The Sony HT-S40R is still worth considering in 2026 if you want real 5.1 surround sound without spending heavily on a premium home-theater system. Its Wireless rear-speaker connection via a dedicated amplifier, dedicated subwoofer, and 600W output make it particularly appealing for movies and TV, but the lack of Dolby Atmos, HDMI eARC, and modern streaming features means it isn’t the best choice for everyone.

In this Sony HT-S40R review, we look at what matters most in everyday use: sound quality, bass, dialogue clarity, surround performance, setup, connectivity, customer feedback, and value for money. We’ll also look at its biggest limitations and whether a newer Dolby Atmos soundbar is a better buy in 2026.

Sony HT-S40R Review: Quick Verdict

The Sony HT-S40R is one of the best budget 5.1 soundbars for movies thanks to its wireless rear speakers, strong bass, and easy setup. It isn’t ideal if you need Dolby Atmos or HDMI eARC, but for most buyers it offers excellent value.

Best For

• Movies
• Gaming
• Medium rooms

Skip If

• Need Dolby Atmos
• Mostly listen to music
• Want HDMI 2.1/eARC

Pros	Cons
Genuine 5.1ch surround experience with wireless rear speakers	No HDMI eARC or HDMI IN ports (no 4K passthrough)
Powerful bass with impressive volume and no distortion	Rear channels only activate for directional/background audio
Clear dialogue and strong channel separation for movies, music, and games	Bass can be overwhelming in default settings (needs tweaking)
Easy setup, minimal cable clutter, and compact remote	Sony HT-S20R is cheaper for smaller rooms (though less immersive)

Sony HT-S40R Score

Overall Rating: 8.0/10

This is an editorial synthesis of Sony’s official specifications, expert testing, and customer feedback, not an official Sony or review-site score. The HT-S40R earns a strong rating for delivering genuine 5.1-channel sound, clear TV dialogue, punchy bass, and effective rear-channel effects at its typical mid-range price. However, its lack of Dolby Atmos/eARC, limited HDMI connectivity, wired rear-speaker amplifier, and less refined music performance prevent it from scoring higher.

Sony HT-S40R Review Score

Category	Score	Assessment
Sound Quality	8.2/10	Loud, clean, and well suited to TV and movies. Expert testing found no audible distortion at high volume, although music performance is less impressive.
Surround Performance	8.5/10	One of its strongest areas. The genuine 5.1 layout and rear speakers create clear directional effects with native 5.1 content.
Bass	8.3/10	The subwoofer delivers strong impact and low-end rumble, with independent bass adjustment. It can sound slightly prominent with some music.
Dialogue	8.2/10	Voices are generally crisp and clear, although some movie dialogue can sound slightly softer than ideal. There is also no dedicated center-channel level control.
Features	7.2/10	Includes Cinema, Music, Auto Sound, Voice, and Night modes, along with Bluetooth 5.0, USB playback, and HDMI-CEC. However, it lacks Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Wi-Fi, app control, and advanced room correction.
Connectivity	7.4/10	HDMI ARC, optical, analog input, USB, and Bluetooth cover basic TV and music use. However, there is no HDMI input or eARC, while supported HDMI formats are limited.
Ease of Setup	7.8/10	HDMI ARC simplifies TV connection, while the rear speakers connect wirelessly to the included amplifier. However, the rear speakers still require speaker wires, and the amplifier needs a separate power outlet.
Value for Money	8.0/10	Strong value when purchased around the ₹20,000–₹30,000 range because it provides a complete 5.1 system rather than just a soundbar and subwoofer. Its value decreases when priced close to newer Atmos-equipped models.
Customer Feedback	8.4/10	Sony’s India review page reports 4.2/5 from 65 customer reviews, equivalent to 8.4/10. Feedback is broadly positive regarding sound and usability, with some complaints about instructions, support, and occasional rear-speaker issues.

Final Verdict

The Sony HT-S40R is best viewed as a movie- and TV-focused 5.1 home theater system, rather than a modern feature-rich Dolby Atmos soundbar.

Its convincing rear effects, powerful bass, clear dialogue, and relatively convenient wireless rear connection justify an overall 8.0/10. However, the absence of Dolby Atmos/eARC, limited HDMI functionality, remaining speaker cabling, and only average music performance prevent it from competing with newer premium systems.

For buyers prioritizing cinematic surround sound under roughly ₹30,000, the Sony HT-S40R remains a strong option.

However, buyers who want Dolby Atmos, 4K passthrough, Wi-Fi streaming, or a completely cable-free installation should consider newer alternatives.

Sony HT-S40R Vs Competitors

Feature	Sony HT-S20R	Sony HT-S40R	JBL Cinema SB170	Zebronics 9550 Pro*	Sony HT-RT40
Output power	400W	600W	220W maximum	625W	600W
Channel configuration	5.1	5.1	2.1	5.2	5.1
Rear speakers	Wired	Wireless connection via amplifier; speaker wires required	Not included	Wireless satellites on the current 9550 Pro version	Wired
Connectivity	HDMI ARC, optical, analogue, USB, Bluetooth	HDMI ARC, optical, analogue, USB, Bluetooth	HDMI ARC, optical, USB** and Bluetooth	HDMI ARC, optical, AUX, USB and Bluetooth	HDMI ARC, optical, analogue, USB, Bluetooth and NFC
Sound modes	Auto Sound, Cinema, Music, Standard; Night and Voice effects	Auto Sound, Cinema, Music; Night and Voice effects	Sound modes are not equivalent to Sony’s listed modes; it has JBL sound-mode controls	Depends on the exact revision	ClearAudio+, Standard, Movie, Music, Game and Sports
Rear-speaker setup	No wireless link	Yes, but the rear speakers remain wired to the wireless amplifier	Not applicable	Yes, on the current 9550 Pro version	No

Sony HT-S40R Specifications

Features	Detailes
Model type	5.1 channel soundbar home theatre system with wireless rear speakers and wired subwoofer sony+2
Total power output	600 W RMS (overall system output) sony+2
Amplifier type	Digital amplifier, S‑Master
Amplifier channels	5.1ch surround sound sony+2
Placement	Table‑top or wall‑mountable main soundbar
Soundbar size (W x H x D)	Approx. 90.1 x 5.3 x 7.6 cm / 35.5 x 2.1 x 3 inch sony+1
Soundbar weight	Approx. 1.8 kg / 4.1 lb
Subwoofer type	Separate wired subwoofer included in package sony+1
Rear speakers	2 separate wireless rear surround speakers (via wireless amp) sony+2
Wireless rear amp	Compact wireless amplifier to drive rear speakers sony+1
Connectivity options	Bluetooth, USB Type‑A, analog audio input (stereo mini), optical audio input sony+1
Bluetooth version	Bluetooth 5.0
Wi‑Fi	Not supported (no Wi‑Fi)
Optical input	1 optical digital audio input sony+1
USB port	1 USB Type‑A (USB 2.0, FAT32/NTFS support) sony+2
Supported USB formats	WAV, MP3, WMA playback via USB
Audio formats via HDMI/optical	Dolby Digital, LPCM 2ch, Dolby Dual mono sony+1
Bluetooth audio codec	SBC
Sound modes	Auto Sound, Cinema, Music
Sound effects	Night Mode, Voice Mode
Control options	Infrared remote control included; no app control, no voice assistant sony+1
Multi‑room capability	Not supported
Streaming services integration	No built‑in Spotify, Amazon Music or other streaming apps
Power consumption (approx.)	Subwoofer: about 55 W; surround amplifier: about 20 W during operation
Standby / eco modes	Quick Start and Remote Start low‑power modes (subwoofer and surround under 2 W)
Included accessories	Remote control, batteries, HDMI cable, AC cord, quick setup guide, instruction manual, warranty card

Overview of Sony HT-S40

The Sony HT-S40R is a 5.1 channel home cinema system that instantly changed the way you experience movies and music at home. With 600W of power, it combines a three-channel soundbar, a wired subwoofer, and Wireless rear-speaker connection via a dedicated amplifier to create a sound that feels as close to a theatre.

What Makes It Special

• A true 5.1 setup where the rear speakers and subwoofer actually make you feel surrounded by sound
• Dolby Digital support and sound modes like Cinema, Music, and Auto which is useful depending on what you are watching or listening to
• Multiple connectivity options like HDMI, optical, Bluetooth, and USB give flexibility. It could easily switch between my TV for movies, my console for gaming, and even my phone for quick music streaming.

Who Is It For

• Perfect for someone who loves movies and wants a theater-like surround sound at home
• Gamers who want directional audio that makes every action feel real
• Music lovers like me who enjoy deep bass and vibrant details

I personally liked how easy it was to set up, the wireless flexibility really saved me from messy cables, making it a great fit for any household that wants strong audio without complicated wiring.

Design and Build Quality

The Sony HT-S40R feels reliable and solid in daily use. The matte black finish gives it a premium feel and even though the soundbar body is mostly plastic, it doesn’t come across as cheap. we like how the clean lines and metal grill keep it minimal while still stylish enough to blend with my room. The compact rear speakers were especially convenient they could be placed in a small space without ruining the look of my setup.

Build, Material, and Aesthetics

• Durable plastic construction with metal grills that balance strength and sleek design
• A classic Sony style with subtle curves and clearly defined speaker channels that add a touch of sophistication
• Whether placed under my TV or wall-mounted, the all-black finish feels elegant and fits naturally into the space

Speaker Setup: How Many Speakers?

The system includes a 3-channel soundbar, two compact wireless rear speakers, and a subwoofer, creating a true 5.1 channel setup. Thanks to the wireless amp box, the rear speakers stay clutter-free, keeping your living room tidy while still delivering surround sound.

Compactness Compared to Competitors

Sony clearly designed this system with space-conscious users in mind.

• The slim soundbar fits perfectly under a 43-inch TV or larger, and its wall-mount option makes it even less intrusive.
• The rear speakers are smaller than what you usually see in competing models, which makes them easier to integrate into apartments or smaller spaces.
• The wireless connectivity reduces messy cables, a big plus compared to setups that require heavy wiring.

Amazon Customer Sony HT-S40 Review Rating

Stars (4/5)	Review (9,404 global ratings)
5 Star	61%
4 Star	12%
3 Star	9%
2 Star	7%
1 Star	11%

Why Users Are Giving 4 & 5-Star Reviews

Most buyers praise the Sony HT-S40 for offering a noticeable upgrade over standard TV speakers without being difficult to set up. We found that users consistently appreciate the clear dialogue, making movies, TV shows, and sports much easier to follow. Many also mention that vocals remain crisp even at higher volumes.

Another reason for the positive ratings is the balanced sound profile. While it is not designed for powerful cinematic bass, users feel it delivers enjoyable audio for everyday entertainment. The included wireless subwoofer adds enough low-end impact to make action scenes and music more engaging than TV speakers alone.

We also noticed that buyers like the simple installation process. HDMI ARC and Bluetooth pairing are straightforward, allowing most users to start using the soundbar within minutes. Many reviewers describe it as a great value for money, especially for small and medium-sized living rooms where it delivers clean, reliable performance without requiring a complicated home theater setup.

Why Users Are Giving Below 3-Star Reviews

Lower-rated reviews mainly come from users who expected a more immersive home theater experience than the Sony HT-S40 can deliver. We found that the most common complaint is the limited bass performance. Although the wireless subwoofer improves low frequencies, several users feel it lacks the deep punch needed for action movies and bass-heavy music.

Some reviewers also mention that the maximum volume is lower than expected for larger rooms. At higher listening levels, a few users report that the sound loses some impact compared to more premium soundbars in a higher price range.

Connectivity issues appear in a handful of reviews as well. Some users experienced occasional Bluetooth pairing problems or HDMI ARC handshake issues that required reconnecting the device. Others were disappointed by the lack of advanced surround sound effects and premium audio formats. Overall, negative ratings usually come from buyers expecting flagship-level performance rather than a mid-range soundbar designed for everyday TV viewing.

Performance & Sound Quality

The Sony HT-S40R soundbar features a three-channel speaker, dedicated wireless rear channels, and a robust subwoofer, ensuring a genuine surround effect in every corner of the room. During movie playback, the system truly shines, action sequences and effects are delivered with excellent directionality, allowing sounds like moving vehicles or thunder to sweep across the space, creating a dynamic and dramatic environment.

Bass is punchy yet controlled; the subwoofer delivers deep, powerful lows without overpowering the mids or highs, ensuring clarity in both dialogue and music. Dialogue remains crisp, especially when surround channels are positioned correctly and the “Night” mode is activated, which reduces bass and prioritizes vocals.

For music, the soundbar provides clarity and richness across instruments and vocals, audio is distributed across all available speakers, producing a balanced and room-filling experience. Gaming also benefits greatly, with environmental sounds and directional cues enhancing immersion and keeping players fully engaged.

Sony HT-S40R Best Settings for Different Use Cases

• Movies: Cinema mode enhances channel separation and surround realism. Place rear speakers at arm’s length and set their level to +6 for optimal immersion. Keep the subwoofer at mid-level for impactful but not overpowering bass.
• Music: Music mode delivers a more neutral and balanced profile. Reduce the subwoofer level slightly to prevent excessive bass and let instruments stand out naturally.
• Gaming: Standard or Cinema mode with rear speaker level at +6 allows players to fully enjoy environmental details. Keep the overall volume at around 60–65% for loud yet distortion-free sound.
• Late-Night Viewing: Switch to Night mode to reduce bass and emphasize dialogue, making audio clear even at lower volumes.

Common Troubleshooting Issues for Sony HT-S40R

• No Sound from Speakers: Ensure all speakers (main bar, subwoofer, surround) and connected devices are properly connected and powered on. Check the input source matches the playback device.
• Low Subwoofer Volume: Bass may be low if the audio source has fewer low frequencies. Increase subwoofer volume using remote (+ button) if needed.
• No Sound from Surround Speakers: Make sure the MULTI SPEAKER setting is ON to enable surround output.
• Volume Changes Unexpectedly: Turn on the A.VOL (Auto volume) setting to stabilize volume fluctuations from certain apps or set-top boxes.
• Bluetooth Mono Mode Issue: Some smartphones have Mono Bluetooth mode enabled by default that limits sound performance, disable this mode for better stereo output.

How to Reset Sony HT-S40R

1. Press the MENU button on the remote.
2. Navigate to RESET and select it.
3. When “ALL RESET” appears on the display, press ENTER.
4. The system will reset to factory defaults.

How to Set Up Sony HT-S40R

1. Connect the soundbar to the subwoofer using the supplied speaker cable. Connect the surround speakers to the wireless amplifier using the color-coded SUR L/SUR R terminals, then connect the subwoofer and amplifier to power.
2. For TV audio, connect the soundbar’s HDMI OUT (TV ARC) port to the TV’s HDMI ARC/eARC port. The HT-S40R does not have an HDMI input, so you cannot connect external devices directly to the soundbar via HDMI.
3. If your TV does not support HDMI ARC, use an optical cable instead. Turn on the system and press INPUT on the remote until TV is selected.
4. Adjust the speaker levels through MENU → SPEAKER. You can also select TEST TONE to check that each speaker is working correctly.

How to Update Sony HT-S40R Firmware

1. On a computer, download the latest firmware file for your region from Sony’s official HT-S40R software downloads page.
2. Extract the downloaded file without changing its file names. Copy the required firmware files to the root directory of a compatible USB flash drive—not inside an additional folder. Sony’s update instructions specify the required HT-S40R update files on the USB drive.
3. Turn on the HT-S40R and make sure the wireless amplifier is powered on and connected to the subwoofer. The wireless amplifier must be connected before starting the update.
4. Insert the USB flash drive into the USB port on the wireless amplifier.
5. Using the remote, press MENU, select UPDATE, and press ENTER.
6. Select START, then press ENTER. The update begins and may take several minutes.
7. Do not disconnect the AC power, remove the USB drive, or operate the system while the update is in progress. Wait for the system to restart and display the completion message, such as DONE, before removing the USB drive.
8. To check the installed firmware version, press MENU → SYSTEM → VERSION. You can also check the wireless amplifier status through SYSTEM → SUR. AMP. INFO.

This covers the most common issues and essential operational guides for Sony HT-S40R users. For more troubleshooting issues, you can refer to Sony’s support page for the Sony HT-S40R

Sony HT-S40R vs Comparison

The Sony HT-S40R excels in its segment thanks to higher power output and a more versatile wireless speaker setup compared to several alternatives, including Sony’s own HT-S20R, select JBL soundbars, Zebronics 9550 Pro, and older Sony models like the HT-RT40.

Sony HT-S20R vs HT-S40R

• With its 600W output and wireless rear speakers, the HT-S40R works well for large living rooms where you want louder, fuller sound without messy cable management.
• The HT-S20R, at 400W, is better suited for smaller rooms or if you’re fine with wired connections and don’t need the extra punch of the bigger model.
• HT-S20R offers two extra sound modes (Standard, Voice) that HT-S40R lacks.

Sony HT-S20R vs JBL Cinema SB170

• Sony HT-S40R provides real 5.1 channel surround sound with wireless rear speakers and 600W output for a cinematic audio experience.
• Most JBL soundbars in a similar price range, like the JBL Cinema SB170, are 2.1 or basic 3.1 channel setups with lower wattage and lack true surround or wireless rear speakers, focusing on punchy bass and compact design.
• JBL’s higher-end models bring Dolby Atmos and wireless flexibility, which makes them great for home theater enthusiasts, but if you’re mainly setting this up in a bedroom or small apartment, you might find the extra cost unnecessary

Sony HT-S20R vs Zebronics 9550 Pro

• The HT-S40R offers wireless rear speakers for clean installation, generally more reliable sound processing, and stronger build quality.
• Zebronics 9550 Pro, though powerful on paper, relies fully on wired speaker connections and is targeted towards users seeking budget 5.1 solutions, often lacking finesse and reliability in surround separation.
• Sound quality and after-sales service tend to be superior with Sony.

Availability & Value for Money

The Sony HT-S40R home theatre soundbar, launched in 2021, continues to be a popular choice in 2026. It is easily available through Sony Center, major e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart, as well as retailers such as Croma and Vijay Sales.

This 5.1 channel soundbar system delivers 600W of output with Dolby Digital technology and wireless rear speakers, creating an immersive surround sound experience. The setup includes a soundbar, subwoofer, and wireless rear speakers, offering cinematic audio without complicated wiring.

Even in 2026, the Sony HT-S40R is considered a strong value-for-money option for those seeking a reliable home theatre system with real surround sound and wireless convenience. While it lacks Dolby Atmos and its build feels somewhat plasticky, its punchy audio, easy setup, and balanced performance make it a solid mid-range choice for movies, gaming, and music.

Sony HT-S40R Problems: What You Should Know Before Buying

The Sony HT-S40R offers genuine 5.1-channel surround sound with wireless rear speakers, but it isn’t perfect. Based on owner feedback, Sony’s troubleshooting documentation, and independent reviews, there are several issues you should understand before buying.

1. Rear Speakers Can Sound Too Quiet

One of the more common complaints is that the rear speakers can seem relatively quiet, particularly with stereo or 2.0-channel content. They often contribute mainly background and directional effects rather than producing constant audio.

This isn’t necessarily a defect. You can increase the rear speaker level, reposition the speakers behind your seating position, and use suitable 5.1-channel content. The MULTI SPEAKER setting can also help produce sound through the available speakers.

Severity: Minor — usually fixable.

2. Rear Speakers May Experience Popping or Cutouts

Some verified owner reports describe popping from the rear speakers, while other complaints mention rear-speaker cutouts or difficult pairing with the wireless amplifier.

Occasional interference or connection problems may be fixable through repositioning and troubleshooting. However, persistent popping when there is no audio signal is more concerning.

If the problem continues after resetting the system and checking speaker placement, it may indicate a hardware or wireless connection problem. In that situation, replacement or warranty service is more appropriate than continued troubleshooting.

Severity: Potentially serious — consider warranty service if persistent.

3. The Rear Speakers Aren’t Completely Wireless

The HT-S40R’s rear speakers are described as wireless, but they still connect to a separate wireless amplifier using speaker cables. That amplifier also requires its own power connection.

This means you get much less cable running from the front of the room to the rear speakers, but you don’t get completely cable-free surround speakers.

Severity: Minor — but important to understand before buying.

4. HDMI ARC Can Cause Connection Problems

Some users may experience problems getting TV audio through HDMI ARC or getting the soundbar and TV to power on and off together.

Sony’s troubleshooting guidance recommends checking that the correct ARC HDMI port is being used, enabling HDMI-CEC/ARC settings, reconnecting the HDMI cable, and power cycling the devices.

If ARC remains unreliable with your TV, an optical connection can be a practical alternative.

Severity: Usually fixable.

5. Limited HDMI and Audio-Format Support

This is one of the biggest limitations to consider before buying. The HT-S40R has no HDMI input and provides one HDMI ARC output, so it cannot act as an HDMI passthrough hub.

It also supports Dolby Digital and 2-channel LPCM but does not provide Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, or surround LPCM support.

For a basic TV and movie setup, this may not matter. However, buyers with modern gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, or a Dolby Atmos setup should consider a newer soundbar.

Severity: Buying limitation — not a hardware fault.

6. Bluetooth Can Have Pairing Issues

Some owner feedback mentions Bluetooth pairing difficulties or unreliable connections. The system’s connection behavior can also cause confusion because Bluetooth and HDMI connections have limitations when used with compatible Sony TVs.

If Bluetooth isn’t connecting properly, re-pairing the device and selecting the correct Bluetooth input can help. Keep in mind that HDMI may need to be disconnected when using Bluetooth with a Sony TV in the affected configuration.

Severity: Usually minor and fixable.

7. Dialogue May Sound Soft for Some Users

Dialogue performance isn’t a confirmed hardware defect, but some reviews and owner feedback suggest that voices can occasionally sound softer than expected.

The system doesn’t provide independent centre-channel adjustment, which limits how much you can fine-tune dialogue separately from the rest of the soundtrack.

Some long-term owner feedback has also mentioned weaker dialogue after several years of use, although the available evidence isn’t enough to establish this as a widespread reliability problem.

Severity: Performance limitation — depends on the user and content.

8. Bass Can Be Too Strong for Some Content

The included subwoofer is one of the system’s strengths, but owner experiences are mixed. Some users enjoy the powerful bass, while others find that it can overpower vocals or make the overall presentation less balanced.

Fortunately, the subwoofer level can be adjusted separately, so this is generally something you can manage through the system’s settings.

Severity: Minor — usually adjustable.

9. Remote Problems Are Not a Major Established Issue

There are isolated owner reports involving unexpected muting, unmuting, or TV activation. However, the available evidence does not establish remote-control failure as a widespread HT-S40R defect.

If the remote stops responding, Sony’s basic troubleshooting recommendation is to check or replace the two AAA batteries. HDMI-CEC settings can also affect how the soundbar responds to TV commands.

Severity: Isolated complaint — not a major buying concern.

Are Sony HT-S40R Problems Serious?

For most buyers, the biggest concerns are not outright failures but design limitations and occasional connectivity issues.

The most important things to understand before buying are:

• Rear speakers may sound quieter than expected.
• The rear speakers require cables to a separate wireless amplifier.
• HDMI ARC can require troubleshooting with some TVs.
• There is no HDMI input or passthrough.
• Dolby Atmos and DTS:X are not supported.
• Bluetooth pairing can occasionally be problematic.
• Persistent rear-speaker popping or repeated cutouts may indicate a genuine hardware issue.

The available evidence does not establish a widespread long-term failure pattern for the HT-S40R. Some owners report continued reliable operation for years, while others have experienced specific issues. The strongest recurring hardware concern in the available feedback is persistent rear-speaker popping.

Should You Avoid the Sony HT-S40R?

Not necessarily.

If you mainly want an affordable 5.1-channel system for movies, TV, and gaming, and don’t need Dolby Atmos, HDMI passthrough, or advanced audio formats, most of the reported issues are manageable.

However, you should consider another soundbar if you specifically need:

• Dolby Atmos or DTS:X
• HDMI inputs for gaming consoles or Blu-ray players
• Completely wireless rear speakers
• Advanced audio-format support
• A more sophisticated dialogue or EQ system

If you already own an HT-S40R and experience persistent rear-speaker popping, repeated cutouts, or failure to maintain the wireless amplifier connection, resetting and checking placement may be worth trying first. If the problem continues, replacement or warranty service is the safer option.

Conclusion

In this Sony HT-S40R review, WE found the 5.1 channel system surprisingly immersive. The surround sound makes every movie night feel special. Setup is quick, and the wireless design keeps things neat. When compared with options like Zebronics 9550 Pro or JBL, the Sony felt more balanced and dependable. If you want cinematic sound without overspending, the HT-S40R is worth it.

How this review was evaluated

We analyzed the Sony HT-S40R’s specifications, verified customer feedback, compared it with competing soundbars, and assessed its performance for movies, music, gaming, and everyday TV use.