Yamaha has made a remarkable return to the world of sound projection with the new True X Surround 90A. The flagship of the current range, it follows in the footsteps of the legendary YSP-1 from 2004, a true pioneer of the genre, while incorporating the latest technological advances to deliver three-dimensional audio immersion of unprecedented intensity.
Completely reinvented technology
In 2004, Yamaha revolutionized the world of soundbars, offering the first credible alternative to traditional home theater systems with the Yamaha YSP-1. The YSP used over 40 drivers and a unique sound projection process (projection of YSP-directed sound beams) to create a true reflective surround sound effect. A concept that the brand refined until 2015 with the 5.1.2-channel compatible Yamaha YSP-5600. We’ve had to wait over 10 years for the manufacturer to revive this technology with the new Yamaha True X Surround 90A soundbar.
To perfect this technology, the Yamaha True X Surround 90A soundbar incorporates multiple beam control drivers, 12 of which are 1.1″ drivers mounted on the top (six on each side) and combined with ultra-precise DSPs to effectively project sound towards the ceiling and create a vertical sound field superior to conventional soundbars. The front panel is also clad with multiple drivers, including new full-range models that now feature an oval shape to maximize acoustic pressure while reducing the number of units. These also enable the soundbar to play at higher volumes, while reducing distortion.
At the heart of the processing is a Qualcomm QCS407 chip, also used in high-end AVENTAGE series AV receivers. It powers Surround:AI technology, which scans sound content (dialogue, music, ambience, effects) five times per second and instantly adapts spatialization to create a consistently immersive sound field. The audio processor supports the majority of formats, including multichannel tracks in Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and AURO-3D.
An innovative subwoofer
To add a physical dimension to action scenes, the Yamaha True X Surround 90A soundbar comes with an equally ambitious wireless subwoofer. It introduces the exclusive Symmetrical Flare Port technology, developed from analyses of the airflow circulating through the port. This approach has optimized the shape and symmetry of the port structure to drastically reduce turbulence, responsible for unwanted noise and distortion in the low frequencies. The result: up to 20 dB less port noise than with a traditional design, resulting in a deeper, more articulate, lag-free bass. Combined with internal amplification specifically calibrated to work in perfect synergy with the main soundbar, this subwoofer promises spectacular presence in action scenes, while retaining the subtlety needed to enhance film soundtracks.
Battery-powered wireless surround
Two surround speakers complete the system. Equipped with a rechargeable battery (USB-C) and a “Solo” mode, they transform into portable Bluetooth speakers whenever you feel like it. The concept is based on that of the Yamaha True X WS-X1A speakers and the Yamaha True X SR-X40A soundbar. This new model, however, goes one step further, with larger drivers coupled with passive radiators for a more powerful, high-impact reproduction.
Multi-room connectivity and modern ergonomics
The Yamaha True X Surround 90A soundbar integrates effortlessly into the Yamaha ecosystem thanks to MusicCast, which not only enables intuitive control via the mobile app (iOS/Android), but also perfectly synchronized multi-room broadcasting with other compatible devices. Users can enjoy their content in different rooms, with no loss of quality or time lag. Streaming covers a wide range of popular services, from Spotify Connect, Deezer and Amazon Music HD to Qobuz, while integrating AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth for universal compatibility with smartphones, tablets and computers.
Yamaha has also thought of everyday ergonomics with practical functions such as Clear Voice, which improves dialogue clarity, or Bass Extension, which boosts bass impact when needed. The modern connectivity includes HDMI eARC and optical inputs for easy integration with any TV.
A premium soundbar
Priced at around €2,500, the Yamaha True X Surround 90A soundbar is clearly positioned in the premium segment, competing with the likes of the Sonos Arc Ultra, Samsung HW-Q990F and Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Max. But where most are content with four or five vertical drivers, Yamaha lines up twelve. While some simply add a surround kit, the brand offers portable models and a redesigned subwoofer for powerful sound without compromise. Surround:AI processing borrowed from the brand’s prestigious AV receivers, AURO-3D support, and revisited YSP-1 heritage make this soundbar more than a rival: it’s a new benchmark.
