Hisense AX700 5.1.4 vs Sony HT-S40R 5.1ch
Quick Verdict
The Hisense AX700 is the better choice if you have an HDMI eARC TV and want Dolby Atmos on a tight budget. Its 5.1.4 channel layout, wireless subwoofer, and Bluetooth streaming are the main draws, but many specifications remain unpublished. The Sony HT-S40R is the better choice if you prefer a traditional 5.1 channel system with real rear speakers, a known 600 watt output, and optical or analog inputs for older devices. It skips Atmos and leaves subwoofer details unclear. Both models lack app and voice control, so control relies on basic remotes or TV CEC. Choose based on whether Atmos or rear speakers matter more.
| Spec | Hisense AX700 5.1.4 | Sony HT-S40R 5.1ch |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | 5.1.4 | 5.1ch |
| Drivers | Not published in listing | Not published in listing |
| Power | Not published in listing | 600W |
| Subwoofer | Wireless, included | Not published in listing |
| Dolby Atmos and DTS | Dolby Atmos: Yes. DTS: Not published in listing | Not published in listing |
| HDMI eARC and inputs | HDMI eARC: Yes. Number of HDMI inputs: Not published in listing | HDMI, Optical, Analog; eARC not specified |
| Wireless and streaming | Bluetooth: Yes. Wi-Fi: Not published in listing | Wireless connectivity for music streaming; protocol not specified |
| Dimensions | Not published in listing | Not published in listing |
| Remote and app | Not published in listing | Remote included; app support not specified |
| Included accessories | Not published in listing | Not published in listing |
Sound Quality
The Hisense AX700 and Sony HT-S40R both leave key audio specifications unpublished. The Hisense listing does not state driver sizes, amplifier power, or frequency response. The Sony listing also omits driver details and frequency response, but it does publish a total power output of 600 watts. This gives the Sony a clearer claimed output, but it does not fully resolve sound quality questions.
In the listing breakdown, the Sony scored 20 out of 30 for sound quality, while the Hisense scored 18 out of 30. That two point gap suggests the Sony may have a slight edge in overall audio tuning or output. The Hisense counters with a 5.1.4 configuration that includes height channels, which could improve vertical sound placement. Without driver or tuning data, buyers cannot directly compare clarity, distortion, or tonal balance.
The Sony includes rear speakers as part of its 5.1ch system, which typically helps with surround effects and dialogue clarity. The Hisense listing does not confirm whether separate rear speakers are included. Its 5.1.4 label implies five ground channels and four height channels, but the physical speaker arrangement is not described. That missing detail matters for buyers who want tangible rear channel audio.
Surround, Atmos and Audio Formats
The most significant format difference is Dolby Atmos. The Hisense AX700 explicitly lists Dolby Atmos support and a 5.1.4 channel layout. This means it can decode object based audio from compatible content over HDMI eARC. The Sony HT-S40R is a 5.1ch system and the listing does not mention Dolby Atmos or DTS:X. Buyers who want height effects should note that the Sony does not advertise them.
Neither listing confirms DTS decoding. The Hisense listing says DTS is not published, and the Sony listing does not mention DTS at all. Both models received a score of 9 out of 15 for Surround and Audio Formats. That identical score shows that the Hisense has Atmos but lacks confirmed DTS, while the Sony has traditional 5.1 with no modern object based formats.
The Sony includes real rear speakers for a conventional surround image. The Hisense does not confirm whether rear speakers are part of the package. If the Hisense uses only the bar for surround channels, buyers may not get the same rear channel separation as the Sony. Without a published speaker list, the Hisense rear channel implementation remains uncertain.
Subwoofer and Bass
The Hisense AX700 listing confirms a wireless subwoofer is included. Wireless placement is convenient because it removes a cable connection to the soundbar. However, the listing does not publish the subwoofer driver size, amplifier power, or frequency range. Bass depth and output remain unknown from the supplied data.
The Sony HT-S40R listing does not state whether a subwoofer is included or publish any subwoofer specifications. The system is labeled 5.1ch, which typically implies a subwoofer, but the listing does not confirm it. The only power figure for the Sony is 600 watts total, which likely covers the entire system rather than the subwoofer alone.
Because neither model publishes subwoofer details, buyers cannot compare bass response on paper. The Hisense has an advantage in that the wireless subwoofer is explicitly listed. The Sony leaves subwoofer inclusion and performance unclear, which is a larger information gap. Both buyers may need to seek external reviews or manufacturer documentation.
Connectivity and TV Setup
The Hisense AX700 includes HDMI eARC, which allows a single HDMI cable connection to a compatible TV and can carry Dolby Atmos from the TV's built in apps. The listing does not state the number of HDMI inputs on the soundbar. Bluetooth is listed for wireless audio streaming from phones and tablets. Wi-Fi is not mentioned.
The Sony HT-S40R offers HDMI, optical, and analog inputs, which makes it more flexible for older TVs and multiple source devices. The listing does not specify HDMI eARC, so object based audio from TV apps may not pass through as easily. Wireless connectivity for music streaming is mentioned, but the protocol is not identified.
In connectivity scores, the Hisense received 11 out of 15 compared to the Sony at 10 out of 15. The Hisense benefits from eARC and confirmed Bluetooth, while the Sony benefits from a wider array of physical inputs. Buyers with a new TV may prefer the Hisense for Atmos over eARC. Buyers with an older TV or several legacy devices may favor the Sony.
Features, Apps and Voice Control
The Hisense AX700 listing does not mention Wi-Fi, app control, or voice assistant support. It also does not confirm whether a remote control is included. Bluetooth is the only wireless feature listed. This limits convenient control and smart home integration for users who prefer app based settings.
The Sony HT-S40R includes a remote control with sound modes and dialogue enhancement. The listing does not specify app support or voice control. Without an app, owners must use the physical remote for all adjustments. That is practical but less modern than app controlled soundbars.
Both models scored below average in Features and Apps, with the Hisense at 9 out of 15 and the Sony at 8 out of 15. Neither offers a published app ecosystem, Wi-Fi streaming, or voice assistant compatibility. Buyers who want room correction, custom EQ, or hands free control will not find those features in these listings.
Design and Fit Under a TV
The Hisense AX700 listing does not publish physical dimensions for the soundbar, subwoofer, or any rear speakers. This makes it impossible to know if the bar will fit in front of a TV or if the subwoofer will fit in a typical living room. The design score of 9 out of 15 is moderate but based on limited information.
The Sony HT-S40R also does not publish dimensions. It is a 5.1ch system with rear speakers included, which means buyers need space for two separate rear speakers and possibly a subwoofer. The design score of 7 out of 15 suggests that the physical footprint or setup complexity may be a drawback for some.
Neither listing provides enough detail to judge clearance under a TV. The Hisense may have a slimmer bar due to the height channels integrated into the main unit, but that is speculation. Buyers concerned about fit should check product dimensions from another source before purchasing.
Who Should Buy It
Buy the Hisense AX700 if you want Dolby Atmos at a budget price and have a TV with HDMI eARC. It is also a fit for those who value a wireless subwoofer and Bluetooth streaming but can accept that the listing does not publish driver sizes, power output, frequency response, or dimensions.
Buy the Sony HT-S40R if you want a traditional 5.1 channel system with rear speakers included and straightforward connections like HDMI, optical, and analog. It is better for users who do not need Atmos or modern object based audio and who prefer a remote with sound modes and dialogue enhancement.
Avoid the Hisense if you require detailed specifications, DTS support, app voice control, or multiple HDMI inputs. Avoid the Sony if you want Dolby Atmos, a compact single bar design without rear speakers, or confirmation of subwoofer and driver details.
The Deciding Question
The deciding question between these two soundbars is whether Dolby Atmos matters more than a confirmed traditional surround speaker setup. The Hisense AX700 advertises a 5.1.4 channel layout with Atmos over HDMI eARC, but it leaves many specifications unpublished. The Sony HT-S40R clearly includes rear speakers and a 600 watt total power output, but it does not mention Atmos or DTS:X.
If you have a modern TV with eARC and you want object based height effects on a budget, the Hisense is the stronger choice on paper. If you have an older TV or you prefer physical rear speakers and can forgo Atmos, the Sony offers a more traditional 5.1 experience with color coded connections.
Both listings have significant gaps, so buyers may need to look beyond the provided specs to confirm subwoofer inclusion, driver quality, and dimensions before deciding.
Who Should Buy Which
Choose the Hisense AX700 5.1.4 if you want the most immersive audio format for the money and you have an HDMI eARC TV. It is the better pick for buyers who prioritize Dolby Atmos, a wireless subwoofer, and Bluetooth streaming, and who are willing to tolerate missing specifications like power output and driver sizes.
Choose the Sony HT-S40R 5.1ch if you want a budget system with actual rear speakers and a known 600 watt power rating. It is the better pick for buyers who do not need Atmos, who want multiple physical inputs including optical and analog, and who value a remote with sound modes.
In summary, the Hisense is for Atmos enthusiasts on a strict budget with a newer TV. The Sony is for traditional surround sound buyers with older or mixed equipment and a preference for speaker based rear channels.
Hisense AX700 5.1.4
Pros
- 5.1.4 channel configuration with Dolby Atmos at a budget price
- Wireless subwoofer included for flexible placement
- HDMI eARC simplifies connection to compatible TVs
- Bluetooth streaming from phones and tablets
- Atmos height channels may improve immersion over basic soundbars
Cons
- No published driver sizes, power output, or frequency response
- DTS decoding not mentioned
- No Wi-Fi, app control, or voice assistant support listed
- Number of HDMI inputs and physical dimensions unknown
- No included remote or accessories confirmed in the listing
Sony HT-S40R 5.1ch
Pros
- True 5.1ch with rear speakers included
- 600 watts total power output
- Color-coded connections simplify setup
- HDMI, optical, and analog inputs
- Remote with sound modes and dialogue enhancement
Cons
- Atmos and DTS:X not mentioned
- Subwoofer and driver specs not published
- No app or voice control listed
- Dimensions not published
- Wireless streaming protocol unspecified
Who Should Buy Each
Hisense AX700 5.1.4
- Budget conscious buyers looking for 5.1.4 channels and Dolby Atmos
- Users with a TV that supports HDMI eARC
- People who want simple Bluetooth music streaming without extra features
- Home theater beginners who prefer an all in one system
Sony HT-S40R 5.1ch
- TV viewers who want real rear surround channels
- Small to medium room setups
- Those who prefer a physical remote over an app
- Budget-conscious buyers upgrading from TV speakers
Quick Decision Guide
| If you have a TV with HDMI eARC and want Dolby Atmos on a budget. | Choose Hisense AX700 5.1.4 |
| If you want true rear speakers and a traditional 5.1 channel setup without Atmos. | Choose Sony HT-S40R 5.1ch |
| If you need multiple physical inputs like optical and analog for older devices. | Choose Sony HT-S40R 5.1ch |
| If you want a wireless subwoofer included and Bluetooth streaming. | Choose Hisense AX700 5.1.4 |
| If you want a published total power output rather than an unlisted one. | Choose Sony HT-S40R 5.1ch |
FAQ
About This Comparison
Mandrillis Team
The Mandrillis editorial team researches and compares audio and music gear using manufacturer documentation, verified specs and real buyer feedback, so you can make a confident purchase without wading through marketing claims.
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