Sony Electronics has announced an over-the-air (OTA) firmware update available April 14 for the premium HT-A7000 and HT-A5000 soundbars. The update enhances both products’ 360 Spatial Sound Mapping capabilities and can be accessed when connecting either soundbar to SA-RS3S rear speakers, or the new SA-RS5 wireless rear speakers, available soon for pre-order.
With the 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology, customers can “feel” sound from any direction and distance. Using Sound Field Optimization, soundbars use built-in microphones to measure the relative height and position of the soundbar and rear speakers. 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology then creates multiple phantom speakers by synthesizing sound waves based on the positional information.
The firmware download will be available via multiple methods, beginning April 14, a 6:00 PM Pacific Time:
Via USB Drive:
- Download firmware for the HT-A5000 here, for the HT-A7000 here.
- Once downloaded, extract files to blank USB drive.
- Plug USB drive into Soundbar USB port, select “USB software update” option on soundbar interface, follow prompts to set up and enjoy.
Via Wi-Fi:
- On a Wi-Fi-connected soundbar, go to the user interface and select software update via “Network,” and proceed with download. Follow prompts to set up and enjoy.
SA-RS5 wireless rear speakers have a suggested retail price of $599.99 and are available to order in May 2022 at Sony Electronics and other authorized dealers. For a full list of specs and information or to buy from Sony Electronics directly, visit https://electronics.sony.com/audio/soundbars/a-series-soundbars/p/sars5.
SA-RS3S wireless rear speakers have a suggested retail price of $349.99 and are available to order today at Sony Electronics, Amazon, Best Buy, and other authorized dealers. For a full list of specs and information or to buy from Sony Electronics directly, visit https://electronics.sony.com/audio/soundbars/all-soundbars/p/sars3s.
