Yamaha YHT-5960U
Score: 83/100
Bose Smart Ultra
Score: 84/100Rankings
The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar offers a premium 5.0.2 Dolby Atmos solution with AI Dialogue Mode, ADAPTiQ calibration, and broad wireless streaming options. Its lack of an integrated subwoofer and large footprint make it less suitable for compact rooms. Designed for audiophiles in larger spaces who value smart-home integration and top-tier sound quality.
The Yamaha YHT-5960U is a 5.1-channel home theater bundle offering 725 W of power, HDMI 2.1 with 8K/4K120 video, and comprehensive smart features. It lacks Dolby Atmos height speakers and some users encounter HDR handshake problems, which may affect high-end home-theater setups. Ideal for renters or beginners seeking a plug-and-play system with future-proof video and multi-room streaming.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
5.1 | 7best | |
725 Wbest | — | |
8 inbest | — | |
8 inbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 54 lbbest | 59.38 lb |
2 yearsbest | 1 years | |
9best | 5 |
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| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Audio Channels | 5.1 | 7 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | Supported | 5.0 |
General(2) | ||
Warranty (years) | 2 years | 1 years |
Included Accessories | 9 | 5 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 54 lb | 59.38 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 17.15 x 43.49 x 37.80 cm cm | H×W×D: 40.0×44.5×49.5 cm cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the YHT-5960U for its future-proof HDMI 2.1 video capabilities, clean high-slew-rate amplification, and comprehensive smart features such as MusicCast and voice control. They highlight the CINEMA DSP 3D processing and gaming-focused enhancements (VRR, ALLM, 4K @ 120 Hz) as strong points, while noting the absence of height-channel support for Atmos as the primary drawback.
Everyday users praise the system's easy YPAO setup, solid bass from the 8-inch subwoofer, and reliable Bluetooth/Wi-Fi streaming, especially for movies and gaming. Recurring complaints focus on occasional HDMI HDR handshake issues with newer consoles and the subwoofer's limited low-frequency depth in larger spaces, with many preferring a wired network for stable streaming.
Professional reviewers consider the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar a top-tier Atmos solution, praising its nine-speaker architecture, ADAPTiQ room calibration, and the clarity of dialogue thanks to AI Dialogue Mode. They note its sleek, low-profile design and single-cable setup as strong convenience factors, positioning it as a premium upgrade over the lower-end Smart Soundbar 600.
Everyday users overwhelmingly appreciate the powerful, well‑balanced sound and the ease of installation, often describing the audio as superb and a clear step up from older systems. Common criticisms focus on the lack of a built‑in subwoofer, which adds cost for true bass, and the tendency for the unit to be overly loud in smaller rooms.
“HDR not supported”
“Easy setup with app and wires; strong bass from 8-inch subwoofer; reliable Bluetooth/Wi-Fi streaming; good for movies/gaming”
