Bluesound updates its soundbar offering with the new PULSE SOUNDBAR+

A more compact soundbar with updated features.

by Justin Choo

Multi-room audio gurus Bluesound has just updated its soundbar offering with the PULSE SOUNDBAR+.

The PULSE SOUNDBAR+ is Bluesound’s solution to replace bulky AVRs, with a slim design that fits under most TVs. It also features custom ARM A53 chipsets, which Bluesound says processes audio eight times faster than previous-generation A9s, and is futureproof where headroom is concerned. It is also equipped with two Wi-Fi chips to improve network performance.

Front and rear view of the SOUNDBAR+. Image: Bluesound

Front and rear view of the SOUNDBAR+. Image: Bluesound

The 120W speaker has plenty of audio range with its new 8-driver speaker array (vs 6 on the original SOUNDBAR) and it supports Dolby Atmos for a more immersive sound. But you can take it up a notch with the PULSE SUB+ if you feel the need for deeper bass and the PULSE FLEX 2i speakers for rear channels.

The SOUNDBAR+ is flexible when it comes to connectivity options. Image: Bluesound

Flexible when it comes to connectivity options. Image: Bluesound

The SOUNDBAR+ also has a full array of connectivity options, sporting HDMI eARC, Apple AirPlay 2, two-way aptX HD Bluetooth, TOSLINK, RCA, USB, and proprietary BluOS music streaming. It also supports hands-free control (Google Assistant, Alexa, Siri) on top of the usual plethora of front panel touch controls and mobile app UI. Bluesound also provides drivers for popular control systems like Lutron, Crestron, RTI, Elan, and others.

The side profile harkens to its logo, which is quite a cool aesthetic. Image: Bluesound

The side profile harkens to its logo, which is quite a cool aesthetic. Image: Bluesound

The PULSE SOUNDBAR+ is available for pre-order now at $1,299 in black and $1,399 in white. It will start shipping in mid-April 2021 and comes supplied with a wall mount bracket and two kickstand feet.