Once set up, this Dolby Atmos soundbar has proved to be an outstanding piece of kit, with modes to suit every conceivable sound need, a rich ambience and superb surround-sound.

Wanted to upgrade from my dying 5.1 surround sound system and very happy with this purchase. Easy to set up (providing you have a fairly recent Sony TV) and the sound/bass are spot on. Easy to use and flick of a button to get the best sounds for films, TV, sports etc.

This compact Sony soundbar belies its mid-range price with a blockbuster audio performance. The soundstage is wide, with lovely wraparound sound processing courtesy of Sony’s clever Vertical S, and that internal subwoofer is a proper beast.

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X compatible; Compact all-in-one form factor; Integrated subwoofer; Easy to set-up and use; Brilliant value;

No upfiring drivers; Not High-Res Audio capable; Stripped back feature set

We purchased a new LG TV, but the TV sound wasnt the best, so bought this simple Sony soundbar (the only one that didnt come with speakers) and it has made all the difference to what is a great TV.

This sound bar has many options that lets you enjoy big surround sound with perfect clarity. The built in subwoofers make a neat single unit with awesome bass. Easy plug and play installation makes this sound bar perfect for me.

Easy to install. Delivers excellent sound.

I am sure you have a television at home. And I can say with confidence that this television of yours, no matter how expensive it may be, will not exactly be very good as far as the sound experience goes. Believe me, it is not just a problem with your TV.

This compact Sony soundbar belies its mid-range price with a blockbuster audio performance. The soundstage is wide, with lovely wraparound sound processing courtesy of Sony's clever Vertical S, and that internal subwoofer is a proper beast.

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X compatible; Compact all-in-one form factor; Integrated subwoofer; Easy to set-up and use; Brilliant value

No upfiring drivers; Not High-Res Audio capable; Stripped back feature set

The SONY HT-X8500 is proof that you don't need to spend big for a truly entertaining Dolby Atmos-enabled soundbar. Modestly priced (given that you can easily spend twice as much for a rival system), it's surprisingly compact and compatible with both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. But there are caveats.