Sony BRAVIA Theater U Wireless Wearable TV Speaker review immersive audio with 360 sound

Description

Immersive Design and Comfort for Extended Use

The Sony BRAVIA Theater U Wireless Wearable TV Speaker surprised me with its lightweight and ergonomic design. Sitting at just 9.6 ounces, the neckband felt incredibly comfortable around my neck. I wore it during multiple binge-watching sessions, and there was no discomfort or irritation. The adjustable design ensures it fits snugly without being restrictive, even for extended use. It’s like having a personal sound system that doesn’t weigh you down.

The IPX4 splash-resistant feature was another pleasant touch. I didn’t have to worry about minor spills while snacking during my favorite shows. Although it’s not fully waterproof, it offers peace of mind for casual indoor use. The sleek black finish blends seamlessly with any outfit or setting, making it a stylish option for both home and casual outings.

Performance and Audio Immersion

What sets this product apart is the 360 Spatial Sound Personalizer technology. The soundscape felt so immersive that I could pick up subtle audio details I’d never noticed before. Watching action-packed movies felt like being in a theater. The upward-facing X-Balanced Speaker Unit delivers crystal-clear sound with a surprising depth of bass and clarity in the treble.

I tested the gaming compatibility with a single-player game, and the low latency wired connection was a game-changer. Audio cues synced perfectly with the visuals, giving me a competitive edge in immersive storytelling games. From the dialogue to the background music, everything sounded richer and more detailed than through regular TV speakers.

Key Benefits

• 360 Spatial Sound: Creates a theater-like audio experience.
• Comfortable Fit: Perfect for long listening or gaming sessions.
• Versatile Connectivity: Stable Bluetooth and wired options.
• Splash-Resistance: IPX4 rating adds durability against minor spills.
• Hands-Free Calling: Built-in mic for clear communication.

Battery Life That Keeps Up

The 12-hour battery life is truly impressive. I tested it during a full day of on-and-off usage, and it never died on me. When I needed a quick recharge, the USB Type-C quick charging feature came to the rescue. A mere 10-minute charge provided another hour of playback, which was perfect when I forgot to charge it overnight.

It’s worth mentioning that the battery indicator on my phone worked seamlessly with the speaker, so I always knew when it needed a recharge. This small but thoughtful detail made the experience even smoother.

Drawbacks

While the product excels in many areas, there are a few areas of concern:

• Lack of Full Waterproofing: While splash-resistant, it isn’t ideal for outdoor use in unpredictable weather.
• Limited Color Options: Only available in black, which might not suit everyone’s taste.
• Charging Time: It takes a full 12 hours for a complete recharge, which feels a little long despite the quick-charge feature.

Competing Products

When comparing this neckband speaker to similar products, Bose SoundWear Companion came to mind. While Bose’s product boasts a more premium feel and slightly better sound quality, it lacks the gaming compatibility and IPX4 splash-resistance of Sony’s offering. On the other hand, the JBL Soundgear provides a more robust bass experience but doesn’t offer the 360 Spatial Sound technology that makes the BRAVIA Theater U stand out.

Sony’s neckband speaker strikes a balance between features, comfort, and practicality, making it a strong contender in this category. The hands-free calling and multi-point connection feature are areas where it outshines its competitors, offering versatility for both casual and professional use.

Smart Spending

Considering the features packed into this wearable speaker, it’s hard to argue against its value for money. The combination of 360 Spatial Sound, low latency gaming support, and 12-hour battery life makes it a worthwhile investment for tech enthusiasts and casual users alike. While the price might seem steep initially, the multi-point connection and durable design ensure you’re getting your money’s worth.

Would I recommend it? Definitely, but only if you’re someone who values immersive audio experiences or needs a versatile, high-performance wearable speaker.

Additional information