You’ll find excellent soundbar options under $800 that can transform your home theater experience in 2024. Top picks like the JBL Bar 700 and Sonos Arc deliver impressive Dolby Atmos sound with powerful bass and crystal-clear dialogue. Smart features including Wi-Fi connectivity, voice control, and automatic room calibration make these systems easy to set up and use. Popular choices like the Samsung HW-Q900C and Bose Smart Ultra offer premium audio quality without breaking the bank. Whether you want immersive surround sound or compact design, there’s a perfect soundbar waiting to enhance your entertainment setup.
Key Highlights
- JBL Bar 700 offers excellent value with Dolby Atmos, 620W power, and smart features like Alexa integration under $800.
- Bose Smart Ultra provides superior dialogue clarity through AI technology and TrueSpace, making it ideal for movie enthusiasts.
- Samsung HW-Q900C delivers room-optimized sound with SpaceFit Sound Pro and seamless TV integration through Q-Symphony.
- Sonos Arc stands out with premium sound quality and strong bass without requiring an additional subwoofer purchase.
- The Denon Home Sound Bar 550’s compact 26-inch design makes it perfect for smaller spaces while maintaining quality sound.
JBL Bar 700 5.1-Channel Soundbar with Dolby Atmos
- Dolby Atmos Surround Sound: Immerse yourself in theater-quality 3D sound. With detachable surround speakers and Dolby Atmos technology, the JBL Bar 700 delivers a 3D cinematic experience.
- Real surround sound with detachable surround speakers: Enjoy real surround sound without the hassle of extra wires and power connections. Just place the two detachable battery-powered surround speakers behind you and get swept away in amazing audio.
- Built-In Wi-Fi with AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music and Chromecast built-in: Get ready to explore. Access over 300 online music streaming services through AirPlay, Alexa MRM and Chromecast built-in. Enjoy all of your favorite audio content, Internet radio, and podcasts in high definition. The Wi-Fi connection also allows automatic software updates, so you can always enjoy the latest features.
- 620W output power: With 620 watts of total system power the JBL Bar 700 transforms your movies, music and games into immersive sound experiences and pulls you into the middle of the action.
- 10" Wireless subwoofer: Thrilling, precise bass from a mighty 10" wireless subwoofer brings the excitement to your action movies and the emotion to your music.
For movie enthusiasts seeking theater-quality sound without breaking the bank, the JBL Bar 700 delivers impressive performance with its 5.1-channel configuration and Dolby Atmos technology. You’ll experience immersive 3D sound through its 620W system, complete with a powerful 10″ wireless subwoofer that produces deep, precise bass.
The standout feature is its detachable surround speakers, which run on rechargeable batteries lasting up to 12 hours. You can stream your favorite content through Wi-Fi connectivity, accessing over 300 music services via AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, and Chromecast. Although the setup is typically straightforward, you might encounter occasional connectivity issues. The soundbar performs exceptionally well in smaller rooms, and you won’t need to crank it to maximum volume for an engaging audio experience.
Best For: Movie and music enthusiasts seeking a premium home theater experience with flexible surround sound options in small to medium-sized rooms.
Pros:
- Impressive 3D sound quality with powerful bass from 10″ wireless subwoofer
- Versatile detachable wireless surround speakers with 12-hour battery life
- Extensive streaming options with Wi-Fi, AirPlay, Alexa, and Chromecast support
Cons:
- Connectivity issues may require technical support during setup
- Limited sound customization options
- Surround speakers need frequent recharging for regular use
JBL Bar 9.1 Channel Soundbar System with Dolby Atmos
- 820W Output power
- Built-in Dolby Atmos and DTS: X decoding
- With detachable, battery powered surround speakers you can enjoy real surround sound without the wires
- Experience deep bass with a 300W, 10" powered subwoofer
- Ultra HD 4K Pass-through with Dolby Vision
Movie enthusiasts seeking a compact home theater solution will find exceptional value in the JBL Bar 9.1 Channel Soundbar System. With 820W of power and a 10-inch wireless subwoofer, this system delivers immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio that’ll transform your viewing experience.
What sets this soundbar apart is its unique detachable, battery-powered rear speakers that create true surround sound without permanent installation. You’ll appreciate the straightforward setup through HDMI eARC and automatic calibration features. The system includes Ultra HD 4K pass-through with Dolby Vision support, ensuring high-quality audio-visual synchronization. Although some users note that bass can occasionally overpower dialogue, you can adjust settings to find your perfect balance. The package includes all necessary mounting hardware, making it a complete solution for your home theater needs.
Best For: Home theater enthusiasts who want a premium Dolby Atmos experience with true wireless surround sound in a flexible, apartment-friendly setup.
Pros:
- Unique detachable wireless rear speakers offer true surround sound without permanent installation
- Powerful 820W system with 10-inch subwoofer delivers immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio
- Easy setup with automatic calibration and complete mounting hardware included
Cons:
- Bass can sometimes overpower dialogue requiring manual adjustment
- Wi-Fi connectivity issues may require ethernet connection for stability
- Limited sound customization options compared to competing systems
Bose Smart Ultra
- YOUR FAVORITE CONTENT NEVER FELT THIS DEEP: Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar with Dolby Atmos and Voice Control is top-of-the-line wireless speaker, surround sound system for TV and so much more
- DOLBY ATMOS SOUNDBAR: TV soundbar features Dolby Atmos and Bose TrueSpace technology which separates sounds and places them in different parts of a room for an immersive spatial audio experience
- ULTRA-CRISP DIALOGUE CLARITY: A.I. Dialogue Mode balances voice and surround sound for ultra-crisp vocal clarity, so you never miss what your favorite characters say again with this surround sound speaker
- SURROUND SOUND SYSTEM: With six transducers, including two custom-engineered upward firing dipole speakers, it will feel like your space is filled with sound from every direction, even overhead
- AMAZON ALEXA VOICE CONTROL: Control your entertainment, daily tasks and access information using your voice with Amazon Alexa
Audio enthusiasts seeking cinema-quality sound will find the Bose Smart Ultra a compelling choice, thanks to its impressive Dolby Atmos support and TrueSpace technology. You’ll experience immersive spatial audio through six transducers, including two upward-firing dipole speakers that create convincing overhead effects.
The soundbar’s A.I. Dialogue Mode guarantees you won’t miss a word of your favorite shows, as various connectivity options let you integrate it effortlessly into your setup via HDMI eARC, optical cables, or wireless streaming. You can control it through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or the Bose mobile app.
At 41 inches wide and just over 2 inches tall, this elegantly designed soundbar fits most entertainment centers. Although users praise its sound quality and easy setup, be aware that some customers have reported connectivity issues and slow customer support response times.
Best For: Home theater enthusiasts who want premium surround sound with Dolby Atmos support and value voice control integration in a sleek, compact design.
Pros:
- Immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos and six transducers including upward-firing speakers
- Multiple connectivity options including HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi with voice assistant compatibility
- A.I. Dialogue Mode enhances vocal clarity for better speech intelligibility
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to competing soundbars
- Some users report connectivity issues and difficulties with wireless connections
- Customer support can be slow to respond to technical issues
Sonos Arc – Black – Soundbar with Dolby Atmos
- Connectivity technology: HDMI
- Included components: Product & warranty documentation
The Sonos Arc stands out as a premium choice for home theater enthusiasts who won’t settle for anything less than immersive audio quality. This sleek black soundbar delivers powerful Dolby Atmos performance through its integrated speakers, creating a compelling 3D soundstage even without a separate subwoofer.
You’ll appreciate the versatile connectivity options, including HDMI eARC and Wi-Fi, plus voice control through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. The included optical adapter guarantees compatibility with older TVs, as well as the user-friendly Sonos app makes setup and control a breeze. At just 45 inches wide and 4.5 inches deep, it’ll fit effortlessly into your entertainment setup. Although it’s a significant investment, the Arc’s superior voice clarity, sturdy bass response, and ability to integrate with other Sonos speakers make it a compelling choice for your home theater system.
Best For: Home theater enthusiasts seeking premium audio quality and smart home integration who want a sleek, all-in-one solution with Dolby Atmos capabilities.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality with impressive Dolby Atmos performance and strong bass even without a subwoofer
- Versatile connectivity options including HDMI eARC, Wi-Fi, and voice control integration
- User-friendly setup and operation through the Sonos app with seamless smart home integration
Cons:
- Premium pricing may be cost-prohibitive for some buyers
- No DTS:X support
- May require additional speakers or subwoofer for optimal performance in larger rooms
Samsung HW-Q900C 7.1.2ch Soundbar with Wireless Dolby Audio
- 7.1.2 CH. TRUE DOLBY ATMOS SOUND: Fill the room with sound—and get pulled into the story; 7.1.2ch true Dolby Atmos Sound will having you falling head first into the experience with powerful depth and crystal clarity
- Q-SYMPHONY: Amp up your audio with the greatest duo of all time—Samsung TVs paired with Samsung soundbars; With Q-Symphony, the Q-Series soundbars pair with your TV speakers to operate as one*
- WIRELESS DOLBY ATMOS: Feel surrounded; Cue up Dolby Atmos sound and skip the cumbersome HDMI cables; Feel free to arrange your space exactly how you want without compromising the audio experience**
- SPACEFIT SOUND PRO: Sound amplifies everything and this soundbar reacts accordingly; Get room-filling sound calibrated to your space, with a soundbar that analyzes the environment and automatically optimizes the audio
- ACOUSTIC LENS SUBWOOFER: Big doesn’t always mean blunt; The subwoofer’s innovative acoustic lens design delivers fine-tuned bass dispersion for a smooth, refined experience
Samsung’s flagship HW-Q900C delivers immersive 7.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos sound that’ll transform your home theater experience. You’ll appreciate the wireless Dolby Atmos capability, which eliminates messy HDMI cables during maintaining pristine audio quality. The SpaceFit Sound Pro technology automatically optimizes sound based on your room’s acoustics, whereas the Acoustic Lens Subwoofer provides deep, refined bass.
If you own a 2020-2023 Samsung TV, you’ll benefit from Q-Symphony, which synchronizes your TV speakers with the soundbar for improved audio. The built-in voice assistants let you control your entertainment system hands-free, and AirPlay 2 support guarantees seamless streaming from Apple devices. The Adaptive Sound feature improves dialogue clarity based on what you’re watching, making this soundbar an excellent choice for movies, gaming, and music alike.
Best For: Home theater enthusiasts and Samsung TV owners seeking premium audio quality who want a wireless Dolby Atmos experience with smart features and room optimization technology.
Pros:
- True 7.1.2ch Dolby Atmos sound with wireless capability delivers impressive audio quality without cable clutter
- SpaceFit Sound Pro and Acoustic Lens Subwoofer optimize audio based on room acoustics
- Seamless integration with Samsung TVs through Q-Symphony and extensive connectivity options including AirPlay 2
Cons:
- Larger dimensions may require significant space for proper setup
- Premium features work best with Samsung TVs, limiting full functionality with other brands
- Higher price point compared to basic soundbar systems
JBL Bar 1000 7.1.4-Channel Soundbar with Detachable Speakers
- True Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and MultiBeam Surround Sound: Immerse yourself in theater-quality 3D sound. With two up-firing drivers in the main bar and two more in the detachable speakers, the JBL Bar 1000 delivers true Dolby Atmos and DTS:X together with MultiBeam for an enhanced 3D surround sound experience.
- Real surround sound with detachable surround speakers: Enjoy real surround sound without the hassle of extra wires and power connections. Just place the two detachable battery-powered surround speakers behind you and get swept away in amazing audio.
- Built-In Wi-Fi with AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music and Chromecast built-in: Get ready to explore. Access over 300 online music streaming services through AirPlay, Alexa MRM and Chromecast built-in. Enjoy all of your favorite audio content, Internet radio, and podcasts in high definition. The Wi-Fi connection also allows automatic software updates, so you can always enjoy the latest features.
- 880W output power: With 880 watts of total system power the JBL Bar 1000 transforms your movies, music and games into immersive sound experiences and pulls you into the middle of the action.
- 10" Wireless subwoofer: Thrilling, precise bass from a mighty 10" wireless subwoofer brings the excitement to your action movies and the emotion to your music.
Modern entertainment enthusiasts seeking a premium audio experience will find the JBL Bar 1000 particularly enticing, thanks to its innovative detachable surround speakers and impressive 7.1.4-channel configuration. With 880W of output power, the system delivers immersive 3D sound through Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support.
You’ll appreciate the versatile connectivity options, including built-in Wi-Fi for AirPlay and Chromecast, alongside Bluetooth and Ethernet. The 10-inch wireless subwoofer provides deep bass, whereas PureVoice technology guarantees crystal-clear dialogue. The detachable speakers charge via USB-C or when connected to the main soundbar, offering flexible placement options for ideal surround sound. In spite of its substantial size at 34.8 inches wide, the sleek black design and wall-mounting capability make it adaptable to various home theater setups.
Best For: Home theater enthusiasts who want a premium, immersive audio experience with flexible speaker placement options and are willing to invest in high-end sound quality.
Pros:
- Versatile 7.1.4 channel system with detachable surround speakers for true surround sound
- Powerful 880W output with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support for immersive audio
- Multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet
Cons:
- Limited battery life on detachable speakers requires regular recharging
- Large size (34.8 inches wide) may not suit smaller spaces
- Premium pricing compared to standard soundbars
JBL RallyBar XL Bluetooth Universal Outdoor Vehicle Soundbar
- Unique Dynamic LED Lights: Lights, color, party! Transform your off-road journey into a rock concert. Pressing the light controls on the bottom panel will Sync your music to dynamic lights patterns
- 300Wrms Class-D Amplifier Built-in: The 300Wrms (THD <1%) Class- D amplifier ensures powerful, high quality JBL Original Pro Sound when you take the wheel or helm.
- IP66 Rated Water and dust Resistant: IP66 rated water resistant protects soundbar speakers from dust ingress and powerful water jets.
- Support Broadcast Mode: Broadcast Mode allows RALLYBAR XL to connect to multiple RALLYBAR XL or RALLYBAR XL family products (RALLYBAR, RALLYBAR S and RALLYBAR XL), allowing each soundbar to play the same audio source.
- Innovative Mounting Kits Design: The innovative mounting kits design (patent pending), offers multiple position combinations on top and back to accommodate a variety of installation requirements.
Outdoor enthusiasts seeking powerful audio for their off-road adventures will find their match in JBL’s RallyBar XL soundbar. This rugged IP66-rated soundbar delivers 300W of pristine JBL Original Pro Sound through its built-in Class-D amplifier, making it perfect for side-by-side vehicles and off-road rigs.
You’ll appreciate the RallyBar XL’s Dynamic LED Lights that sync with your music, and its innovative mounting system lets you secure it firmly to roll bars. The automatic source detection effortlessly switches between USB, Bluetooth, and AUX-IN inputs, whereas the Broadcast Mode allows you to connect multiple RallyBars for synchronized audio. Although it’s pricier than standard soundbars, its clear sound quality and powerful bass performance, even at high volumes, make it a standout choice for outdoor entertainment. Just remember you’ll need to buy the JBL Click Bluetooth controller separately for remote operation.
Best For: Off-road enthusiasts and side-by-side vehicle owners who want premium, weather-resistant audio with powerful bass for their outdoor adventures.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality with powerful 300W output and clear audio even at high volumes
- Durable IP66 water and dust resistance rating with versatile mounting options for roll bars
- Feature-rich with Dynamic LED Lights and Broadcast Mode for connecting multiple units
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to standard vehicle soundbars
- Remote control (JBL Click) sold separately
- Limited mounting options for vehicles without horizontal roll bars
Denon Home Sound Bar 550 with 3D Surround Sound & Alexa
- POWERFUL AUDIO FROM A COMPACT SOUND BAR - Upgrade your movie & music experience with the 4.0 driver configuration in its slim 26" design that saves space and delivers balanced sound everywhere
- IMPACTFUL 3D SURROUND SOUND - With the combined effect of premium .75" soft dome tweeters, 2.15" full-range drivers, and 2.15" x 3.5" passive radiators, the sound bar delivers immersive 3D surround sound in hi-res audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- EXTRAORDINARY VISUALS - Enjoy an extraordinary cinematic experience on your 4K HD TV with HRD10 and Dolby Vision support for stunning, nuanced contrast and detailed imaging with brilliant colors and depth that bring your songs and movies to life
- WIRELESS SUB WITH HEOS BUILT-IN - An excellent upgrade to the Denon DSW-1, the Denon Home Subwoofer wirelessly connects to all Denon products with HEOS built-in, including AVRs, Hi-Fi systems, sound bars, and speakers for a complete home theater setup
- DEEP, THUNDEROUS BASS FOR YOUR MOVIES AND MUSIC - Equipped with a bass-reflex 8" woofer and a downward-firing port, the wireless subwoofer offers a low frequency response and delivers clean, powerful bass that brings your music, movies, and games to life
Home theater enthusiasts seeking compact yet powerful audio will find the Denon Home Sound Bar 550 hits all the right notes. At just 26 inches wide, this 4.0 sound bar delivers immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X through its precision-engineered tweeters, full-range drivers, and passive radiators.
You’ll get stunning visuals to match the audio, with 4K HDR10 and Dolby Vision support ensuring your favorite movies look as good as they sound. The system’s true potential shines when you pair it with the Denon Home Subwoofer, featuring an 8-inch bass-reflex design for deep, room-filling bass. You can even expand to a full 5.1 setup by adding Denon Home speakers.
The sound bar’s HEOS compatibility lets you connect effortlessly with other Denon components, making it a versatile centerpiece for your home entertainment system.
Best For: Home theater enthusiasts seeking a compact yet powerful sound system with premium audio features and expandability options.
Pros:
- Versatile compatibility with HEOS ecosystem and expandable to 5.1 surround setup
- Compact 26-inch design with impressive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
- High-quality video passthrough with 4K HDR10 and Dolby Vision support
Cons:
- Subwoofer sold separately, needed for full bass experience
- Premium pricing compared to entry-level sound bars
- Limited size may not suit larger entertainment spaces
Sony HT-A7000 7.1.2ch Soundbar (Renewed)
- This Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished, shows limited or no wear, and includes all original accessories plus a 90-day limited hardware warranty.
- It’s never been easier to listen to your favorite tracks. HT-A7000 supports audio streaming via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and Apple Airplay 2.
- An OLED front panel display is also on the soundbar for quick viewing of the volume level, sound mode, or input.
- Enjoy music the way the artists truly intended with High-Resolution Audio for crystal clear precision. With the HT-A7000, your music comes to life like never before.
- Connect to your home’s other devices with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
Premium sound enthusiasts seeking a high-end entertainment experience will find exceptional value in the Sony HT-A7000 7.1.2ch renewed soundbar. This 500W powerhouse delivers Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio through a sophisticated 7.1.2-channel system, complete with 360 Spatial Sound technology.
You’ll appreciate the seamless connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast, and Apple Airplay 2. The OLED display keeps you informed of volume, sound modes, and inputs, as well as voice control via Google Assistant or Alexa adds convenience. Although the surround sound performance may vary based on your room’s acoustics, the HT-A7000’s Sound Field Optimization helps optimize the audio for your space. Consider adding a wireless subwoofer (sold separately) to unlock the full potential of this home theater system.
Best For: Home theater enthusiasts who want premium Dolby Atmos sound with modern streaming capabilities and don’t mind investing in a renewed unit to save money.
Pros:
- Comprehensive connectivity options including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast, and Apple Airplay 2
- Advanced audio features including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and 360 Spatial Sound
- Smart home integration with voice control through Google Assistant and Alexa
Cons:
- Subwoofer sold separately, which is needed for complete sound experience
- Surround sound performance heavily dependent on room acoustics
- High price point even as a renewed unit compared to competing soundbars
Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 8 HT-A8000 Soundbar System
- SPATIAL SOUND: Experience the magic of 360 Spatial Sound Mapping with this tv sound system from Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 8 Soundbar. This surround sound system for tv engulfs you in cinema-like sound from all directions, transporting you right into the heart of the action.
- AUTO CALIBRATION: Dream no more about auto calibration with the Sound Field Optimization feature of this soundbar for tv. This sound bar for smart tv ensures a crystal clear, room-filling sound that's perfectly balanced, making every movie night or music session a memorable event.
- IMMERSIVE FORMATS: This sound bar brings the cinema sound home with support for industry-standard formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced. Known for their exceptional clarity, depth, and detail, these home theater systems provide a truly immersive audio experience.
- ACOUSTIC DESIGN: Discover the innovative acoustic design of the Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 8 Soundbar. With 11 speaker units working together, it delivers exceptional acoustic performance and precise room-filling spatial audio.
- EXPANDABLE AUDIO: Expand your audio experience with the optional wireless subwoofer (SA-SW3 or SA-SW5) and rear speakers (SA-RS3S or SA-RS5). These additions enhance the depth and dimension of your audio, creating a more immersive and cinematic experience.
The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 8 HT-A8000 stands out for cinephiles who won’t settle for less than theater-quality sound at home. With 11 built-in speakers and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, this system delivers immersive audio that rivals high-end theater setups.
You’ll appreciate the versatile support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced formats, as the automatic Sound Field Optimization guarantees peak performance by adjusting to your room’s acoustics. The system’s expandability lets you add wireless subwoofers and rear speakers for an even more dynamic experience. You can stream music effortlessly through Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, or Bluetooth.
Although some users report minor connectivity issues with the app and HDMI settings, the HT-A8000’s exceptional sound quality and seamless integration with BRAVIA TVs make it a compelling choice for your home theater setup.
Best For: Home theater enthusiasts and cinephiles seeking premium sound quality who own newer BRAVIA TVs and want a powerful, expandable sound system with immersive audio capabilities.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality with 11 speakers and advanced audio format support including Dolby Atmos
- Automatic room calibration optimizes audio performance for specific spaces
- Versatile connectivity options with multiple streaming services and expandability with additional speakers
Cons:
- Some users report connectivity issues and software bugs during setup
- Premium pricing may not justify value for those with basic audio needs
- HDMI CEC and app integration can be problematic, requiring occasional troubleshooting
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Soundbar for

When you’re spending up to $800 on a soundbar, you’ll want to evaluate vital factors like sound quality, power output, and how well it matches your room’s dimensions to guarantee top-notch audio performance. You should check for fundamental connectivity features such as HDMI eARC, optical inputs, and wireless options, during confirming Dolby Atmos support if you’re interested in immersive sound. Consider the installation requirements and setup process, including whether you need wall mounting hardware or if the soundbar’s size fits your TV stand, to avoid any compatibility issues later.
Sound Quality and Power
Sound powerhouses in the $800 range deliver impressive audio performance that can transform your home entertainment setup. With output power reaching up to 820W, you’ll experience room-filling sound that brings movies, music, and games to life. When evaluating sound quality, you’ll want to focus on systems that incorporate both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technologies, as these create an immersive surround sound experience that rivals movie theaters.
Your soundbar’s speaker configuration plays an essential role in overall performance. Look for systems offering 5.1 or 7.1 channel setups, as they’ll provide better spatial audio and more dynamic range than single-channel alternatives. The wireless subwoofer, ideally around 10 inches, will deliver the deep, resonant bass that makes action sequences and music truly impactful.
Don’t overlook high-frequency performance when making your selection. Soundbars with dedicated tweeters guarantee crystal-clear vocals and precise sound reproduction across all frequencies. This becomes particularly important when you’re watching dialogue-heavy content or listening to complex musical arrangements. You’ll notice the difference in audio clarity and detail, especially during quieter scenes or subtle musical passages.
Room Size Compatibility
Selecting the right soundbar for your space requires careful examination of room dimensions and acoustics. If you’re setting up your soundbar in a larger room, you’ll want to look for models with higher wattage output and at least 7.1 channels to guarantee the sound fills the space effectively. These configurations provide the immersive experience you’ll need for spacious environments.
For smaller rooms, you don’t need to go all out – a 3.1 or 5.1 channel system will deliver balanced, clear audio without overwhelming your space. When measuring your room, pay attention to where you’ll place the soundbar and how its physical dimensions will fit with your setup. Compact models work best in tight spaces, as larger soundbars are better suited for open floor plans.
Don’t forget to think about your room’s layout and construction materials. If you’ve got an irregularly shaped space, look for soundbars with upward-firing speakers or detachable satellite units. These features help distribute sound more evenly throughout the room. You might need to adjust the soundbar’s settings during setup to account for your room’s specific acoustic properties.
Connectivity Options Available
Modern connectivity defines the true value of any premium soundbar, and those under $800 offer an impressive array of options to improve your entertainment setup. You’ll want to prioritize models featuring HDMI eARC, which delivers high-fidelity audio formats like Dolby Atmos during simplifying cable management with your TV.
Wireless connectivity is vital in today’s streaming ecosystem. Look for soundbars that include both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing you to stream music directly from your phone or access popular streaming services without extra cables. For traditional setups, optical audio inputs remain important, guaranteeing compatibility with your TV, gaming consoles, and other media devices.
If you’re invested in smart home technology, you’ll benefit from soundbars with built-in voice assistants. These models integrate effortlessly with your existing home automation systems and offer convenient voice control features. Don’t overlook the significance of multiple input options – USB ports and auxiliary inputs expand your connectivity possibilities, letting you connect various external audio sources. This versatility guarantees your soundbar can adapt to different entertainment scenarios and future tech upgrades.
Dolby Atmos Support
Today’s premium soundbars under $800 increasingly feature Dolby Atmos support, transforming your living room into an immersive audio environment. When you’re evaluating Dolby Atmos soundbars in this price range, you’ll want to pay close attention to the speaker configuration and upward-firing drivers that create that distinctive three-dimensional sound field.
Look for models that offer at least two upward-firing speakers, as these are essential for delivering those overhead sound effects that make Atmos so special. You’ll likewise want to check the total power output and number of channels – more powerful systems typically provide better clarity and room-filling sound. Many soundbars in this price range similarly include DTS:X support, giving you versatility in audio format compatibility.
Consider how well the soundbar integrates with your streaming services and devices. You’ll want seamless connectivity to enjoy Atmos content from various sources, whether it’s your smart TV apps, gaming console, or streaming device. Ensure the soundbar you choose has the right HDMI inputs and supports HDMI eARC for the highest quality audio passthrough from your connected devices.
Installation and Setup
A successful soundbar installation hinges on several key setup considerations when you’re investing up to $800. Modern soundbars come with HDMI eARC connections that make linking to your TV straightforward and guarantee you’ll get the best possible audio quality. You’ll want to look for models that offer this feature, as it greatly simplifies the setup process.
Many premium soundbars now include automatic room calibration technology, which takes the guesswork out of audio enhancement. These systems analyze your room’s acoustics and adjust settings accordingly, guaranteeing ideal sound performance without manual tweaking. If you’re planning to mount your soundbar, check that your chosen model includes proper wall-mounting hardware and clear installation instructions.
App-based control systems have become increasingly common in this price range, letting you manage setup and make adjustments from your smartphone. Nevertheless, you’ll need to research potential connectivity issues, as some models require additional troubleshooting during initial setup. Look for soundbars with documented reliable wireless connections and responsive customer support to avoid frustration during the installation process.
Additional Speaker Expandability
Building upon a solid installation foundation, the ability to expand your soundbar system with additional speakers can dramatically improve your home theater experience. When you’re investing around $800, you’ll want to choose a soundbar that offers flexibility for future upgrades and expansions.
Look for models that support wireless surround speakers or come with detachable units you can position behind your seating area. These additional speakers create a more immersive listening environment, especially when paired with Dolby Atmos-enabled soundbars. You’ll experience three-dimensional sound that brings movies and shows to life.
The option to add a dedicated subwoofer is just as important. As many soundbars deliver decent bass on their own, a separate subwoofer greatly improves low-frequency performance, making explosions more impactful and music more dynamic. Be certain to check if your chosen model features simple setup processes for additional speakers. The best systems include automatic calibration tools that optimize sound based on your room’s acoustics. This guarantees you’ll get the most out of your expanded speaker setup without complicated manual adjustments.
Voice Control Features
Modern soundbars equipped with voice control features offer unprecedented convenience and accessibility in the under-$800 price range. You’ll find many models that work effortlessly with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, letting you control your soundbar without reaching for the remote. This hands-free operation means you can adjust volume, skip tracks, or switch inputs during cooking, cleaning, or relaxing on your couch.
When you’re considering voice control capabilities, confirm your home’s Wi-Fi connection is stable and reliable. You’ll need this for proper functionality and initial setup, which you can usually complete through the manufacturer’s mobile app. Look for models with high-quality microphones that can accurately pick up your commands even when music is playing. If you’re planning to create a multi-room audio setup, choose a soundbar that supports voice-controlled whole-home audio integration.
Pay attention to the specific virtual assistant compatibility of each model. Some soundbars work exclusively with one platform, whereas others offer flexibility with multiple assistant options. This choice becomes particularly important if you’ve already invested in other smart home devices.
Brand Reliability History
When investing in an $800 soundbar, brand reliability history stands as one of your most crucial decision factors. You’ll want to research how long potential brands have been producing audio equipment and their track record for quality. Look for manufacturers who’ve consistently delivered reliable products over multiple generations of soundbars.
Pay close attention to customer reviews across different platforms, focusing on long-term reliability reports rather than just initial impressions. You’ll find that brands with average ratings of 4 stars or higher typically demonstrate better consistency in product performance. Check the frequency of product recalls and warranty claims – fewer issues often indicate better manufacturing standards.
Don’t overlook the importance of customer support quality. Brands that offer thorough warranty coverage and responsive technical assistance can make a significant difference in your ownership experience. Look for companies that have won industry awards and recognition from reputable audio organizations. These accolades usually indicate a commitment to innovation and quality control. Remember, established brands with proven histories in audio equipment typically present lower risks for your investment than newer, unproven manufacturers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Mount Any Soundbar Horizontally or Vertically on My Wall?
Although you can mount most soundbars horizontally on your wall, vertical mounting isn’t recommended for most models. Soundbars are particularly designed with drivers positioned for horizontal placement to create ideal sound dispersion and stereo/surround effects. If you want to mount your soundbar, check your model’s manual for proper mounting instructions and use the manufacturer’s recommended bracket system.
How Long Do Soundbar Batteries Typically Last for Wireless Rear Speakers?
Tick tock, your wireless rear speaker batteries keep on working! You’ll typically get 8-12 hours of playback from a single charge on most wireless rear speakers. If you’re using rechargeable batteries, they’ll last about 2-3 years before their capacity starts declining considerably. You’ll know it’s time for new batteries when your playback time noticeably shortens or the speakers need more frequent charging.
Will These Soundbars Work With My Existing Universal Remote Control?
Your universal remote will likely work with most soundbars, especially if it’s a newer model with updated codes. You’ll need to check if your remote supports CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) or has the specific brand codes for your chosen soundbar. Most major brands like Samsung, LG, and Vizio are compatible with universal remotes, but you might need to program the remote using the manufacturer’s setup guide.
Can I Connect Multiple Bluetooth Devices Simultaneously to These Soundbars?
Most soundbars only allow one active Bluetooth connection at a time. You’ll need to disconnect one device before connecting another. Nevertheless, some advanced models offer multi-point Bluetooth pairing, letting you connect two devices simultaneously. When you’re streaming from one device, you’ll need to pause it before playing from the second device. Check your soundbar’s manual for specific Bluetooth capabilities.
Do Soundbars Require Professional Calibration for Optimal Performance in Different Rooms?
Though soundbars don’t typically require professional calibration, you’ll get better performance by adjusting their settings yourself. Most modern soundbars include built-in room calibration features that use microphones to analyze your space’s acoustics and automatically optimize the sound. You can likewise manually adjust bass, treble, and dialogue levels through the soundbar’s app or remote control to match your room’s characteristics and personal preferences.