During the festive period there is nothing quite like gathering the family around to enjoy a film together. However, its moments like this in our family that normal trigger an argument over why modern films are so loud these days. Without getting into the nitty gritty this is because most modern films audio is set up for more complex sound systems than what we have at home which can make dialogue quieter.
The Zvox soundbar is designed for people who want clearer dialogue without needing a complicated audio setup. It focuses on making speech easier to understand, which can be a huge help if you often find that voices get lost under background music or sound effects.
The AccuVoice system boosts dialogue so voices stand out more clearly, even at low volume. You can select different levels of voice enhancement, which makes it easy to find a setting that suits how you like to listen. There is also a mode called SuperVoice that goes further by reducing background noise even more. Together, these settings make conversations on screen noticeably sharper and easier to follow.
The soundbar also includes an Output Leveling function. This smooths out sudden jumps in volume, so loud adverts or dramatic spikes do not blast out unexpectedly. It is a small detail, but it makes watching television a lot more comfortable.
Another feature is PhaseCue virtual surround sound, which aims to create a wider sense of space without needing multiple speakers. While it does not replace a full home cinema system, it does help the sound feel less flat and more open.
In terms of design, the Zvox soundbar is compact and tidy, making it ideal for smaller rooms or simple setups. It connects through optical or analogue inputs, and the remote control is straightforward with clear buttons that are easy to use.
The main limitation is that bass performance is modest. The focus is on speech, and when the dialogue modes are set high the overall sound can feel a little narrow. There is also no HDMI input, which some users may miss.
Overall, the Zvox soundbar is an excellent choice for anyone who values clear dialogue above all else and wants a simple, effective upgrade to everyday television sound. RRP £157.68
- Excellent dialogue clarity with strong voice enhancement
- Output Leveling reduces sudden volume jumps
- Compact and easy to set up
- Simple remote with clear buttons
- Good virtual surround effect for everyday viewing
- Limited bass and not suited to cinematic sound
- Voice boost can make audio sound a little unnatural
- No HDMI connection
- No wireless features such as Bluetooth
