Rating of the TOP 12 best sound bars by sound quality: which one to choose, characteristics, pros and cons of models


Modern TVs due to their thin design have a significant drawback - the sound of the speakers built into them leaves much to be desired.

One solution to this problem is to purchase a soundbar .

Let's figure out what it is, what nuances to pay attention to when choosing, which models are the best today from the point of view of experts. Let's learn about the main characteristics, advantages and disadvantages, and also turn to consumer reviews.

Rating of the TOP 12 best sound bars by sound quality

PlaceModelPrice
The best soundbars for 2.1 sound quality
#1Polk Audio Signa S2
#2Denon DHT-S316
#3JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass
#4LG SJ3
Models with 3.1 configuration
#1Samsung HW-T650
#2Sony HT-ZF9
#3Samsung HW-Q800T
Soundbars with 4.1 configuration
#1LG SN5R
#2LG SNH5
The best soundbars for 5.1 sound
#1JBL Bar 5.1 Surround
#2LG SL10Y
#3Sony HT-S700RF

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Denon DHT-S316

  • system 2.1
  • soundbar
  • total power 160 W
  • remote control

Denon DHT-S316 and a 40 cm wide TV seem to be made for each other. Despite its modest size and only two channels, the sound of the Denon DHT-S316 is very good. Of course, you can’t expect super-powerful deep bass from it, but overall it’s very pleasant – balanced and, so to speak, delicate.

In the “Cinema” mode, the sound is complemented by surround effects. And besides “Cinema”, there are also special modes for music, voices, for viewing at night...

The device has a separate subwoofer, wireless. There is also a remote control, but it is not really needed, since when connected via the analog input, the device turns on and off itself synchronously with the TV. And you can adjust the volume using the TV remote control.

Pros : sound/quality ratio, controllability via TV remote control, Bluetooth.

Cons : if the remote control for the device is lost or broken, it is almost impossible to find a new one.

Soundbar selection criteria

For your information! The acoustics in question are made in a form factor that allows you to install it in front of the TV on a shelf or hang it on the wall under it.

Some models have a floor-standing design. In addition, should be considered :

  • Receiver. An amplifier, sound processor, power supply, interfaces and other electronic components can be built into the soundbar - such acoustics are active. In the case of the passive option, the receiver will need to be purchased separately. Active soundbars are more compact and convenient - all the models discussed in the review are just that.
  • Subwoofer . The device responsible for the low-frequency component in the soundbar can be either built-in or external. If compactness is required (at the expense of bass depth and power), you should opt for the first option. Remote active subwoofers are much more convincing in terms of transmitting low frequencies, but they take up additional space in the room.
  • Configuration. The quality and character of its sound as a whole depends on how many channels are implemented in the speaker system. Theoretically, the more channels, the more interesting and voluminous the sound. There are devices on sale with different configurations - 2.0, 2.1, 3.1, 4.1, 5.1, 7.1 and even 9.1 (plus variations 7.1.2, 5.2, etc.). The first number means the number of main channels (front + center + rear), the second – the presence and number of subwoofers.
  • Connectors. The multitude of interfaces in active soundbars turns such speaker systems into multifunctional devices. Simple models are usually equipped only with standard audio jacks and USB ports, to which you can connect external media with music. More advanced devices additionally have an optical input and HDMI connectors on board. This provides the listener with high-quality sound and the ability to broadcast multi-channel audio.
  • Wireless technologies. Provide additional ease of use. Bluetooth allows you to play tracks on the soundbar from a mobile device, or use a tablet or smartphone (using special applications) as a means of controlling the speaker system. Wi-Fi makes it possible to organize a network and broadcast content in high quality wirelessly. NFC enables over-the-air audio streaming.
  • Power. The most important criterion when choosing a soundbar. The higher the total power of the speakers, the louder (and in many cases clearer) the sound bar will sound. A 100–200 W acoustic system is suitable for sounding a medium-sized room. It is recommended to choose a device with a power reserve.

What if it's not a movie?

For listening to music, I prefer a classic stereo system. Multichannel systems introduce too much synthetics into ordinary musical compositions; it’s good that when listening to music in the background, this is almost unnoticeable. However, multi-channel concert recordings are now available and they work great in a system like this. Samsung HW-Q950A demonstrated excellent power reserves. The sound is comfortable, even at high volume levels. Thanks to the large number of reflections, the sound image is very voluminous and light.

The best soundbars for 2.1 sound quality

2.1 soundbars are a set of front stereo speakers and a subwoofer.

Note! Acoustics with this configuration do not allow you to get a real spatial sound effect (only emulation).

The best sound bars in terms of sound quality in 2-1 format according to customer reviews and ratings.

Polk Audio Signa S2

The Polk Audio Signa S2 TV soundbar will provide its owner with incredibly surround sound, comparable to the level of a home theater, and far superior to the capabilities of the built-in TV speakers.

The package includes an HDMI cable, with which the user can quickly and effortlessly connect the device.

Polk's proprietary Voice Adjust technology ensures clear speech reproduction, while Dolby Digital decoding system makes high-definition sound more spacious and even immersive.

The wireless subwoofer unit will provide the listener with deep bass.

Main characteristics:

  • output power (total) - 200 W;
  • front emitter - 120 W, 900 × 55 × 82 mm, 1.7 kg;
  • subwoofer - 80 W, 171 × 340 × 310 mm, 5.2 kg;
  • connection - linear stereo input, optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
  • Features: Dolby Digital support, remote control.

Advantages

  • detailed and surround sound;
  • convenient night mode;
  • acoustic fabric trim;
  • HDMI and SPDIF cables included;
  • Auto shutdown when there is no signal.

Flaws

  • lack of display;
  • easily soiled body;
  • high price.

Denon DHT-S316

Featuring a remote 80-watt subwoofer and a wall-mounted soundbar with similar output, the Denon DHT-S316 is an ideal speaker system for home use.

The equipment supports wireless communication via Bluetooth with the ability to play audio content from any mobile device.

The device, thanks to its high total output power, provides loud and high-quality sound reproduction when watching videos.

The soundbar is connected to the TV via HDMI.

The presented acoustics support surround sound formats; the functionality is controlled by the remote control.

Main characteristics:

  • output power (total) - 160 W;
  • front emitter - 80 W, 900 × 55 × 82 mm, 1.8 kg;
  • subwoofer - 80 W, 170 × 312 × 340 mm, 5.2 kg;
  • connection - linear stereo input, optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
  • Features: Dolby Digital/DTS support, remote control.

Advantages

  • stylish design;
  • compact dimensions;
  • high quality of assembly and materials;
  • there is a possibility of mounting on the wall;
  • powerful, high-quality sound.

Flaws

  • lack of WI-FI;
  • auto shutdown when there is no command via Bluetooth;
  • Not the most convenient remote control.

JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass

The JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass model, with its high output power and multi-channel sound playback, is an ideal solution for organizing a home theater.

The set of the front panel and remote subwoofer is made in accordance with the 2.1 configuration.

High-quality materials of the speaker housings prevent the occurrence of vibrations and acoustic resonance phenomena.

The device is connected to the TV with an HDMI cable, and it is also possible to synchronize the speakers with other devices via Bluetooth.

The system can be mounted both on the wall and on a shelf.

Main characteristics:

  • output power (total) - 300 W;
  • front emitter - 100 W, 965 × 58 × 85 mm, 2.16 kg;
  • subwoofer - 200 W, 240 × 379 × 240 mm, 5.67 kg;
  • connection - linear stereo input, optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
  • Features: Dolby Digital support, remote control.

Advantages

  • ease of installation;
  • fast synchronization with TV;
  • powerful sound of the system as a whole;
  • convenient wireless connection interface.

Flaws

  • does not “connect” with all Bluetooth adapters;
  • insignificant blockage at mid frequencies;
  • heavy subwoofer.

LG SJ3

Equipped with a pair of powerful speakers and supporting Auto Sound Engine technology, the LG SJ3 Soundbar stands out among competitive models with high-quality music playback with clear and distortion-free sound.

The automatic signal correction module also guarantees high-quality speech transmission.

Using the Bluetooth module, the user can stream audio content from a tablet or smartphone to the soundbar.

The speaker system is controlled by the TV remote control.

The functionality allows you to start playback from your mobile device without delays, even if the soundbar was in standby mode.

Main characteristics:

  • output power (total) - 300 W;
  • front emitter - 100 W, 950 × 71 × 47 mm, 2.47 kg;
  • subwoofer - 200 W, 171 × 320 × 252 mm, 4.2 kg;
  • connection - linear stereo input, optical input, Bluetooth;
  • features - support for Dolby Digital/DTS, control from the TV remote control.

Advantages

  • relatively low price;
  • compact dimensions;
  • high output power;
  • high-quality sound;
  • surround sound in Cinema mode.

Flaws

  • subjectively a lot of high frequencies;
  • lack of equalizer;
  • no display.

Mid-range devices


There are two soundbars in this category.
We will disassemble the HW-Q60. It was created in collaboration with Harman Kardon

. Its purpose is to improve the sound of branded QLED TVs. Combining a soundbar with a TV creates an amazing virtual space. It seems to the user that he is at the epicenter of events and is a direct participant in them!

Such a rich panorama is created by Acoustic Beam technology together with 5.1-channel mode. It seems that all the sounds are heard nearby, and do not come from the TV screen. The soundbar has Adaptive Sound. This mode automatically analyzes television content and adjusts the sound to it.

You can connect the soundbar to your TV via Bluetooth without using wires and enjoy great sound. Moreover, the wireless connection makes it possible to connect other compatible devices. For example, by connecting your smartphone, you can enjoy high-quality sound through the soundbar!

You can throw the HW-Q60 remote control aside. Because control is carried out using a similar TV device. It will turn the soundbar off and on, raise/lower the volume, and even let you create soundbar sound effects. Or use the proprietary Audio Remote mobile application. By installing it on a smartphone/tablet running Android, you can easily control the soundbar using mobile devices.


The cost of the soundbar is RUB 26,899.

The second soundbar is the HW-R65. It costs a little cheaper, 21,768 rubles.

Models with 3.1 configuration

Important! Four-channel acoustics consisting of a pair of front and one central (usually built into the main panel) emitters is complemented by a subwoofer.

A number of models support DTS, Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos formats, but, as a rule, this is done, as in previous models, at the emulation level.

Rating and review of the best configuration models 3-1.

Samsung HW-T650

The Samsung HW-T650 soundbar allows you to organize a real home theater with powerful, loud and clear sound across the entire audible frequency range.

The presented model is equipped with a wireless active subwoofer with Bluetooth connection and a front panel with a built-in center channel.

The latter is equipped with a USB port for playing music from compatible devices.

Additionally, the soundbar is equipped with a special gaming mode with sound presets to create the appropriate atmosphere.

Main characteristics:

  • output power (total) - 340 W;
  • front emitter - 180 W, 980 × 58 × 90 mm, 2.4 kg;
  • subwoofer - 160 W, 205 × 353 × 303 mm, 6.2 kg;
  • connection - optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
  • Features: remote control control.

Advantages

  • modern appearance;
  • ease of connection and use;
  • high-quality sound over the entire frequency range;
  • subwoofer with wireless connection.

Flaws

  • lack of sound stage volume;
  • not the best solution for listening to music;
  • high price.

Sony HT-ZF9

The Sony HT-ZF9 model will be an excellent addition to your TV, allowing you to enjoy high-quality and lively sound of multi-channel audio content.

The presented acoustics include a sound panel with built-in rear and front speakers, and an external subwoofer with wireless connection.

The equipment has support for DLNA and surround sound decoders.

The main panel is equipped with audio/video connectors, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies. The acoustic pressure of the system is 72 dB maximum.

Main characteristics:

  • output power (total) - 400 W;
  • front emitter - 300 W, 1000 × 64 × 99 mm, 3.1 kg;
  • subwoofer - 100 W, 190 × 382 × 386 mm, 8.1 kg;
  • connection – linear stereo input, optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth, USB-A;
  • features - support for DTS/Neo 6/Dolby Digital/True HD, remote control.

Advantages

  • excellent sound quality;
  • impressive volume reserve;
  • completely switchable display;
  • the presence of a two-level speech amplification mode;
  • support for all modern formats.

Flaws

  • poor ergonomics of the remote control;
  • poor placement of HDMI ports (too close to each other);
  • high price.

Samsung HW-Q800T

With a total output power of 330W and Bluetooth wireless connectivity, the Samsung HW-Q800T is equipped with the latest technologies for perfectly clear and balanced sound.

Thanks to Dolby Atmos and DTS X decoders, the user can access the finest nuances of sound with an immersive effect as in real life.

Immersive sound (the soundbar's speakers work together with the TV's speakers) enhances the effect described above.

The presented acoustics can analyze the sound signal and automatically optimize the sound, improving the audibility of speech.

Main characteristics:

  • output power (total) - 330 W;
  • front emitter - 170 W, 980 × 60 × 115 mm, 3.6 kg;
  • subwoofer - 160 W, 205 × 403 × 403 mm, 9.8 kg;
  • connection - optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
  • features - support for Dolby Atmos/DTS X/HDR 10+, Tap Sound option, control from the remote control.

Advantages

  • excellent transmission of the nuances of the sound picture;
  • powerful addition in the form of bass;
  • convenient connection to TV;
  • intuitive control from the remote control.

Flaws

  • slurred Adaptive Sound mode;
  • average work with sound at low frequencies;
  • heavy weight of the subwoofer.

results

The first thing you should pay attention to when assessing the abilities of the participants in our test is the passive or active execution pattern. Passive soundbars, which require a power amplifier, actually began the first wave of distribution of this type of speaker system. Now they are increasingly being replaced by active sound bars with all sorts of additional functions, also equipped with wireless subwoofers. Nevertheless, passive models are still present on the market, but are more focused on serious multi-channel installations, such as the model from Triad. But a passive model from Definitive Technology claims to replace all home theater acoustics (except for the subwoofer). By connecting all five channels to it, you can get not only surround sound, but also very decent quality. At the same time, the model has a thin body that fits perfectly with any modern flat-screen TV, especially when placed on the wall. For true Hi-Fi sound, support for multi-channel audio, design and a relatively modest price, the Definitive Technology Mythos XTR-SSA5 model is awarded the sympathy prize.

A passive soundbar can indeed sound very good, but it requires a good amplifier for a certain amount of money, and additional wires. Let's try to find among our participants a simpler, but high-quality solution for those who do not need a large set of functions and connection difficulties. The model from KEF is just right for this role. Possessing good sound, a wireless subwoofer and ease of connection, it doesn’t even have its own remote control, everything is controlled through the TV. However, the use of HDMI output and internal DSP made the model more expensive than some competitors. Very simple devices were also presented by Jamo and Q Acoustics. They're in the same price range, both sound great and have very similar capabilities. The Jamo model is equipped with a wireless subwoofer and the ability to decode Dolby Digital stream. The Q Acoustics soundbar already has a built-in subwoofer, which is even more convenient. In addition, we must admit that this model has the highest quality sound in our test. And therefore, in the fierce competition, Q Acoustics Media 4 earns itself the prize of sympathy.

Three different soundbar models - three different approaches to choice. Everyone is good in their own way

There will be a special conversation about multifunctional soundbars. We can talk about this at length and in detail, listing almost all modern technologies for manipulating sound. Focal, Harman Kardon and Yamaha models fall into this category in the test. The capabilities of the first of them are limited to HDMI signal relay, Dolby Digital and DTS decoding with surround sound support and correction filters for adjusting the location of the soundbar. The soundbar sound is powerful and interesting even without a subwoofer. The model from Harman Kardon sounds somewhat more modest, but it comes with a wireless subwoofer and has some additional features: the device is equipped with additional HDMI inputs, an IR repeater, Bluetooth support and interesting surround sound modes. For some, it may be important to have HD versions of Dolby Digital and DTS decoders; they are also provided here. A convenient screen, nice design - quite a workhorse at a reasonable price.

Well, the Yamaha soundbar was ahead of everyone, thanks to its exceptionally rich list of features. Here you will find all the most popular connectors, a wireless subwoofer, decoders for HD versions of digital streams, many surround sound modes, a USB media player, an on-screen menu and an automated calibration system. And these are just the main features. The calibration system allows you to achieve confident, balanced sound from the soundbar, although without audiophile frills. As a result, the Yamaha YSP-4300 model is a very interesting device, for which it also receives a sympathy prize.

Soundbars with 4.1 configuration

such devices have four main emitters - a pair of front ones and a pair of rear ones (external or built-in).

It is worth noting! The 4.1 format allows for three-dimensional sound, but due to the lack of a separate center channel, it may not be very suitable for film scoring.

TOP 2 best models of 4-1 configuration according to expert advice.

LG SN5R

With 4.1-channel DTS Virtual X high-definition surround sound and 520 W total output, the LG SN5R Soundbar is an essential part of a home theater system for even the most sophisticated user.

The presented acoustics will appeal not only to fans of films and TV series, but also to music lovers.

The stated sampling rate of 96 kHz and 24-bit depth mean clear, expressive and detailed sound with excellent resolution of the smallest nuances.

An external subwoofer will complement the picture with the depth and power of low-frequency components.

The built-in AI Sound Pro system will automatically detect the type of content and adjust playback settings.

Main characteristics:

  • output power (total) - 520 W;
  • front emitter - 180 W, 890 × 57 × 85 mm, 2.35 kg;
  • rear speakers - 120 W, 97 × 140 × 80 mm, 0.89 kg;
  • subwoofer - 220 W, 180 × 394 × 290 mm, 5.8 kg;
  • connection - optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
  • Features: AI Sound Pro system.

Advantages

  • high-quality sound of the system as a whole;
  • ease of connection and configuration;
  • two HDMI ports;
  • nice design.

Flaws

  • relatively weak rear speakers;
  • inconvenient location of the optical input.

LG SNH5

The LG SNH5 TV soundbar with support for surround sound technology provides expressive sound with maximum immersion in audio content.

The intelligent AI Sound Pro system analyzes the sound, optimizing the parameters necessary for comfortable listening.

The device is equipped with five channels of audio playback with a total output power of 600 W.

The model is easy to connect; it synchronizes with the TV via Bluetooth technology.

The included remote control is easy to use and intuitive to use.

Main characteristics:

  • output power (total) - 600 W;
  • front emitter - 400 W, 990 × 125 × 97 mm, 6.6 kg;
  • subwoofer - 200 W, 191 × 386 × 318 mm, 5.3 kg;
  • connection - optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
  • Features: Dolby Digital support, remote control, control from a smartphone.

Advantages

  • stylish appearance;
  • high build quality;
  • high output power;
  • The overall sound of the system is good.

Flaws

  • lack of high frequencies;
  • wired subwoofer connection;
  • There are no wall mounts included.

Optical drive and Blu-Ray support

With all this, manufacturers quickly realized that the functionality of a soundbar easily goes beyond the scope of a simple sound system, and if you are going to hang an additional device in front of the TV, then it must be able to do something else. That is why there are simpler and more expensive models on sale, for example, with built-in optical drives. The discs themselves will inevitably pass into another world, but they are still popular. And many expensive models include an optical player that supports Blu-Ray of any type. As a result, a potential home theater can indeed become quite compact and stylish. There will be no amplifier or separate player. But such solutions are not cheap - from 20,000 rubles.

The best soundbars for 5.1 sound

Perhaps the most common surround sound format is equipped with a central speaker (usually built into the main panel), front radiators and rear speakers (depending on the model, built-in or external), as well as a powerful subwoofer unit.

Stay up to date! The system fully reproduces surround sound, just like in a movie theater.

JBL Bar 5.1 Surround

The JBL Bar 5.1 Surround model can be considered as an option for setting up a home theater yourself or as a device for organizing parties.

In both cases, users are guaranteed crystal clear sound and high output power across the full spectrum of audible frequencies.

The front panel, equipped with the main speakers, is connected to the TV via optical, analog or HDMI.

The remote subwoofer connects to the system via a Bluetooth interface. The system is equipped with the latest surround sound decoders.

Main characteristics:

  • output power (total) - 550 W;
  • front emitter - 250 W, 1018 × 58 × 100 mm, 2.85 kg;
  • subwoofer - 300 W, 305 × 440 × 305 mm, 10.62 kg;
  • connection - linear stereo input, optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
  • Features: Dolby Digital support, remote control.

Advantages

  • excellent sound transmission with powerful and soft bass;
  • intelligible speech in films and TV programs;
  • easy installation and configuration;
  • interesting design overall.

Flaws

  • no built-in equalizer;
  • there are no basic presets (“Music”, “Movie”, “Sports”, etc.);
  • difficult to read display.

LG SL10Y

The LG SL10Y soundbar boasts a stylish design of the main and subwoofer speakers, as well as original sound comparable to the monitor sound of studio systems.

The front panel, equipped with a special mount, is installed on a wall or shelf.

The remote design of the subwoofer unit makes it possible to place it in any suitable place.

The soundbar is controlled from the remote control.

Built-in Bluetooth technology allows you to connect the speakers to any mobile device. Movie buffs will be interested in the “Night” and “Film” modes.

Main characteristics:

  • output power (total) - 570 W;
  • front emitter - 350 W, 1443 × 63 × 146 mm, 7.5 kg;
  • subwoofer - 220 W, 221 × 390 × 313 mm, 7.8 kg;
  • connection - optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
  • features - support for DTS-HD/Master Audio/Dolby Digital/True HD, Google Cast, remote control.

Advantages

  • excellent sound quality content;
  • compatibility with other devices;
  • several connection options;
  • Convenient control of soundbar settings.

Flaws

  • no cables included;
  • poor sounding mp3;
  • heavy subwoofer.

Sony HT-S700RF

The Sony HT-S700RF model with a 240 W subwoofer, a 456 W main sound panel and two rear speakers of 152 W each, allows you to create a full-fledged stereo system for high-quality scoring of films and listening to music.

The device is equipped with five audio channels, it supports USB storage devices and wireless connection via Bluetooth.

The soundbar provides the ability to play songs from mobile gadgets.

The front panel housing is made of aluminum alloy, and the remote subwoofer is made of wood.

Those who like to watch movies at night will like the corresponding operating mode. You can control the device either from the remote control or from a smartphone.

Main characteristics:

  • output power (total) - 1000 W;
  • front emitter - 456 W, 900 × 64 × 90 mm, 3 kg;
  • rear speakers - 304 W 78 × 1200 × 78 mm, 3.6 kg;
  • subwoofer - 240 W, 231 × 438 × 378 mm, 10.2 kg;
  • connection - optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth, USB-A;
  • Features: Dolby Digital/DTS support.

Advantages

  • ease of setup;
  • nice design;
  • high sound quality;
  • fast and stable Bluetooth operation.

Flaws

  • no infrared control channel;
  • there is no rear balance adjustment;
  • high price tag.

How to choose?

Let's take a closer look at the parameters that you need to carefully pay attention to and what can be forgiven for some models when choosing a soundbar. Let's start with the most important thing - initially it is necessary to accurately determine the need for this purchase and its feasibility, since most of the ratings of the presented devices are not so cheap. Now let's get down to business.

Firstly, you need to look at the presence of a subwoofer if you are purchasing a sound bar for your home theater or for parties, in which case this addition is simply necessary. Many will say that it is included everywhere and all that... Unfortunately, this is not the case in all cases and mainly depends on the cost of the model.

Secondly, pay attention to the Audio System technology on which the soundbar is built; we recommend the most common Dolby Digital Plus, and for lovers of high-quality cinema, additionally Dolby Atmos. A relatively budget option is Dolby Digital Surround, which you can often see in the price range from 8,000 and up to 15,000 rubles.

The final aspect is supported media , because in the case when you just want to insert a flash drive, disk or micro SD card, it will not always work, because most models do not even support this kind of device. But you can count on Bluetooth, it’s already built in everywhere.

Let's sum it up when choosing the best soundbar option for purchase - first you need to understand the purpose of its purchase, and then everything will go by itself.

Soundbar or home theater - which is better to choose?

Actually, a soundbar is a sound panel that allows you to output sound from your TV and make it higher quality, louder and more spacious.

Such acoustics are quite capable of replacing a home theater. The features of the soundbar include:

  • compact dimensions;
  • many configurations;
  • high sound quality;
  • recognition of different decoders;
  • availability of connectors for connecting storage devices;
  • Possibility of wireless communication with mobile devices.

Keep in mind! The soundbar will be convenient for owners of small apartments who do not want to clutter up the space with speakers and wires.

The device can be used as an addition to the TV, or as a full-fledged audio system with various functions.

A home theater allows you to get high-quality surround sound and play audio and video from various media.

Such acoustics
are the most complete solution for high-quality dubbing of video content.
Features of a home theater include:

  • not the most compact dimensions;
  • two main modifications on the market – 5.1 and 7.1;
  • Hi-Fi class compliance;
  • Availability of parameter settings depending on the type of room.

In general, a sound bar can be recommended for purchase if the TV does not have high-quality sound, but there is a desire to save money and not clutter the room with bulky speakers and wires.

Home theater is more expensive, but produces professional-level sound, often requiring complex setup.

Content:

  • 1 Budget models
  • 2 Mid-range devices
  • 3 Premium soundbars


Almost all 4K TV manufacturers pay a lot of attention to sound. But the sound is not always at its best. A good way out of this situation is to equip your TV with a soundbar.

The South Korean technology giant has prepared a dozen soundbars for 2021. First, we will review one budget soundbar, then a mid-range one, and finish with an analysis of the most expensive Samsung devices. All of them have the abbreviation HW at the beginning of the marking.

LG SL10Y

  • system 5.1
  • soundbar
  • total power 570 W
  • remote control

This model cannot be called budget, but it works out its price 100%. According to reviews from LG SL10Y owners, the sound in high and mid frequencies is clear and pure, and the bass is soft and deep.

Plus, the soundbar perfectly conveys the slightest nuances of the soundtrack of a TV series or movie. You will easily hear a door slamming somewhere in the depths of the corridor, or the sounds of footsteps, or the gurgling of a waterfall in the background of a conversation, and you will be amazed at how much you have missed before.

It's nice that this model supports Bluetooth and wireless Wi-Fi connections, and also has Google Cast support.

Pros : easy connection, stylish design, the sound seems to spread throughout the room, creating the effect of presence, there is support for Dolby Atmos.

Cons : no analog input.

YAMAHA YSP-2700

  • system 7.1
  • soundbar
  • total power 107 W
  • remote control

If you are looking for a powerful device with maximum features for watching TV, then the YAMAHA YSP-2700 is one of the best soundbars.

It has everything you need to not only make your TV sound better, but also serve as a kind of adapter for a wide variety of audio and video devices. There is a subwoofer output, an HDMI output, three HDMI inputs, digital optical and coaxial inputs, and an Ethernet connector.

There is also Bluetooth, so you can listen to music from your phone or tablet on the soundbar. In addition to its own panel with buttons, the YAMAHA YSP-2700 can be controlled both through the remote control (included in the kit) and through a mobile application.

The model simulates a three-dimensional sound field around listeners very well, regularly rumbling during explosions and highlighting voices against the general background noise. Just first you need to place the microphone for calibration exactly where you plan to be most often when watching TV.

There's no shortage of bass to complain about, so you won't need an external subwoofer.

Pros : there is Wi-Fi and AirPlay support, the legs can be unscrewed to make the soundbar lower.

Cons : Only 2 sliders for adjusting bass and treble, suspension bracket sold separately.

Samsung HW-R550

  • system 2.1
  • soundbar
  • total power 320 W
  • frequency range 42-20000 Hz
  • remote control

The HW-R550 soundbar is one of the most budget-friendly solutions from the famous South Korean manufacturer, and will cost about 5 thousand less than most competitors from our rating.

For its price, the device is very good; it connects perfectly to both the TV, computer and smartphone. There is an infrared remote control that is also suitable for other Samsung equipment, if you have one.

The sound quality is average, but it is fully revealed if the source supports bitstream transmission. So, if you want good sound, you will have to dance with the choice of transmission mode. You can improve it by purchasing a subwoofer and speakers separately.

Pros : price, integration with almost everything, mounting hardware and optical cable included, ease of installation and configuration.

Cons : slows down a bit when switching modes; for deep sound and bass you will have to buy additional equipment.

Rating
( 2 ratings, average 4 out of 5 )
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