Bose Solo Soundbar 2 assessment

The Bose Solo Soundbar 2 is a diminutive but highly effective 2.0 channel soundbar that units out to take your viewing experiences to the following stage. With an inventory value of $199 / £179.95 / AU$359.95, it’s actually on the inexpensive aspect for Bose – however there are a number of finances soundbar rivals doing their factor for even much less. So, is the Bose Solo Soundbar 2 scorching sufficient to compete in a fiery market?

Nicely, earlier than we soar to any conclusions, let’s discuss setup. Getting the Bose Solo Soundbar 2 hooked as much as your TV is straightforward sufficient. It comes with a digital optical cable and an AC adapter which you could plug in for fast entry to Bose soundbar goodness. Alternatively, you should utilize coaxial or AUX connections, however as is usually the case, the cables for this aren’t included within the field.

However though setup is simple, you’ve most likely picked up on a standout omission. That’s proper: there’s no HDMI right here. Now don’t get me incorrect, I perceive this isn’t the most recent mannequin available on the market – particularly, the Bose Solo Soundbar 2 was launched in 2021. However nonetheless, by then, I’d anticipate a soundbar at this value level to have HDMI ARC as a connectivity possibility. It’s an absolute should to qualify as one of many best cheap soundbars.

The shortage of HDMI means you gained’t be capable of modify the soundbar’s quantity along with your normal TV distant – as an alternative you’ll have to make use of the included separate distant. I additionally sometimes discover digital optical cables to be extra fiddly and awkward than bigger, easier-to-handle HDMI cables. One closing notice on HDMI: with out it, you’re going to be locked out of fancy audio options like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X – one thing that doesn’t all the time work out with small, low-cost soundbars – however that’s price noting in the event you’re anticipating actually immersive three-dimensional audio.