The 7 Best Atmos Soundbar, Tested And Researched

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
TCL Alto 9+ 3.1 Dolby Atmos Sound Bar
Image credit: Amazon.com

Suppose you appreciate the notion of realistic home entertainment sound but don't want to dig trenches in your ceiling or turn your family room into a loudspeaker equivalent of Stonehenge. You'll be relieved to learn that with the assistance of a Dolby Atmos soundbar, this is possible. You can experience accurate 3D audio with your movie nights from comfort and privacy without the hassle of faulty DIY.

The best Atmos soundbar can elevate the audio on your TV to the next rank without the effort or expense of a complete installation. These sleek speakers can mimic the immersive 3D sound experience you'd enjoy at the movies.

The majority of quality Atmos soundbars employ upward-firing transducers to disseminate audio vertically and bounce it off the ceilings, creating the illusion of above speakers. Consequently, items on your screen may be audible all around you, including circling aircraft or raining heavily.

We've evaluated the top Best Atmos Soundbars, which range from small audio systems to soundbar and subwoofer combos and wirelessly entire sound systems.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 TCL Alto 9+ 3.1 Dolby Atmos Sound Bar
Our Score:
9.7
TCL
  • MORE WAYS TO CONTROL & LISTEN: Stream all your favorite music and podcasts from Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, and more, wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop via Chromecast, Airplay 2, or Bluetooth. Works with Hey Google.
  • DOLBY ATMOS SURROUND SOUND: Multi-dimensional sound for greater depth and excitement.
  • CENTER CHANNEL: Enjoy clearer dialogue from the sound bar's center channel, tuned for optimal clarity.
  • RAY∙DANZ TECHNOLOGY: RAY∙DANZ technology creates an incredibly immersive, ultra-wide soundstage.
  • DEEP BASS WITH WIRELESS SUBWOOFER: Enjoy extra bass to make movies and music truly come to life.
TOP Choice #2 Nakamichi Shockwafe Elite
Our Score:
9.5
Nakamichi
  • Our DUAL 8" WIRELESS SUBWOOFERS (industry's first!) produce ground-shaking rumbles that you will hear and feel from anywhere in your living room. They merge to distribute adrenaline-pumping bass effects evenly throughout the room with zero localization. Altogether, the sound bar with subwoofers unleash cinema-level volumes without a trace of distortion, replicating the perfect cinema experience. Agreed among experts, TWO subwoofers are a must for ultimate home theaters.
  • TWO 2-WAY REAR SPEAKERS (industry’s first!) produce spacious and dynamic surround sound. Each of them (connected to sub via RCA wires) is constructed with a tweeter that reproduces high frequencies with captivating clarity, and a full-range driver that delivers surround effects with power and precision. Simply put, the surround sound performance from simulated/virtual 2.1 or other 5.1 channel surround soundbars does not come anywhere close to this.
  • Experience a whole new level of surround performance with our exclusive Spatial Surround Elevation SSE Technology. Featuring 3 advanced audio processing engines working in harmony to enhance directionality, enlarge spaciousness and unlock extra details of any audio soundtrack. Envelop your home theater with up to 7.2.4 channels of Dolby Atmos or DTS:X moving audio that flows all around you. Unleash the full dynamics of your audio experience with 106dB of room-filling sound.
  • Transform your living room into a premium cinema within minutes. Experience deep, room-filling bass with the industry’s only Dual Wireless Subwoofers and True 360° 7.2 channel surround sound with the Soundbar + Two Rear Surround Speakers. Discover what you have been missing from movies, music and games and step into the future of home theater. Created with the same DNA as our flagship Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 SSE, Winner of the best Dolby Atmos Soundbar Battle (hosted by Brian Tong, Ex Cnet host)
  • All units sold since Aug '19 can receive Dolby Atmos surround via TV’s eARC when streaming with TV’s smart apps like Netflix (Note: not all TVs can output Atmos. Refer to your TV brand’s audio output specs). Enjoy advanced connectivity with Dolby Vision, 4K UHD pass-thru and High Dynamic Range (HDR). Connect up to 6 devices via 1 HDMI ARC, 3 HDMI, 1 Optical and 1 Coaxial inputs. The 52-key backlit remote allows seamless control of sources, DSP modes, individual channel and room size optimization
TOP Choice #3 Sony HTX8500 2.1ch Dolby Atmos
Our Score:
9.1
Sony
  • In the box: Remote Control, Batteries for remote, HDMI Cable, AC Adaptor, AC Cord, Quick Setup Guide, Instruction Manual
  • Seven different sound modes to enhance your entertainment experience
  • Dual built-in subwoofers for deep bass
  • 7.1.2ch Dolby Atmos/DTS X with Vertical Sound Engine
  • Slim, low-profile design complements your TV
  • All sound upscaled close to 7.1.2ch audio
  • One-cable HDMI eARC for simple, high-quality connection to your TV
  • Voice enhancement for greater clarity
  • Easily integrates with your AV system with HDMI and optical inputs
  • 4K HDR passthrough-enabled to ensure a high-quality entertainment experience
  • Power Source Type: Corded Electric
  • Ultra HD 4K Pass-through with Dolby Vision
  • Connector Type: Optical
  • Included Components: Main Soundbar, Detachable Wireless Surround Speakers (2), Wireless Subwoofer Remote Control, Power Cords, Hdmi Cable, (2)L-Shape Wall-Mount Bracket (Main Bar), (2) U-Shape Wall-Mount Bracket (For Surround Speakers), Kit With Screws
  • With detachable, battery powered surround speakers you can enjoy real surround sound without the wires
  • Wireless Communication Technology: Wi-Fi
  • Built-in Dolby Atmos and DTS: X decoding
  • Experience deep bass with a 300W, 10" powered subwoofer
  • 820W Output power
5 SAMSUNG 3.1.2ch Q700A Q Series Soundbar
Our Score:
9.3
SAMSUNG
  • WORKS WITH - Enjoy your Soundbar hands-free using voice control through your Alexa-enabled device.
  • SPACEFIT SOUND - Automatically calibrated sound and enhanced clarity to adapt to your space.
  • Q-SYMPHONY - Perfectly synchronized, fully immersive QLED TV and soundbar audio.
  • DOLBY ATMOS / DTS:X - Theater-quality sound that fires from the front, side and above for true audio immersion.
  • TRUE 3.1.2CH SOUND - The complete audio entertainment experience with 3 channels, 1 subwoofer and 2 up-firing channels.
6 Sony HT-G700: 3.1CH Dolby Atmos
Our Score:
8.9
Sony
  • Connect to your TV wirelessly via Bluetooth
  • Immersive AE (Audio Enhancer) upscale audio closes to 7.1.2 each sound
  • EARC enabled to easily enjoy immersive Dolby Atmos audio from your favorite streaming providers
  • Utilize a simple, clean connection with one-cable HDMI ARC
  • Sound modes to customize listening to movies and music
  • Multiple easy connections so you can enjoy all your media
  • Enjoy high quality movies with 4K HDR pass through
  • Wireless subwoofer delivers powerful bass sound
  • 3.1ch Dolby Atmos DTS: X and Vertical Surround Engine
7 TCL Alto 8i 2.1 Channel Dolby Atmos Sound Bar
Our Score:
8.8
TCL
  • STREAM MUSIC WIRELESSLY: You can use your Bluetooth-enabled device to wirelessly stream music on your sound bar.
  • SPECIALIZED SOUND MODES: Specialized sound modes bring Movies, Music, and TV to life.
  • DEEP BASS WITH DUAL BUILT-IN SUBWOOFERS: Experience deep, rich bass to make movies and music truly come to life.
  • QUICK AND HASSLE-FREE SETUP: With HDMI, optical, or Bluetooth connections, you can go from unboxing to listening in minutes.
  • DOLBY ATMOS SURROUND SOUND: Multi-dimensional sound for greater depth and excitement.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

Are There Necessary Things Customers Should Keep In Mind To Select The best atmos soundbar?

You may think purchasing seems simple, and it sometimes does the opposite! Studying the outcome of best atmos soundbar will take a considerable amount of time. Also, there are multiple sides of best atmos soundbar you need to check. That’s the reason why we’re all ready to assist you with best atmos soundbar issue.

The most helpful advice has been tested. Prior to shopping for the best atmos soundbar, it is recommended that you do the research. Here are some questions you may see on some sale forums:

  • Where should you ask for support when having a problem with this product?
  • According to customers, what is the most popular type of this product on the market currently?
  • What might be beneficial for you when buying this product?
  • What to keep in mind to get the best one?
  • Does it make use to invest in this product?

With the flexibility of the market, all our staffs are able to solve clients’ inquiries. The practical review of information from many famous sources is preferred for everyone. We recommend well-known websites, sale forums, or even comments from users around you. As mentioned above spaces, our website use AI tool and Big Data to create buying guides. Thus, all our materials are accurate and reliable. 

You should pay more attention to the following criteria of best atmos soundbar in April:

Size

To ensure that the unit will not block the screen, or interfere with the remote control or display of your TV's remote, check its dimensions. You should also check that the design of the unit matches your TV.

App

A number of soundbars are also possible to be controlled via a smartphone app. Learn more about the app and its ease of use.

Additional Features

You might also want these features in your soundbar:
There are special sound modes for various audio types, such as watching movies, listening to music, or gaming. You can adjust the treble and bass settings depending on what you are watching/listening too.
Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa for voice-controlled music.
Front-panel displays that display important information, such as volume levels. Make sure to check if this display is able to be switched off when it's not in use so that it does not become distracting.

Subwoofer

In large rooms, a soundbar with an external subwoofer (or dedicated soundbar) can be more effective than one without it. A subwoofer that is well made will enhance low-end sound quality and add a cinematic vibe to your system. A sub that is poorly designed can cause a drop in sound quality. A soundbase is a great option if you need bass, but aren't able to fit an external sub. They include an integrated subwoofer.

Ease Of Set-up And Use

It is easy to hook up the soundbar with your TV or other device and get started using it immediately. This can be gauged by looking at the manual or reading some user reviews.

Connectivity

Soundbars typically only require one cable to connect with your TV. HDMI is the best choice. Make sure that your soundbar is equipped with all necessary ports for connecting to Blu-ray players and USB storage. You should check if your soundbar has a pass-through function that transmits 4K HDR video from your 4K HDR TV.

Remote Control

Some soundbars include a remote control, while others can be controlled using your TV remote. If you have a remote, ensure it is intuitive and easy to use.

Wired/wireless Speakers

Some soundbars allow for wired and wireless connection to other speakers. Some soundbars only support a subwoofer. However, a few models offer "surround sound" connectivity, which allows you to connect other speakers to the rear of the room to replicate 5.1. You can purchase these speakers separately or as a bundle at an extra cost.

Number Of Channels And Speakers

A soundbar with just 2.1 channels may be enough to enhance the audio quality of your TV. A 5.1 and 7.1 models might offer better sound quality when you watch TV/movies or listen to audio. Dolby Atmos is available on 5.1.2 and 7.1.2 models. This technology allows for a richer experience. It involves placing speakers higher than the roof, to create sound from above.

Wi-Fi And Bluetooth

Bluetooth is an important soundbar feature that allows you stream music from compatible phones, tablets and computers to your soundbar. Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to stream music from your Spotify account or access cloud music libraries.

FAQs

Will A Soundbar Improve Sound Quality?

Modern TVs have very tiny speakers which bounce sound off of your TV. As a result, they can be distant and harsh. A soundbar can be added to most TVs to improve their sound quality, particularly when it comes down to reproducing spoken words. It will also allow you to listen to music.

Can You Add A Subwoofer To A Sound Bar?

Wireless sound bars often come with a subwoofer. You can also add your own wireless subwoofer to the sound bars that do not have one. If you desire an immersive experience, you'll want it.

Are Soundbars Really Worth It?

They are well worth the investment when compared to how loud your TV sounds. A soundbar costs only $100 and can make your TV viewing experience 10x better. A soundbar can make it easier to understand speech by allowing TV speakers to face down.

Can A Sound Bar Be Used As A Center Speaker?

There are some that can and others that can't, but it's not something we recommend. Although a passive soundbar could technically be used to provide center channel speakers, this is not what it was designed for. This is like asking a pitcher to play both catch and second base instead of the only position that he excels at.

Can You Use Any Soundbar With Any TV?

There are very few exceptions to this rule. However, you can still use your soundbar with any TV. It is helpful sometimes to match soundbar and TV brands. New soundbars often use HDMI ARC to transmit the audio from the TV's speakers through the soundbar. If both of your devices have this port, you are good. An optical connection is available on some older soundbars, and almost all TVs have them.

How Do I Connect A Soundbar To My TV?

There are three ways you can output soundbars depending on your TV's age: digital optical, analog (3.5mm headphones or RCA), and digital optical. Make sure your soundbar is compatible with the TV's connections before you purchase it. HDMI is the most popular input for soundbars. If your TV has less than 5 years, it will likely be compatible. However, it is worth checking twice.

What Is "Cinema Sound"?

Many sound bars offer a "cinema sound", or "movieplex sounds", which, according to them, mimics real home theater sound. Reality: It adds a small digital delay to the sound, similar to a fractional echo (think of reverb). Although it doesn't create a true home theatre sound, it can make the room seem larger. Some are incredible, but it's not free.

Can You Add Speakers To A Sound Bar?

There are both yes and no. Some sound bars have additional speakers that can be added to the system, which brings you closer to home theatre sound. If the soundbar is multi-room compatible, then wireless rear speakers can be added. This is a good option for those who have or want to install a multi-room sound system in their home.

Where Do I Place My Soundbar?

The soundbars can be placed directly in front of your TV using a stand, or any other type of furniture. They are usually less than 2 inches high so they won't interfere with the infrared remote port of your TV or block it. Some soundbars are also wall-mountable and include brackets. There are third-party kits that can be used to mount soundbars on the wall.

Can You Use A Soundbar To Play Music?

A soundbar can make music play through your TV much more enjoyable. Bluetooth is a feature that many soundbars offer, so you won't have to turn on the TV to hear your music. A soundbar that has a wireless subwoofer will work best to reproduce deep bass and dynamics.

All in all, anything you need to acquire for your convenient purchase of best atmos soundbar is presented above. Admittedly, this information is accurate, thanks to our product consulting experts with a wealth of experience. Furthermore, we keep best atmos soundbar of 2024 data up-to-date at all times. It is helpful if you are a busy person. Try to check us as much as possible!

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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.