I've waited a bit to review this soubdbar, until I used it and have learned more about how it works.
First let me start by saying you don't have to have the app to use it, but most features are not accessible unless you do. If you don't want a tech savvy sound bar this is not for you. Although it does come with its own simple remote control.
ALL THINGS ARE SETUP AND CONFIGURED IN THE APP.
The set up is relatively easy after you download the app. Then configure your smart TV and cable or satellite box, the app leads you through this process.
My current entertainment equipment:
Satellite- Orby TV
Antenna- Orby TV and Tivo
Television- LG smart TV
Internet- satellite
My first impression of the sound quality for voices in movies or shows was not good, until I found the setting called " Dialogue Mode" in the app and turned it on. Now voices are clear! YOU WILL WANT TO DO THIS.
I used and optical cable from Bose to the TV. This allows the soubdbar to detect when audio is present from the TV, this triggers the soubdbar on and it becomes the audio instead of the TV speakers.
I configured it with my LG smart TV, I like this so you can use the TV remote, the Bose remote or Alexa voice control to change the volume of the Bose.
I then configured it with my Orby TV satellite box, which is recognized and auto populated by the Bose app, but it has a pop up that states Orby TV does not allow, so this feature of using hands free voice control through Alexa to change channels doesn't work.
This sucks since I wasn't able to get rid of remote control.
It does NOT work with Tivo, so another remote control has to stay.
Alexa voice control can only control the volume and change the TV input, and NOT change channels as I had hoped due to the non compatibility of my equipment.
We live in a rural area so traditional tv services do not exist. These functions would most likely work for folks who are located closer to town with more traditional cable and satellite options.
This has voice control built in, you can use Amazon Alexa or Google home to change channels the volume and input. I have a few Alexa devices in my home, the one on the Bose soundbar has super hearing, it hears me when I am at the other end of the house, (1800sq ft ranch style), and instead of the one located in the room responding, the Bose responds.
I haven't yet figured out how to turn down the listening sensitivity, or if this is even an option, so I have manually turned Alexa off on the soubdbar via a button located on the top, which turns on annoying red light letting you know it's off.
I can somewhat understand the listening super sensitivity, in case your blasting away in a movie or music it will pick out your voice amongst the noise.
The notification lighting on the Bose, has a yellow fading pulse action when there is a notification from Amazon/Alexa. The only way to dismiss it is to ask Alexa what the notification is. The light isn't very bright but can be distracting while watching the TV in darkness or dim light. (See video)
This same light multi functions as the volume up/down recognition and possibly some other things I can't remember right now.
In the app you can adjust, channel bass and treble, for the soubdbar and any other Bose compatible accessory speakers. For instance, after I received the soubdbar, I ordered a Bose 500 subwoofer, and in the future I will be ordering the wireless Bose surround speakers. I synced the subwoofer and now in the app I can adjust its sound and turn it off and on.
Another feature it has in the app, something called PowerSync, this allows you to sync and group other compatible bluetooth speakers in your home, this way you can rock the house down!
This is packed with features, but it takes time and patience to get everything set up, working together and sounding how you want it.
I'm still learning more features it has as time goes by.
The Bose sound quality is there, zero distortion at any volume level as expected.
Also in the app is a "Common Questions" tab which will take you online for "How To, Trouble Shooting, Downloads, Repair, Accessories and Community" section. Also a "Technical Spec" tab which displays wifi, internet name serial number and such.
I give the sound quality and features a solid 5 stars, and for the notifications light 2 stars based purely on the distracting location.
Thank you!
| Brand Name | Bose |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 8.09 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 4.02 x 26.58 x 2.21 inches |
| Country of Origin | Malaysia |
| Item model number | Soundbar 300 |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Color Name | Bose Black |
| Special Features | Multi Room Audio |
| Speaker Type | Soundbar |
