The Best Economy Soundbar For 2024

Tim Powers By, Tim Powers
Updated
Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV SoundBar
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV SoundBar

Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim Soundbar is an ultra-slim sound bar that features 5 powerful full-range drivers and a wireless subwoofer. This sound bar delivers beautiful rich sound with deep bass, thanks to Polk's exclusive Voice Adjust Technology and Dolby Digital Decoding. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Samsung HW-A450/ZA 2.1ch Soundbar

Get the best of both worlds with Samsung’s HW-A450/ZA Soundbar. Experience rich 2.1 sound for TV, movies, and music and immersive gaming audio that puts you in the middle of the action. Plus, its wireless subwoofer means you can enjoy deep bass without all the wires. Read Review

3. Best Durable: Bose TV Speaker

The Bose TV Speaker is a compact soundbar that delivers clear and powerful sound. It's Bluetooth enabled so you can stream your favorite music and podcasts wirelessly, while the in-built subwoofer provides the bass. Read Review

4. Best Smart Control: RIF6 Soundbar

RIF6 Soundbar offers 4 distinct sound modes for you to choose from, including Music, Movies, News and 3D Surround Sound. With its high-quality sound and clear audio, you’ll be able to hear every instrument and dialogue with ear-pleasing loudness. Read Review

When you think of soundbars, the first thing that comes to mind is how they look. Well, that’s not always the case. There are many high-end models out there that can blow your mind with their sound quality and features. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of best alternatives to those-looking soundbars.

With technology getting better ander, it has become quite easy to find a good alternative for the average soundbar that won’t break your bank account. Even if you can’t spend thousands on a speaker system right now, there are plenty of affordable options available that will get you great audio performance without breaking the bank. Read on to know more about some of the best economy soundbars!

We think the product that comes highly recommended for best economy soundbar is Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV SoundBar. In case you need more alternatives and more in-depth guidance, you may explore the following.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV SoundBar
Our Score:
9.8
Polk Audio
  • UPGRADE YOUR HOME THEATER EXPERIENCE – Watch your favorite shows on your 4K HD Smart TV with exceptional picture quality & crystal clear sound. With numerous connection possibilities, plug in any audio source via HDMI ARC, optical input & AUX
  • EXCELLENT SOUND AND VALUE on par with any mid- to high-range sound bars available in the market. At just over 2" tall, it fits most spaces — easily wall-mount it or place in front of your TV. It won’t block your TV’s bottom edge or IR remote sensor
  • WIRELESSLY STREAM MUSIC from your favorite streaming apps like Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, and others directly from your smartphone, tablet or other compatible device through the built-in Bluetooth technology
  • SET UP YOUR SOUND BAR IN MINUTES — With the included subwoofer, HDMI and optical cables quickly connect your TV to the sound bar. Get set up and listening in minutes
  • A PREMIUM ULTRA-SLIM SOUND BAR WITH INCLUDED WIRELESS SUBWOOFER – 5 powerful full-range drivers deliver BEAUTFUL RICH SOUND WITH DEEP BASS. POLK’S EXCLUSIVE VOICE ADJUST TECHNOLOGY & Dolby Digital Decoding maximizes sound clarity & reduces voice delays
TOP Choice #2 Samsung HW-A450/ZA 2.1ch Soundbar
Our Score:
9.6
SAMSUNG
  • BASS BOOST - Give your bass an instant boost with the push of a button on the soundbar
  • BLUETOOTH TV CONNECTION - Set up is a breeze. Easily connect your soundbar to your TV by connecting wirelessly
  • ADAPTIVE SOUND LITE - Enhanced audio tracking for your content in real time, with technology that equalizes background music and consistent volume control
  • ONE REMOTE - Streamline control of both your Samsung TV and soundbar with just the Samsung TV remote
  • SUBWOOFER INCLUDED - Wireless subwoofer is included so you can enjoy deep bass right out of the box All-in-one
  • WIRELESS SURROUND SOUND COMPATIBLE - Turn your soundbar into a complete surround sound system with optional rear Samsung speakers in a few simple steps without the mess of wires
  • GAME MODE - Boost your gaming experience with perfectly synced directional audio that moves with the action on-screen and crosstalk cancellation that minimizes distractions
TOP Choice #3 Bose TV Speaker
Our Score:
9.5
Bose
  • Bluetooth TV speaker: Pair your device to this Bluetooth soundbar to wirelessly stream your favorite music and podcasts.
  • Simple setup: A single connection from this compact soundbar to the TV via an optical audio cable (included) or an HDMI cable (sold separately) has you up and running in minutes.
  • Enhanced dialogue: This TV speaker is designed to specifically focus on clarifying and elevating vocals and pronunciation.
  • Build and expand: The Bose TV Speaker is compatible with the Bose Bass Module 500 or 700 and requires the Bose Bass Module Connection Cable or a standard 3.5 millimeter audio cable, sold separately.
  • Wide, natural sound: 2 angled full-range drivers deliver a more realistic, spatial audio experience for overall better TV sound from a small soundbar.
  • Compact soundbar: This small soundbar is just over 2" tall for easy placement in front of your TV or mounted to a wall (wall brackets sold separately). Overall TV speaker dimensions are 2.21" H x 23.38" W x 4.02" D.
  • Remote control: Compact TV speaker comes with a remote control that enables a dialogue mode to further enhance speech or add a bass boost for more depth.
  • Hear your TV better: Designed with simplicity in mind, the Bose TV Speaker is a small soundbar that clarifies speech and is a simple fix for better TV sound.
4 RIF6 Soundbar
Our Score:
9.3
RIF6
  • Our high-quality soundbar for TV is powered with integrated inputs to bring all media in life with amplified audio. It can easily connect to your TV, pc or laptop via RCA, AUX, USB, coaxial and optical input. Features 5.0 Bluetooth with up to 33 feet range so you can stream with your mobile phone or tablets anywhere in the room with just a tap of a finger
  • With its 4 distinct sound modes, you can fine tune your audio to match your favorite sound. Set it between Music, Movies, News or 3D surround sound mode to hear and feel every instrument, dialogue, explosion, and detail with clear and ear-pleasing loudness
  • This long sound bar speaker in premium quality plastic housing and metal mesh cover comes complete with remote control for you to easily switch between input modes and adjust the bass or treble. With its LED display you can quickly and easily increase and decrease the bass at the touch of a button on the remote
  • Upgrade your entertainment system for an incredible home theater experience with Rif6 Sound Bar. This sleek and slim 35.43 x 3.07 x 2.75 inches single soundbar delivers impressive sound quality wherever you place it. Comfortably sit it on a shelf or desk in front of your tv or mount it on the wall for elegant home-theatre setup
  • No need to shell out more for expensive soundbars just to surround your room with extra speakers for booming bass. This electric stereo speaker features 2 built-in subwoofers which can provide room-shaking powerful bass as deep as 72dB, clear and precise audio and cinematic surround sound
5 Wohome Small Soundbar
Our Score:
9.2
Wohome
  • Wired Connection: Support AUX USB and optical inputs, more over, the RCA cable and optical cable supplied, do not need to buy any extra cables. (Please make sure your TV audio setting to PCM for optical connection before use).
  • 16-Inch Ultra-Slim Soundbar:With stylish and Compact design, 3.0 inches high could fit easily under your TV and desktop monitor, great for desktop space especially student dorm rooms or bedroom. Compatible with 4K & HD TVs, PC, projectors smartphones and tablets.
  • Wireless Connection: enjoy wireless streaming music from your phone, tablets or other bluetooth embedded devices through Bluetooth 5.0.
  • HiFi Audio:built-in 2x powerful full-range drivers that provide which produce deep bass and clear sound for all your movie, music, TV shows and gaming, place it flat on the table to enjoy full of extensive stereo effects.
  • 5 Sound Equalizer Modes: built-in DSP technology for amazing clarity and precision,support great 5 EQs including flat, rock, jazz, pop and voice to match your favorite voice.
6 JBL Bar 2.1
Best Audio Performance
JBL Bar 2.1
Our Score:
9.1
JBL
  • JBL Surround sound brings an immersive sound experience for your TV without any extra wires or speakers
  • 6. 5" Wireless subwoofer delivers deep, thrilling sound
  • Enjoy wireless music streaming via Bluetooth from your mobile or tablet
  • An impressive 300W of total system power
  • Hdmi or optical cable connection is super simple to set up and use
7 M-Series 36” VIZIO Soundbar
Our Score:
8.9
VIZIO
  • New Modern Design Angular all-in-1 design packed with performance and slides beneath your TV for a clean look.
  • Dimensions
  • Optimized for 4K HDR content with Dolby Audio Bring out the best audio performance from your 4K HDR content with Dolby Audio when connected through HDMI.
  • Loud and Clear - The 98dB sound pressure level and 50Hz – 20KHz frequency range deliver dynamic and accurate Sound.
  • DTS Virtual:X Enhances any content with room-filling, floor-to-ceiling virtualized 3D sound.
  • 6 Precisely Designed Speakers 2-way speaker design with separate tweeters and woofers create richer, clearer sound.
  • One-cable HDMI eARC for simple, high-quality connection to your TV
  • Dual built-in subwoofers for deep bass
  • In the box: Remote Control, Batteries for remote, HDMI Cable, AC Adaptor, AC Cord, Quick Setup Guide, Instruction Manual
  • Slim, low-profile design complements your TV
  • 4K HDR passthrough-enabled to ensure a high-quality entertainment experience
  • Seven different sound modes to enhance your entertainment experience
  • Easily integrates with your AV system with HDMI and optical inputs
  • 7.1.2ch Dolby Atmos/DTS X with Vertical Sound Engine
  • Voice enhancement for greater clarity
  • All sound upscaled close to 7.1.2ch audio
  • Wireless subwoofer and recessed input panel allows you to enjoy a clutter free setup and easy installation.Hdmi(arc): easily connect to your TV or other device with HDMI (ARC).DSP modes: music, movie, 3D, news.110//20 volt auto switching power supply for use worldwide.Unit weight: 14.4 lbs.Sound bar dimensions: 2.75"" X 3.07"" X 37.8"".Subwoofer Dimensions: 6.7"" X 14.96"" X 12.05"".
  • Controls: volume, bass, treble, DSP mode.Includes a wall bracket and mounting hardware.Recessed input panel makes it easy to plug in your device).drivers: sound bar has (4) 2.25"" Drivers and the subwoofer has a 6.5” driver.No distortion even at max volume.Wireless subwoofer with 6.5"" Driver delivers powerful deep bass.
  • Rockville ROCKBAR 40"" 400 watt sound bar with wireless subwoofer/Bluetooth/HDMI/optical.400 watts peak power/ 160 watts RMS power (continuous).pairs with included wireless subwoofer seamlessly.Built in Bluetooth wireless Audio streaming with long range and distortion free playback.Usb input plays back music stored on a thumb drive (up to 32 GB).
  • Rockville ROCKBAR 40" 400W soundbar with wireless subwoofer/Bluetooth/HDMI/optical
  • (1) RCA line in, (1) optical digital Audio in, (1) digital USB in, and an (arc) HDMI.Multi-channel stereo sound to deliver a cinematic experience.Led display shows volume and track.Powered by a digital amplifier with DSP for audiophile sound quality.Pcm decoder.Remote control.Frequency response: 45hz-20khz.S/n Ratio: = 72dB.
10 Wohome Sound Bars for TV
Our Score:
8.6
Wohome
  • Ultra-Slim 28-Inch Sound Bar: with fashionable and classic design, 2.5 inches high could fit easily under your TV and desktop monitor, or you can place it on the cabinet or mount it on the wall, user-friendly design, super-easy setup
  • Multiple Connection: Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 for all your Bluetooth embedded devices such as smart TVs, phones, tablets, PCs; Wired connection including HDMI-ARC, optical, coaxial, aux for your traditional or smart TVs, projector, DVDs, and other devices; USB 2.0 for USB flash drivers to play MP3 music
  • Deeper Bass: 2.1 Channel with 4x 2.5inch full-range speakers and one 5.5Inch powerful subwoofer, our engineers repeatedly adjusted the sound quality infinitely, finally obtained satisfactory sound quality, S99 could produce strong heavy bass and surround sound effects, delicate midrange, treble, and other performance, a great dynamic home theater audio system for your and your families, max volume is 110dB
  • Great Customer Support: LED display; remote control supplied; optical and aux cable supplied; 100% satisfaction service and lifetime technical support, any questions, please feel free to contact us via Amazon message or contact info on the service card
  • 4 Sound Equalizer Modes: with DSP technology, which brings amazing clarity and precision, let you enjoy all the details of dialogue, music, gaming, and movies; support 4EQs including music, movie, news, and 3D modes, choose the best sound according to your sound source, what's more, bass and treble adjustable
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best economy soundbar?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

Conclusion

It's challenging to determine the greatest product while deciding what to buy. We wanted to help you narrow things down by offering a list of best economy soundbar above so you can make a better-educated decision before purchasing anything that might never work for you.

Would any of these ideas strike a chord with you? If that's the case, keep these in mind before making any purchases! You may also look into Polk Audio React Soundbar to find another option that is a good fit for you.


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About Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Tim Powers is an audio equipment & home theater gadget reviewer and the editor of TheAudioInsights.com. He has been involved in the home theater hobby since the late 1990s when he purchased his first AV receiver. Tim is also a writer, with articles appearing in various online and print publications.