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Razer Announces Leviathan 5.1 Surround Soundbar With Independent Subwoofer
Razer is expanding its audio line today, with the announcement of its first soundbar. Razer's Leviathan features two 2.5-inch drivers, two .74-inch tweeters and a separate subwoofer.
The Leviathan takes input from analog and digital optical sources (consoles, Blu-ray players, and set-top boxes), but also features a bluetooth wireless mode (for streaming from an iPod touch, phone, or bluetooth-enabled PC). With an onboard Dolby decoder, the soundbar creates a virtual surround sound environment using Dolby Pro Logic II.
Razer’s soundbar also comes preconfigured with presets for games, movies, and music. It will be available in November for a retail price of $199.
Our Take
Soundbars have become popular solutions for those that don’t have the room (or desire to wire) for a true surround sound system. For those that are comfortable with a virtual surround sound environment (which is what is present in most high-end console headsets, too), soundbars are more affordable, lower hassle solutions.
Polk has a similar option available designed for the Xbox One (though it does not feature an independent subwoofer), and other companies have products that work in a living room setup, too. If possible, find a way to test the sound from any product and make sure whatever you purchase has the features you’re looking for.