Nakamichi unveils new Dolby Atmos soundbars with aptX HD support

Japanese audio specialist Nakamichi has expanded its 2022 Dolby Atmos soundbar line-up with two new models, both of which support Qualcomm aptX HD, enabling users to stream music via Bluetooth 5.0 at up to 24-bit quality. 

Superseding models initially launched in 2019, the Shockwafe Pro 7.1 eARC and Shockwafe Elite 7.2 eARC introduce a host of new upgrades and technology first developed for the brand's flagship Shockwafe Ultra 9.2 eARC soundbar at a lower price.

Both soundbars come with Nakamichi's Spatial Surround Elevation (SSE) MAX technology, upgraded speaker drivers and amplifier hardware. Adding HDMI eARC connectivity instead of ARC means that both bars can handle lossless Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. There's also support for Dolby Vision passthrough. 

The Shockwafe Pro 7.1 eARC includes a separate wireless subwoofer with a 10-inch driver, up from 8-inches previously. The new sub boasts a claimed 300 watts of peak output power and low-end extension down to 30Hz.

It's not just the bass bin that's had an overhaul. Nakamichi says every speaker in the system has been upgraded with twin-cone drivers and silk dome tweeters. The Shockwafe Pro 7.1 eARC also incorporates high output amplifiers that Nakamichi says can deliver up to 850W of total system power.

In addition to eARC with support for Dolby Atmos True HD and DTS:X, there are three HDMI inputs that can handle video sources with Dolby Vision HDR.  

For those looking for more bass from their bar, the Shockwafe 7.2 eARC comes with dual 8-inch subwoofers delivering 450 watts of power and bass extension down to 25Hz. The system has a claimed total power output of 1000 watts.

Like its sibling, the Shockwafe Elite 7.2 eARC includes upgraded drivers, Qualcomm aptX HD, eARC and three HDMI inputs.

Priced at $900 (around £760 / AU$1300), the Shockwafe Pro 7.1 eARC is available now. The Shockwafe 7.2 eARC is on track for a late September release and will retail for  $1300 (around £1100 / AU$1880). Although official pricing is only available for the US, Nakamichi offers global shipping via eBay.

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