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Theory Audio Design sb65 SOUNDBAR
Theory soundbars are unlike any others and are capable of surprising output, clarity and dynamics. Unlike most so-called “soundbars” available today, the sound emanating from a Theory soundbar is big and open, and detached from the soundbar itself. You simply experience big theatrical sound that envelopes you with astonishingly clear and dynamic sound.
Since their introduction in late 2019, reviewers around the world are unanimous: the Theory soundbars are the very best money can buy.
The sb65 is designed to match the width of your 65” TV for an integrated look.
STAND UP AND BE NOTICED.
The sb-STAND stand accessory for Theory sb model soundbars and surface mount speakers allows the speakers to stand up on flat surfaces such as TV consoles, tabletops and bookshelves
Dealers selling Theory Audio Design near you
Sound Quality
90/100
Bass
86/100
Three sealed enclosures with six 5" LF drivers deliver punch and control for the form factor; spec shows -6dB at 75Hz (−10dB at 65Hz) so very good mid-bass but limited deep extension. Review demo used system-level subs in the 9CH demo, so bass is excellent for the bar's driver size and sealed design but not a standalone subwoofer replacement.
Mid
90/100
Reviewers praised the clean, cinematic vocal and LCR performance (noting two SB units sounded impressive on 2CH music). Timbre and presence appear accurate and engaging—strong midrange clarity and body for a large-format soundbar.
Treble
89/100
Three 1.4" compression HF drivers and 108dB HF sensitivity give detailed, articulate treble with wide coverage; review comments describe an expansive, enveloping sound without reported brightness or sibilance, indicating refined top-end delivery.
Soundstage Imaging
92/100
Audioholics noted an expansive envelope that exceeded the bar's physical width and excellent LCR separation and enveloping surrounds in the demo. Imaging and front-stage width are a clear strength, producing very convincing localization and separation for on-screen content.
Dynamics
94/100
The 9CH system demo delivered 'gut-wrenching dynamics' and lifelike gunshot transients; the soundbar's sensitivity (94dB LF / 108dB HF) and high power handling underpin exceptional dynamic capability for its class when driven by the required Theory amplifier/DSP.
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Build Quality
90/100
Robust construction—extruded/machined aluminum, powder coat/anodize, fabric grille—and substantial 62.5 lb mass imply solid cabinetry. Review and spec suggest high-end driver materials (carbon fiber LFs) and precision engineering consistent with premium build.
Features Connectivity
81/100
Passive design baseline applied (single-post style passive bar requiring 3 Theory amp channels) plus OEM VersaSlot mounting hardware (+1). Includes twin spring-loaded push terminals; requires model-specific DSP processing and a Theory controller (no penalty for being passive).
Value for Money
86/100
At MSRP ~$3,365 for the sb65 (vs the $10k 9CH system noted in the review), reviewers felt the system-level performance pushes soundbar expectations; pricing positions this as a premium, high-performance option that represents strong value versus much costlier discrete systems.
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