Nakamichi unveils new Dolby Atmos soundbars with aptX HD support

Shockwafe Pro 7.2 eARC
(Image credit: Nakamichi)

Japanese audio specialist Nakamichi has expanded its 2022 Dolby Atmos soundbar line-up with two new models, both of which support Qualcomm aptX HD, enabling users to stream music via Bluetooth 5.0 at up to 24-bit quality. 

Superseding models initially launched in 2019, the Shockwafe Pro 7.1 eARC and Shockwafe Elite 7.2 eARC introduce a host of new upgrades and technology first developed for the brand's flagship Shockwafe Ultra 9.2 eARC soundbar at a lower price.

Both soundbars come with Nakamichi's Spatial Surround Elevation (SSE) MAX technology, upgraded speaker drivers and amplifier hardware. Adding HDMI eARC connectivity instead of ARC means that both bars can handle lossless Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. There's also support for Dolby Vision passthrough. 

The Shockwafe Pro 7.1 eARC includes a separate wireless subwoofer with a 10-inch driver, up from 8-inches previously. The new sub boasts a claimed 300 watts of peak output power and low-end extension down to 30Hz.

It's not just the bass bin that's had an overhaul. Nakamichi says every speaker in the system has been upgraded with twin-cone drivers and silk dome tweeters. The Shockwafe Pro 7.1 eARC also incorporates high output amplifiers that Nakamichi says can deliver up to 850W of total system power.

In addition to eARC with support for Dolby Atmos True HD and DTS:X, there are three HDMI inputs that can handle video sources with Dolby Vision HDR.  

For those looking for more bass from their bar, the Shockwafe 7.2 eARC comes with dual 8-inch subwoofers delivering 450 watts of power and bass extension down to 25Hz. The system has a claimed total power output of 1000 watts.

Like its sibling, the Shockwafe Elite 7.2 eARC includes upgraded drivers, Qualcomm aptX HD, eARC and three HDMI inputs.

Priced at $900 (around £760 / AU$1300), the Shockwafe Pro 7.1 eARC is available now. The Shockwafe 7.2 eARC is on track for a late September release and will retail for  $1300 (around £1100 / AU$1880). Although official pricing is only available for the US, Nakamichi offers global shipping via eBay.

MORE

Nakamichi's insane 9.2.4 Dolby Atmos soundbar is still reduced by $250 in the Labor Day sale

Should you buy a Dolby Atmos soundbar?

The 22 best Dolby Atmos movie scenes to test your home cinema surround sound system

Mary is a staff writer at What Hi-Fi? and has over a decade of experience working as a sound engineer mixing live events, music and theatre. Her mixing credits include productions at The National Theatre and in the West End, as well as original musicals composed by Mark Knopfler, Tori Amos, Guy Chambers, Howard Goodall and Dan Gillespie Sells. 

Read more
Nakamichi Shockwafe soundbar on a table below a TV
I've listened to Nakamichi's new Shockwafe 11.2.6 surround sound system – and it's easily the most bonkers soundbar of CES 2025
Sonos Arc Ultra soundbar
Best Dolby Atmos soundbars 2025: our reviewers' 5 recommendations
Samsung HW-Q990D soundbar system
The best Samsung HW-Q990D deals: save big on this Award-winning Dolby Atmos soundbar system
Sonos Arc Ultra soundbar
Samsung HW-Q990F vs Sonos Arc Ultra: which Dolby Atmos soundbar should you buy?
Samsung HW-Q990F soundbar package on a grey backdrop sitting below a TV
Samsung's 2025 flagship Dolby Atmos soundbar lineup includes a convertible model for different positions
a black soundbar and subwoofer from Philips
Philips’ new soundbar line-up features Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and stylish, discreet designs
Latest in Soundbars
Sonos Arc standing on a wooden unit beneath a TV screen
Stock of the Sonos Arc is starting to dry up – but there are still savings to be found on this Dolby Atmos soundbar
Samsung HW-Q990D soundbar system
JBL's premiere Dolby Atmos soundbar’s price has crashed – but this 5-star Samsung set-up is still better
Sony Bravia Theatre Bar 9
Sony's Dolby Atmos soundbars are half price with a TV purchase: but you should only consider these 2 combos
LG S70TY soundbar package
LG S70TY
Samsung HW-Q700F soundbar mounted on a wall with a plant in the foreground and subwoofer on the floor
Samsung HW-Q990F vs HW-QS700F: we compare the tech giant's 2 latest soundbars
Sony Bravia Theatre Bar 9
This five-star Dolby Atmos soundbar's price tag has dropped by £400
Latest in News
Q Acoustics 3050i
Save £650 on this five-star Q Acoustics 5.1 home cinema setup
Marantz Cinema 30 AVR
Our Award-winning reference Marantz AVR is still selling at its best price ever
Meze Audio Poet
Meze's open-back Poet cans arrive, and they want to bring your music alive
Side view of Marantz CD6007 on wooden rack with magazines in background
This Award-winning Marantz CD player is back at its Black Friday price
Sonos Arc standing on a wooden unit beneath a TV screen
Stock of the Sonos Arc is starting to dry up – but there are still savings to be found on this Dolby Atmos soundbar
A woman relaxing in an armchair clasping a mug, gazing admiringly at a yellow turntable and speakers on a hi-fi cabinet.
Pro-Ject's new hi-fi system adds a splash of colour to your vinyl listening