Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3
Score: 82/100
Denon AVR-S970H Black
Score: 77/100Rankings
The Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3 is a premium 3.1.2-channel soundbar with integrated subwoofer, delivering audiophile-grade sound and extensive Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity. Its large size, high price, and less intuitive remote are notable compromises. Perfect for audiophiles and medium-size rooms desiring an all-in-one Atmos solution.
The Denon AVR-S970H provides 90 W per channel Class AB amplification, 8K/60 Hz and 4K/120 Hz video handling, and HEOS streaming with gaming features. Its 7-channel pre-amp limits larger speaker configurations and its size can be bulky with antennas raised. Best for medium-sized home theaters and gamers.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 90 Wbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 6.5 kgbest | 9.48 kg |
6 | 7best | |
2 yearsbest | 2 yearsbest | |
5.08 cmbest | — | |
10.16 cmbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 12,688 cm³best | 54,490 cm³ |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Channels | 6 | 7 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | aptX Adaptive | Bluetooth |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 6.5 kg | 9.48 kg |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm³) | 12688 cm³ | 54490 cm³ |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Panorama 2 for its audiophile-grade sound, wide imaging, and effective Atmos height effects, noting its superb build quality and dynamic performance even at high volumes. However, they point out the lack of a dedicated music surround mode, limited on-board EQ, and fewer features compared to competitors, making it a strong but feature-light all-in-one solution.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the Panorama 2 for its exceptional sound, deep integrated bass, sleek design and straightforward setup, often calling it the best sound bar they've owned. Recurring criticisms focus on the unwieldy remote, high price and the bar's large size, which can be problematic in smaller spaces.
“nice sound”
Professional reviewers commend the AVR-S970H for its robust Class AB amplification, comprehensive 8K video handling, and effective Audyssey room correction, positioning it as a refined choice for medium-sized rooms.
Everyday users generally praise the receiver's sound quality, especially the "nice sound" comment, and value the easy HEOS streaming and intuitive app setup.
