Some time ago I became aware of the Yamaha CS-800 soundbar that has a nice combination of features. It uses Artificial intelligence (AI) to integrate a 6-element microphone array, a 4K video camera, and a full-range speaker to provide a powerful conferencing system. They system has been around for almost 2 years now.
The microphone is actually a 6-unit array with beamforming capability. Using AI, the device can control width and depth of the reception area perceived by both camera and microphone. The system supports three modes: speaker tracking, individual tracking, or group modes. Audio and video information are used to determine the section of the space or meeting room where relevant participants are located and to direct the focus to that area. The CS-800 can automatically recognize faces in its distance of 18 feet. The newly developed Hexa-Microphone array not only discovers persons speaking but AI also eliminates distracting noises and sounds in the same vicinity.
A small circular Bluetooth remote control, powered by two button batteries, is used to set up and control the soundbar. That control also has a Mute button.
The soundbar is connected to a PC via USB-C cable and to a TV using HDMI A 5-meter USB-C to -A cable and a 2-meter HDMI cable are provided. A driver app may be required. Yamaha CS Manager software allows you to configure and operate the device from your computer. Video can come from a PC or from the soundbar. A table/wall mount bracket is provided and a separate mount can be purchased to physically connect the soundbar to the back of the TV.
