Sony SA-RS8 (set of 2)

With the SA-RS8, Sony offers a more accessible alternative to the SA-RS5 to complement its high-end soundbars. These wireless rear speakers drop the built-in battery and upward-firing drivers, but retain what matters most: 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology and seamless integration into the BRAVIA Theatre ecosystem. A pragmatic choice when permanent installation takes priority over flexibility.

A compact form factor that simplifies placement

The SA-RS8 features a cylindrical enclosure measuring 116 × 202 × 116 mm and weighing 1.1 kg per speaker. This smaller footprint compared to the SA-RS5 (145 × 134 × 250 mm, 2.4 kg) makes it easier to fit into tight spaces or on narrow furniture.

The design follows the visual language of the BRAVIA Theatre range, with rounded edges and a discreet grey Sony logo on the top surface. Sony recommends placing the speakers at height, above the soundbar level, to optimize spatial reproduction. Wall mounting brackets are included for this purpose, and the flat rear panel of the speakers allows flush installation against a wall.

Permanent mains power eliminates any concerns about battery life or recharging cycles. In return, you will need to ensure access to a power outlet near each speaker.

Two-way configuration and S-Master amplification

Each speaker integrates a 16 mm dome tweeter and a 46 × 54 mm woofer/midrange driver, mounted in a bass-reflex enclosure. The digital S-Master amplification delivers 50 W per speaker, for a total of 100 W for the pair.

This two-way configuration provides a clear separation between frequency ranges: the tweeter handles high frequencies and fine ambient effects, while the main driver handles vocals and mid-bass reproduction. The bass output is nonetheless less generous than on the SA-RS5, whose 70 × 82 mm woofer offers greater excursion.

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats are supported when the speakers are paired with a compatible soundbar.

360 Spatial Sound Mapping: virtual speakers throughout the room

360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology analyses the acoustics of the room using the soundbar’s microphones and creates “phantom” speakers distributed throughout the listening space. In practice, the system simulates additional sound sources by manipulating the phase and level of each channel, creating the impression that sound is coming from points where no physical speaker is installed.

The exact number of virtual speakers generated depends on the soundbar being used. The BRAVIA Theatre Bar 8 and Bar 9 make full use of this technology, while the HT-A7000, HT-A5000, and HT-A3000 models offer more limited configurations but remain fully compatible.

This approach works best in small to medium-sized rooms, where natural wall reflections reinforce the spatial effect. In large open spaces, the illusion may diminish.

Wireless connectivity and setup via the BRAVIA Connect app

The SA-RS8 connects to compatible devices via Sony’s Wireless Sound protocol, which is distinct from standard home Wi-Fi. The connection nonetheless uses Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) bands to ensure low latency and precise synchronization with the soundbar. Bluetooth is also present for secondary uses.

Initial setup is handled through the BRAVIA Connect app, available on iOS and Android. The app guides the user through the pairing steps, launches the acoustic calibration process, and allows the rear speaker volume levels to be adjusted independently from the rest of the system. Once installation is complete, settings are accessible directly from the menu of compatible BRAVIA televisions.

Network standby activates automatically after 20 minutes of inactivity, with a residual consumption of 1.8 W. Full shutdown drops to 0.3 W.

Compatibility: Sony soundbars and AV amplifier

The SA-RS8 works exclusively within the Sony ecosystem. Compatible soundbars include the BRAVIA Theatre Bar 9, Theatre Bar 8, HT-A7000, HT-A5000, and HT-A3000. The TA-AN1000 AV amplifier also supports these speakers.

For owners of HT-A soundbars, a firmware update may be required to enable compatibility with the SA-RS8. The BRAVIA Connect app automatically checks for and prompts any required updates.

Sony wireless subwoofers (SA-SW3, SA-SW5) can be added to the system to reinforce low frequencies, independently of the choice of rear speakers.

SA-RS8 or SA-RS5: two different approaches

The SA-RS8 is not a direct replacement for the SA-RS5, but an alternative for different use cases. The SA-RS5 retains its own advantages: a built-in battery offering up to 10 hours of use, an upward-firing driver to enhance height Atmos effects, and greater power output (180 W vs. 100 W).

The SA-RS8 is aimed at fixed installations where mains power is not a constraint. Its more compact form factor and lower price make it a relevant choice for adding rear channels without investing in the additional features of the higher-end model.

Both products can coexist in Sony’s lineup: the SA-RS5 for configurations where flexibility and maximum performance matter, and the SA-RS8 for permanent installations and tighter budgets.

Technical Specifications

Amplifier

• Type: S-Master digital amplifier
• Amplification channels: 4 channels (left: 2 channels + right: 2 channels)
• Total output power: 100 W (left: 50 W + right: 50 W)

Speaker Layout

• Speaker structure: rear speaker

Dimensions and Weight

• Rear speaker dimensions (W x H x D): 116 x 202 x 116 mm
• Rear speaker weight: 1.1 kg

Power Consumption

• Approximate power consumption: 20 W
• Power consumption in off mode: 0.3 W
• Power consumption in standby mode / low power mode: not available
• Power consumption in networked standby mode: 1.8 W (wireless sound features, Bluetooth, all terminals and networks connected)

Energy Saving Features

• Off mode / standby mode / low power mode activation: after 20 minutes
• Networked standby mode activation: after 20 minutes (Bluetooth connection)
• Wireless network(s) on/off switch: press the LINK button five times

Box Contents

• Warranty card, power cable, reference guide

General Information

• Product type: wireless rear speaker with integrated S-Master digital amplifier
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless network