Overview

The Sony HT-ST5000 is a 7.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos soundbar with a wireless subwoofer. It launched at 1,499 USD in 2017[4], features S-Master HX digital amplification, 24-bit/96 kHz hi-res support, and three HDMI inputs[3]. DTS:X came later via firmware[7]. Against today’s market, multiple current models offer equal-or-better functionality at far lower prices.

Scientific Validity

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Independent measurements show a listening-window response of +5.00/−11.7 dB from 200 Hz–10 kHz, and +5.00/−2.54 dB from 500 Hz–10 kHz (1 m, Music mode, quasi-anechoic)[1]. The bar’s −3 dB point is 468 Hz (−6 dB: 314 Hz), with low bass handed off to the sub (sub −3 dB at 36 Hz)[1]. These numbers indicate substantial in-band ripple and a depressed lower midrange, undermining fidelity.

Technology Level

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While S-Master HX, hi-res playback and multiple HDMI inputs were competitive in 2017, the design lacks modern strengths such as robust room correction or bundled rear channels that now define higher-performing systems[3]. Firmware-based DTS:X support is commendable but doesn’t remedy the measured response issues[7].

Cost-Performance

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Assumption: New retail availability is effectively over; no current new-unit market price is posted. We therefore use the original 1,499 USD launch price as the denominator (provisional)[4].
Comparator (cheapest equal-or-better): TCL Q85H (7.1.4 ch, Dolby Atmos/DTS:X, wireless sub and wireless rears, AI room calibration, up to 860 W) — functionally equal-or-better[5]. Widely sold at 649.99 USD at Best Buy[6].
CP calculation: 649.99 USD ÷ 1,499 USD = 0.4336 → 0.4 (rounded to one decimal). Cheaper, more capable alternatives exist; value is weak.

Reliability & Support

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Sony maintains product support pages and delivered firmware as recently as 2022-02-16 (M40.R.0518)[2]. DTS:X was added post-launch[7]. However, current firmware activity is limited and new-unit warranty access is minimal due to discontinuation, so support lands slightly above average overall.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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Supporting object-based audio and including a subwoofer are sensible choices[3], yet the measured in-band unevenness suggests engineering trade-offs that blunt audible transparency[1]. Compared with modern bars offering room calibration and included rears, the design path is less compelling for end-result sound quality[5].

Advice

If you prioritize accuracy and value, a current model is the safer buy. TCL Q85H provides more channels plus auto calibration at 649.99 USD[5][6]. For top-tier immersion, consider Samsung HW-Q990D (11.1.4 ch)[8]. If you prefer Sony integration, look at the HT-A7000 family instead[3]. Only consider the HT-ST5000 if you can find an excellent-condition unit at a steep discount.

References

[1] Sound & Vision, “Sony HT-ST5000 Soundbar System Test Bench” (1 m, Music mode, quasi-anechoic): https://www.soundandvision.com/content/sony-ht-st5000-soundbar-system-test-bench (published 2017-12-05; accessed 2025-08-13)
[2] Sony, “Support for HT-ST5000” / latest FW M40.R.0518 (2022-02-16): https://www.sony.com/permalink/support/product?locale=en_US&model=HT-ST5000 (accessed 2025-08-13)
[3] Sony, “HT-ST5000 Specifications”: https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/sound-bars-home-theater-systems-sound-bars-surround-speakers/ht-st5000/specifications (accessed 2025-08-13)
[4] Sound & Vision, “Sony HT-ST5000 Soundbar System” — MSRP 1,500 USD noted: https://www.soundandvision.com/content/sony-ht-st5000-soundbar-system (published 2017-12-05; accessed 2025-08-13)
[5] TCL, “Q85H Q Class 7.1.4 Channel Sound Bar” (features, up to 860 W, suggested price): https://www.tcl.com/us/en/products/sound-bars/q-class-sound-bars/q-class-7-1-4-channel-sound-bar-q85h (accessed 2025-08-13)
[6] Best Buy, “TCL Q85H Q Class 7.1.4 Channel Sound Bar” — 649.99 USD: https://www.bestbuy.com/site/tcl-q85h-q-class-7-1-4-channel-sound-bar-with-dolby-atmos-wireless-subwoofer-and-wireless-surround-speakers-black/6580777.p (accessed 2025-08-13)
[7] FlatpanelsHD, “Sony adds DTS:X support to HT-ST5000 ‘Atmos’ soundbar” (2017-09-28): https://www.flatpanelshd.com/news.php?id=1506605892&subaction=showfull (accessed 2025-08-13)
[8] Samsung, “HW-Q990D 11.1.4 ch Soundbar” — 1,499.99 USD: https://www.samsung.com/us/televisions-home-theater/home-theater/sound-bars/q-series-11-1-4-ch-wireless-dolby-atmos-soundbar-rear-speakers-w-q-symphony-hw-q990d-hw-q990d-za/ (accessed 2025-08-13)

(2025.8.13)