Yamaha True X Surround 90A Review: Classic Soundbar with Fresh Innovations

Explore how Yamaha's True X Surround 90A blends tradition and cutting-edge tech for immersive Dolby Atmos sound.

Yamaha’s Bold Return to Dolby Atmos Soundbars

Yamaha is back in the Dolby Atmos soundbar game, but this time, they’re aiming squarely at the premium end of the market. The True X Surround 90A is shaping up to be a tempting contender, ready to challenge the likes of Samsung’s five-star HW-Q990F and the impressive Sonos Arc Ultra.

But can it carve out its own space in this crowded arena? After a hands-on listening session at Yamaha’s Hamamatsu headquarters in Japan, I can say it left a notably good impression. I’m itching to get one into our test rooms for a full deep dive.

Yamaha True X Surround 90A Pricing: A Premium Statement

Yamaha is still finalizing the price tag for the True X Surround 90A, but whispers suggest it will hover around $3,600, placing it firmly in the luxury category.

For Dolby Atmos soundbar aficionados, that’s a steep ask. Yet, if the sound quality delivers on Yamaha’s promise, enthusiasts like me are more than willing to invest. At this price, it competes not only with the Samsung HW-Q990F but also with highly rated setups like the KEF XIO and the Sonos Arc Ultra Immersive bundle, which includes Era 300 speakers and a Sub 4 subwoofer.

The launch is slated for September, although the exact release date is still under wraps.

Design That Marries Strength and Sophistication

Gone is the softer, fabric-covered look of Yamaha’s 2023 True X panel. The 90A takes a bolder stance with a robust metal chassis, hefty legs, and acoustically optimized speaker grilles designed both to minimize distortion and boost durability.

This soundbar doesn’t just look tough; the smooth corners and premium materials give it an elegance that fits right into a modern living space. A handy functional display on the front panel promises easier system control.

The subwoofer has also received a makeover. It incorporates a base with an internal plate that regulates airflow through a unique symmetric port, reducing noise and improving bass precision. More on that soon.

The wireless surround speakers resemble those of previous Yamaha True X systems but are noticeably taller, which could hint at enhanced sound projection.

Inside the True X Surround 90A: Tech That Listens to the Past and Future

Yamaha’s soundbar houses new oval-shaped midrange drivers, optimized to reduce component count and improve diaphragm stiffness, tackling issues with frequency response and clarity head-on. The result? Wide-range drivers that Yamaha claims deliver rich mids and balanced, powerful sound.

The soundbar contains four midrange and three tweeters, but the real star is the pair of upward-firing arrays inspired by Yamaha’s first-ever YSP-1 speaker from 2005. Each end of the bar features six upgraded beam drivers, cleverly designed to bounce sound off the ceiling, creating immersive height effects essential for Dolby Atmos.

This nod to Yamaha’s roots is smart — blending tried-and-true audio techniques with modern surround sound demands. Instead of relying solely on digital trickery, the sound physically interacts with your room, deepening immersion.

Interestingly, the wireless surround speakers lack upward-firing drivers, a surprising omission given the system’s premium status. Yet, they double as standalone Bluetooth speakers, offering flexibility that Samsung’s network-bound HW-Q990F can’t match.

The subwoofer deserves special mention. Its symmetric phase-inverter design reportedly slashes air turbulence and unwanted vibrations, promising cleaner, punchier bass.

Connectivity options are comprehensive: HDMI eARC, optical output, passthrough HDMI, plus wireless support with Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay, and Yamaha MusicCast streaming.

Audio format support is equally impressive — Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and notably Auro-3D, which Yamaha claims as a world first for soundbars.

Last but not least, the package includes Surround:AI technology — an AI-powered system that analyzes content in real-time to optimize sound placement and focus, delivering a tailored audio experience.

First Impressions on Sound Quality

Before we get too carried away, keep in mind my impressions come from a demo session, without a full suite of familiar reference tracks or ideal room conditions. Still, the True X Surround 90A promised and delivered some serious audio fireworks.

Yamaha’s claims about its Dolby Atmos height channels rang true. During a clip from Top Gun: Maverick, sound effects soared all the way to the ceiling of the demo room, creating a genuinely enveloping soundstage. Unlike some systems that sacrifice accuracy for scale, the height effects here felt sharp and well-controlled.

The overall sound was clear, robust, and cinematic — the kind of immersive effect that grabs your attention at first listen.

Switching gears to music, Hans Zimmer Live in Prague revealed the system’s musical chops. The sound was energetic, with a gripping rhythm and bass that was tight rather than muddy or distorted. The components blended beautifully, producing a natural 360-degree surround experience that flowed seamlessly between the soundbar and the surrounds.

The Verdict So Far: Old Meets New in Yamaha’s Flagship

The True X Surround 90A may well be Yamaha’s most ambitious soundbar yet — a daring, high-end machine that builds on its predecessor while embracing features that made Yamaha’s first soundbar such a trailblazer.

Melding heritage and innovation is no small feat, but Yamaha has tackled the challenge head-on. I’m eager to see how this gamble pays off once we complete our full review.

Keep an eye out for our in-depth analysis soon!

“The True X Surround 90A leaves a strong impression with its scale and precision, proving Yamaha’s legacy still resonates in a crowded market.”

FAQ

• What sets Yamaha True X Surround 90A apart from other Dolby Atmos soundbars?
  Its unique upward-firing driver arrays inspired by the original YSP-1 and a redesigned subwoofer with a symmetric phase-inverter provide a rich, immersive sound experience.
• Does the system support wireless surround speakers?
  Yes, the surround speakers connect wirelessly and can even function independently as Bluetooth speakers for added versatility.
• What audio formats does the True X Surround 90A support?
  It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and surprisingly, Auro-3D, a first in the soundbar category.
• How does Surround:AI technology enhance sound?
  It uses real-time AI analysis to adapt the audio output based on the content, optimizing immersion and clarity dynamically.
• When will the Yamaha True X Surround 90A be available?
  The system is expected to launch around September, with the exact date and pricing details to be confirmed.

For those who, like me, appreciate iconic music and cinematic moments, why not bring that passion home? Shop your favorite album cover poster at our store for a touch of sonic nostalgia and visual style: Architeg Prints.