Bose Smart Soundbar 900 Review
Elevate your home audio with the Bose Smart Soundbar 900. Sleek design, Dolby Atmos, and smart assistant integration make it a top choice for immersive entertainment.
check best priceSummary / TL;DR
The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is a premium soundbar that aims to enhance home entertainment with its sleek design and robust audio performance. It boasts Dolby Atmos for a three-dimensional sound experience, although some users might find the bass lacking without a separate subwoofer. The soundbar integrates well with smart home systems, supporting both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control, and offers various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. However, it requires wired connections to the TV, which might disappoint those seeking a fully wireless setup.
The setup process is user-friendly, aided by the Bose Music app, but some users might need time to familiarize themselves with its smart features. The soundbar's design is modern and durable, though its glass top may need frequent cleaning. While it includes essential accessories, wall-mounting equipment is sold separately.
In comparison to competitors like the Sonos Arc and Samsung HW-Q950A, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 holds its ground with a rich mid-range sound and straightforward connectivity. Its price reflects its premium features, making it a worthwhile investment for those prioritizing sound quality and smart capabilities. Overall, it's a compelling choice for users looking to integrate high-quality sound with modern smart home technology.
If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Denon Home Soundbar 550 or Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Plus or Bose Smart Ultra.
Introduction
Looking for a high-quality soundbar that delivers impressive sound and integrates seamlessly with your smart home? The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 might just be what you need. Known for its premium audio products, Bose steps up the game with this soundbar that promises to enhance your entertainment experience.
At first glance, it's easy to see why this soundbar catches the eye. It boasts an elegant design, but it’s not just about looks. It's packed with features that aim to provide an immersive audio experience. Whether you're watching movies, streaming music, or catching up on podcasts, this soundbar claims to elevate the sound quality significantly.
With the inclusion of Dolby Atmos, the soundbar offers a more three-dimensional soundscape. However, if you’re expecting a completely wireless setup, you might be a bit disappointed. Some connections still require cables. But the integration with smart assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant adds to its appeal, giving you voice-controlled access to your audio experience.
As we dig deeper into this review, we'll explore whether the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 lives up to its promise of delivering cinema-like sound in your living room. Stick around to see if it's a worthy addition to your home setup or just another pretty piece of tech.
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Design and Build Quality
The design of the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is sleek and modern, making it a stylish addition to any living room setup. It features a low-profile form factor that measures just under 41 inches in width, which fits comfortably beneath most TVs. The build quality is what you'd expect from Bose—solid and premium, with a top surface crafted from tempered glass that adds a touch of elegance.
The front of the soundbar is wrapped in an acoustically transparent metal grille, ensuring that the sound isn't compromised by aesthetics. The rear of the soundbar houses all the necessary connectivity options, which are neatly arranged and easy to access. One might argue that having a few more color options could enhance its appeal, but the classic black finish is versatile enough to blend into various settings.
In terms of buttons, the control panel is minimalistic. It offers essential touch-sensitive controls for quick access to functions like power and volume. This minimal approach keeps things clean but might leave some users wishing for more tactile feedback or a remote with more comprehensive control.
The soundbar's build quality is robust, and its durable materials ensure it can withstand a few accidental bumps. However, its glass top, while aesthetically pleasing, may require frequent cleaning to maintain its pristine look, as it tends to show fingerprints and dust easily.
Overall, the design and build quality of the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 strikes a good balance between form and function, with a few minor considerations for maintaining its polished appearance.

Audio Performance
Alright, let's talk about the audio performance of this piece of tech. For a soundbar, the audio quality is a big deal—it's pretty much why you'd splurge on one in the first place, right?
The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is all about delivering a top-notch surround sound experience, thanks to its support for Dolby Atmos. What does that mean? Basically, it makes sound feel like it's coming from all around you, including above. Whether you're watching the latest blockbuster or just chilling with some tunes, this soundbar wants you to feel like you're in the middle of the action.
The sound is rich and full, with a surprising amount of detail. The dialogue comes through crisply, which is awesome because no one wants to be cranking the volume up and down just to understand what's being said in a tense movie scene. The bass is powerful too, without being overwhelming.
Now, let's level here. If you're a bass-head who loves feeling the floor shake, you might find the low-end a bit lacking without a separate subwoofer. But for most folks, it’s more than enough for typical TV and movie watching.
Another thing that's worth mentioning is the PhaseGuide technology. This tech helps direct sound to different parts of the room, giving the illusion of speakers placed around you. It’s not quite a full home theater setup but does a pretty impressive job for a single piece of equipment.
All in all, the audio performance is seriously solid, especially for a soundbar. It hits that sweet spot between performance and convenience, making it a slick choice for folks who want cinema-quality sound without the fuss of setting up a bunch of speakers.

Smart Features and Connectivity
The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 doesn't just stop at delivering great sound; it’s also packed with smart features and connectivity options that make it a modern audio powerhouse. First off, it supports both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, so you can control your music, check the weather, or manage smart home devices using just your voice.
One of the biggest perks is its Wi-Fi connectivity. You can stream directly from services like Spotify or Apple Music without needing your phone. Plus, with Bluetooth support, connecting other devices is a breeze. Want to watch a movie on your laptop with top-tier sound? No problem.
Streaming and More
This soundbar is equipped with Apple AirPlay 2, which makes streaming from your Apple devices seamless. If you're big on multi-room audio setups, you'll love the Bose Music app. It lets you sync the soundbar with other Bose speakers to play music throughout your home. The app is user-friendly, but some users find initial navigation a bit tricky.
Connectivity Ports
On the hardware side, the soundbar includes an HDMI eARC port, which is great for getting high-quality audio from your TV. There’s also an optical audio input and a 3.5mm aux jack, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. However, it lacks some additional HDMI ports, which might be a downside if you have multiple devices to connect directly.
Overall, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 offers a robust suite of smart features and connectivity options that cater to most modern audio needs. However, keep in mind that its setup can be a bit more involved due to the variety of features packed in.
Ease of Setup and Use
Setting up a new soundbar can sometimes feel like a chore, but thankfully, the ease of setup with this soundbar is pretty straightforward. The package includes a quick-start guide, which is genuinely helpful for getting things rolling without a hitch. You won't need an engineering degree to figure it out!
The soundbar connects to your TV via HDMI eARC, which is the preferred method for the best audio quality. If you don’t have an eARC port, don't worry—there's an optical audio port as a backup. Connecting either of these is just a matter of plugging in the cables, so no rocket science involved. However, it's worth mentioning that the HDMI cable isn't included in the box, so you might need to grab one if you don't already have it.
One of the best parts is the Bose Music app. It guides you through the entire setup process, from connecting to Wi-Fi to configuring the sound settings. The app also makes it super easy to link your music streaming services, so you can start playing your favorite tunes in no time.
Controlling the soundbar is a breeze. It comes with a simple remote, but you can also use voice control with Alexa or Google Assistant. The voice assistant setup is intuitive, though, you might need to spend a few minutes making sure your network settings are all good to go for smooth operation.
Overall, the setup is user-friendly, but there might be a slight learning curve for those not too familiar with smart home gadgets. But once you get past the initial setup, using the soundbar every day is quite easy. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you'll have it up and running in no time.

What's in the Box
When you crack open the box of the Bose Smart Soundbar 900, you're greeted with a neat and tidy package. Let's dive into what you actually get inside.
- Soundbar Unit: The star of the show, sleek and ready to deliver those crisp sounds.
- Remote Control: A handy remote so you're not always getting up to adjust the settings. It's simple and effective, though it might not have as many buttons as some might like.
- Power Cord: Pretty standard, but essential. It does the job in powering up this beast.
- HDMI Cable: You'll find a premium HDMI cable to connect to your TV, ensuring no compromise on audio quality.
- Optical Cable: If HDMI isn't your thing, they’ve included an optical cable too. Just another option to make your connections as smooth as possible.
- Quick Start Guide: A straightforward guide that helps you get set up in no time. Though, some might wish it went a little more in-depth.
So, that’s pretty much it. The essentials are all here, and while it might seem like a minimalist offering, it's got everything you need to get started. However, if you’re into wall-mounting your soundbar, note that you’ll need to purchase the mounting equipment separately. It’s a bit of a bummer for those who like to keep things neat and off the table.
Competitor Comparison
When considering the competitors, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 faces stiff competition from other top-notch brands in the soundbar industry. Let's break down how it stacks up against a few popular alternatives.
Sonos Arc
The Sonos Arc is a formidable rival, renowned for its immersive Dolby Atmos experience. Both soundbars offer premium sound, but the Arc might have a slight edge in the 3D audio department. However, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 tends to deliver a richer mid-range which some might prefer for vocals and dialogue-intensive content. On the connectivity front, Sonos Arc is limited by its reliance on the Sonos app for setup and control, whereas Bose offers a more straightforward Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connection.
Samsung HW-Q950A
The Samsung HW-Q950A is another strong competitor, particularly for those who want a complete surround setup. It's packed with more channels and includes rear speakers, providing a true surround sound experience. But while it’s impressive, the setup can be cumbersome compared to the sleeker, more minimalist approach of the Bose. In terms of smart features, Bose holds its ground with excellent voice assistant integration and easy setup.
Sony HT-A7000
Sony's HT-A7000 soundbar is also in the race, featuring solid sound quality and support for many audio formats. The Bose Smart Soundbar 900, however, offers a more refined design which might appeal more to those looking for a stylish addition to their living space. Sony's offering is known for its versatility with optional subwoofers and rear speakers, but it comes at a higher cost when fully equipped.
Price Consideration
In terms of price, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is positioned in the premium range, similar to its competitors. While it's not the cheapest option, the blend of sound quality, smart features, and design justifies the cost for many. If you're looking purely for sound quality and don't mind skipping some smart features, other brands might offer more value for your buck. However, for a well-rounded smart sound experience, Bose remains a compelling choice. Overall, each of these competitors brings something unique to the table. Your choice ultimately depends on what features matter most to you, whether it's the ultimate audio quality, ease of integration, or smart capabilities.

Price and Value
Considering how much tech you're getting, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is on the higher end of the price spectrum. It’s priced in a range that’s typical for premium soundbars, especially those loaded with smart features and high-quality sound performance. This might make some potential buyers hesitate, but let's break down if it’s worth your bucks.
The soundbar aims to deliver a cinematic audio experience at home with advanced audio technologies, like Dolby Atmos, which often comes with a heftier price tag. These features justify the cost if you're an audiophile or someone keen on an immersive sound experience. However, if your needs are more basic, like simply enhancing the TV's audio, there are less expensive alternatives that might serve you just fine.
In terms of smart features, you’re also getting a lot of bang for your buck. The built-in Alexa and Google Assistant, along with various connectivity options, add significant value. It's great for tech-savvy users who love integrating their sound system with smart home appliances.
On the downside, if you're on a tight budget, the price might feel a bit steep, and you might find other soundbars with fewer smart features but similar audio quality for less. The investment might not seem as justified for users who don't require all the bells and whistles.
In summary, if you’re after top-notch sound and smart capabilities, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 holds its ground in terms of value for money. But for those who prioritize budget over features, you might want to weigh the importance of these extras before splurging.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is a top-tier choice for anyone seeking an immersive sound experience. With its sleek design and solid build quality, it not only looks stylish but also feels durable. The audio performance is a standout feature, providing rich and dynamic sound that can truly fill a room, thanks to its use of advanced technologies and drivers. On the smart features front, this soundbar packs quite the punch.
It offers seamless connectivity with various platforms, making it a versatile addition to your home entertainment system. The ease of setup is also commendable, allowing users to get things up and running without any headaches. However, it might take a bit of a learning curve to fully utilize all its smart capabilities if you're not familiar with tech. The package is comprehensive, providing everything you need to get started, but it's always worth checking out the competition to see how it stacks up. While the price may seem a bit steep for some, the value it offers in sound quality and features could justify the investment for many users.
Overall, if you're looking for a soundbar that combines excellent audio quality with modern smart features, this one is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to invest some time in exploring all its capabilities to maximize its potential.
FAQ
Does the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 support Dolby Atmos?
Yes, it does! This soundbar supports Dolby Atmos, which provides an immersive audio experience by adding height to the soundstage. You'll feel like the sound is coming from all around, even above you.
Can I connect the soundbar to my TV wirelessly?
Unfortunately, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 does not support wireless connections to TVs. You'll need to use the provided HDMI cable or an optical audio cable. However, it can connect wirelessly to other devices like smartphones via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
Is the soundbar compatible with voice assistants?
Absolutely! This soundbar works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can control it hands-free. Just make sure you have it connected to Wi-Fi for the best experience.
What if I want to expand my home theater setup?
You can totally do that. The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 can be paired with other Bose speakers for a complete surround sound setup. Consider adding the Bose Bass Module 500 or 700 and Bose Surround Speakers to enhance your audio experience.
How do I update the soundbar's firmware?
Firmware updates are crucial for getting the best performance and newest features. These updates happen automatically when the soundbar is connected to Wi-Fi. Just ensure it's connected and powered on, and updates should be a breeze.
Are there any connectivity issues I should be aware of?
Generally, the soundbar offers solid connectivity, but some users have reported occasional Bluetooth drops. If you face connectivity problems, check that your devices are within range and running the latest software updates.
What's the warranty on this soundbar?
Bose offers a standard one-year warranty for the Smart Soundbar 900. This covers defects in materials and workmanship but not accidental damage or misuse. For more peace of mind, you might want to consider purchasing an extended warranty.
Can I mount the soundbar on the wall?
Yes, you can. The Bose Soundbar Wall Bracket, which is sold separately, allows you to mount the soundbar on your wall, helping to save space and achieve a clean look in your living room.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Elegant and sleek design
- Supports Dolby Atmos for 3D sound
- Rich and detailed audio performance
- Voice assistant integration
- Easy setup with Bose Music app
Cons
- Glass top shows fingerprints easily
- Requires cables for TV connection
- Lacks additional HDMI ports
- Price may be steep for some
Technical specifications
Product Name | Bose Smart Soundbar 900 |
---|---|
Dimensions | 41.14" W x 2.29" H x 4.21" D (104.5 cm x 5.8 cm x 10.7 cm) |
Weight | 12.68 lbs (5.75 kg) |
Color Options | Black, Arctic White |
Audio Technology | Dolby Atmos, Bose TrueSpace spatial processing |
Speaker Configuration | 9 transducers, including two up-firing dipole speakers |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect |
Voice Assistants | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant |
Microphone System | Custom-designed eight-microphone array for voice pickup |
Inputs | HDMI eARC, Optical audio input, Power input |
Outputs | HDMI output, IR repeater |
Control | Bose Music app, Remote control, Voice control |
Compatibility | Compatible with Bose Bass Module 700, Bose Bass Module 500, Bose Surround Speakers |
Power Supply | 100-240V AC, 50/60 Hz |
Additional Features | ADAPTiQ audio room calibration, SimpleSync technology |
Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |