Over the time, people who are inclined towards euphonious tunes have witnessed significant transformations in sound bar systems. Right from passive sound bars to sleek digital amplifiers, the entire sound bar surround movement today exhibits an impressive progress. Having devised several music systems for admirers worldwide, Yamaha now creates a full sounding, self-contained sound bar solution in the form of their latest YAS-101. The most recently unleashed sound bar system not only feels proud for revamping the userâs experience, but also encompasses a myriad of advanced features to uplift the sound bar surround system sphere. The stylish variant stays far from the companyâs widely appreciated YSP-1 in terms of driver compliment and features a sturdily built chassis to harmonize with usersâ taste for elegance.
What is it?
The YAS-101 from Yamaha is basically a sleek, stylish Sound Bar speaker system encompassing the exclusive Air Surround Xtreme technology. Designed with slim aesthetics, the low profile system comes equipped with a built-in powerful 60-watt subwoofer that puts forth an amazing 7.1 channel surround sound from a single unit. Sporting an exquisite, beautiful Piano Black Finish, the high quality device enables users to enjoy their favorite movies and television with unprecedented quality. The device can also learn consumersâ television remote control operation and allow them to use their remote to turn the YAS-101 on and off. Adjusting its volume gets simpler too.
Key features:
Carved with a focus on simplicity and exquisite, the systemâs large speaker units deliver remarkable performance while wafting out surround sound. The soundbar conjugates two powerful 2-1/2-inch speakers with a dual-driver subwoofer which comes powered by a digital amp with a total output of 120W. Besides its dual-driver subwoofer that reproduces bass sounds, the system incorporates a bass reflex port for enhanced bass response together with the large volume cabinet. Users may appreciate the deviceâs Saran Net Grille that leverages the sound definition for a richer, immersive experience. Thereâs Clear Voice as well which raises the level of dialogues and narrations for better audibility. Some other impressive characteristics include Audio Delay Control for adjusting the timing of a picture and dialogue, jack for an additional subwoofer, built-in IR flasher for TV remote control signal transmission, simple to use remote control, and glossy black finish to match usersâ flat screen TVs.
Whatâs innovative?
Enclosed in a compact size that measures 35- x 3-1/2- x 4-1/2-inches while shunning out spacer brackets or its feet, the YAS-101 stands apart for comprising several great features at an affordable price point. The new sound bar lends support to Dolby Digital and DTS and smartly combines stellar performance with flexible installation options. The unique UniVolume function outstandingly removes the unsettling spike in volume during advertisements while indulging in TV programming. Users can conveniently position their YAS-101 in front of the TV without blocking the picture and connect it to any HDTV with a single digital cable.
Price and availability:
The feature-rich Yamaha YAS-101 prances with a low price tag that reads at around $299.95 and should be available by now.
The up side:
The system emerges as spectacular for its substantial low bass for a tiny chassis. In addition to its controlled high frequencies that are clean too, the YAS-101 catches attention for its UniVolume that keeps loud advertisements at the far distance. Users may further like its digital optical cable that comes included.
The down side:
Unfortunately, thereâs no analog audio input. The sound bar also lacks mounting screws while the surround mode steals from fidelity.
Our experience:
The device made a pretty good impression and rendered us a smooth journey. We liked the two 2.5-inch drivers that ensure noteworthy mid-range and the entire treble region. The high frequencies were clean and glassy at the same time. Not to forget, its peerless performance and dramatic styling with elegant Piano Black Finish intrigued us further.
The bottom line:
If Yamaha endeavored to design a full sounding, slender sound bar solution with a pocket-friendly price tag, we would say they quite a lot nailed it on the head with their new YAS-101 variant. Although there are certain limitations that somewhere influence the experience, the system however performs much better with one box when compared with many other solutions with two boxes. Perfect for music enthusiasts or people who demand better sound than their television can offer, the system makes an ideal pick as an inclusive entry level sound bar system.
