Yamaha's SR-X90A Soundbar: 12 Dolby Atmos Speakers & AI
Yamaha is set to introduce its latest venture into high-end home audio with the True X Surround 90A soundbar system, dubbed the SR-X90A. This new offering distinguishes itself through an exceptionally maximalist approach to speaker integration, promising an immersive auditory experience for home theater enthusiasts.
At the core of the SR-X90A system is a remarkable array of 12 Dolby Atmos up-firing speakers, a significantly higher count than typically found in competing soundbar systems. These specialized speakers are designed to project sound upwards, allowing it to reflect off the ceiling and create the illusion of overhead audio, a key component of the Dolby Atmos immersive sound format. Complementing these are four additional drivers and three tweeters integrated directly into the main soundbar unit. The comprehensive setup is further enhanced by two separate surround speakers and a dedicated standalone Bluetooth woofer, forming a complete 5.1.2 channel configuration. While many soundbars employ beamforming technology to simulate surround sound from fewer sources—such as a competitor’s system that features four total beamformed speakers—Yamaha’s strategy appears to hinge on sheer speaker density to achieve a more profound sense of audio spaciousness and height.
The principle behind such a high speaker count is to deliver a richer, more dynamic soundstage. By utilizing numerous up-firing drivers, the SR-X90A aims to more effectively fill a room with sound, bouncing audio precisely to simulate overhead effects and creating a truly enveloping listening environment. While the system has yet to be independently tested, the design philosophy suggests a powerful and expansive audio output, potentially delivering a level of richness and volume that simpler setups cannot match.
Beyond its extensive speaker complement, the Yamaha SR-X90A includes several other notable features. The included surround speakers offer versatile deployment, capable of functioning independently as standalone Bluetooth speakers for casual listening. The system also integrates Yamaha’s proprietary Surround:AI processing. This artificial intelligence-driven technology is designed to analyze room acoustics and optimize the surround sound field in real-time, adapting the audio output to best suit the specific listening environment. The effectiveness of such AI-driven audio enhancements, however, can often be a matter of individual preference.
As expected for a system boasting such advanced features and an abundance of specialized components, the Yamaha True X Surround 90A comes with a premium price tag. The complete home theater system is slated for launch in the U.S. this September, priced at $3,500. For consumers primarily interested in the soundbar’s core capabilities, a standalone option, excluding the additional surround speakers, will be available for $2,800. This new system positions Yamaha as a contender for those seeking a high-end, feature-rich solution for their home audio needs.