Devialet today announced the Dione, a $2,400 Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 Soundbar with built-in subwoofers and a center “ORB” speaker that can rotate depending on the installed position of the soundbar †via Gizmodo†† The French audio company calls it the “ultimate all-in-one soundbar” because it completely forgoes satellite speakers in favor of a virtual surround solution and has built-in subwoofers.
17 drivers are crammed into the three-inch thick profile of the Dione: eight of them serve as subwoofers, another eight for full-range audio and a central driver in the rotating sphere. The Dione also has a gyroscope that automatically corrects the sound orientation whether you mount the soundbar or lay it flat – no need to make that adjustment via the mobile app.
One thing that is not automatic is the sphere itself. To point the center speaker in the correct direction, you have to manually rotate the sphere with your hand. Yes, futuristic as it looks, the sphere isn’t motorized, which is a shame because soundbars like the Vizio Elevate have motors to redirect audio. In addition to reorienting the center speaker, the sphere serves as a visual distinction that matches Devialet’s other products, such as the spherical Phantom speakers.
The Dione’s main claim to fame is its proprietary chipset technology that includes features such as the energy-saving ADH (Analog Digital Hybrid) amplifier chip incorporated into the company’s Phantom speakers. The new soundbar adds a “Space” feature that can upscale stereo sound to virtual 5.1.2 audio channels and includes ADE (Advanced Dimensional Experience), which enhances the 3D immersion effect using audio beamforming.
Port-wise, the Dione has one HDMI 2.1 eARC port (with CEC), Ethernet, optical and AC power input on the bottom. The soundbar is also equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 and WiFi and can stream audio via AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect.
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The Dione’s price sets it against other premium soundbars, including the $2,499.95 Sennheiser Ambeo — which has a much more recognizable name and supports Chromecast, unlike Devialet’s offerings. The Amebo will also get a software update to match Dione’s AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect features, plus Tidal support. On paper, however, the Dione soundbar has four more drivers than the Ambeo and can be had for about $100 less.
If you’re already a fan of Devialet and how its products sound, or just want a sentry-esque sphere in your living room, you can pre-order the Dione soundbar today at select retailers or directly from the company’s site†