With a portable design, the Yamaha SR C30 presents excellent value for budget-conscious customers who enjoy dialogue-centric content. It comes with EQ presets and app support, but the narrow soundstage and average surround capabilities limit the movie immersion experience.
Launched in 2022, the Yamaha SR C30A is a budget-friendly 2.1-channel soundbar with a portable design. For connectivity, the soundbar includes HDMI ARC and Optical ports for wired TV connections, along with wireless Bluetooth support for streaming music.
Yamaha’s exclusive Clear Voice technology puts emphasis on dialogue, and based on your content, you can switch between the four different sound modes (stereo, standard, game, and 3D movie). However, this model doesn’t support Dolby Atmos, limiting you to Dolby Audio and Dolby Pro Logic II. Like the best speakers, you can control the bar with an included remote control and SB remote app, and the Adaptive Low Volume Technology ensures clear sound reproduction even at lower volumes. Discover our full list of the best soundbars here.
Consensus
our Verdict
Connectivity-wise, the Yamaha SR C30A includes HDMI ARC, two Optical ports, and Bluetooth support, and its subwoofer has a pairing button to connect wirelessly. The audio is crackle-free, but there is slight latency with the Optical connection. Featuring a compact design, it lacks an expansive soundstage, and its 2.1-channel setup means the surround performance is mediocre for adrenaline-pumping action scenes.
There is no Dolby Atmos, but the remarkably high-frequency range creates crisp treble sounds, and the mid-range ensures distinct and detailed dialogues. The bass, however, slightly lacks depth. There is an included tactile remote for adjusting sound modes, the bar’s thick grille wrap ensures durability, and commands are responsive. With four EQ presets, you can seamlessly adjust sounds, and the SB remote app enables prompt control access.
Reason to Buy
Good connectivity options
Clear dialogues
Durable build
4 EQ presets
App compatibility
Reason to Avoid
Slightly high latency via Optical
Relatively narrow soundstage
Mediocre surround performance
Less extended bass
Yamaha SR-C30A Specs
Bluetooth Enabled
Yes
Depth
3.75"
Dialogue Enhancement Feature
No
Energy Star Certified
No
HDMI ARC
Yes
Height
2.5"
Number of Audio Channels
2.1
Subwoofer
Build-in
Surround Sound Supported
3D Sound Plus, Dolby Digital
Voice Assistant
No
Wall Mountable
Yes
Weight
15.5 lbs
Width
3.75"
Wireless Connectivity
–
Wireless Subwoofer Connectivity
–
Works With
–
All Specs
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Product Comparison
Yamaha SR-C30A Review
True Score
84
NR
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Ranking
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149
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Market Context
Launched in 2022, the Yamaha SR C30A is a budget-friendly 2.1-channel soundbar with a portable design. For connectivity, the soundbar includes HDMI ARC and Optical…
Launched in 2022, the Yamaha SR C30A is a budget-friendly 2.1-channel soundbar with a portable design. For connectivity, the soundbar includes HDMI ARC and Optical ports for wired TV connections, along with wireless Bluetooth support for streaming music.
Yamaha’s exclusive Clear Voice technology puts emphasis on dialogue, and based on your content, you can switch between the four different sound modes (stereo, standard, game, and 3D movie). However, this model doesn’t support Dolby Atmos, limiting you to Dolby Audio and Dolby Pro Logic II. Like the best speakers, you can control the bar with an included remote control and SB remote app, and the Adaptive Low Volume Technology ensures clear sound reproduction even at lower volumes. Discover our full list of the best soundbars here.
Both the Yamaha ATS 2090 and Yamaha SR C30A are 2.1-channel soundbars, but the ATS 2090 offers WiFi connectivity, whereas the SR C30A does not….
Both the Yamaha ATS 2090 and Yamaha SR C30A are 2.1-channel soundbars, but the ATS 2090 offers WiFi connectivity, whereas the SR C30A does not. Moreover, ATS 2090 supports DTS:X to enhance height perception, but you won’t find that on the SR C30A. For a 2.1 soundbar suitable for PC gaming, read our Creative Sound BlasterX Katana review.
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The Sony HT X8500 has built-in dual subwoofers, while the Yamaha SR C30A comes with a separate subwoofer. The Sony model supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, whereas the Yamaha isn’t compatible with advanced sound features. However, the Yamaha SR C30A offers a more balanced sound profile right out of the box, whereas the Sony HT X8500’s profile can be slightly dark and boxy. And if you’re seeking a tiny but powerful subwoofer, check out this Artison RCC Nano 1 review.
While both the Polk Magnifi Mini AX and Yamaha SR C30A are compact, the Polk Magnifi Mini AX is a 3.1-channel setup, and the Yamaha…
While both the Polk Magnifi Mini AX and Yamaha SR C30A are compact, the Polk Magnifi Mini AX is a 3.1-channel setup, and the Yamaha SR C30A is a 2.1-channel setup. Additionally, the Yamaha SR C30A’s app support makes it easier to control the soundbar, but the Polk Magnifi Mini AX does not have this feature. To learn more about the Polk model, read our Polk Magnifi Mini AX review.
