After a 20-day journey across the ocean, my WISA SoundSend finally arrived. I couldn’t wait to unbox and set it up right away. Here’s the exciting part: for BeoLab systems, this little device is currently the only affordable way to unlock WISA functionality with third-party TVs, aside from B&O’s own televisions or the premium-priced AlMando preamp decoder.
Here’s the catch with B&O’s Lab series – when connecting to third-party TVs through the Core, you’re limited to wired or Bluetooth options (capped at 2.1 channel), missing out on Dolby and other advanced decoding. Wired connections turn volume control into a hassle, while Bluetooth means compromising on audio quality. To make matters worse, the new Core model comes with a hefty price tag, still lacks WISA support, and remains stuck at 2.1 channel output.
But this game-changing Core is different! It not only features HDMI eARC but also establishes a seamless wireless connection with the Lab series via WISA – no messy cables required, and it delivers stunning 7.1.2 channel audio.
After setting everything up, I did encounter one puzzling issue: while my BeoLab 18s perform flawlessly, the Lab 19 subwoofer stays silent during music playback – though it springs to life beautifully for movies and concert recordings from my NAS. I’m still troubleshooting this mystery.
This minor hiccup aside, the system delivers impressive performance. There’s a slight reduction in bass enhancement when in music mode, but the benefits completely overshadow this small compromise. Imagine the potential: a pair of Lab 20s upfront, BeoLab 18s handling rear surround duties, and the mighty Lab 19 subwoofer – now that would be an audio dream team!
Naomi Banks 
Willa Roberts 
Hazel Snyder
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