Bose Soundbar 700 Review: The $600 Audio Powerhouse Missing Two Key Features
Duane Beckett
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Let us get the obvious out of the way first, the Bose soundbar 700 is an upgraded version of the company’s 600 model. It includes immersive and modern audio technologies like PhaseGuide and QuietPort, as well as ADAPTiQ audio calibration:
What is PhaseGuide?
Bose’s PhaseGuide technology works by pumping audio through an array of speakers at different intervals to create a surround sound experience. It works through timing, direction, and the manipulation of sound waves.
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What is QuietPort Technology?
For Bose to keep distortion to a minimum, Bose introduced QuietPort technology. This feature includes folded bass reflex ports, which enable clarity at any volume.
What is ADAPTiQ Audio?
ADAPTiQ audio analyzes and optimizes the sound of your Bose soundbar for the acoustics of the room. The calibration process detects surfaces and adjusts audio properties as required, to maximize clarity.
Despite these great features, the soundbar lacks a separate subwoofer, HDMI inputs, and it doesn’t even support Dolby Atmos or DTS:X. Those are basics for any consumer’s checklist, especially on a soundbar that costs $560+ at the time of writing (December 2022).
With all that said, is the Bose Soundbar 700 worth buying? Let’s find out:
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Best Soundbar For A Reason
The Bose 700 is indulgent, with a sophisticated tempered glass top, wrapped around a metal grill. It has clean lines and a minimalistic design that will match any modern home’s aesthetics.
Similarly, its custom drivers and proprietary technologies help the soundbar deliver clear and spacious sound. You can sync it with your TV to enjoy Netflix, and use it as your gaming soundbar for the deep ringing of heavy gunfire or car engines.
The truth is, whatever you do, it will sound wonderful.
Also, despite the lack of a subwoofer, the bass is deep, without distortion, and perfect regardless of the music genre you enjoy:
And if you’ve never had a Bose product, rest assured, setup is ridiculously easy via the official mobile app that includes a guided step-by-step process.
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Make Or Take Calls With Alexa And Google Assistant
The Bose 700 includes a custom 8-mic array that’s combined with a noise-rejecting system. Both help the soundbar listen to your voice when issuing commands, or even when you’re on a call.
Moreover, you can simply say Alexa or Google “Call Jimmy” or any loved one to make a voice call without touching your phone. This inclusion of Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, et al., makes the Bose Soundbar 700 the ultimate tool for making your home truly smart.
The Voice4Video is also there to help your soundbar expand its Alexa compatibility. That being said, you can change channels, turn On/Off TV, or change the satellite system to Netflix streaming with one voice command.
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Connectivity And Music
This Bose Soundbar has almost all the connectivity available on the market. You can sync it via;
- Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi
- Apple Airplay 2
- Spotify Connect
You can play bass-boosted music on Apple Airplay 2 or Spotify with just a voice command while doing heavy chores at home. Also, you can use it as your go-to mini-home party speaker.
Additionally, you can control this smart soundbar in three different ways. As stated above, it works via voice control, the Bose official music app, and the included standard remote.
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The Verdict
Pros:
- Good front soundstage
- Well-designed app
- ADAPTiQ audio calibration
- eARC support
Cons:
- No Atmos/DTS:X support
- No HDMI inputs
A big positive is that this soundbar can fit in any place. Its dimensions are 38.5” x 2.25” x 4.25”, which allows you to keep it near the TV for maximum impact.
Plus, with its focus on music and intelligent features, the Bose Soundbar 700 certainly competes with Sonos. Although Sonos is primarily known for its multi-room platform, which keeps it ahead of the curve in certain scenarios.
And there is no denying, for $560+ from Amazon.com you get great sound and a heap of features. Yet, the lack of Atmos and DTS:X support leaves a big question mark over the product at this price point.
So if like us, you NEED Atmos and DTS:X, the Bose Soundbar 700 is hard to recommend.