When you're ready to upgrade from your TV's built-in speakers, premium soundbars offer an attractive blend of convenience and performance. Today, we're comparing two compelling options: the Sony HT-A5000 and LG S90TR, both aiming to deliver immersive home theater sound without the complexity of traditional surround systems.
The soundbar market has evolved significantly in recent years, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of what's possible from these streamlined systems. Modern premium soundbars now incorporate sophisticated audio processing, upward-firing speakers for height effects, and wireless connectivity that was unthinkable just a few years ago.
Most importantly, they've become remarkably good at creating convincing surround sound effects from relatively compact packages. Both the Sony HT-A5000 ($999 MSRP) and LG S90TR ($899 MSRP) represent the latest in this evolution, though they take notably different approaches.
The fundamental distinction between these systems lies in their basic configuration. The Sony HT-A5000, released in 2022, takes a modular approach with its 5.1.2 channel setup. The main unit includes everything in one bar, including built-in subwoofers, but offers optional wireless rear speakers and a separate subwoofer for those wanting to expand later.
In contrast, the LG S90TR, released in early 2024, delivers a complete 7.1.3 channel system out of the box, including wireless rear speakers and a substantial subwoofer. This means more immediate impact but also requires more space and power outlets around your room.
Both systems support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, the leading immersive audio formats that add height effects to traditional surround sound. However, their implementation differs significantly.
The Sony relies heavily on sophisticated audio processing through its Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force PRO Front Surround technologies. These create virtual speakers where physical ones don't exist - quite effectively, I might add. In testing, the sensation of sound coming from behind is surprisingly convincing in rooms with walls for sound to bounce off.
The LG takes a more traditional approach with its included rear speakers, delivering true surround sound rather than virtualized effects. Its three up-firing channels (versus Sony's two) create a more precise sense of height, particularly noticeable during scenes with overhead effects like helicopter flybys or rainstorms.
For music, each system shows distinct characteristics. The Sony HT-A5000 demonstrates excellent stereo imaging and tonal balance, particularly beneficial for acoustic and vocal-heavy music. Its DSEE Extreme technology upscales compressed digital music, restoring high-frequency details lost during compression.
The LG S90TR offers a more cinematic music experience, with its discrete rear speakers and separate subwoofer creating a larger soundstage. While this can be impressive for live concerts and orchestral pieces, some might find it less natural for standard stereo music.
Modern gaming demands low latency and support for advanced features. The LG S90TR pulls ahead here with its HDMI 2.1 ports supporting Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). These features ensure smooth gameplay and minimal audio delay - crucial for competitive gaming.
The Sony handles gaming well but lacks these cutting-edge HDMI 2.1 gaming features. However, it does offer Sony's 360 Spatial Sound format, which can enhance positional audio in supported games.
Both systems offer room calibration, but their approaches differ. Sony's Sound Field Optimization uses built-in microphones to measure room acoustics and adjust accordingly. It's effective and completely automatic.
LG's AI Room Calibration Pro requires using your smartphone but provides more detailed analysis and adjustment. In practice, both systems significantly improve sound quality by accounting for room characteristics, but LG's solution offers more fine-tuning options for audio enthusiasts.
Modern soundbars are expected to handle streaming duties, and both excel here. They support major streaming protocols including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Bluetooth. The Sony offers slightly more stable WiFi performance with WiFi 5 support, while the LG uses WiFi 4 but compensates with Bluetooth 5.1 (versus Sony's 5.0).
When considering value, it's important to look at the complete package. The Sony HT-A5000 starts cheaper but requires additional purchases for full surround sound. The LG S90TR costs more upfront but includes everything needed for a complete home theater audio system.
Both systems are well-positioned for future audio formats and standards. The LG has a slight edge with its HDMI 2.1 support, while Sony's modular approach allows for gradual upgrades as technology evolves.
These soundbars represent two different philosophies in home audio: Sony's refined, upgradeable approach versus LG's comprehensive, all-in-one solution. Both deliver excellent audio quality, but their ideal users differ significantly.
For those seeking immediate full surround sound, the LG S90TR offers compelling value and performance. However, if you prefer a more flexible solution or have space constraints, the Sony HT-A5000 provides an excellent foundation with room to grow.
The choice ultimately depends on your room size, budget flexibility, and whether you prefer to start with a complete system or build one over time. Either way, both represent significant upgrades over TV speakers and demonstrate just how far soundbar technology has advanced.
| Sony HT-A5000 5.1.2 Channel Soundbar | LG S90TR 7.1.3 Channel Soundbar |
|---|---|
| Price - Initial Investment | |
| $999 MSRP (often $639) | $899 MSRP (often $796) |
| Channel Configuration - Determines surround sound capability | |
| 5.1.2 channels (upgradeable) | 7.1.3 channels (complete system) |
| Included Components - What you get out of the box | |
| Soundbar with built-in subwoofer only | Soundbar, wireless subwoofer, two wireless rear speakers |
| Total Power Output - Impacts maximum volume and dynamics | |
| 450W | 760W |
| Height Channels - Critical for Dolby Atmos performance | |
| 2 up-firing drivers | 3 up-firing drivers |
| HDMI Connectivity - Affects gaming and video compatibility | |
| 1 HDMI input with eARC | 2 HDMI 2.1 inputs with eARC, VRR, ALLM |
| Room Calibration - Optimizes sound for your space | |
| Sound Field Optimization (built-in mics) | AI Room Calibration Pro (via smartphone app) |
| Wireless Audio Support - Streaming capabilities | |
| Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi 5, AirPlay 2, Chromecast | Bluetooth 5.1, WiFi 4, AirPlay 2, Chromecast |
| Dimensions (Soundbar) - Space requirements | |
| 49.2" x 2.5" x 5.3" | 47.75" x 2.75" x 5.62" |
| Additional Features - Unique capabilities | |
| 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, DSEE Extreme upscaling | WOW Orchestra, Gaming features, AI Sound Pro |
| Upgrade Path - Future expansion options | |
| Optional wireless sub and rear speakers available | Complete system, no additional speakers needed |
The LG S90TR offers better home theater performance out of the box with its included rear speakers and subwoofer. While the Sony HT-A5000 can match it with optional upgrades, the LG delivers more immersive surround sound immediately.
The LG S90TR edges out with its 7.1.3 configuration and dedicated rear speakers. Its three up-firing channels create more precise height effects compared to the Sony HT-A5000's two up-firing speakers.
The Sony HT-A5000 is more suitable for small rooms due to its single-unit design and built-in subwoofer. The LG S90TR needs more space to accommodate its separate subwoofer and rear speakers.
The LG S90TR comes complete with everything needed. The Sony HT-A5000 requires optional purchases for rear speakers and a separate subwoofer if you want full surround sound.
The LG S90TR is superior for gaming with HDMI 2.1 ports supporting VRR and ALLM. The Sony HT-A5000 offers good gaming performance but lacks these advanced features.
The Sony HT-A5000 offers more accurate music reproduction in its standard configuration. The LG S90TR provides bigger sound but might be too expansive for casual music listening.
The Sony HT-A5000 lists at $999 but often sells for $639, while the LG S90TR lists at $899 and typically sells for $796. However, Sony requires additional purchases for full surround sound.
The Sony HT-A5000 is easier to set up initially as it's a single unit. The LG S90TR requires more setup time to position rear speakers and subwoofer, but its wireless design simplifies cable management.
Both the Sony HT-A5000 and LG S90TR support Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, and Chromecast for comprehensive streaming options.
Both perform well, but the LG S90TR has a slight advantage with its dedicated center channel configuration. The Sony HT-A5000 offers good clarity through its voice enhancement mode.
No, both work with any TV brand, though the Sony HT-A5000 pairs best with Sony TVs, and the LG S90TR offers additional features with LG TVs.
The LG S90TR offers better immediate value with included rear speakers and subwoofer. The Sony HT-A5000 costs less initially but requires additional purchases for similar capabilities.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: whathifi.com - electronics.sony.com - costco.com - sony.com - expertreviews.co.uk - crutchfield.com - audioadvice.com - sony.com - sony.com - bestbuy.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - community.sony.co.uk - rtings.com - abt.com - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - microcenter.com - buydig.com - bestbuy.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - oceanstateappliance.com - youtube.com - avsforum.com - lg.com
