Soundbars designed to deliver Dolby Atmos sound in an all-in-one package offer a convenient alternative to complicated-and pricey-setups that require in-ceiling speakers or "elevation" modules. We've checked out a few such specimens in Sound & Vision, including Sony'sHT-ST5000($1,500).

Atmos and DTS:X sound from a compact package; Easy setup

Limited overhead effects capability; Performance with music less impressive than movies

Amazing picture quality can be undercut by mediocre sound. Most HDTVs are built with a focus on providing a crisp image, leaving sound almost entirely overlooked. And it would be fair to say the speakers that come built-in on televisions are proportionally equivalent to the speakers on your...

We bought the HT=Z9F today after reading a number of reviews. We installed it. We prefer HDMI over Bluetooth as we have enough electrical waves in our house so we had to get an optical digital cable and an additional HDMI Cable, but it all works great.

This is a great fit with my Sony XBR-55A8G. I mounted the TV's to its stand in the optional raised position to accommodate the soundbar, and it all looks neat and tidy, with the bass unit tucked out of sight in the back. Connection and setup is super-easy - be sure to use the HDMI ARC port.

Amazing the sound field this soundbar can produce from the small footprint and just 3 speakers. I will compare the Z9F to the LG SK10Y in case someone else is deciding between the two products.

The sound bar has about a 45 sec delay when the TV is turned on. I have never expierenced this before with the sound bars and this is Sony to Sony. I am waiting for sales to call me

Connected to my Sony 900F. It just works. The vertical sound processing is stunning. I wouldnt be without it.

The compact Sony HT-ZF9 is the Penn and Teller of Dolby Atmos soundbars. It's ability to create an expanded soundstage from just three drivers and a subwoofer is sonic magic.

Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X; Vertical S up-mixer; Up-mixes regular surround sound

Decent low end performance; Operationally confusing; Disappointing overhead sound

Great sound. Had a 20yr old surround sound system with no Subwoofer, replace with the HT-Z9F. Very impressed! Simple hook up. No more speaker wires. First movie on to test... Star Wars opening music!! Nice an sleek. No rear speakers yet, but I could only imagine what the sound would be!

This one of the sound systems one would like to have. Especially when you want to watch in Dolby Atmos. The correct placement of the rear speakers is very important and have the sub placed in the corner of the room close to the wall and see the effect for a 500W system. Pairing is very easy.