The best soundbars, tested and reviewed

It’s more affordable than ever before to take your home media viewing experience to new heights thanks to streaming services, smart TVs, and soundbars. With this increased content availability enriched by new surround sound audio formats, a whole new world of entertainment possibilities comes to light. One of the easiest, most space-efficient ways to drastically improve the quality of your TV (or 4K projector) audio is by upgrading to a soundbar to give you sound as vivid as the 4K video you’re probably enjoying. The top soundbars are compact, quick to install, and an unbeatable way to present your movies, music, and video games with elevated volume, clarity, and immersion. And many of them—like our best overall, the Sennheiser AMBEO Plus—sound great on their own but can be expanded with matching subs and satellites if you decide you want a bigger home theater experience down the road. If you’re looking for a quick and cost-effective way to upgrade your home theater system, we’ll help you find the best soundbars to do the job.

How we chose the best soundbars

We’re nerds about everything here at PopSci, but audio is especially special to us. The PopSci writers and editors even include a few certified audiophiles, so we know a solid speaker when we see it. We used a mixture of online research and hands-on experience to survey dozens of models on the market. We were looking for the right mix of fidelity, features, and price.

Most of the items on this list are relatively affordable, and that’s by design. There are some ultra-high-end multi-speaker Dolby Atmos and wireless surround options, but a components system is specific to very demanding users. If you’re looking to get into the soundbar world, these are great models to get you started and upgrade your TV’s puny audio performance.

The best soundbars: Reviews & Choice

Every living room, bedroom, and home theater is different, making finding the right soundbar frustrating. Our recommendations—both standalone units and soundbar + subwoofer combos—span various sizes and prices, so you can find the one that suits your space and budget. Unlike a traditional speaker system with an A/V receiver, a soundbar usually requires only a single connection to your television to switch between sources. These systems are often Bluetooth-compatible from the get-go, so you can also sync your tablet, phone, and other streaming devices. They’re versatile but able to fit into almost any room. However, we also focused on finding soundbars designed to work with additional speakers, allowing you to upgrade your home theater system over time as your budget and space change.

Best overall: Sennheiser AMBEO Plus

Why it made the cut: If you prize dynamic tonality, this is the premier soundbar … with a premium price tag.

Specs

• Dimensions: 41.38 x 4.76 x 3.03 inches
• Surround sound: Simulated 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos
• Subwoofer: Built-in, with an additional wireless subwoofer sold separately

Descended from the Sennheiser AMBEO Max, a 40-pound behemoth of a soundbar, the AMBEO Plus is a $1,499 indulgence that’s not quite as extravagant as its predecessor yet remains nearly as affecting. Featuring seven full-range speakers and dual 4-inch subwoofers in its rounded-off chassis, the 14-pound Plus can virtualize a 7.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos system with striking clarity and precise imaging thanks to proprietary processing (an AMBEO batch physically lights up on the soundbar whenever engaged).

Coming from a venerable brand renowned for audiophile headphones imbued with rich midrange and spacious staging, the AMBEO Plus is every bit a Sennheiser. It’s sonically expressive without even a tinge of artificiality and technically adept enough to conjure every directional cue, even height effects—helped by an automated calibration system. A well-appointed Smart Control app (iOS and Android) lets you tweak soundfield effects, voice enhancement, voice assistants, night mode, EQ, and more, plus view information on your connections/audio streams. Whether watching movies or listening to music, the 400W AMBEO Plus is adept at scale and strength, preserving detail without sacrificing impact—bass reaches nearly 40Hz. The original 13-driver AMBEO—aka the rebranded Max—is still superior in terms of gripping slam and dazzling reflections (and $1,000 more expensive), as the AMBEO Plus folds channels in more like a 5.1.2. Still, the rumble gap narrows noticeably if you pair the AMBEO Plus with the wireless 8-inch 350W Sennheiser AMBEO Subwoofer.

In terms of connectivity, there any multiple HDMI ports with 4K Dolby Vision passthrough, though not 120Hz for gaming. Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Sony 360 Reality Audio are all decoded, and Bluetooth 5.0, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, and Chromecast give you access to content from basically any and every source. Yes, the AMBEO Plus is the most expensive soundbar in our selection, but it’s undeniably the best all-in-one soundbar to transform a room with limited room. Investing in an OLED TV warrants audio that matches its vibrancy. The Bose TV Speaker is a top choice for a compact sound system. Its pros include a compact size, selectable sound modes, and voice enhancement. With dimensions of 4.02 x 23.38 x 2.21 inches and no surround sound or subwoofer, this speaker focuses on delivering great sound without taking up much space.

The Bose TV Speaker features a three-driver audio system that provides excellent dialogue enhancement. While it may not have the stereo separation of longer soundbars, it offers a wide soundstage. You can enhance the sound further by adding a Bose wired subwoofer. The TV Speaker can be connected to your TV via HDMI or optical audio cables, and it also has an AUX input and Bluetooth support for streaming music.

While the TV Speaker lacks support for Amazon’s Alexa, it packs many features found in higher-end soundbars. If you’re in need of a compact audio system without smart home control, this is the soundbar for you.

For a more immersive experience, consider the Samsung HW-T550 2.1ch Soundbar. With dimensions of 33.9 x 3 x 2.3 inches, Dolby Audio and DTS: Virtual X surround sound, and a wireless subwoofer included, this soundbar offers great sound quality and AI-driven sound adjustments. It supports DTS: Virtual X for simulated surround sound, and Samsung’s Smart Sound technology automatically adjusts performance based on the content you’re watching.

Lastly, the JBL Bar 700 is best for those seeking a true 5.1 surround sound experience. With dimensions of 4.7 x 46.2 x 2.2 inches, 5.1 Dolby Atmos surround sound, and a wireless subwoofer included, this soundbar stands out with its detachable, battery-powered speakers that provide an authentic surround sound experience. The Bar 700 delivers a true multi-speaker system for an immersive audio experience. All speakers in this setup are connected wirelessly to a 10-inch subwoofer, providing just the right amount of bass to enhance the overall sound quality without being overly booming. Initially, I had doubts about the effectiveness of this system, but its 620W of convenient cinematic sound proved to excel in every test.

It’s important to note that the Bar 700 is quite long when the rear speakers are attached, so make sure your media center or credenza has enough space to accommodate it. Ideally paired with a TV of at least 55 inches in size, this soundbar can be easily connected via HDMI eARC, with an additional HDMI input supporting 4K and Dolby Vision pass-through. The center channel’s separation from the right and left speakers ensures clear dialogue even in scenes with a lot of action. The center driver’s quality allows for distinct differentiation between different voices, even if they speak in the same register.

Concerns about the hassle of attaching and detaching the rear speakers were unfounded, as JBL’s magnetic attachment mechanism makes the process smooth and secure. The setup procedure using JBL’s app eliminates any issues with audio desynchronization, ensuring a seamless experience. Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 and WiFi capabilities, the Bar 700 Wi-Fi features AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, and Chromecast built-in, allowing for easy music/content casting from your phone. Customizable modes, voice assistant, and EQ settings can be adjusted using the JBL app.

For those seeking a surround sound system with discrete rear speakers but limited space or outlets, the Bar 700 offers an excellent solution. The modular speaker system allows for easy setup and reassembly, with the flexibility to recharge the batteries as needed. For those looking to elevate their audio experience even further, the JBL 1300X offers an 11.1.4-channel soundbar with detachable surround speakers and a wireless subwoofer, albeit at a higher price point.

The Sonos Arc Ultra is a standout choice for music enthusiasts and cinephiles alike, offering a future-proofed soundbar with impressive features. With dimensions of 4.35 x 46.18 x 3.13 inches, the Arc Ultra supports simulated standalone or true Dolby Atmos surround sound with additional components. While the wireless subwoofer is sold separately, the system can accommodate up to two.

Four years in development, the Arc Ultra represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor, boasting improved bass performance and overall audio quality. The addition of Sound Motion technology enhances low-end frequencies, contributing to a more immersive listening experience. The soundbar’s crisp and coherent presentation extends to stereo and surround sound modes, with spatial audio providing a truly captivating experience. Supporting a wide range of audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, the Arc Ultra excels in delivering rich, dynamic sound across various media formats. Additional Sonos speakers and a subwoofer can further enhance the audio experience, making the Arc Ultra a versatile and high-performing option for home theater setups. Pair any generation of Sub or Sub Mini with a Gen. 3 or 4 if you want a dual-subwoofer setup. The Sonos Arc Ultra is a worthwhile investment for those seeking an all-in-one home theater system with room for expansion. Keep in mind that the Arc Ultra is wide at 46 inches, so consider your available surface space. While it only has one HDMI eARC port, console gamers likely have a TV with a dedicated slot already.

We had the opportunity to test the Arc Ultra with Sonos’ new Ace headphones, which feature a function that allows you to transfer audio from the soundbar to your ears. The Ace headphones support spatial audio, including head tracking, providing an immersive experience for music and movie soundtracks with a Dolby Atmos mix.

For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Roku Streambar Pro. It offers features that you typically only find in soundbars priced much higher. With built-in 4K media streaming capability, the Streambar Pro can turn an older TV into a smart one, making it a great value. The sound quality of the Streambar Pro is surprisingly good, with clear vocals and stereo separation that surpass expectations for its price point.

When choosing a soundbar, consider the size that best fits your space and aesthetic preferences. Smaller soundbars can still offer powerful sound without compromising on features like Bluetooth connectivity and subwoofers. Additionally, think about the type of surround sound you prefer, with Dolby Atmos being a popular choice for immersive audio experiences.

Lastly, balance tuning and power are crucial factors to consider when selecting a soundbar. Look for a model that offers both high wattage and maximum volume while also providing clear and intelligible dialogue. The tuning of a soundbar can greatly impact the audio quality in your home environment, so choose a model that offers a balanced sound profile. If you aren’t investing in high-quality sound treatment for your theater room, you may experience unwanted resonances that can worsen audio quality. This is especially noticeable at higher volumes, making it essential to choose a tuned soundbar system for loud listening or smaller spaces. A properly tuned soundbar enhances dialogue clarity, maintains impactful action sequences without being overly loud, and reduces the need for constant volume adjustments. If you’re facing these issues, a tuned soundbar is the ideal solution.

### Is your home a smart one?

Smart home systems like Alexa and Google Home have revolutionized daily living by offering voice control integration for various home appliances. Considering the entertainment center is a central part of home life, opting for a soundbar system with voice control compatibility is beneficial. This feature allows you to enjoy high-volume media while still being able to interact with your smart devices effortlessly. A voice control-enabled soundbar serves as an advanced smart home speaker, offering convenience and space-saving benefits.

### Do you want to connect to Bluetooth?

Bluetooth connectivity is a valuable feature in soundbars, enabling wireless streaming of audio from your devices to the speaker system. This capability enhances your listening experience, especially if your TV lacks a built-in Bluetooth receiver. Using a soundbar with Bluetooth connectivity is a significant upgrade over traditional portable speakers.

### Do you need to connect multiple devices?

HDMI is a commonly used interface for soundbars to receive audio from TVs and other devices. Having multiple connectivity options is essential if you use various sources like Blu-ray players and gaming consoles. It’s crucial to ensure your soundbar has enough connectivity to support your needs efficiently. While increased connectivity may come at a higher cost and size, it offers flexibility and convenience in managing multiple devices.

### FAQs

– **Q: Are soundbars worth it?**
Yes, soundbars are a good compromise for enhancing TV audio when space is limited.

– **Q: Are soundbars compatible with any TV?**
Yes, soundbars are compatible with all TVs through HDMI or optical audio connections.

– **Q: Do soundbars support Dolby Atmos?**
More soundbars are beginning to support Dolby Atmos, but it’s not yet a standard feature.

– **Q: How much does a soundbar cost?**
Soundbar prices vary based on size, features, and audio quality, with options available for various budgets.

### Final thoughts on the best starter soundbars

Investing in a soundbar can significantly improve your home theater experience, offering easy setup and maintenance. With a wide range of options available, there’s a soundbar to suit every budget and requirement, from compact single-bar systems to full surround sound setups. When searching for a soundbar system, it is important to take into account the size of your space and the connectivity requirements of your home theater. This ensures that the add-on you choose enhances your cinematic experience to the fullest.

The PopSci team has extensively tested numerous products and dedicated countless hours to curate a selection of the best gear and gadgets available for purchase. Their expertise can help you make informed decisions when selecting the right soundbar system for your home theater setup. Please rewrite the following sentence:

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