Want cinema-like sound without breaking the bank? Thomson's AlphaBeat60 soundbar promises just that, aiming to upgrade your TV audio experience with 60W of power and a dedicated subwoofer. But in a market flooded with budget soundbars, can Thomson AlphaBeat60 deliver more than just loud noise? Let's find out if this affordable audio upgrade is worth your attention.
Basic but functional
The AlphaBeat60 won't win any design awards, but it's not trying to. The 41cm wide main unit sports a minimalist black exterior with a metal grille front. At 6.6cm tall, it's compact enough to sit comfortably under most TVs without blocking the IR sensor. The wireless subwoofer follows the same understated design philosophy - a black box that does its job without drawing attention. The included remote control, while plastic, covers all the essential functions.
Cover modern basics
For a budget soundbar, the connectivity options are surprisingly complete. Bluetooth 5.3 takes center stage, offering stable wireless streaming with a decent 10-meter range. The inclusion of an AUX input and headphone jack provides flexibility for various setups. While it lacks modern touches like HDMI-ARC, the basic connections should suffice for most users upgrading from TV speakers.
Punching above its price
The 2.1 channel configuration, powered by 60W RMS output, delivers a noticeable upgrade over built-in TV speakers. The dedicated subwoofer adds welcome weight to action sequences and music, though don't expect earth-shattering bass at this price point.
The main unit handles dialogue clearly, and the 80dB signal-to-noise ratio keeps background hiss at bay. At moderate volumes, the sound remains balanced, though pushing it to maximum can introduce some harshness in the upper frequencies.
Living with it, how is it in daily use
Setting up the AlphaBeat60 is straightforward - plug in both units, pair via Bluetooth, and you're ready to go. The wireless subwoofer pairs automatically with the main unit, though occasionally it might need a manual reconnection.
The remote control handles all functions adequately, though the buttons could be more responsive. The outdoor usage capability is a nice bonus, letting you take the system to a patio or garden party if needed.
The bottom line
The Thomson AlphaBeat60 delivers exactly what it promises - a loud audio upgrade over TV speakers at a budget-friendly price point. Thomson has made smart compromises to hit an aggressive price of Rs 3,499. The lack of features like HDMI connectivity or room correction is offset by solid basic performance and essential connectivity options.
While it won't satisfy audiophiles or those seeking premium features, it hits the sweet spot for users wanting better sound without a significant investment. The combination of decent sound quality, wireless subwoofer, and modern Bluetooth connectivity makes it an attractive option in the entry-level soundbar segment.
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