There’s a familiar disappointment that settles in when you’ve just invested in a stunning 4K television. The picture is crisp, the colours are vibrant, but the sound? It’s often a flat, lifeless afterthought. I remember settling in to watch a blockbuster space epic, the visuals promising an interstellar journey, only to be pulled right out of the experience by dialogue that sounded like it was coming from a tin can. The thunderous roar of a spaceship’s engines was reduced to a meek fizzle. This is the curse of modern, ultra-thin TVs: there’s simply no room for powerful, dynamic speakers. For years, the solution was a complex, room-filling surround sound system, a web of wires and speakers that was impractical for my modest living room. The alternative was to simply endure the subpar audio, missing out on the rich, immersive soundscapes that directors and sound designers painstakingly create. It’s a compromise no film lover should have to make.
- 𝗜𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗗𝗼𝗹𝗯𝘆 𝗔𝘁𝗺𝗼𝘀 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱– Up-firing speakers deliver true 3D surround sound, enhancing movies, music, and gaming for a...
- 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝟭𝟰𝟬𝗪 𝗔𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗽𝘂𝘁 – Enjoy rich, room-filling sound with clear dialogue and well-balanced audio, perfect for movies,...
What to Consider Before Buying a Compact Soundbar
A compact soundbar is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for reclaiming the audio experience your television was meant to deliver. It’s an elegant, space-saving answer to the problem of weak, built-in TV speakers. The main benefits are immediately apparent: dramatically improved dialogue clarity, a wider and more dynamic soundstage, and the ability to reproduce sound effects and musical scores with the weight and detail they deserve. By consolidating multiple speakers into a single, slim enclosure, it delivers a powerful audio upgrade without the clutter of a traditional home theatre system. For anyone living in an apartment, a smaller home, or simply looking to enhance the audio in a bedroom or office, a compact soundbar is a transformative piece of technology.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the exact issues I described: a person who loves movies, TV shows, or even gaming, but is constantly frustrated by muddy dialogue and a lack of sonic impact from their TV’s speakers. They value simplicity, elegance, and performance in a small footprint. It’s for the person who wants a “plug-and-play” solution with minimal fuss. Conversely, this might not be suitable for those who are dedicated audiophiles with a large, acoustically-treated room, seeking the pinpoint precision of a full 7.1.4 component system. It’s also likely not the best fit for someone who prioritises earth-shattering, foundation-rattling bass above all else, as many compact bars prioritise balance and clarity over sheer low-frequency output, unless paired with a substantial subwoofer.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Measure the space below your TV. A soundbar should ideally be no wider than your television for aesthetic balance. The Sharp HT-SB700 2.0.2 Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar is notably compact at just 52cm wide, making it perfect for smaller TVs (around 32 to 50 inches) and tight spaces where a larger bar would look out of place or block the screen’s IR sensor.
- Capacity/Performance: Look beyond just the wattage. The channel configuration is key. A “2.0.2” configuration, like this Sharp model, means two main front-firing channels for stereo sound, zero dedicated subwoofers, and two upward-firing channels specifically for Dolby Atmos height effects. This is a crucial feature for creating the immersive, 3D sound bubble that standard soundbars cannot replicate.
- Materials & Durability: The enclosure material affects both acoustics and longevity. While many budget options use glossy plastic that attracts fingerprints and can feel flimsy, this model features a matt black finish. This not only looks more premium and blends in better with most setups but is also more resistant to smudges and scratches, suggesting a more robust build quality.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Connectivity is paramount for a seamless experience. HDMI eARC/CEC is the gold standard, allowing the soundbar to receive the highest quality audio signal (like Dolby Atmos) and letting you control the soundbar’s volume with your existing TV remote. This one-cable, one-remote convenience is a massive quality-of-life improvement.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Sharp HT-SB700 2.0.2 Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar stands out in several areas, particularly for its unique combination of a compact size and true Atmos capabilities. You can explore its detailed specifications and features here.
While the Sharp HT-SB700 2.0.2 Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Unbelievable Sound: 12W of pure audio power with enhanced bass thunders from dual neodymium drivers. An advanced Digital Signal Processor ensures pounding bass and zero distortion at any volume.
- ASTONISHING SOUND: Breathtaking stereo sound with deep bass is delivered with exceptional clarity and zero distortion by two high-sensitivity drivers and a patented bass port.
- POWERFUL SOUND: 30-watt output with dual speakers and dynamic drivers delivering rich stereo sound with an impressive 85dB signal-to-noise ratio
First Impressions: Unboxing the Sharp HT-SB700
The arrival of the Sharp HT-SB700 2.0.2 Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar was an interesting experience. As one user aptly noted, the packaging proved “quite the puzzle to get it out,” but once freed, the first impression was immediately positive. The unit itself feels solid and reassuringly weighty for its size, a far cry from the hollow plastic shells of some competitors. The matt black finish is sleek, understated, and genuinely smart-looking. It’s a minimalist design that doesn’t scream for attention, instead blending seamlessly below the television. At just 52 cm wide and 7.2 cm tall, it fit perfectly under my 50-inch test television without obstructing the screen or the remote sensor.
In the box, we found everything needed for a quick start: the soundbar, a straightforward remote control (with batteries thankfully included), a power cable, and an HDMI cable. The inclusion of an HDMI cable is a welcome touch that is too often omitted. Setup was, as hoped, incredibly simple. Plugging the HDMI cable into the eARC port on my TV and the corresponding port on the soundbar was all it took. The TV immediately recognised the device, and we were up and running in under five minutes. The initial feeling is one of quality and user-friendly design, promising a hassle-free upgrade for just about anyone.
What We Like
- Genuine Dolby Atmos height effects via up-firing speakers
- Extremely compact design, ideal for smaller TVs and spaces
- Simple, plug-and-play setup with HDMI eARC
- Excellent value for money for an Atmos-enabled soundbar
- Clear and distinct audio presets for different content types
Drawbacks
- Bass performance is modest and lacks low-end punch
- Noticeable lag when adjusting volume
- Limited audio customisation beyond basic treble/bass
Performance Under the Microscope: A Deep Dive into the Sharp HT-SB700
A soundbar can look great and be easy to set up, but its true worth is only revealed when the lights go down and the movie starts. We put the Sharp HT-SB700 2.0.2 Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar through its paces with a wide range of content, from action-packed blockbusters and dialogue-heavy dramas to streaming music and live sports, to see if its performance lives up to its on-paper promises.
The Dolby Atmos Effect: Does It Really Create a 3D Sound Bubble?
Let’s address the headline feature first: Dolby Atmos. For a soundbar this compact and affordable, the inclusion of dedicated upward-firing speakers is its main selling point. My expectations were cautiously optimistic. Could a 2.0.2 system truly deliver a three-dimensional audio experience? The answer, impressively, is yes—with some caveats. Firing up a Dolby Atmos-enabled film on Blu-ray, the difference was immediate and palpable. During a scene with a helicopter flying overhead, the sound wasn’t just coming from the front; there was a distinct sense of height, an audio ceiling that made the soundstage feel significantly larger and more enveloping. Rainstorms in jungle documentaries felt more immersive, with the patter of drops seeming to come from above. This confirms the findings of several users, one of whom stated, “Sound very nice with Atmos in Blu-ray. Immersion of sound.” Another noted that their movies became “a completely new experience with this.”
It’s crucial to manage expectations. This isn’t going to replicate a full home cinema with discrete ceiling-mounted speakers. The effect is virtual, created by bouncing sound off your ceiling, so its effectiveness can depend on your room’s dimensions and ceiling height (flat, lower ceilings work best). However, compared to a standard 2.0 or 2.1 soundbar that can only create a horizontal soundstage, the Sharp HT-SB700 2.0.2 Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar adds a vertical dimension that genuinely enhances immersion. For its size and price, the execution of Dolby Atmos is its most triumphant feature.
Audio Profile and Customisation: Finding the Sweet Spot
Beyond the Atmos trickery, the fundamental audio quality of the soundbar is strong, particularly in the mid and high ranges. Dialogue clarity is excellent, a massive step up from any TV’s native speakers. Voices are crisp, forward in the mix, and easy to understand, even during chaotic action sequences. The 140W of power is more than enough to fill a small to medium-sized room without distortion. The five EQ presets—Movie, Music, News, Sport, and Night—are genuinely distinct and useful. Switching from “Movie” to “Sport” clearly boosts ambient crowd noise and announcer commentary, adding to the stadium-like atmosphere. However, the audio profile is not without its weaknesses, and the most prominent is the bass response. As a 2.0.2 system without a separate or even a large built-in subwoofer, the low-end frequencies are present but lack punch and depth. One user was “a little underwhelmed,” pointing out that “The bass ONLY kicks in when the sound is louder otherwise, you might as well be listening to your TV sound.” We found this to be an accurate assessment. At lower, late-night viewing volumes, the bass is quite tame. It’s only when you push the volume that the low-end becomes more assertive, but it never reaches the chest-thumping level some might crave. Customisation is limited to simple bass and treble adjustments via the remote. There’s no companion app or multi-band equaliser, which makes this a less-than-ideal choice for audiophiles who love to tweak, but perfect for those who want a simple, set-it-and-forget-it experience.
Design, Connectivity, and Everyday Usability
Living with the Sharp HT-SB700 2.0.2 Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar on a daily basis highlights its thoughtful design and a few operational quirks. Its greatest physical asset is its size. In a world of ever-larger soundbars, this compact unit is a breath of fresh air, perfectly suited for secondary setups in bedrooms or for smaller living room TVs where a huge bar would be overpowering. The connectivity suite is comprehensive for this price point. HDMI eARC is the star, providing a single-cable connection for both audio and control. The ability to use our TV remote for power and volume is a convenience that cannot be overstated. The inclusion of digital optical and a 3.5mm aux input provides great fallback options for older TVs or other devices, and Bluetooth streaming works flawlessly for playing podcasts or music from a phone.
However, we did encounter some of the same usability issues mentioned by users. There is a noticeable lag of a second or two when adjusting the volume. You press the button on the remote, and the sound level takes a moment to catch up, which can lead to over-adjusting. One reviewer accurately described the frustration: “when you suddenly increase volume, it will take some seconds to reflect your entry and by then, you’re gone too loud or too low.” Furthermore, the feedback system consists of a simple white LED on the front that blinks to indicate changes. While minimalist, it’s not very descriptive, making it hard to know exactly what level the bass or treble is set to. These aren’t deal-breakers, but they are minor annoyances in an otherwise polished package. Despite these small flaws, the overall value and performance make it a compelling option. For those seeking an effortless and affordable entry into immersive sound, you can find the best offer on the Sharp HT-SB700 here.
What Other Users Are Saying
Synthesizing feedback from a range of buyers, a clear picture of the Sharp HT-SB700 2.0.2 Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar emerges. The overwhelming positive sentiment revolves around its excellent value proposition. Many users echo the feeling that “for the price i think is great value!” and that it’s the “best one to go for” if you want Dolby Atmos on a budget. The transformative effect on movie-watching is a common theme, with one person stating, “Now when watching movies it does feel like we are in cinema!” The simplicity of the HDMI eARC setup is another frequently praised aspect, allowing for a quick and frustration-free installation.
On the critical side, the feedback is just as consistent. The most common complaint centres on the bass performance, with one user bluntly stating, “The bass ONLY kicks in when the sound is louder.” This sentiment about a lack of low-end authority, especially at moderate volumes, is a recurring point. The other primary issue highlighted is the operational lag, particularly when adjusting volume, which a reviewer described as a “serious lag” that makes fine-tuning difficult. These reviews paint a portrait of a product that excels in its primary mission—delivering accessible Dolby Atmos and clearer sound—but makes some compromises in bass response and user interface responsiveness to hit its attractive price point.
How Does the Sharp HT-SB700 Compare to the Competition?
While the Sharp HT-SB700 2.0.2 Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar carves out a strong niche, it’s important to see how it stacks up against other audio solutions. Here we compare it to three distinct alternatives.
1. Denon SCN10 HiFi Speakers
- STYLISH DESIGN, EXCEPTIONAL SOUND - Enjoy a smooth and natural sound with these two-way loudspeakers that represent pure craftmanship and reproduce your favourite songs as the artist recorded it.
- A PAIR OF POWER - Each HiFi speaker features a 4.75-inch woofer/midrange and a 1.2-inch high-definition soft dome tweeter and is able to produce up to 65W per speaker.
The Denon SCN10 represents a more traditional approach to audio. These are passive bookshelf speakers, meaning they require a separate amplifier or AV receiver to work. For the user who prioritises music fidelity and stereo imaging above all else, these are a superb choice. They will likely deliver a more nuanced and detailed musical performance than the Sharp soundbar. However, they are not an all-in-one solution. They lack built-in amplification, Bluetooth, and any form of virtual surround sound or Dolby Atmos processing. The Denon speakers are for the budding audiophile building a component system, while the Sharp is for the movie lover seeking a simple, integrated, and immersive TV audio upgrade.
2. PIONEER TS-G1030F 10cm 3 Way Speakers
It’s important to clarify that the Pioneer TS-G1030F speakers are not a direct competitor for a home soundbar. These are 10cm coaxial speakers designed specifically for in-car audio installations. They are meant to be fitted into the door panels or dashboard of a vehicle and powered by a car stereo head unit. While they are an excellent upgrade for a car’s factory sound system, they serve a completely different purpose and are not suitable for home theatre use. Therefore, a direct comparison to the Sharp soundbar is not applicable; they exist in entirely separate product categories.
3. AZATOM Studio Eclipse Soundbar with Subwoofer
- 𝗖𝗜𝗡𝗘𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗖 𝗦𝗨𝗥𝗥𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗗 𝗦𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗗 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗖𝗘: Experience immersive, cinema-quality sound with the 180W 2.1...
- 𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗟𝗘 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗗𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗖𝗘𝗦 – Easily connect to a variety of devices with the Studio...
The AZATOM Studio Eclipse is perhaps the most direct competitor, offering a different set of trade-offs. This is a 2.1 system, meaning it has two main channels in the soundbar and a dedicated (in this case, built-in) subwoofer. The primary advantage of the AZATOM will almost certainly be its bass response. The presence of a subwoofer, even a built-in one, will provide more low-end depth and rumble than the Sharp can manage on its own. However, the AZATOM lacks the dedicated upward-firing drivers of the Sharp. It may offer “virtual” surround sound, but it cannot reproduce the true height effects of Dolby Atmos. The choice here is clear: if powerful bass is your top priority, the AZATOM is a strong contender. If you want the unique immersive experience of Dolby Atmos height channels, the Sharp HT-SB700 is the superior choice.
The Final Verdict: Is the Sharp HT-SB700 2.0.2 Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar for You?
After extensive testing, our verdict on the Sharp HT-SB700 2.0.2 Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar is overwhelmingly positive, provided you are the right kind of buyer. This is not a soundbar for the hardcore home theatre enthusiast seeking thunderous bass and infinite customisation. Instead, it is an absolutely brilliant solution for a huge segment of the market: those with small to medium-sized rooms, smaller televisions, and a desire for a massive, meaningful audio upgrade without complexity or a high price tag. Its greatest strength is delivering a genuine, tangible Dolby Atmos experience in a package that is almost unbelievably compact and affordable. The improved dialogue clarity and wider soundstage alone make it a worthy upgrade over any television’s built-in speakers.
The weaknesses—modest bass, a slight volume lag—are real but are understandable compromises to achieve its form factor and price. For apartment dwellers, bedroom movie-watchers, or anyone taking their first step into the world of immersive audio, the Sharp HT-SB700 offers phenomenal value. It punches well above its weight, turning a standard TV session into a far more cinematic and engaging event. If you’ve decided the Sharp HT-SB700 2.0.2 Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar is the right fit for your space and needs, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API