The TCL P733W is on the starting line with a sound bar that is both very cheap and also has a wireless subwoofer in the box. And also with a handsome remote control with digital display on top.
The sound bar has a single HDMI connector with ARC audio return channel. Unfortunately, this one does not support the Dolby Atmos format, but has to make do with Dolby Audio. This means that, instead of taking the 5.1 surround sound track from a Dolby Digital sound source, it only takes the stereo track. Which is then scaled up to virtual surround sound.
In addition, the TCL plank has DTS Virtual:X. The soundbar has a 3.1 speaker configuration, meaning it has a dedicated center speaker. Already here, it is stronger than the Yamaha SR-B40A.
Photo: TCL
The sound of the TCL P733W
The war movie Nothing new from the Western Front need good with gunpowder to engage. And in a small living room, the P733W provides enough volume. We should certainly not claim that it reaches new heights in terms of sound level, but it does the job. The subwoofer is perceived as somewhat disconnected in the rest of the soundscape, but there is a bit of rumble and crash here, which means that the popcorn sits loosely on Blockbuster films.
Also read Atmos surround on a budget TCL provides one of the most affordable soundbars that can offer “real” Atmos sound with built-in height channels. And for the price it sounds really good!
The dialogues, on the other hand, are a bit thin, something not least the Netflix series Drive to Survive underlines. The surround effects don’t impress either. And on this range, with thundering engines and screeching rubber, a more energetic subwoofer is needed. Here it becomes a shy participant in the background.
What the dialogues lack in warmth and nuance, they make up for by being clear and distinct.
Photo: TCL
Music in stereo
If you are going to stream music to the soundbar, this must be done with Bluetooth, because it does not have a network connection.
In terms of sound, the TCL P733W struggles to find the rhythm with music in stereo. It never opens completely, the sound image lies like a straight line below ear level. Here the weaknesses become too obvious, this is a soundbar for TV use.
Photo: TCL
Conclusion
The TCL P733W is an example of how you don’t always get what you pay for – sometimes you get a little more. While it can’t compete with the bigger names in sound quality, it delivers respectable performance at a price that’s hard to ignore. In this price range, it’s a contender worth considering, especially for those looking for an affordable upgrade to their TV sound.
TCL P733W
Basic
Sound & Image means
An inexpensive entry to better sound in the TV room. The subwoofer adds extra power, and considering the price, this is a good package. Slightly thin dialogues, the subwoofer could have been better integrated. Not Dolby Atmos.
Recommended price NOK 3490
Specifications
- Width corresponds to screen size: 40”
- HDMI: 1 (eARC)
- Digital inn: Optical
- Network: In the
- Wireless: Bluetooth
- Voice control: In the
- Analog In: In the
- Subwoofer: Wireless
- Audio Formats: Dolby Audio, DTS:X
- Goal: 90 x 6,8 x 9,8 cm (B x H x D)
- Color: Sort
- Web: tcl.com
Also in this test:
6 soundboards in winter 2023
Still best in class
We’ve long considered the Sonos Beam the best compact soundbar. How does Gen 2 stack up against new competitors?
Clear, natural sound. Dolby Atmos gives an increased impression of grandeur. The advantages of Sonos’ multi-room system. Works well with Sub Mini, even better with Sub.
Lacks a bit of power all on its own. Even with the smallest wireless subwoofer, the price increase is substantial, and even greater with the sub we want – namely the Sonos Sub.
Lesson whole tests
Best without bass?
This soundbar from Sony plays excellently on its own – a subwoofer, on the other hand, can be an expensive upgrade.
The Sony HT-A3000 is a compact soundbar with rich sound and flexible upgrade options.
The Sony board has no height channels, which limits the 3D feeling somewhat.
Lesson whole tests
Disappointingly flat sound experience
The Yamaha SR-B40A soundbar made the test panel gape! Unfortunately, it was not out of admiration.
Subwoofer is included in the price. Supports Dolby Atmos.
The Yamaha SR-B40A has a user-friendliness that plays hide and seek, and a sound reproduction as flat as a pancake at Sunday brunch.
Lesson whole tests
Sound-wise upturn from Philips
This newcomer from Philips delivers a large sound image with juicy bass.
Philips TAB7908 delivers a large and rich sound image with powerful bass. The connection options are good, while a practical chart provides us with useful information.
The subwoofer is a “wild control” that can become a bit too powerful and loose on some music.
Lesson whole tests
Cool film sound at a good price
Samsung’s compact soundbar sounds impressively big for the price.
The Samsung HW-Q610C delivers a large and convincing sound image with plenty of detail and a high entertainment factor.
The Samsung plank isn’t particularly pretty to look at with its angular appearance, and has to make do without built-in Wi-Fi.
Lesson whole tests
2023-12-12 11:00:40
#TEST #TCL #P733W #Cheap #mixed #expected
