Summer’s almost here and the bars are all open. Well, soundbars at least. Yes, the audiophile selection of soundbars just keeps getting better. This week we hear about two new products from Definitive Technology: the Mythos XTR-SSA3 and Mythos XTR-SSA5.

The SSA3 ($799) product is a three channel system for left/center/right sound, while the SSA5 ($599) is a five channel system. Both still require a subwoofer. Neither are stand-alone units, meaning they don’t have their own amplification or processing and need to be connected to an A/V receiver.

The SSA5 is designed to create a virtual surround sound experience using Definitive Technology’s Spatial Array technology, while the three channel SSA3 uses the same technology to provide a wide soundstage.

Both units are extremely slime (4cm) and manufactured from extruded aluminum and come with their own wall-mount hardware and shelf stands.

Grant Clauser - Technology and Web Editor, Electronic House

Grant Clauser has been covering home electronics for more than 10 years with editorial roles in several consumer and trade magazines. He's done ISF-level damage to hundreds of reviewed products and has had audio training from Home Acoustics Alliance and Sencore. He's also the author of the book The Trouble with Rivers. Follow him on Twitter @geclauser.