playing music.
A few buyers mention that the bass can feel overwhelming for certain settings, especially when the subwoofer is too close to walls. Some users noted that fine-tuning the sound to their specific preferences requires multiple adjustments, which can be frustrating at times.
Bass Performance
92%
The wireless subwoofer offers deep, powerful bass that many users appreciate. It adds significant depth to audio, especially for action-packed movies and intense music tracks. The lack of extra cables helps maintain a neat setup, which adds to its appeal.
However, some users feel that the bass can be too boomy, especially in smaller rooms. A few mentioned that adjusting the bass settings was a bit tricky, as it didn’t always suit more delicate or quieter content like dialogue-heavy scenes.
Ease of Setup
94%
Buyers often highlight the easy setup process of this soundbar. The wireless subwoofer and Bluetooth connectivity make pairing simple, and many users appreciate how quickly the soundbar integrates with other devices, especially BRAVIA TVs. It’s a hassle-free experience, perfect for those who don’t want to spend too much time with cables or complicated configurations.
Some users reported minor connectivity hiccups, particularly with Bluetooth. A few mentioned that although the setup was easy, the remote control sometimes caused issues with pairing or responsiveness, leading to a slightly frustrating experience.
Build Quality
85%
The build of this soundbar feels solid and sturdy, with users appreciating its compact design that fits neatly into various setups. The matte finish gives it a premium look without being too bulky, and the subwoofer is robust yet unobtrusive.
However, there are a few complaints about the materials feeling a bit plasticky in certain areas. Some users believe the construction could be more durable, particularly the remote control and subwoofer, which they feel might wear out faster with extended use.
Connectivity
90%
Users appreciate the broad Bluetooth connectivity and its seamless integration with other devices, such as smartphones and tablets. The compatibility with BRAVIA TVs also ensures smooth pairing and control, providing a unified experience for Sony users.
A few users have faced minor lag or issues with the connection, especially with non-Sony devices. Some buyers also mentioned that they would have preferred more wired connection options for added flexibility and reliability in certain setups.
Dialogue Clarity
88%
Many users find that this soundbar significantly improves dialogue clarity, making it easier to hear voices in movies and TV shows. This is particularly helpful in noisy environments, as it reduces the muddiness often found with standard TV speakers.
However, a few buyers pointed out that despite the improvements, the dialogue clarity can sometimes still be lacking in more complex soundscapes, like heavy action scenes. Some users felt that the vocals weren’t as crisp as they would have liked, requiring them to adjust settings frequently.
Size and Portability
87%
The compact design of this soundbar is perfect for smaller spaces. Users love how space-saving it is, especially considering the wireless subwoofer, which doesn’t take up too much room. It’s a great option for apartments or small living rooms.
While the small size is a plus for some, others felt that it lacked full-bodied sound in larger rooms. Some users mentioned that although it’s portable, it might not be the best option for those seeking a larger, more powerful system for big spaces.
Compatibility with BRAVIA TVs
91%
Buyers with BRAVIA TVs often find that this soundbar is the ideal companion, with easy setup and seamless control via the TV remote. The integration ensures smooth syncing of audio and video, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
A small group of users without BRAVIA TVs reported challenges with syncing the soundbar with non-Sony devices. Some wished for a more universal compatibility across brands to make it easier to use with other TV models.
Remote Control Functionality
78%
22%
When it works, the remote control allows easy navigation of volume, bass, and sound modes. Many users find it convenient to adjust settings from a distance without needing to reach the device.
However, several users pointed out that the remote control has a limited range and can be unresponsive at times. Some also mentioned that the buttons are a bit too small, which can make it frustrating to use, especially during darker conditions.
Value for Money
92%
Users consistently note that this soundbar offers excellent value for money, especially considering its rich sound quality and easy setup. The balance between performance and price makes it an attractive option for anyone looking for an affordable upgrade to their TV audio.
A few users feel that while it offers great sound, the price may be slightly higher compared to similar models in the market. They mentioned that while the performance is good, there are options available that may offer better features at a similar price point.
Durability
82%
18%
The overall durability of this soundbar is acceptable for most users, who report that it holds up well with regular use. The wireless subwoofer is sturdy, and many buyers feel confident it will last for years.
However, some users noted that after several months of use, the soundbar's build quality started to show signs of wear, such as slight scratches and a decrease in sound consistency. The remote control’s longevity was also questioned by a few buyers.
Customer Support
80%
20%
A few users reported positive experiences with customer support, particularly when troubleshooting setup or connectivity issues. They praised the responsive service and the clarity of instructions given by support agents.
Others, however, expressed frustration with delayed responses or lack of assistance for more complex issues. Some buyers felt that the support team could have been more knowledgeable about specific technical problems related to this device.

Suitable for:

The Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer is well-suited for home entertainment enthusiasts seeking a compact and efficient audio upgrade. It’s perfect for those who want enhanced sound quality without a complicated setup, especially in smaller spaces. The easy Bluetooth connectivity and compatibility with BRAVIA TVs make it a seamless choice for users with existing Sony devices. Movie lovers and TV watchers who enjoy clear dialogue and immersive sound will appreciate the Dolby Digital and S-Force PRO Front Surround technology. Additionally, individuals with limited space will find its wall-mountable design a practical feature.

Not suitable for:

This soundbar may not be ideal for users seeking extreme bass performance or those with larger living spaces. While the wireless subwoofer delivers deep bass, some users have noted that it can be overpowering or challenging to adjust, especially in smaller rooms. Additionally, those who prefer a more robust remote control with a longer range or multiple connectivity options may find the functionality lacking. Users without BRAVIA TVs or other Sony devices might also experience less seamless integration and could face compatibility issues with non-Sony brands.

Specifications

  • Audio Channels: The system features a 2.1-channel audio setup, combining the soundbar and wireless subwoofer for dynamic sound.
  • Wireless Subwoofer: The wireless subwoofer provides deep bass and can be placed anywhere without the need for cables.
  • Sound Technology: S-Force PRO Front Surround technology creates immersive, cinematic sound with virtual surround effects.
  • Audio Format: The soundbar supports Dolby Digital audio format for enhanced sound clarity and richness.
  • Speaker Unit: It is equipped with X-Balanced speaker units, improving sound clarity and reducing distortion.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: The soundbar offers Bluetooth connectivity for easy wireless streaming from compatible devices.
  • Dimensions (Soundbar): The soundbar measures 35.5″ W x 2.6″ H x 3.5″ D, making it compact and easy to fit into most spaces.
  • Dimensions (Subwoofer): The subwoofer features a 160mm driver size, delivering strong bass in a compact form.
  • Weight: The total weight of the system is 16.1 pounds, including both the soundbar and subwoofer.
  • Power Output: The system provides a total power output of 330 watts for clear and powerful sound performance.
  • Wall-Mountable: The soundbar can be wall-mounted, saving space and offering a cleaner setup.
  • Remote Control: A remote control is included, allowing users to adjust sound settings and volume easily.
  • Compatibility: The system is compatible with BRAVIA TVs and most other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
  • Color: The soundbar and subwoofer come in a sleek black finish that complements most home setups.
  • Setup: The system is designed for easy setup with included cables and a straightforward installation process.
  • Audio Clarity: Users report clearer dialogue and enhanced audio clarity, especially with the X-Balanced speakers.
  • Subwoofer Placement: The wireless subwoofer allows flexible placement around the room for optimal bass response.

FAQ

Setting up the HT-S400 is simple. Plug the soundbar into your TV using the included HDMI or optical cable. Pair the wireless subwoofer, and connect via Bluetooth if desired. The soundbar is wall-mountable for space-saving, but you can also place it on a TV stand.

The Sony HT-S400 offers clear dialogue and immersive audio, thanks to its Dolby Digital sound and S-Force PRO Front Surround technology. The wireless subwoofer provides deep, rich bass that complements the sound quality, making it ideal for TV shows, movies, and music.

The HT-S400 is compatible with most TVs, including those with Bluetooth and HDMI ARC or optical ports. It works particularly well with BRAVIA TVs, as it can connect seamlessly with them for better functionality.

Yes, the HT-S400 is wall-mountable and comes with mounting brackets. This feature makes it ideal for users with limited space or those who prefer a cleaner, more minimalist look in their living rooms.

With a total power output of 330 watts, the HT-S400 delivers strong, dynamic sound that can fill most living rooms. The system provides deep bass from the subwoofer and crisp, clear sound from the soundbar.

Yes, the HT-S400 supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to wirelessly stream music or audio from your phone, tablet, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature is convenient for casual listening without needing to connect cables.

Some users have reported that the remote control can be unresponsive at times or has a limited range. If you're having trouble, check the batteries or ensure there are no obstructions between the remote and the soundbar.

The wireless subwoofer provides substantial bass, enhancing low-frequency sounds in movies and music. However, in smaller rooms, the bass can sometimes feel overwhelming, so adjusting the settings might help balance the sound.

The HT-S400 is a standalone system, but it can integrate with other audio devices that support Bluetooth or HDMI input. If you're looking to add more speakers or enhance the sound system, it's best to check compatibility first.

The soundbar itself measures 35.5″ W x 2.6″ H x 3.5″ D, making it compact enough to fit in most spaces while providing a powerful audio experience. The subwoofer has a 160mm driver size.