If you've ever found yourself engrossed in a movie or lost in the thrilling soundtrack of your favourite game, only to get jolted back to reality by tinny or lackluster audio, you know how vital sound quality is to the overall entertainment experience. That's where soundbars come in. Smaller than traditional speaker systems and packing a powerful auditory punch, soundbars are a simple yet effective way to upgrade your home entertainment. Designed to imitate a surround-sound experience without the hassles of multiple speakers, soundbars can dramatically improve your home auditory landscape.
Soundbars are available in a range of shapes, sizes and budgets. The ideal soundbar will have a richness and depth to the audio, crisp high notes, and deep, booming bass. For insight into sound quality, pay attention to certain specifications such as frequency response, watts, and number of channels. For an immersive cinema-like experience, keep an eye out for technologies such as Dolby Atmos too. We cover these specifications and more in our Ultimate Audio Buying Guide - be sure to check that out so you can make an informed decision when choosing the best Soundbar for you. In addition to sound quality, we know price is also a factor for many people, so we've included our top picks for every type of budget. Let's get started!
Top Value Dolby Atmos Soundbar - Edifier B700
For those seeking a soundbar that offers awesome value, while featuring the coveted Dolby Atmos Sound technology, look no further than the Edifier B700 175W 5.1.2 Soundbar System. This soundbar system provides 175 watts of power for an immersive and dynamic audio experience. With support for 5.1.2 channels, you're getting genuine surround sound that can turn your home into a miniature movie theater. To top it off, the five channels are accompanied by Dolby Atmos, adding upward firing speakers which places you right at the center of the action, creating a panoramic experience. The B700 also features a robust and resonant 8" wireless subwoofer that takes care of the low end, adding depth and punch to your audio. The inclusion of wireless also makes for easy setup and placement options, eliminating the fuss of wires around your living room. Sleek, feature-packed, and budget-friendly, the Edifier B700 encapsulates a fine balance of performance, design, and the atmospheric immersion of Dolby Atmos.
Top Scalable Soundbar - Harman Kardon Citation 1100
The beautifully crafted Harman Kardon Citation Multibeam 1100 soundbar not only elevates your home decor but also takes your audio experience to a new level. Something worth noting about it is that you have the option to expand your audio setup at your own pace. You can start with the standalone soundbar, which on its own delivers up to 630W of powerful sound that's sharp, clear, and detailed, complete with Dolby Atmos Sound and Multibeam technology. When you're ready for more, you can add a subwoofer for extra bass or invest in surround speakers to create a more immersive listening space. This flexibility makes the Citation 1100 a fantastic choice for those who want to spread the cost of a top-of-the-line audio system while experiencing immediate improvements in their audio quality. Additionally, with inbuilt Chromecast, Airplay, and Bluetooth, this soundbar also supports seamless streaming. The Harman Kardon Citation 1100 soundbar is a great investment towards a cinematic audio experience that grows with you and your needs.
Top Premium Pick - Sennheiser AMBEO
When it comes to sheer premium audio power, the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar is second to none. Designed with state-of-the-art technology, it is built to provide a 3D home audio experience unlike any other. The AMBEO's biggest selling point is its innovative technology which uses 13 high-end drivers to produce a phenomenal 5.1.4 sound experience. This creates an illusion of sound coming from all around you, like in an actual cinema. Moreover, the 'AMBEO mode' delivers an extraordinary 3D sound that immerses you right into the heart of whatever you are watching or listening to. This soundbar is also packed with smart features such as built-in Google Chromecast, Bluetooth, and HDMI eARC/CEC. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and MPEG-H sound formats, which indicates remarkable cinematic sound. And with its robust, sleek build, the AMBEO not only sounds great but also looks the part, fitting seamlessly into any modern home decor. Although a premium investment, the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar truly is an all-in-one home sound system that redefines the luxury audio experience.
Top Multi-Channel Soundbar - Samsung HW-Q990C
When it comes to taking sound immersion to the next level, our top pick is the Samsung HW-Q990C 11.1.4 Channel Soundbar. This audio powerhouse delivers a staggering 11.1.4 channel audio output, one of the most extensive in the market, wrapping you in finely detailed, all-encompassing sound. Each channel perfectly balances the audio to create a realistic soundscape that moves around you, recreating the dynamic experience of a movie theater or live concert. One of the key features of the HW-Q990C is its support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technologies, intended to provide a sense of three-dimensional sound space. This soundbar also features seamless connectivity options, including Bluetooth and HDMI eARC, making it an integral part of your smart home ecosystem. Whether watching action-packed blockbusters or listening to your favourite tunes, the impressive depth and width of the soundstage is bound to enhance your audio experience. While the Samsung HW-Q990C is a premium choice, its superior performance and immersive sound quality are truly unmatched.
Top Compact Soundbar - JBL Bar 2.0 MK2
For those with a smaller space or seeking a minimalistic setup, but still craving great audio, the JBL Bar 2.0 MK2 80W All-In-One Soundbar is the ideal choice. It offers 80 watts of power and 2 channels, delivering you with well-balanced sound as you watch movies or listen to playlists. Due to its all-in-one design, this soundbar eliminates the need for an additional subwoofer, making it an excellent space-saving audio solution. But don't think the absence of a standalone subwoofer limits this small but mighty gadget—its deep bass capabilities still deliver that impactful low end you're looking for. The JBL Bar 2.0 MK2 comes packed with additional features like Bluetooth for effortless streaming, as well as HDMI ARC for easy setup and interface with your TV. This bar's design is as sleek and sophisticated as its larger counterparts, ensuring your compact audio solution is still stylish. If space is a premium, the JBL Bar 2.0 MK2 proves that great things come in small packages!
Top Value Soundbar - Panasonic HTB100
For value-seekers desiring affordability above all, our top pick is the Panasonic SC-HTB100 45W Soundbar. This soundbar provides 45W of power, perfect for enhancing your TV sound or enjoying your favorite music. Though minimalist in design, it doesn't skimp on features. Its built-in subwoofer provides a great depth of sound, rendering the need for a separate unit unnecessary and helping to keep costs down. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for seamless streaming, along with support for popular audio formats, add to the overall convenience. Plus, the Panasonic’s SC-HTB100 is lightweight and compact, making it an ideal fit for smaller rooms or setups, while its sleek design ensures it'll blend seamlessly with any modern décor. Offering excellent sound and functionality at an incredible value, the Panasonic SC-HTB100 45W Soundbar is an all-around audio workhorse that truly delivers 'bang for your buck'.
And there you have it, a roundup of some of our top soundbars available right now, each catering to different needs and budgets. With a soundbar, you're one step closer to making cinema and concert magic yours, right from the comfort of the living room. Head over the our Soundbars category to browse our entire range!
