Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
Kin Play Soundbar II
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Description: Active Soundbar Speaker
- Frequency Response: 60Hz - 22kHz +- 3dB
- Tweeter: Customized 1-inch Metal Alloy Dome
- Woofer: Customized Natural Hybrid 4 x 4", High Resolution
- Internal DAC: Provided
- Amplifier Power: 150w RMS Total (75 x 2)
- Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Analog Inputs: Stereo RCA & mini jack (3.5 mm)
- Digital Inputs: Optical, Bluetooth 5.0, HDMI ARC
- Outputs: Subwoofer Out
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 5.98 x 47.24 x 4.52" (152 x 1200 x 115mm)
- Weight: 38 lb (17.23kg)
- Available Finishes: Satin Black, Satin White
Description
The KIN Play SoundBar II, Totem's first fully powered soundbar, now features HDMI ARC! KIN stands out for its versatility and audio solutions, and the KIN Play SoundBar IITM proudly continues this tradition. Mount it on the wall beneath a 55-inch or larger TV, or place it on a table; it will produce equally sensational sound. Connect your preferred sources and stream high-resolution wireless audio.
The KIN Play SoundBar II, Totem’s first fully powered soundbar, now features HDMI ARC! KIN stands out for its versatility and audio solutions, and the KIN Play SoundBar IITM proudly continues this tradition. Mount it on the wall beneath a 55-inch or larger TV, or place it on a table; it will produce equally sensational sound. Connect your preferred sources and stream high-resolution wireless audio. Your TV deserves to be paired with the KIN Play SoundBar IITM, now equipped with HDMI ARC, Bluetooth 5.0 combined with Qualcomm® aptXTM. Rich, immersive sound that fills the room Connects to your devices instantly with Bluebooth Elegant and minimalist design enhances your space aesthetically and is engineered for superior sound quality
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
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Kin One Bookshelf Speaker
- Positioning: A basic bookshelf speaker aimed at simple audio needs for small spaces.
- Description: Uses a straightforward design with clear, balanced sound and minimal electronics, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious users. Compared to other models in the lineup, it lacks advanced connectivity and high-power output but fits well in setups where space and cost are limited.
Kin Play Bluetooth Amplified Bookshelf Speaker
- Positioning: A compact, active speaker designed for convenient wireless audio streaming in home environments.
- Description: Features built-in Bluetooth and a dedicated amplifier to provide robust sound from a small form factor, offering a step up in performance compared to the entry-level model. When compared to the Kin One, it adds modern connectivity but is less capable than larger speakers in delivering broader soundstage.
Kin Play Soundbar II Bluetooth HDMI ARC
- Positioning: A versatile soundbar aimed at enhancing TV audio with convenient HDMI and wireless features.
- Description: Includes HDMI ARC support and Bluetooth connectivity, providing a streamlined solution for living room setups that demand clean integration with modern TVs. Compared to the bookshelf speakers, it offers more connectivity and is better suited for home theater use.
Kin Force Passive 3-Channel Soundbar Architectural Wall Speaker
- Positioning: A mid-range, passively driven speaker system built for architectural integration into living spaces.
- Description: Offers a design tailored for built-in audio strategies with multiple channels that blend into home interiors and enable customized setups. Compared to active speakers in the lineup, it requires an external amplifier but can be paired with existing equipment for enhanced design flexibility.
Kin Play Tower II Bluetooth Amplified Tower Speaker HDMI ARC
- Positioning: A premium tower speaker crafted for larger spaces with enhanced amplification and connectivity features.
- Description: Delivers powerful sound and advanced features such as HDMI ARC connectivity and Bluetooth pairing, aimed at users seeking a more comprehensive home audio solution. When compared to the smaller models in the lineup, it offers a richer soundstage and more robust build quality.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
1
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
374
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
11
Founding Year
2015
Our take on the brand
Known for its use of handmade Torrent drivers, Kin by Totem eliminates crossover distortions to deliver clean, unaltered audio, coupled with its signature micro-size speakers that defy traditional performance limitations. The brand’s achievements include influencing compact speaker trends while maintaining premium audio quality.
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What if you spend more?
Sonos
Ray (Immersive Set)
1056
1056
/
9
Reviews
Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
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Product Strengths
- Clear and detailed audio, enhancing dialogue clarity significantly over TV speakers
- Compact size and aesthetic design make it suitable for smaller TVs (around 40-50 inches) and rooms, with flexible placement options
- Integrates seamlessly into the Sonos ecosystem, offering user-friendly operation and a cohesive app for control and setup
- Versatile connectivity through Wi-Fi and Apple Airplay 2, enabling wireless music streaming and integration with other Sonos speakers
Product Considerations
- Limited bass performance, potentially requiring a separate subwoofer for a more immersive experience
- Only connects to TVs via an optical port, lacking HDMI ARC and the ability to support higher quality audio formats
- Absence of Bluetooth connectivity, limiting its versatility for direct connections with devices
- Soundstage is narrower compared to wider soundbars, which may not provide as immersive a listening experience, although it does output in stereo
- The use of an optical connection means users have to go through an additional setup process so that their TV's remote can adjust the volume on it
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sonos Beam Gen 2: Offers a more affordable entry point into the Sonos ecosystem, sacrificing some features of the Beam Gen 2—such as Dolby Atmos and HDMI connectivity
- Vs Roku Streambar Pro: Has similar audio performance but fewer connectivity options
Takeaway: The Sonos Ray is a compact and stylish soundbar that noticeably upgrades the sound quality of the TV, especially for dialogue. Its integration with the Sonos ecosystem makes it a great choice for those looking to expand their multi-room audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
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What competes at this price?
Bowers & Wilkins
Panorama 3
999
/
Released
2022
Panorama 3 is a Dolby Atmos-enabled, Amazon Alexa-compatible, home theater powerhouse in a single, elegant component. Bowers & Wilkins draws on its decades of collaboration with the world's most famous recording studios to deliver stunning sound.
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Stunning design and premium build quality, using a mix of textures and materials for a tailored look
- Clear and intelligible dialogue, especially with a slight emphasis on the vocal range
- Easy to set up and use, with a straightforward app interface
- Powerful sound that can fill a small-to-medium-sized room, driven by a 400-watt amplifier
- Impressive Dolby Atmos performance, creating a taller, broader, and deeper soundstage, especially with Atmos content
- Only one HDMI input and no HDMI input passthrough
Product Considerations
- Lacks adjustability and customization options like individual channel level controls, EQ presets, or dialogue enhancements
- Bass performance lacks physicality and visceral impact compared to soundbars with separate subwoofers
- The soundbar requires a true Dolby Surround or Atmos signal for best results, stereo mixes can sound constrained
- Some reviewers noted occasional HDMI handshake issues when switching between Atmos and stereo content
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Samsung Q950A—the Samsung is better overall, sounds good with almost any signal, and has more bass and features, but the Panorama 3 has better design and ease of use
- Vs Sonos Beam Gen 2—the Panorama 3 is more convincing and confident in larger spaces, but the Beam Gen 2 is expandable and more affordable
- Vs Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage—the Beosound Stage does a better job with non-Atmos content and offers more flexibility and customization, but the Panorama 3 is equal to or slightly better spatially with Atmos content
- Vs Bose 900—the Bose 900 sounds great with non-Atmos content and is expandable, but the Panorama 3 does a better job spatially with Dolby Atmos movies as an all-in-one solution
Takeaway: The Panorama 3 is a stylish and simple to use soundbar that delivers a powerful and detailed audio experience. With its impressive Atmos performance, it's a good choice for those looking to upgrade their TV's sound without the complexities of a full home theater system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
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Bluesound
Pulse Soundbar+
999
/
Released
2021
Take your home theater to a new dimension with the PULSE SOUNDBAR+, compatible with Dolby Atmos for fully immersive sound. The PULSE SOUNDBAR+ is designed to seamlessly fit in with your existing TV set-up and enhance Atmos-encoded sound experience with precision that will make you feel like you are right in the center of the action.
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressively detailed, solid, and satisfying Dolby Atmos delivery
- Effectively combines spaciousness and clarity when playing non-Atmos soundtracks
- Sound is clear and crisp
- Has a rich, wide sound and handles Dolby Atmos content well
- The soundbar is more musical than most and is able to exhibit a lot of subtlety and has great dialogue reproduction
Product Considerations
- Music lacks drive and drama
- The soundbar is taller than average and may block part of the screen if placed on the same surface as a TV
- Initial setup can be difficult
- Lacks HDMI inputs, requiring the TV to be connected via optical cable
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sonos Arc: The Pulse Soundbar+ offers music tracks full of sound color splendor, but the Sonos Arc is punchier, better organized, and more engaging overall
- Vs Sonos Arc: Sonos has dedicated upward-firing speakers, while the Bluesound does not
- Vs Sonos: Bluesound has a richer soundstage than Sonos
Takeaway: The Bluesound Pulse Soundbar+ provides detailed and solid sound for both movies and music. It is a good choice for those who appreciate nuance and detail, with the added benefit of BluOS streaming and multiroom capabilities.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
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Sonos
Ray (Surround Set)
637
/
Released
2022
Feel like you're at the centre of every story, game, and song with surround sound powered by a compact, versatile soundbar and pair of rear speakers.
Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Clear dialogue and good vocal clarity, making it a solid choice as an upgrade over TV speakers for vocal-centric content
- Compact size makes it ideal for smaller TVs (around 40-55 inches) and rooms
- Easy to set up and integrate into the Sonos ecosystem using the Sonos app
- Balanced, crisp sound that surpasses many budget soundbars and offers better sound than the majority of internal TV speakers
- Full Sonos wireless support with AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect
Product Considerations
- Lacks low bass, which can make it disappointing for movies or music with a lot of bass, if listening to music with a higher value soundbar
- No HDMI connectivity, relying on optical input, which may cause control issues for some users
- No Dolby Atmos support
- Trueplay room correction is only available for iOS devices
- IR volume adjustments can be problematic
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Beam Gen 2 is the 'utmost winner' with better sound, connectivity, fit, build, and aesthetic
- The Sonos Beam is better with a discrete center channel to improve dialogue reproduction
Takeaway: The Sonos Ray is a compact and capable soundbar that greatly improves the TV's sound, making it easier to hear dialogue and enjoy music. Its small size and easy setup make it a good fit for smaller spaces and those new to the Sonos ecosystem.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
Product Page
Product Page
SVS
Prime Wireless Pro Powered
899
/
Released
2022
SVS Prime Wireless Pro delivers immersive, reference quality sound via a vast array of connectivity choices with a user-friendly control interface. Stream High-Resolution audio wirelessly via WiFi, Apple Airplay 2 for iPhones and iOS, and Chromecast for Android phones and other devices. Connects directly to your TV via HDMI and features ample connectivity and control options. Precision tuned electronic crossover deliver powerful dynamics, deep bass, and stunning clarity.
SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive build quality and a beautiful gloss white finish is available in black
- HDMI ARC input allows for easy use with a TV, using the TV remote for volume control
- Versatile with streaming capabilities, line input, and subwoofer output
- Excellent clarity in the top end, dialogue intelligibility, and neutral midrange
- Can play extremely loud, exceeding comfortable listening levels
- Connectivity options include HDMI ARC, streaming, line input, and subwoofer output
Product Considerations
- Larger than other speakers in its class, specifically tall, so may not fit under a monitor
- Plastic remote is not backlit and basic
- Requires multiple wires—one for power and one to connect the two speakers
- Bass rolls off around 40-50Hz without a subwoofer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to passive speakers (Triangle Bro 3s + IOTAVX SA-3), the SVS Prime Wireless Pro has better treble separation and more impactful bass, while the Triangle has a warmer, richer midrange; the SVS Prime Wireless Pro also provides HDMI ARC
- Compared to Polk Reserve R100 + Arylic A50+, the Polk Reserve R100 is a warmer speaker overall, but the SVS Prime Wireless Pro has a more neutral and accurate sound, with superior bass output and power
- Compared to Cabasse's The Pearl Keshi, the SVS Prime Wireless Pro sounds better at less cost
- Compared to SoundArtist LS3/5A speakers, the SVS Prime Wireless Pro speakers are far more sonically balanced, with a little more bass plus better overall soundstaging and presentation
Takeaway: The SVS Prime Wireless Pro is a versatile, all-in-one speaker solution with great build quality, a neutral sound, and many useful features like HDMI ARC and streaming. It's a fantastic option for improving TV, movie, gaming, and music listening experiences in a single, convenient package.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
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