Customers commend the BRAVIA Theater Bar 8's exceptional sound quality, frequently praising its immersive surround sound and clarity for both music and TV audio. The ease of setup and installation is another frequently cited positive aspect. No significant negative feedback was reported.
This summary was generated by AI based on customer reviews.
The vast majority of our reviews come from verified purchases. Reviews from customers may include My Best Buy members, employees, and Tech Insider Network members (as tagged). Select reviewers may receive discounted products, promotional considerations or entries into drawings for honest, helpful reviews.
Page 1 Showing 1-20 of 388 reviews
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
IMPRESSIVE SOUND THEATER EXPERIENCE!
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Posted . Owned for 3 weeks when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
IT'S A SONY!
As I mention before in some of my reviews about Sony products, I’ve been a big, big loyal fan of Sony for decades due to the quality of their products, from Walkmans to TVs and AV systems, but I’ve been a little disappointed with their soundbars after testing a few of their latest models, including the 5 Stars rated HT-A7000 7.1.2 Channel Soundbar (with the SA-SW5 300W Wireless Subwoofer and SA -RS5 Wireless Rear Speakers) which couldn’t beat my 4 years old JBL 9.1 Sound bar (sorry Sony).
After reading about Sony’s upcoming 2024 line of soundbars and their new features, I was curious to test the Theater Bar 8, I found it more appealing for my needs (and space).
SET UP
I have a Sony A80J OLED tv so connecting and setting up the Bar 8 through the Sony Bravia app was a breeze since I already have a Sony account, same with pairing the Subwoofer and Rear speakers.
SOUND QUALITY
In a word: AMAZING!
The Soundbar alone sounds really great with crisp highs, balanced mids, pretty decent bass and over all the clarity of the dialog, the new Voice mode feature is awesome, especially if you set the TV speakers as the central channel (Note that this feature is available only with recent Sony tv models), big improvement over the A7000 in sound quality IMO.
However, adding the SA -RS5 Wireless Rear speakers and SW3 (yes, I returned the big sibling because 300 watts is too much for me) and once I had the whole system set up…holy smoke, it is simply SPECTACULAR!
The high-quality sound performance of the 11 speakers of the Bar 8 paired with the Sub and the Rears gives a rich immersive audio experience. The whole setup can be pricey but It's worth the Money.
Sony finally made me happy with the new THEATER BAR 8!
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hi Snake, we appreciate your detailed review of our product. We're glad you are enjoying it. Thanks for choosing Sony! ~Earl
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great Sounds
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Posted . Owned for 2 weeks when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
The Sony Bravia Theatre 8 with 11 speakers is an absolute game changer. The surround sound is incredibly immersive, every detail is clear, and the room fills with rich, balanced audio that feels like being in a cinema. Dialogue, effects, and music all blend perfectly, creating a true theatre experience at home.
Pairing it with the SA-SW3 subwoofer takes it to the next level, delivering powerful bass alongside the crystal-clear mids and highs. Sony has once again proven their quality and innovation. This system is a must-have for anyone who wants the ultimate home theatre setup.
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Thank you for the fantastic review, ChinthakaP!
We are absolutely thrilled to hear that the Sony Bravia Theatre 8 has been an "absolute game changer" for you. It's incredibly rewarding to know that the 11 speakers are delivering such an immersive and rich surround sound experience, making your room feel like a true cinema. We designed this system to blend every detail—from dialogue to music and effects—perfectly, so it brings us great satisfaction to know we succeeded.
We're also delighted that you took it to the next level by pairing it with the SA-SW3 subwoofer. The combination is truly designed to create a powerful, balanced, and complete audio experience.
Thank you again for your strong recommendation and for being a Sony customer.
Best regards, Gus, Sony Social Media Team
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great for a large group
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Posted . Owned for 1 week when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
For a family gathering with 12 adults and children of all ages, we needed a very clear soundbar. This soundbar is perfect, and we don't even have to turn it up loud.
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Thank you for the fantastic review, Donnie!
We are absolutely thrilled to hear that the HT-A8000 soundbar was the perfect addition to your family gathering! It’s incredibly rewarding to know that the clarity is so exceptional that you don't even need to turn the volume up high. We designed this soundbar to deliver crystal-clear audio that easily fills a room, ensuring everyone, regardless of age, catches every word and sound without straining.
Thank you again for choosing Sony to enhance your home entertainment experience!
Best regards, Gus, Sony Social Media Team
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great sound and install
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Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I was skeptical of a soundbar's ability to deliver the audio experience I am accustomed to with my high-end audio speakers. However, I'm very satisfied with this soundbar's full spectrum sound. Glad I purchased the this verses the less expensive model. I also purchased the sub-woofer which freed up the soundbar from trying to produce low end and thus the soundbar's clarity really shines now. Best Buy's installers set it up quickly and flawlessly. It would have taken me quite some time to figure out the on my own so definitely worth getting it installed with the TV. Thanks Best Buy :)
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hello DavidJ, thank you so much for your thoughtful review! It brings us great joy to hear that the BRAVIA Theater Bar 8 exceeded your expectations–especially coming from someone used to high-end audio setups. It's great to know you're enjoying the full-spectrum sound and that pairing it with the subwoofer elevated the experience even further. Thanks for choosing Sony! Sincerely, -Jenn.
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Bettet than i expected!
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Posted . Owned for less than 1 week when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
The sony bravia theater bar 8 clubbed along with the sony sa-sw5 subwoofer and the sa-rs5 satellite speakers is a beast! I even compared this setup with the Sonos arc, gen 3 sub, and the era 300 setup and im glad to let yall know that the sony setup is at point or even better than the sonos setup. However, the new bravia connect app do have some issues. It have trouble detecting my soundbar everytime my phone connects to the home wifi network. Also unlike the sonos app, the bravia connect app lacks eq settings or sound modes. You might be able to select different sound modes if you use the soundbar with a bravia TV. Im using a LG C3 with this setup.
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hi Joseph, thanks for choosing and purchasing our product. We're glad you like it. We're sorry to hear that you have an issue with your Sony unit. Please make sure that both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on your smartphone and that you've granted the necessary permissions for the Bravia Connect app to function correctly. This includes allowing location access for the app, which can be crucial for device detection and connectivity. If you're using an iOS device, you should navigate to Settings → Privacy & Security → Local Network and ensure the Bravia Connect app is allowed to access your local network. Additionally, ensure that your soundbar and smartphone are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If the issue persists, restarting the app and your smartphone, or even re-registering the device within the app, might be necessary steps. You can follow this link for more details:
If you require any additional support with regard to this product, please email us at [email protected] with the following details: Name: Username: Model Number: Issue: Telephone Number:
Thanks for choosing Sony. ~Earl
Rated 3 out of 5 stars
Great buy, shotty delivery..
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Posted .
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
The sound bar is great. Easy setup, great features, easily calibrated.
Delivery on the other hand... A carrier service was used which resulted in non-delivery specific personnel handling it. I agreed to meet him at the to of the easement and requested he message me when he gets close. I receive the message, and not 30 seconds later, a second message stating he left it in the grass by the mailbox so he could start backing out.. $800 soundbar sitting along side the road...
I would recommend this to a friend
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Sound bar is wonderful
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Posted . Owned for 2 weeks when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
So far this sound bar enables me to be in the kitchen and still be able to hear the voices on the shows I have in the TV. This is very important to me.
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Thank you for your excellent feedback, BarbaraN!
We're so pleased to hear that your HT-A8000 soundbar is delivering exactly the result you needed: clarity! Knowing that the soundbar enables you to hear the voices on your shows even when you're in the kitchen confirms the effectiveness of features like our Voice Zoom 3 technology, which is specifically designed to isolate and boost dialogue clarity.
We're thrilled we could make your viewing experience easier and more enjoyable throughout your home.
Best regards, Gus, Sony Social Media Team
Rated 2 out of 5 stars
Beyond disappointed
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Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Hearing this in the store I was blown away, but when I got home, I couldnt believe how unimpressive it was. I thought about buying the $300-400 Sony SA-SW3 200W subwoofer, but the guy who sold it to me said we listened to it without the subwoofer. He either lied or didn't realize, but that seems hard to believe given the drastic difference from listening to it in the store vs an hour later when I set it up at home.
It apparently has two small woofers among its 11 speakers, but if I max out the bass through the Bravia app (which you have to use and is buggy as all get out), the woofer crackle at volume 35-40. Give me a break, Sony.
In addition to all of that, the volune is completely inconsistent across different apps (all apps downloaded to the TV i.e not through my Firestick, which we dont even use anymore because the soundbar sounds even worse theough the Firestick). For example, YouTube is super loud and Netflix, Disney+, etc. often sound muted. The 360 Spatial Surround Sound we heard in the store is hardly noticeable, even after going through the setup numerous times. So, not only am I extremely disappointed in this expensive purchase, it's also been a huge waste of time. Now I have to package this thing up to return it. Hopefully I can find something half the price that sounds better, comes with a subwoofer and maybe even wireless rear speakers (looking at you, LG)!
I do like the design. Its sleak and doesn't obstruct sight of the TV, so I guess there's that. In short, don't waste your money unless it goes under $300.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hi JonathanM, While we're glad that you like the design, we're sad to hear that you are not impressed with the sound quality. If you still have the unit, you may reach out to our support team so they can walk you through some settings and help you troubleshoot the problem. Again, we apologize for the inconvenience and we hope that you'd still consider our products in your next purchase. Thank you and regards, -Craig
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Sony Bravia 8 theater bar
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Posted . Owned for 3 weeks when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 8 is a well-designed soundbar that enhances TV audio with clear dialogue and an expansive soundstage. However, to achieve a truly immersive home theater experience, especially for larger rooms or bass-heavy content, investing in additional components like a subwoofer and rear speakers is advisable. Its current discounted pricing makes it a more attractive option for those seeking quality sound without the complexity of a full surround sound system.
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hi Venkatajanapa, we're glad you are enjoying your new soundbar. Thanks for choosing Sony! ~Earl
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Purchase The Matching Television As Well
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Posted . Owned for 2 months when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Worth The Purchase For An Overall Better Movie Experience
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hello MomentInTime! Thanks so much for sharing your positive review on the HT-A8000! We are immensely pleased to hear that the soundbar is proving to be worth the purchase and providing you with an overall better movie experience.
We appreciate your business and thank you for choosing a Sony soundbar! Best regards, Estefany
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Transform Your Entertainment: Sony BRAVIA Theater
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Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 8 has completely transformed my home theater experience with its powerful, immersive sound and cutting-edge Dolby Atmos/DTS:X technology. Its sleek design pairs perfectly with my setup, and the crystal-clear audio quality brings movies, music, and games to life. Sony has truly delivered a masterpiece, and Best Buy made the entire purchase process seamless. If you’re looking to elevate your entertainment, this is the soundbar to get!
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hi DonW, we're glad you are enjoying your new soundbar! Thanks for choosing Sony! ~Earl
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Nice sound bar
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Posted . Owned for 3 weeks when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Nice sound bar puts out great sound was a little difficult to connect to Bluetooth, but I finally got it paired up to rear speakers. I am very happy with my purchase.
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Thank you so much for sharing your experience and feedback, LEOANDSHELLYB! We’re thrilled to hear you’re enjoying the great sound from your HTA8000 sound bar and that you’re happy with your purchase.
We understand that setting up Bluetooth and pairing with rear speakers can sometimes be a bit challenging, so we truly appreciate your patience and persistence in getting everything connected. If you have any further questions or need tips on getting the most out of your sound bar and rear speakers, our support team and community are always here to help.
Thanks again for choosing Sony and for being a valued customer!
Best regards, Gus Sony Social Media Team
Rated 3 out of 5 stars
Decent purchase
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Posted .
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Having some issues with this soundbar. Sound is excellent the on screen menu is giving me problems. Sony is currently trying to see if it’s a software issue. Outside of that, sounds great
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hi SeanS,
We are truly heartened to learn that you consider the audio performance of the BRAVIA Theater Bar 8 to be excellent and that the unit sounds great.
We understand your frustration regarding the trouble with the on-screen menu. Our commitment is to ensure a seamless experience, and we appreciate you working with our support team to investigate the issue.
In the meantime, if you haven't already, please try these simple steps which often resolve most common software issues:
1. Check for Software Updates: Ensure your soundbar is up to date by downloading the Sony | BRAVIA Connect app and searching for a software update.
2. Reset the Speaker System: Performing a reset can clear out any software glitches and return the unit to its factory settings. To reset your soundbar, please follow the instructions in the link below:
If the problem continues after performing these steps, you may reach out to us at [email protected] so we can better assist you. Please include the following information in your email:
Full Name: Best Buy Username: Telephone Number: Model Number: Issue/Concern:
Thanks for considering Sony!
Regards, Dominick
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Sound bar review
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Posted . Owned for 3 weeks when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Love this sound bar! It has the surround sound without multiple speakers!
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hi LoriB,
Thanks for letting us know that you're loving the The BRAVIA Theater 8! It's designed with our 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology to create multiple 'phantom' speakers, giving you that truly immersive, cinematic surround sound experience from a single unit that you're enjoying now!
Thanks for choosing Sony!
Sincerely, Jenn | Sony North America.
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Can’t Beat the sound quality from this sound bar
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Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Best sound quality I’ve ever heard from any sound bar. Built in software tailors sound perfectly for my listening space and with the SW5 subwoofer and the RS5 surround speakers overall effect is truly amazing. With this audio system and my 65 inch Bravia 8 tv the movie viewing experience is every bit as good as the multiplex and better because it’s right in my living room.
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hi JohnM, Thanks for the 5-star rating! We are thrilled to hear that you are impressed with the sound quality of the BRAVIA Theater BAR 8. Enjoy and thanks for choosing Sony. -Craig
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great customer support
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Posted . Owned for 3 weeks when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Love my Bravia TV with sound bar and subwoofer. The service was exceptional and all my questions or concerns were addressed by a very well trained, knowledgeable customer service representative.
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hello ThomasR, thank you for this fantastic 5 stars! We are honored to hear you're enjoying your BRAVIA Theater Bar 8. Your entertainment setup must be fire with the TV, the soundbar and subwoofer all together! We're also glad to hear the attention at the store was outstanding and all your concerns were properly addressed. Thank you for choosing Sony! Sincerely, -Jenn.
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Great sound!
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Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Speaker and the sound is great with the subwoofer added on to sound system!
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hi KarenS,
Thanks for the great review. We're so glad to hear you're enjoying the rich, powerful sound of your BRAVIA Theatre Bar 8, and that the subwoofer is creating an even more immersive experience for you.
Thanks for choosing Sony!
Sincerely, Jenn | Sony Social Media Team.
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Amazing Option, especially if you have a Sony TV
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Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
The Bar 8 is simply amazing. I paired it with a Bravia TV, SW5 sub and SW5 rear speakers in my bedroom. The sound is amazing, lifelike, clear and really makes the most of my Sony TV. I also got the Bravia cam so it optimizes the sound automatically no matter where I sit.
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hi JeremyM, Thank you so much for the 5 stars! We’re thrilled to hear about your setup. Pairing the BRAVIA Theater Bar 8 with your Sony TV, SW5 sub, SW5 rear speakers, and the BRAVIA Cam sounds like the ultimate home theater experience. Thank you for choosing Sony! Enjoy! -Maria
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Nicel
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Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Best sound system I have bought. Easy to set up my family is enjoying it. Matter I am watching right now.
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
Posted .
Hi JorgeB,
Thanks for the review and the 5-stars rating! We are delighted to hear how much you are loving your Sony Soundbar! With the HTA8000, audio comes to life. 360 Reality Audio puts you in the middle of the concert, studio session, movie or whatever you’re listening to, for a totally immersive and unique experience.
Thanks for choosing Sony, have a fantastic day! -DiegoV
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Excellent soundbar for the price
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Posted .
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Excellent soundbar. It’s crystal clear and adjusts the audio depending on where you’re sitting in the room. I can’t wait to get the full kit
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from SonyListens
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Hi AndrewB. Thank you for your 5 stars rating on our HTA8000 model!. The soundbar you mentioned indeed has the capability to deliver crystal-clear audio and adjusts the sound depending on the listener's position, which greatly enhances the overall listening experience. Hope you keep enjoying it. Thanks for choosing Sony!. Best regards, Milton