The Best Soundbar With Surround Sound For 2024

William Shatner By, William Shatner
Updated
Sony HT-A7000 7.1.2ch 500W Dolby Atmos Sound Bar
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Of The Best: Sony HT-A7000 7.1.2ch 500W Dolby Atmos Sound Bar

The Sony HT-A7000 with DTS:X delivers a compelling audio experience with immersive surround sound that brings your entertainment to life. An Immersive Audio Enhancement converts regular audio to near 7.1.2 Ch and creates an impactful listening experience that is perfect for gaming, movies, and music. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Sound System

The Bose Solo 5 TV Sound Bar is the one sound bar to rule them all. Thanks to its compact size, wireless connectivity and powerful audio performance, you'll get a cinema-like experience from your TV, no matter where you are in the room. Read Review

3. Best Sound Quality: Sony HT-S350 Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer

This Sony soundbar is designed with a wireless subwoofer and Bluetooth streaming. It has one-cable connection to send audio and control information from the TV using HDMI ARC. The soundbar also features DSEE HX technology to upscale compressed digital music files for richer, more natural sound. Read Review

4. Best Compatible: Soundbar with Subwoofer,2.1CH with 3D Surround Sound

The Soundbar with Subwoofer,2.1CH with 3D Surround Sound, Works with 4K & HD TVs is the perfect entertainment companion to your TV. With wireless-Bluetooth 5.0, built-in Bluetooth for wireless music playback and multiple wired connections, you can use it with your TV or PC and enjoy music from your mobile devices without any strings attached. Read Review

Surround soundbars are a perfect upgrade for your TV if you don’t have space for a home theater system, or if you just want to enjoy fantastic audio in your smaller living space. The best surround sound bars can replicate the immersive experience of cinema in your living room.

No matter what size your home is, you will be able to enjoy every single second of your favorite movies and shows with one of these top-quality surround soundbar systems. Each device on this list has been carefully selected based on its performance capabilities and individual features. With our top list, for example Sony HT-A7000 7.1.2ch 500W Dolby Atmos Sound Bar and Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Sound System, you can make the best soundbar wiith surround sound.

There are many model variations out there, so it can be difficult to choose the right one for you. That’s why we’ve prepared an ultimate buyer’s guide with all the information you need to make an informed decision before investing in a new soundbar system.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Sony HT-A7000 7.1.2ch 500W Dolby Atmos Sound Bar
Our Score:
9.9
Sony
  • Pairs with BRAVIA for easy access to soundbar controls
  • Vivid visuals and fast paced game play with 8K1 and 4K/1202 passthrough.
  • Customize your setup with two subwoofer choices and an optional rear speaker set.
  • Sound Field Optimization calibrates to your environment for easy set up
  • A wider sweet spot lets everyone have the best seat in the house
  • An onscreen user interface helps you make more detailed adjustments to your HT-A7000 settings easily.
  • Stream your way with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and Apple Airplay 2
  • Immerse yourself in supreme music quality with Hi-Res Audio and 360 Reality Audio
  • Integrates with your connected devices with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa
  • Immersive Audio Enhancement converts regular audio to near 7.1.2 Ch
TOP Choice #2 Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Sound System
Our Score:
9.7
Bose
  • Dialogue mode to make every word and detail stand out
  • Single sound bar provides better sound quality compared to your TV.The Solo 5 TV sound system is an easy solution, with advanced technologies that deliver the clear audio your TV can’t.
  • Speaker:2.6 H x 21.6 W x 3.4 D (3.73 lbs), Remote control:4.1 H x 1.6 W x 0.4 D (5 oz)
  • Universal remote controls TV, bass, Bluetooth connections and more
  • Bluetooth connectivity to wirelessly stream music from any of your devices
  • One connection to your TV. Optical audio input (digital); Coaxial audio input (digital); 3.5 mm aux input (analog)
TOP Choice #3 Sony HT-S350 Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer
Our Score:
9.6
Sony
  • One-Cable Connect: Send Audio and Control Information from the TV Using a Single Cable with HDMI Arc
  • Audio Comes Alive:320W total power output brings content to life with incredible volume and clarity
  • Voice Enhancement: Isolates Voices and Amplifies Them over the Background Noise for Greater Clarity
  • 7 Sound Modes: Choose from Auto Sound, Cinema, Music, Game, News, Sports, and Standard Audio Mode
  • Powerful Subwoofer: Large 6.30 Inches Speaker Unit and 6.16 Gallon Volume for a Deeper, Richer Bass Sound
  • Ultimate Home Theater Upgrade: Sony 2.1 Channel Sound Bar System With Wireless Subwoofer for Optimized Audio
  • Bluetooth Streaming: Stream Your Favorite Movies, Shows, and Music from Your Smartphone or Tablet
  • In the Box: Soundbar, Subwoofer, Remote Control, Batteries, Optical Cable, Quick Setup Guide, Manual
  • S-Force Pro: Virtual Surround Sound Technology Emulates a Theater-Style Surround Sound Experience
  • Wirelessly Connect: Connect via Bluetooth to Send Audio to the Slim Soundbar and Sub from Anywhere
  • FULL ACCESSORIES INCLUDED---HDMI(ARC) cable, Optical Cable, Aux Cable, Remote Control, Screw Set all included. Built-in mount bracket.
  • Multi-Wired Connection--- Multiple Connections by HDMI(ARC), Optical, Aux, and also support USB Flash drive, you can easily connect to your TV or PC, Projectors, Computers etc. via these inputs.
  • Stunning Cinematic Sound---[4] full-range drivers with [1] powerful deep bass subwoofer. Bring you strong and powerfully and epic cinematic impact sound effect for creating tension, suspense and focus attention in exciting moments.
  • 4 SOUND MODES---Music-Movie-News-3D,different modes give you the best sound a truly immersive, incomparable listening experience.
  • Wireless-Bluetooth 5.0 ---Built-in Bluetooth for wireless music playback, you'll easily connect to other devices and enjoy music from your mobile, no strings attached.
  • Now with alexa multi-room audio
  • 4k pass-through with hdr 10 and dolby vision provides the best resolution
  • Connector type: HDMI
  • Jbl surround sound brings an immersive virtual 5.1 sound experience for your tv without any extra wires or speakers
  • 10"" wireless subwoofer delivers deep, thrilling sound
  • An impressive 550w of total system power
  • Built-in chromecast, airplay2 and bluetooth
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • MULTI-CONNECTION - Connect listen, enjoy Bluetooth multi connection Connect two different smart devices at the same time, so you can seamlessly switch between devices, Bluetooth TV connection Connect via Bluetooth and enjoy your favorite content without unsightly cables HDMI Connect your your devices via HDMI for a rich audio experience
  • Included Components: User Manual
  • POWERFUL BASS - Deep rich bass Feel the action and the beat of the music with the rich bass from the wireless subwoofer
  • 3D SURROUND SOUND - Sound that wraps around you The captivating experience of DTS Virtual X turns your living room into a theater Powerful 3D surround sound comes to life by recreating sound that makes you feel like you're inside the scene
  • Power Source Type: Corded Electric. Spk (sub woofer) Net Dimension (W x H x D)-8.1 x 13.9 x 11.9 inches
  • ONE REMOTE CONTROL - A world of sound with one remote One remote is all you need Control key soundbar functions like power, volume and even sound effects with the Samsung TV remote — right from your TV
  • BUILT-IN CENTER SPEAKER - Center channel for clear dialogue Never miss a word Experience crystal clear dialogue with a dedicated center channel speaker
  • Advanced 5.0 Bluetooth Technology: Connect over Bluetooth in seconds to your any Bluetooth Audio devices. To play from TVs use the included optical cable. It also supports Aux in, RCA, USB.
  • 3D Surround Sound System: support Movie/Music/Dialogue modes thanks to DSP Technology. bring you a fantastic surrounded sound. Lets you hear every details of your music and movies, with crisp, breathtaking detail and exceptional clarity.
  • Upgraded Version: High-sensitivity remote control displays the different modes by means of different colored LED lights. Deep bass, improved power (Up to 80W). Advanced built-in Subwoofer bring powerful bass for all your movies, music and TV shows. Enjoy expansive audio and crystal-clear sound.(Fit for 32Inch--50Inch Smart TV).
  • Control with Remote or Buttons: No matter if you’re standing by the TV or laying on the couch, the tv soundbar speaker can be operated via the integrated top buttons or included remote control. To make its operation even more intuitive, the LED indicator shines through the grid in different colors matching the selected functions.
  • Wireless Communication Technology: Wi-Fi
  • Ultra HD 4K Pass-through with Dolby Vision
  • With detachable, battery powered surround speakers you can enjoy real surround sound without the wires
  • Power Source Type: Corded Electric
  • Connector Type: Optical
  • Built-in Dolby Atmos and DTS: X decoding
  • 820W Output power
  • 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
  • Experience deep bass with a 300W, 10" powered subwoofer
  • A DILIGENT DESIGN & 12 MONTHS WARRANTY - VMAI engineered the soundbar almost impossibly thin measuring less than 2.5-inch-high, and a jet-black surface. With luxury Touch-button design, you can control power/ volume on the side easily. VMAI sound bar comes with mount bracket in the package, which allows you to mount this elegant sound bar on your living room. Every VMAI sound bar will go through a strict quality test process before sending out. We offer 12 months warranty to our customer!
  • MULTIPLE INPUT OPTIONS AND EASY SET UP - Aside from one of our newest feature Bluetooth 5.0 from your smartphones, tablet, PC and other Bluetooth enabled devices; there are also wired connection including HDMI ARC, Optical, USB (Flash drive only), and AUX input, compatible with TVs, projectors, computers, Blu-ray players, tablet, PS5, Amplifiers, and more! We upgraded the package to include both premium 5 ft Optical cable and 5 ft RCA to 3.5 mm cable.
  • FOUR DIFFERENT SOUND MODE - Music, Movie, News & 3D mode adjusting by using the included remote control! The remote also allows you to increase or reduce treble and bass based on your preference. The additional volume and power control are conveniently located at the right side of the sound bar.
  • 2.1 CHANNEL IMMERSIVE SOUND EXPERIENCE - 120W Sound bar delivers noticeably better sound than your TV alone. With advanced technologies, TV sound bar delivers the clear audio your TV can’t. Sound bar with subwoofer produces powerful bass and surround sound, let you enjoy a dynamic home audio experience; With 110dB sound level pressure, VMAI sound bar delivers the heavy-bass performance, a detailed midrange, crisp treble, and beyond. Enjoy all the details of your music and movies.
  • BLUETOOTH 5.0, THE SUPERB SOUND QUALITY - Our newest sound bar adopts Bluetooth 5.0 & DSP technology to ensure faster transmission speeds, stable connectivity, and smooth transmission in long distance with low consumption. This soundbar is so versatile you can place it almost anywhere. And with Bluetooth connectivity, you can play your favorite music anywhere. We’ve carefully engineered a custom sound bar material so we can provide you with true 3D stereo premium sound.
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What to Look For in a best soundbar with surround sound?

Some of you may be reluctant to select one of the best soundbar with surround sound, to be honest. The main reason is that you didn’t study that before. There are pretty lots of factors that must be considered when investing in best soundbar with surround sound. You are expected to count on our expertise in best soundbar with surround sound to make the right choice. 

So now we move on to the significant factors related to best soundbar with surround sound you must keep in mind:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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About William Shatner

William Shatner

William Shatner is a writer and editor who has worked in the audio equipment, computer, and projector industries. He also enjoys repairing and modifying audio equipment, and he has a particular interest in projectors. William is a critical thinker and problem solver, and he takes great pride in his work. He currently serves as the freelance editor of The Audio Insights.