Sony HT-S400 Soundbar Review
Our verdict
The Sony HT-S400 is a capable 2.1 soundbar that packs 330 W into a bar-and-wireless-sub combo at $298, backed by a 4.3 rating from over 2,200 buyers. For the price, the power output is genuinely high and the wireless sub adds bass that most bars at this tier cannot match.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Medium to large living rooms where you want real bass, high output, and a wireless sub from a proven brand without crossing the $300 mark.
Skip if
You need surround sound beyond 2.1, or you want Dolby Atmos overhead effects. The HT-S400 is a stereo-plus-sub setup, not a multichannel system.
- Channels 2.1
- Power 330 W
- Speaker type Soundbar, Subwoofer
- Connectivity Wireless
- Mounting Wall Mount
- Color Black
- Weight of 16.1 lb - heavier than 67% of the 63 models we track
Pros
- 330 W output is high for the sub-$300 price range
- 4.3 rating across 2,200 reviews, strong confidence
- Wireless subwoofer included for bass without cable runs
- Sony brand reliability and after-purchase support
Cons
- Only 2.1 channels, no surround or Atmos capability
- No HDMI listed in connectivity specs
- Subwoofer adds floor space requirement
Our scorecard
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Owner rating4.3/5
4.3 average across 2,200 owner ratings
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Popularity4.8/5
2,200 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other AV receivers and amplifiers, soundbars, home theater speakers, subwoofers, surround sound systems and Blu-ray players we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
The Sony HT-S400 is a 2.1 channel system priced at $298, with 330 W of total output spread across the soundbar and its wireless subwoofer. That power figure stands out in the sub-$300 class and means the system can fill mid-size rooms without struggling. The bar itself measures 38 inches wide, which fits cleanly under most 55-inch to 65-inch TVs.
Connectivity is wireless for the subwoofer pairing plus wall mount support for the bar. The overall footprint of the system including the sub comes to 13.38 x 38 x 9.62 inches, so plan for subwoofer floor placement. Weight is 16.1 lb total.
The review base here is substantial: 2,200 reviews at a 4.3 rating gives this unit real credibility. Sony's name in the soundbar space adds confidence for buyers who want a known brand. The HT-S400 competes well against similarly priced Yamaha and Vizio options.
Specifications
| Channels | 2.1 |
|---|---|
| Power | 330 W |
| Speaker type | Soundbar, Subwoofer |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Mounting | Wall Mount |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 13.38 X 38 X 9.62 In |
| Weight | 16.1 lb |
Performance notes
Power output is 330 W across a 2.1 channel configuration. Connectivity is wireless (subwoofer pairing). Bar dimensions are 38 inches wide. Total system dimensions are 13.38 x 38 x 9.62 in at 16.1 lb. Wall mount is supported for the bar unit.
What buyers say
Over 2,200 reviews at a 4.3 average represents a well-tested product with broad agreement on value. Buyers consistently praise the bass output from the wireless sub and overall volume capability. Common criticisms point to the lack of HDMI ARC and limited surround staging compared to higher-channel systems.
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Frequently asked questions
Does the Sony HT-S400 support HDMI ARC?
Based on the available specs, HDMI is not listed as a connectivity option for the HT-S400. The primary connection method appears to be wireless for the sub. Check the product listing for the confirmed input options before purchasing, especially if your TV relies on HDMI ARC for audio output.
How does 330 W compare to other soundbars in this price range?
330 W is well above average for a sub-$300 soundbar. Many competitors at this price range come in at 60 to 100 W total. More wattage does not always mean better sound quality, but it does give the system more headroom for loud passages and larger rooms before distortion becomes an issue.
Can I add rear surround speakers to the HT-S400 later?
The HT-S400 is designed as a self-contained 2.1 system. Sony does offer separate wireless rear speaker kits that are compatible with select HT series soundbars, but you should verify compatibility with this specific model on Sony's site before planning an expansion. Out of the box it is strictly stereo plus sub.