Simulating a 5.1 surround system, the 2.1 HT-SD300 and HT-SB200 sound bars are Sharp’s latest wonder at the CES. Designed to be used mainly with 32” TVs, they’re compatible with the latest sound standard and provide a nice audio experience.

LAS VEGAS, NV, January 8, 2009 — Sharp introduces the company’s first 2.1-channel Sound Bars, models HT-SB300 and HT-SB200, offering advanced audio technology and easy setup to enhance a home entertainment system. The new Sound Bar series was designed to simulate a surround sound effect without the bulk and added cost of a full home theater audio system. The compact models encase left and right speakers, as well as a subwoofer, in one clean unit, for a slim, stylish profile design, ideal for wall mounting. The units can also be placed on a TV stand (32-inch class LCD and up), with included mounting plates and adjustable feet to straddle the base of an LCD TV.
“These new Sound Bars give consumers an affordable way to complement the superior picture quality of their high-end LCD TV,” said Bob Pleyer, senior marketing manager, Entertainment Products Division, Sharp. “With their low profile design, they blend in with the slim design of today’s flat-panel TVs for an overall sophisticated look.”
The 34-watt Sound Bar combines advanced HDSS (high-definition sound standard) sound technology and SRS WOW HD Sound for a more natural listening experience and a deeper, more natural bass response. Both models feature adjustable Bass, Treble and Sub level options for a unique surround sound effect without rear channel speakers. The HT-SB300 adds digital audio decoding with DTS, Dolby® Digital and Dolby Pro Logic® II decoder, as well as Dolby Virtual Speaker to effectively simulate 5.1 channel surround sound. Dolby Virtual Speaker helps consumers transform their living room or bedroom into a surround-sound theater without stringing speaker wire throughout the room. The technology simulates a realistic 5.1-speaker surround sound environment without placing speakers in every corner of a room. The advanced Dolby Virtual Speaker technology then processes the sound to simulate the dynamics of a traditionally placed 5.1-speaker system.
For flexibility and simple setup, both Sound Bars feature dual audio inputs, right and left RCA jacks and a 3.5mm sub mini jack, which allows for a second audio source such as an MP3 player. The HT-SB300 adds a subwoofer output jack as well. Both models also include a slim remote control that can simultaneously control a Sharp AQUOS® LCD TV, as well as a programmed equalizer and an auto On/Off function.
Pricing and availability
The HT-SB300 will be available in April for a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $299.99.
The HT-SB200 will be available in January for an MSRP of $249.99.