For context I am a big Apple fan and not coming here just to hate. I’m also fairly embedded in the ecosystem with an Apple TV, AirPods, Mac, iPhone, etc.

I bought the HomePods per a recommendation from a friend and ever since I’ve regretted not just buying a sound bar instead. My list of grievances:

  • I’d expect plug in speakers at the size, price, and needing to get plugged into be louder and have more bass.
  • Nonstop connectivity issues that aren’t user friendly. Sometimes there’s a lag in connecting, sometimes I need to plug it out and plug it back in, sometime I want to connect to just my HomePods and not my Apple TV, and sometimes I want to be able to disconnect easily. Yes most of these things are doable but none of them are easy.
  • Even with an Apple TV I can’t play things like my Xbox audio through the HomePods because of no eArc and an older tv
  • This one isn’t technically Apple’s fault but serious lag with Spotify. Skipping songs or fast forwarding ads on podcasts is a pain

I honestly expected a lot more from Apple given the emphasis on quality and that I was paying a premium on these speakers. Had I known all of these friction points I would’ve opted for a Sony soundbar instead

  • bramblefish@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    11 months ago

    I will disagree with neg on HomePods, I have 2 series 1 in my bedroom, I find the sound superior to 3 soundbars I tried. I like my sound flat (not a bass head) and I find them very satisfying in that area. Yes they do not play super well with non Apple, but my lg tv, my Roku box and Apple TV all work fine.

    There us a distinct fullness the minis do not have - but come on tiny speakers physically are limited

    My experience anyhow