I installed this a week ago on a 6 year old Sony Bravia with great results, I've run it pretty hard to see how it works. The primary reason for the purchase was to access Netflix as my old smart TV had apps preinstalled and didn't include Netflix, nor is it capable of downloading new apps.
Likes - very easy setup, exactly as shown in the quick start guide and Roku's installation video. Down to only one control from two which is a big plus. I connected it to the HDMI(ARC) input and the TV powers up when the soundbar does. Volume and streaming options are all controlled with the Roku remote. The sound options are great with sound leveling, bass boost, voice enhancement and night mode. The sound options are easily accessible to be configured while you watch TV so it's easy to adjust for your needs. Bluetooth has worked well, streaming podcasts and music from my phone. The Roku processor is fast, it loads apps much quicker than my smart TV and video quality has been as good as anything I've seen on cable.
Not so much - I can't say I have any specific dislikes as such, but a few things might disappoint some. The main thing is the sound. It is certainly good, but I wouldn't say it quite lives up to the claims (what does anymore?). The dialog quality is very good, music has been very good as well. For small speakers the bass is quite good, particularly with the bass boost, but it's still not like a large speaker that can really push some air. I will consider the wireless sub woofer that you can get from Roku. I did find that the sound leveling does tend to mute or soften the voice track so it can be hard to hear some voices, soft ones or whispering in particular. I guess that's to be expected since everything is compressed to keep the sound level. After trying the sound leveling out I now only use it with some shows that vary a lot or when I'm trying to watch TV when someone is trying to sleep.
Side note - I saw a few comments in the reviews that you can't use Bluetooth headsets with the soundbar. This is true, but if you download the Roku app on your phone you can use your phone as an alternate controller and you can run the audio to you phone and use your earbuds, wired or wireless. I've tried it numerous times with my Bluetooth wireless ear buds with no problems.
Overall - I am far from dissatisfied, being very pleased with the purchase. I would recommend it to anyone looking to improve their TV audio, stream shows and simplify your television setup!
| Brand Name | Roku |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 5.5 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 3.9 x 32.2 x 2.8 inches |
| Item model number | 9101R |
| Batteries | 2 AAA batteries required. (included) |
| Color Name | Black |
| Speaker Type | Soundbar |
