Definitive Technology D17 Review

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Post on Dec 21, 2024

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Definitive Technology D17 Review: A Powerful Soundbar Experience?

Definitive Technology, known for its high-end audio solutions, launched the D17 soundbar, promising a premium home theater experience. But does it deliver on its ambitious claims? This in-depth review dives into the D17's performance, features, and overall value to help you decide if it's the right soundbar for your setup.

Design and Build Quality

The D17 boasts a sleek, minimalist design. Its low-profile form factor is perfect for those who prefer a less obtrusive soundbar. The build quality feels solid and premium, reflecting Definitive Technology's reputation for crafting durable products. The subtle brushed metal accents add a touch of elegance, making it a stylish addition to any living room.

Sound Quality: The Heart of the Matter

The D17's sound quality is where it truly shines. It produces a remarkably rich and detailed soundscape, especially considering its size.

• Bass Performance: Definitive Technology employs its patented BDSS (Bass Definition System) technology, resulting in surprisingly deep and powerful bass for a soundbar of this size. While a subwoofer isn't included, the D17 handles low frequencies with commendable authority, offering a satisfying and immersive low-end experience for most users. However, for those seeking earth-shattering bass, a separate subwoofer might be considered.

• Midrange and Treble: The midrange is clear and articulate, allowing vocals and instruments to be easily discernible. High frequencies are crisp and well-defined, avoiding any harshness or sibilance. The overall balance is well-tuned, delivering a pleasant and natural listening experience.

• Surround Sound: While not true surround sound without additional speakers, the D17 cleverly uses psychoacoustic processing to create a wider soundscape. The result is a more immersive experience than many comparable soundbars, although dedicated surround speakers will always offer a more precise and expansive soundscape.

Features and Connectivity

The D17 is equipped with a decent selection of features:

• HDMI eARC: This supports lossless audio formats, allowing you to enjoy high-resolution audio from compatible devices.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Stream music wirelessly from your smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
• Multiple Inputs: Offers a variety of connectivity options for different devices.
• Remote Control: The included remote is user-friendly and allows for easy control of volume, input selection, and other key functions.

However, it lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models, such as Dolby Atmos or DTS:X support.

Ease of Use and Setup

Setting up the D17 is straightforward. The included instructions are clear and concise, and the soundbar itself connects easily to your TV and other devices. The user interface is intuitive, making it easy to navigate the various settings and features.

Who is the Definitive Technology D17 For?

The D17 is an excellent choice for users seeking a premium soundbar experience without the complexity and expense of a full home theater system. It's ideal for those who value excellent sound quality, a sleek design, and ease of use. Its relatively compact size makes it suitable for smaller living rooms and apartments.

However, if you're an audiophile seeking the ultimate in sound quality or crave true immersive surround sound, you may want to consider higher-end models with dedicated surround speakers and Dolby Atmos support.

Conclusion

The Definitive Technology D17 delivers impressive sound quality and a stylish design at a competitive price point. While it might not tick every box for audiophiles, it's a strong contender in the mid-range soundbar market, providing a significant upgrade over most built-in TV speakers. Its solid build quality, easy setup, and impressive audio performance make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a significant improvement in their home audio experience.