Soundbar Evaluations Are My Day-to-Day Job - Surprisingly, in 2025, My Top Choice Isn't Sonos
In the realm of single-box soundbars, three contenders have emerged as frontrunners in 2025: the KEF XIO, Sonos Arc Ultra, and the Marshall Heston 120. Each offers unique features that cater to different audio preferences and needs.
The Marshall Heston 120 is a striking, visually appealing soundbar that delivers massive yet controlled bass without the need for a separate subwoofer. It boasts strong spatial audio performance and offers a unique physical control panel. While it's not explicitly stated that the Heston 120 includes HDMI passthrough, it does support HDMI 2.1 passthrough that allows for 4K at 120Hz and an HDMI eARC port for audio sync between soundbar and display.
The KEF XIO, on the other hand, is considered the best-sounding spatial audio single-box soundbar currently. It combines impressive spatial sound with deep bass and an understated design. However, it lacks HDMI passthrough, which may be a dealbreaker for some.
The Sony HT-S2000 stands out as a compact, affordable Dolby Atmos soundbar with built-in dual subwoofers and a surround engine that creates spatial effects without rear speakers. It supports HDMI passthrough and is ideal for budget-conscious users wanting Atmos and spatial audio in a single box.
If HDMI passthrough is a must-have alongside spatial audio in one unit, the Sony HT-S2000 is a leading option. For best spatial audio quality irrespective of HDMI passthrough, the KEF XIO is recommended. The Marshall Heston offers a visually distinctive and aurally powerful compromise.
It's worth noting that among premium Atmos soundbars with advanced spatial audio, many tend to be multi-box systems, or might lack HDMI passthrough if single-box, so trade-offs apply.
The Marshall Heston 120 can decode Dolby Atmos and DTS:X three-dimensional formats and provides an additional HDMI socket as a semi-solution for a problem with modern TVs. It also delivers impressive bass from a single box, eliminating the need for a separate subwoofer.
Despite missing the deadline for the 2025 awards on our website, the Marshall Heston 120 is a potential candidate for 2026. Meanwhile, the KEF XIO and Sonos Arc Ultra, while offering exceptional sound quality, come at a higher price point compared to the Marshall Heston 120.
In conclusion, the single-box soundbar market offers a variety of options for consumers. The choice between the KEF XIO, Sonos Arc Ultra, and Marshall Heston 120 depends on one's specific audio preferences and requirements, particularly regarding HDMI passthrough and spatial audio performance.
- The Marshall Heston 120, apart from its stunning visual appeal and powerful sound, supports HDMI 2.1 passthrough that allows for 4K at 120Hz and HDMI eARC port for audio sync between soundbar and display, making it suitable for users who require HDMI passthrough features.
- Despite the KEF XIO offering the best spatial audio quality, it lacks HDMI passthrough, which might not cater to everyone's needs, especially those who seek this specific technology in a single-box soundbar solution.
