Can four speakers really turn your living room into a cinema? Sony's BRAVIA Theatre Quad makes a convincing case

Sony's BRAVIA Theatre Quad challenges the notion that a high-quality home cinema experience requires a large soundbar. Instead, it offers four wireless speakers paired with 16 drivers and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping to create an immersive surround sound experience. For UAE households looking to invest in a premium entertainment setup and film enthusiasts who value spacious, three-dimensional sound, the Theatre Quad presents a compelling case.

The system's four speakers, each containing four drivers, deliver a total of 504 watts of power. They communicate with a compact control box connected to the television via HDMI. Despite each speaker requiring a separate power outlet, the system's automatic calibration can accommodate various room layouts. However, the absence of a dedicated centre speaker and subwoofer may not appeal to everyone's listening preferences.

Key features include Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Sony's 360 Reality Audio support. The BRAVIA Theatre Connect app handles setup and sound adjustments, while additional controls such as Voice Mode, Night Mode, Bluetooth, AirPlay, and Spotify Connect expand music playback options. A compatible subwoofer can be added separately, such as the SA-SW3 or SA-SW5 models.

In terms of performance, the Theatre Quad excels in creating a convincing sense of space and distributing sound around the listening area. Its four physical speaker units establish distinct positions around the room, with upward-firing drivers reproducing overhead audio. 360 Spatial Sound Mapping fills perceived gaps between speakers, making sound effects feel connected across the room. This setup is particularly beneficial for films with overhead action, environmental ambience, and directional sound effects.

However, the Theatre Quad may not be the best choice for all UAE households. Installation requires measuring the room and ensuring power outlets are available for each speaker. Additionally, users with compatible Sony BRAVIA televisions may gain additional integration options, such as Acoustic Center Sync. Buyers using Samsung, LG, or other television brands can still connect the system, but may not receive those Sony-specific features.