When it comes to elevating your home entertainment system, a soundbar is an indispensable addition. Two exceptional options in the market are the Bose Soundbar 700 and the Yamaha YAS-209. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features and performance aspects of these soundbars, helping you make an informed decision about which one best suits your needs.

Design and Build Quality

The Bose Soundbar 700 exudes elegance with its sleek and minimalist design. Its matte black finish and perforated grille blend seamlessly into any home decor. The Yamaha YAS-209, on the other hand, features a more traditional soundbar form with a black fabric grille and a glossy top panel. Both soundbars are well-constructed and durable, ensuring longevity.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is paramount when choosing a soundbar. The Bose Soundbar 700 boasts a wide soundstage with impressive clarity and depth. Its five full-range drivers deliver a rich and balanced audio experience, while the built-in subwoofer provides deep and impactful bass. The Yamaha YAS-209 also delivers excellent sound quality, with its dual-driver system producing a clear and immersive soundscape. However, its bass response is slightly less pronounced compared to the Bose Soundbar 700.

Connectivity and Features

Both soundbars offer a range of connectivity options, including HDMI ARC, optical, and Bluetooth. The Bose Soundbar 700 features additional features such as Wi-Fi and AirPlay 2, allowing for wireless music streaming and control via the Bose Music app. The Yamaha YAS-209 includes a built-in Amazon Alexa voice assistant for hands-free control of music, smart home devices, and more.

Surround Sound Performance

For a truly immersive cinematic experience, surround sound is essential. The Bose Soundbar 700 can be paired with optional Bose surround speakers to create a full 5.1-channel surround sound system. The Yamaha YAS-209 also supports surround sound through its DTS Virtual:X technology, which simulates a virtual surround sound experience without the need for additional speakers.

Dolby Atmos Support

Dolby Atmos is an immersive audio format that creates a three-dimensional soundscape. While neither the Bose Soundbar 700 nor the Yamaha YAS-209 directly support Dolby Atmos, the Bose Soundbar 700 is compatible with Dolby TrueHD, which can provide a similar immersive experience.

Voice Assistant Integration

The Yamaha YAS-209 has a built-in Amazon Alexa voice assistant, allowing you to control your music, smart home devices, and more with your voice. The Bose Soundbar 700 does not have a built-in voice assistant, but it can be controlled through voice commands via a compatible Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant device.

Price and Value

The Bose Soundbar 700 is priced significantly higher than the Yamaha YAS-209. The Bose Soundbar 700 offers a superior sound quality, more connectivity options, and the ability to create a full surround sound system. However, if your budget is a concern, the Yamaha YAS-209 provides excellent sound quality and features at a more affordable price.

The Verdict

Both the Bose Soundbar 700 and the Yamaha YAS-209 are exceptional soundbars that offer a range of features and performance capabilities. The Bose Soundbar 700 is the superior choice for those seeking the ultimate audio experience, with its immersive sound quality, extensive connectivity options, and surround sound capabilities. However, if budget is a factor, the Yamaha YAS-209 provides a compelling value proposition with its excellent sound quality, built-in Amazon Alexa voice assistant, and affordable price.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Which soundbar is better for music listening?
A: Both soundbars offer excellent sound quality for music listening, but the Bose Soundbar 700 has a more balanced and immersive soundstage.

Q: Can I use either soundbar with a TV that does not have HDMI ARC?
A: Yes, both soundbars support optical input, which is compatible with most TVs.

Q: Which soundbar has the best bass response?
A: The Bose Soundbar 700 has a more pronounced bass response compared to the Yamaha YAS-209.