Monitor Audio ASB-2

Sublime sound quality ; Luxury design ; AirPlay support

Relatively expensive ; Tricky PC Wi-Fi setup ; No Bluetooth

There’s no HD audio decoding or even Dolby Digital/DTS support, but it’s no problem as the ASB-2 accepts 5.1 and 7.1-channel linear PCM.

Solid build Three HDMI inputs AirPlay and DLNA Sensational sound quality Good bass despite lack of separate subwoofer

Now outclassed by the best newcomers

And so it is with regret that we must take away the Monitor Audio’s fifth star. It’s had a great run, but the competition is ruthless. Review updated on 23.12.14 MORE: Best soundbars to buy in 2014

Commanding, detailed sound; supreme build quality; AirPlay and DLNA support; generous connections

Expensive; fiddly PC Wi-Fi setup; rudimentary onscreen menu; 3D Audio processing not worth bothering with

Neutral tonal balance; Honest vocal and dialogue presentation; Handsome, understated looks

Limited volume output; Ergonomic shortcomings

The Monitor Audio ASB-2 is, quite frankly, one hell of an active soundbar. If you're looking for a soundbar that doesn't absolutely need a subwoofer to sound like a real audio system, the ASB-2, even at $1,649, is one hell of a deal. It's simple enough...

warmer, voluminöser Klang

bei Tischaufstellung besteht Gefahr, dass der untere Teil des Bildschirms verdeckt wird

Два компонента, высокое качество звука, поддержка беспроводной трансляции – но мало входов

Drie HDMI-ingangen ; Geweldige constructiekwaliteit ; Indrukwekkend, gedetailleerd geluid ; Airplay en DLNA-ondersteuning ; Goede bass, ondanks het ontbreken van een aparte subwoofer

Duur ; Onhandige Wi-fi set-up ; Primitieve onscreen menu's ; 3D audio-processing is niet de moeite waard

Musicality

The ASB-2 is large but the soundbar includes 5.5 inch speakers so it cannot be much smaller without losing its sound production qualities