CONCLUSION

   With many movies and series getting released with Dolby Atmos audio tracks it makes sense that Creative designed and developed compatible soundbars like the Stage 360. Now my latest LG TV did come with support for both Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos but its built-in speakers were obviously no match for the ones used with the Stage 360. Now i won't lie, when watching Dolby Atmos films like The Kings Man, Spiderman No Way Home, The Adam Project and even the new Halo series surround sound (virtual at that) between my TV and the Stage 360 isn't worlds apart, what is however a lot better is audio quality/clarity and power output which means that the Stage 360 can produce far clearer sound/audio even at high volume levels. Of course don’t forget that for optimal results you also need to configure the near-far field setting by using near if you are inside 1 meter distance from the soundbar and far if you are further away. Again, features found in more expensive models like detachable rear speakers and top firing drivers are not present here and from just 2 oval shaped drivers you clearly can’t expect miracles but still the end result is quite good.

   So, I’ve been talking about price quite a lot in this review but just how much are you required to spend to get your very own Stage 360? With a price tag currently set at USD203.99 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and at 199.99Euros inside the EU (Amazon.de) the Stage 360 2.1 Soundbar with Dolby Atmos by Creative is priced very well, always for what it offers. Yes, it’s clearly not the best Dolby Atmos soundbar money can buy but the Stage 360 still does offer very good bang for your buck and because of that it gets the Golden Award.

PROS

- Good Audio Quality/Accuracy
- Volume Levels
- Available Connectivity (Bluetooth v5.0/HDMI 2.0 ARC/2xHDMI 2.0/SPDIF)
- Dolby Atmos Compatibility (Digital Plus & TrueHD)
- Size
- Near & Far Field Setting
- Price (For Some)

CONS

- Virtual Surround Sound (Could Be Better)