Philips also collaborated with Gibson Innovation in releasing several of the company’s surround-sound audio systems here in Malaysia, promising users a richer and more authentic cinematic experience right at home. These audio systems include audiophile-grade soundbars, surround-sound speakers, satellite speakers, and even wireless subwoofers.
The Philips Fidelio B5 Soundbar, when used in the standard form, is great for daily multimedia consumption. However, when users want a more immersive audio experience, the soundbar can be detached into several components to be placed behind the user for a surround-sound experience. The speakers connect via Bluetooth with an embedded calibration algorithm that can be run to adjust the speakers, regardless where the user place the speaker. It also utilises Dolby Digital and Dolby Pro Logic II technology for a richer surround playback. The main bar has Bluetooth aptX and AAC for high-fidelity streaming, with NFC for easy pairing between devices. That’s not all, the Fidelio B5 Soundbar promises five hours of playback in music mode and up to 10 hours in movie mode with just one full charge.
Philips Zenit, on the other hand, are cinema speaker systems which also utilise Bluetooth and HDMI 4K as well as 2K pass through, allowing for wireless ultra HD content streaming from the user’s devices. It comes in two variants – the CSS5330 model includes a center speaker, with two additional satellite speakers and a wireless subwoofer; whereas the CSS5530 model is a 5.1 system that has the same configuration with the CS5330 model but includes two additional wireless rear speakers. Both models come in stone grey with wood finish or black with aluminium finish.
There are also the Philips HTL7140B and HTL6145C 5.1 multi-channel immersive sound speakers. The HTL7140B is a 5.1 sound system that comes with a wireless subwoofer, and paired with Philips’ proprietary Ambisound technology. The Philips HTL6145C, on the other hand, is an audio system that consists of two 6.5-inch drivers and two bass ports that create a dual bass reflex system. It measures in at 2.98cm, giving the speaker a minimalistic design while saving space at home. This audio system uses Philips’ Virtual Surround Sound to provide the ideal 5.1-channel sound environment.
The Philips Fidelio B5 Soundbar is now available at retailers nationwide with a RM3,199 price tag. Pricing and availability of the Philips Zenit CS5330, CS5530, Philips HTL7140B and HTL6145C have yet to be announced.
