Welcome to our dedicated page for all things soundbars. Whether you’re new to the world of soundbars or a seasoned pro, we’re here to help you find the best soundbar for your needs.
What is a Soundbar?
A soundbar, also known as a speaker bar, is a type of loudspeaker that projects audio from a wide enclosure. It’s much wider than it is tall, partly for acoustical reasons but also so it can be mounted above or below a display device, such as a television or a computer monitor. This makes them an ideal addition to any home theater system.
Why do you need a Soundbar?
While most modern TVs offer stunning visual quality, their built-in speakers often leave a lot to be desired. A good soundbar can significantly improve your TV’s audio output, providing a richer, fuller sound that enhances your viewing experience. Whether you’re watching a movie, playing a video game, or simply catching up on your favorite TV shows, a soundbar can make a world of difference.
What soundbar manufacturers are in the market?
There are many soundbar manufacturers in the market. Here are some currently in the market:
Sonos
Sonos is renowned for its smart speakers and has made quite a name for itself in the soundbar sector as well. Their soundbars, like the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Arc, are known for their sleek design, excellent sound quality, and seamless integration with other Sonos products.
Samsung
Samsung, a giant in the consumer electronics industry, offers a wide range of soundbars to complement their TVs. Their soundbars, such as the Samsung HW-Q90R, offer high-quality sound, Dolby Atmos support, and often come with a separate subwoofer.
LG
LG is another big name in the TV world and their soundbars are designed to match. LG’s soundbars, like the LG SN11RG, are praised for their immersive audio experience, thanks to features like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
Bose
Bose is a brand synonymous with high-quality audio equipment. Their soundbars, such as the Bose Soundbar 700, offer premium sound, sleek design, and easy-to-use features. Bose soundbars also support multi-room listening, allowing you to connect multiple speakers and play music throughout your home.
What are some soundbar technologies?
Dolby Atmos
Dolby Atmos is an audio technology that expands on traditional surround sound systems. Instead of sending sounds to specific channels (like the left or right speakers), Dolby Atmos creates a ‘3D’ soundstage. This means that sounds can come from above you, below you, or move around you in three-dimensional space. This makes for a much more immersive listening experience, especially for movies and TV shows.
DTS:X
DTS:X is another immersive audio technology similar to Dolby Atmos. The main difference is that while Dolby Atmos requires specific speakers to create overhead sounds, DTS:X can simulate these effects using any speakers. This means it’s a more flexible system, as it doesn’t require you to buy new equipment.
Other Dolby Outputs
There are several other Dolby technologies used in home audio:
- Dolby Digital: This is a common format for DVDs and Blu-ray discs. It supports up to six channels of audio (5.1 surround sound).
- Dolby TrueHD: This is a lossless audio codec used on Blu-ray discs. It supports up to eight channels of audio, allowing for 7.1 surround sound.
- Dolby Digital Plus: This is an enhanced version of Dolby Digital, used on streaming platforms like Netflix. It supports up to 7.1 channels of audio and can also carry a Dolby Atmos signal.
Soundbar Reviews
Now that we’ve covered Soundbar 101, it’s time to get into our in-depth reviews. We’ve put a variety of soundbars to the test in order to help you make an informed decision. Scroll down to view our comprehensive reviews and find the perfect soundbar for your needs.
Sonos
Samsung
Sony
Bose
JBL
Klipsch
VIZIO
Other Great Soundbars
We hope this page has been helpful in your search for the perfect soundbar. Remember, the best soundbar isn’t necessarily the most expensive one but the one that fits your specific needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions about Soundbars
Q: Do I need a separate subwoofer with my soundbar?
A: Some soundbars come with a built-in subwoofer, while others offer it as a separate component. If you enjoy deep, rumbling bass, then a separate subwoofer might be a good choice.
Q: Can I connect a soundbar to any TV?
A: Most soundbars can be connected to any TV with an HDMI or optical port. However, it’s always a good idea to check the compatibility before making a purchase.
Q: How do I install a soundbar?
A: Installation is usually straightforward. Most soundbars can either be placed directly under your TV or mounted on the wall. They typically come with all the necessary cables for connection.
Q: Does a soundbar use a lot of electricity?
A: Generally, soundbars are designed to be energy efficient. However, models with more features or higher power outputs may use more electricity.