Panasonic vs Sony Bookshelf Speakers

Panasonic and Sony serve different purposes in the home. Panasonic's models here are compact hi-fi systems: the SC-HC302EBK slim system at £149, the SC-DM502EW Bluetooth stereo system at £249 and the SC-PMX802 premium hi-fi with DAB and CD at £549. Sony is built around BRAVIA Theatre, with the SASW7 wireless subwoofer at £249, the SARS8.CEJ rear speakers at £449, the PSLX3BT full automatic turntable at £299 and the PSLX5BT Bluetooth turntable at £399.

Panasonic keeps everything in one box. The SC-PMX802 offers hi-res streaming and DAB with CD playback, and the SC-PM702 adds 80W total stereo power, Bluetooth, USB and a 3.5mm input. Sony's approach is modular and wireless. The SASW7 is a 100W wireless subwoofer, and the SARS8.CEJ rear pair supports IMAX Enhanced sound, but both need a compatible Sony system and mains power. The PSLX5BT offers Bluetooth vinyl playback, so the two brands overlap mainly on Bluetooth.

Panasonic suits people who want a stereo system that is ready to use straight away, with CD, radio and Bluetooth and no separate AV receiver. It works well in bedrooms, kitchens and smaller living rooms. Sony suits TV-first households that already own a compatible Sony soundbar and want wireless rear speakers or extra bass. Anyone without BRAVIA kit should check compatibility before buying, because Sony's rear speakers and subwoofers only work with a compatible Sony system. Buyers who want a self-contained hi-fi should look at Panasonic first, while those planning a wider home cinema setup will find Sony's rear speakers and subwoofers more relevant.

Bottom line: choose Panasonic if you want a self-contained hi-fi with CD, radio and Bluetooth for a room without a TV setup; choose Sony if you already own BRAVIA Theatre kit and want wireless rear speakers, bass or a Bluetooth turntable.