Sony HT-Z9F vs KEF HTF7003 review
I had a chance to test and compare two models: Sony HT-Z9F vs KEF HTF7003 and this review should help people who are looking for a good soundbar. The Sony HT-Z9F was rated 7.2, while the KEF HTF7003 has a rating 5.
Audio features
Soundbars have different amplification type - active versus passive respectively to devices. A noticeable difference is the number of channels that HT-Z9F has 3.1 and HTF7003 has 3.0. These rivals can be compared in terms of power, 400 (overall) versus 100 according to devices. The built-in subwoofer is not implemented in any of these models. Rate 7 out of 10 received the Sony HT-Z9F for audio features and specs, but the KEF HTF7003 received 6 out of 10.
Streaming services
Soundbars do not have AirPlay support. The HT-Z9F can play audio from Spotify.
Connectivity
Wireless Internet connection is realized only in the HT-Z9F. Bluetooth support integrated in the HT-Z9F. The HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) is implemented only in the HT-Z9F. We rated the connectivity of the HT-Z9F at 8 out of 10, while the HTF7003 was rated 4/10. None of these soundbars can be controlled using the app. Soundbars in this review are not equipped with a microphone. The Sony HT-Z9F may become part of a multiroom system.
Multichannel surround
Dolby Atmos audio decoder is onboard the HT-Z9F. The HT-Z9F can work with surround sound due to DTS:X support.
Advantages Sony HT-Z9F over KEF HTF7003
- Separate subwoofer in package
- Spotify support
- WI-FI enabled
- Bluetooth enabled
- Audio return channel (HDMI ARC) support
- Multi-room support
- Compatible with Dolby Atmos
- Compatible with DTS:X
Common
Product
Model
Brand
Reviews
General
Placement type
Connection to source
Soundbar buttons
Audio features
Built-in channels
Amplification type
Output power, W
Separate speaker (in package)
Separate speaker connections
Subwoofer
Built-in subwoofer
Separate subwoofer (in package)
Separate subwoofer connections
Streaming services
Apple Music (AirPlay)
Amazon Music
Spotify
Other streaming services
Connectivity
WI-FI
Bluetooth
Ethernet (RJ45)
NFC
HDMI input/output
HDMI ARC
HDMI eARC
HDMI CEC
Optical digital input/output
USB
Coaxial digital input/output
Analog audio input/output (RCA)
Headphone output
Subwoofer output
Features
Voice control
App control
Microphone
Remote control
Multi-room
Multichannel surround
Dolby Atmos
Dolby (other)
DTS:X
DTS (other)
Dimensions
Size (Wx H x D), cm/in
Weight, kg/pounds
Other
Release year
Soundbars SoundStrokes Art comparison rating
- 7.2Sony HT-Z9F
- 5KEF HTF7003
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