Should You Buy the AMBEO Plus or Flexus Core 100? A Complete Comparison

When it comes to upgrading your TV's sound in 2024, soundbars have come a long way. Let's compare two very different options: the premium $1,499 Sennheiser AMBEO Plus and the mid-range $349 Klipsch Flexus Core 100. I've spent time testing both, and they each bring something unique to the table.

How Soundbars Have Evolved

The soundbar market has transformed dramatically in recent years. What started as simple TV speaker upgrades now includes sophisticated audio processing and virtual surround capabilities that can rival traditional speaker setups. The AMBEO Plus, released in late 2022, represents the cutting edge of this evolution, while the Flexus Core 100 shows how much quality you can get at a more accessible price point in 2024.

Sound Quality: Breaking Down What Matters

Room-Filling Sound

The AMBEO Plus uses what's called "virtualization" - essentially creating the illusion of speakers all around you using clever audio processing. It's genuinely impressive how well it works. The system uses nine drivers (that's audio-speak for individual speakers) to create a 7.1.4 soundstage, meaning it simulates seven surround speakers, one subwoofer, and four height channels for overhead sounds.

The Flexus Core 100 takes a simpler approach with a 2.1 setup (two main speakers and built-in subwoofers). While it can't match the AMBEO's immersion, it still provides clear, room-filling sound that's leagues better than any TV speakers.

Bass Performance

Both units handle bass differently:

• The AMBEO Plus reaches down to 38Hz (very low bass) and uses sophisticated processing to make those low frequencies feel natural
• The Flexus Core 100 manages 45Hz, which is impressive for its size and price, though you'll miss some of the deepest rumbles in movie soundtracks

Processing and Sound Formats

Here's where the price difference really shows:

• AMBEO Plus: Supports true Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, with automatic room calibration that measures your space's acoustics
• Flexus Core 100: Offers virtual Dolby Atmos processing - it's good, but not quite the same as the real thing

Real-World Performance

I've tested both units in different rooms, and here's what stands out:

Movies and TV

The AMBEO Plus shines with movies, creating a convincing bubble of sound that makes you feel like you're in a proper home theater. Watch something like "Dune" or "Top Gun: Maverick," and you'll hear sounds moving precisely around the room.

The Flexus Core 100 handles dialogue beautifully (a Klipsch specialty) and provides good stereo separation, but doesn't create the same immersive experience. It's more about enhancing what's happening on screen rather than surrounding you with sound.

Music Playback

For music, both perform well but differently:

• AMBEO Plus offers extraordinary detail and can fill larger rooms effortlessly
• Flexus Core 100 provides the classic Klipsch sound signature - dynamic and engaging, especially for rock and pop

Setup and Daily Use

Installation

Both soundbars are relatively straightforward to set up:

• AMBEO Plus requires more initial setup time for room calibration but rewards you with optimized sound
• Flexus Core 100 is essentially plug-and-play, though you'll want to experiment with the EQ settings in the app

Connectivity

The AMBEO Plus offers more connection options, including:

• HDMI eARC
• Multiple HDMI inputs
• Wireless streaming via Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and Chromecast
• Network connectivity for updates and control

The Flexus Core 100 keeps it simpler with:

• HDMI eARC
• Bluetooth
• Optical input
• USB-C port

Value Proposition

Let's talk about what you're getting for your money:

The AMBEO Plus at $1,499 is a significant investment, but it replaces a traditional home theater setup that could easily cost $2,000-3,000. It's ideal for:

• Apartment dwellers who can't install multiple speakers
• Those wanting premium sound without the complexity
• Larger rooms where sound distribution matters

The Flexus Core 100 at $349 represents excellent value for:

• Those upgrading from TV speakers
• Smaller rooms or bedrooms
• Buyers who might want to add surrounds or a subwoofer later

How to Decide

Consider these key factors:

1. Room Size
2. Large room (>200 sq ft): AMBEO Plus
3. Small-medium room: Either option works well

1. Budget Priority
2. Sound quality above all: AMBEO Plus
3. Best value for money: Flexus Core 100

1. Future Plans
2. Complete solution now: AMBEO Plus
3. Gradual system building: Flexus Core 100

1. Primary Use
2. Serious movie watching: AMBEO Plus
3. Mixed use/casual viewing: Flexus Core 100

Final Thoughts

After extensive testing, I can confidently say both soundbars excel in their respective categories. The AMBEO Plus represents the pinnacle of single-unit sound technology, while the Flexus Core 100 shows just how good "budget" audio can be in 2024.

If budget isn't your primary concern and you want the best possible sound from a single unit, the AMBEO Plus is worth every penny. However, if you're looking for significant sound improvement without breaking the bank, the Flexus Core 100 delivers remarkable performance for the price.

Remember, both manufacturers offer good warranty coverage and regular firmware updates, so either choice should serve you well for years to come.

Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Plus Home Theater System Deals and Prices

Klipsch Flexus Core 100 Soundbar Deals and Prices