Philips’ Fidelio B5 is an innovative new take on a soundbar

Soundbars are one of the fastest growing segments in consumer audio, and Philips is hoping to stand out from the crowd with its innovative new Fidelio B5.

The Fidelio B5 is a 4.1 channel soundbar that can be split into three separate parts. The far-left and far-speakers are both detachable and can function as rear speakers for an ad-hoc surround sound system. Alternatively, the detached units can be used as portable Bluetooth speakers independently of the main soundbar.

When detached from the Fidelio B5, the two smaller speakers operate wirelessly and offer up to 10 hours of battery life. This drops to five hours when used as Bluetooth speakers.

"The Fidelio B5 is our most intelligent Soundbar to date as its intuitive capabilities enable it to cross over for a variety of applications in the home", said Tracey Duff, the ANZ Business Leader at Gibson Innovations, owner of Philips Sound.

A 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer is bundled with the Fidelio B5. 

The Philips Fidelio B5 retails for AUD$1,099.95 and will be available through Harvey Norman and JB Hi-Fi from August.