The Majority Bowfell Halo Atmos 5.1-channel soundbar system aims to deliver cinematic sound at a rock-bottom price of £169 (about $230 / AU$320). According to TechRadar's review by Harry Padoan, the system includes a dedicated subwoofer and rear speakers, promising an immersive surround experience with Dolby Atmos support. But does it deliver? The answer is a mixed bag.
Overview and Design
At first glance, the Bowfell Halo Atmos seems like an incredible value proposition. It is ultra-compact, making it ideal for smaller living spaces. Setup is straightforward, which is a plus for non-technical users. However, the build quality is not the best, reflecting the low price point.
Bass Performance
The standout feature is the subwoofer. TechRadar reports that the sub supplies genuinely hard-hitting, impactful bass. During a test with Top Gun: Maverick, the roar of the jet engine was full-sounding, clean, and not 'boomy' or muddy. This allows the Halo Atmos to compete with some of the best cheap soundbars. The bass depth enhances movie scores and action sequences, making them more involving.
Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio
This is where the system falls short. The main soundbar lacks upfiring drivers, relying on virtualized height elements. With its narrow form and limited power, the width and expansiveness are minimal. In the same Top Gun: Maverick scene featuring upward movement, the system struggled to convey a sense of verticality. Similarly, in The Mask, Jim Carrey's character's movement across the screen was not tracked with pinpoint precision. TechRadar notes that the Halo Atmos' physical and technical limitations prevent an immersive Dolby Atmos experience.
Dialogue and Music Playback
Dialogue clarity is a strong point. During conversations in The Mask, speech was clear and concise, with no need for subtitles or increased volume. However, in larger echoey spaces, dialogue can sound artificial, and at high volumes, it may become harsh. For music playback, the system has its own EQ mode, but music often sounds thin and lacks detail compared to other cheap soundbars. Some stereo mixes with bass can sound punchy, but the overall soundstage is not expansive, and frequency balance is imperfect.
Value and Verdict
Despite its flaws, the Bowfell Halo Atmos offers fairly cinematic sound for its size and price. The table below summarizes its pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultra-compact build ideal for small spaces | Lackluster Dolby Atmos effects |
| Powerful bass for its size | Music playback isn't amazing |
| Easy setup | Build quality isn't the best |
Overall, TechRadar concludes that the system is ideal for those seeking bass and dialogue clarity in a small space at low cost. However, for buyers prioritizing spatial audio, it will not satisfy.
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