The 10 Best Tv Soundbar System, Tested And Researched

Piers Anthony By, Piers Anthony
Updated
Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

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

We like this device because it can customize voice levels in the soundbar to reproduce clear, crisp dialogue and never miss a word from your favourite TV show or sporting event. Read Review

2. Best For Price: Hisense HS205 2.0ch Sound Bar

It is easy to place and connect to your TV; the Hisense soundbar will improve your TV audio experience and is perfect for TVs 32 inches and up. Read Review

3. Best Connection: Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Sound System

This product has a dialogue mode that will be helpful for people with hearing impairment as it not only emphasizes speech but also reduces bass for improved clarity. Read Review

4. Best Sound Quality: Sound Bar for TV, PHEANOO 2.1 CH

The Pheanoo 2.1 will provide you crystal clear sound with less than 1% total harmonic distortion, let you hear every musical note beating on each violin string, and not miss every whistling of bullets piercing the air in the game. Read Review

Most TVs deliver decent sound quality, but if you want a truly cinematic experience from your home entertainment system, you'll want to invest in a soundbar. Your TV's built-in speakers are designed for everyday viewing.

Sound is just as important as pictures when watching TV, but manufacturers overlook sound quality when making TVs. By purchasing one of the best soundbars, you will significantly enhance your audio experience when watching movies, sports and TV shows. Dialogue sounds clearer, sound effects more impactful, and music much richer. Other sound systems don't take up more space than your TV but add the power, range, and clarity needed to your audio experience.
When choosing the right soundbar for you, there are many factors to think about. After testing many soundbars, we recommend using Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV and Hisense HS205 2.0ch Sound Bar simultaneously as the best TV soundbar system.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV
Our Score:
9.7
Polk Audio
  • 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
  • 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
TOP Choice #2 Hisense HS205 2.0ch Sound Bar
Our Score:
9.5
Hisense
  • Easy Connectivity: With HDMI (ARC), the Hisense HS205 can connect to your TV through a single HDMI cable (included), connect wirelessly via Bluetooth, and control both with one remote. You'll be enjoying better TV sound in minutes.
  • Wireless Music Streaming: The compact and elegant all-in-one design with built-in subwoofer will easily fit your living room, bedroom, or family room space. You won’t need to find a space for a big sub and still get big sound.
  • Simple, Compact Design: The HS205 includes Bluetooth technology for easy wireless connections to smart device. Enjoy music from your smartphone, tablet or laptop.
  • Roku TV Ready: As Roku TV Ready device, the Hisense HS205 Soundbar is fully compatible with any Roku Tv through the HDMI (ARC) connection. You can even use the Roku Tv remote to control both the Tv and soundbar for easier setup and better navigation experience.
  • Quick Touch EQ Modes: Get the best audio performance from music, movies, and news with a simple touch of the remote with multiple preset EQ settings.
  • Enjoy Better Tv Sound: Easy to place and connect to your television, the Hisense H205 is a soundbar that improves your TV sound experience and is perfect for TV’s 32” or larger. Instead of just hearing the scene, you’re transported into it.
  • Accessories included: Includes the Hisense 205 Sound Bar, HDMI cable, optical cable, and a wall mounting kit to make sure that you have what you need to make the most of your Hisense audio experience right out of the box.
TOP Choice #3 Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Sound System
Our Score:
9.3
Bose
  • 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)
  • Bluetooth connectivity to wirelessly stream music from any of your devices
  • Dialogue mode to make every word and detail stand out
  • Universal remote controls TV, bass, Bluetooth connections and more
  • One connection to your TV. Optical audio input (digital); Coaxial audio input (digital); 3.5 mm aux input (analog)
4 Sound Bar for TV, PHEANOO 2.1 CH
Our Score:
9.1
PHEANOO
  • BETTER BASS: Dedicated wired subwoofer offers deep and powerful bass. The sound quality is superior when compared to the majority of cut-price standalone soundbars
  • ROKU TV READY: The D5 is certified to work seamlessly with any Roku TV through the HDMI (ARC) connection. You'll enjoy smooth setup, easy access to sound settings, and compatibility with any Roku TV remote.
  • STYLISH AND COMPACT DESIGN: Overall dimensions are 29"W x2.4″ Hx2.8" D. This compact stylish soundbar blends easily into any living space
  • QUICK AND EASY SET UP: Choose from HDMI ARC, Optical, AUX, or Bluetooth 5.0 connections (HDMI, RCA Audio cable included), you can finish the set up in minutes
  • CLEAR AND PRECISE DIALOGUE: Specially tuned dialogue mode makes speech crystal clear and easier to understand for a more enjoyable experience
5 Samsung HW-A450/ZA 2.1ch Soundbar
Our Score:
9.0
SAMSUNG
  • BLUETOOTH TV CONNECTION - Set up is a breeze. Easily connect your soundbar to your TV by connecting wirelessly
  • ONE REMOTE - Streamline control of both your Samsung TV and soundbar with just the Samsung TV remote
  • BASS BOOST - Give your bass an instant boost with the push of a button on the soundbar
  • ADAPTIVE SOUND LITE - Enhanced audio tracking for your content in real time, with technology that equalizes background music and consistent volume control
  • GAME MODE - Boost your gaming experience with perfectly synced directional audio that moves with the action on-screen and crosstalk cancellation that minimizes distractions
  • 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
  • SUBWOOFER INCLUDED - Wireless subwoofer is included so you can enjoy deep bass right out of the box All-in-one
6 Bose TV Speaker - Soundbar for TV
Our Score:
8.8
Bose
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Bluetooth TV speaker: Pair your device to this Bluetooth soundbar to wirelessly stream your favorite music and podcasts.
  • 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.
  • Enhanced dialogue: This TV speaker is designed to specifically focus on clarifying and elevating vocals and pronunciation.
  • Wide, natural sound: 2 angled full-range drivers deliver a more realistic, spatial audio experience for overall better TV sound from a small soundbar.
  • Wireless music streaming with Bluetooth
  • Thrilling bass from a 10 Inch (250mm) wireless subwoofer
  • True 4K connectivity with 3 HDMI in/1 HDMI out (ARC)
  • JBL 5.1 surround sound with 510W of power
  • Detachable, battery-powered wireless surround speakers
  • Power Source Type: Battery Powered
  • 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.
  • Dimensions
  • New Modern Design Angular all-in-1 design packed with performance and slides beneath your TV for a clean look.
  • 6 Precisely Designed Speakers 2-way speaker design with separate tweeters and woofers create richer, clearer sound.
  • Control with TV Remote using HDMI, Audio Cables Included for Easy Setup
  • Low-Profile Design and Brilliant Clarity with 6 Full-range Speakers
  • Powerful 5" Wireless Subwoofer and Bluetooth Music Streaming
  • Optimized for 4K TVs with Dolby Audio 5.1 and HDMI (Cable Included)
  • Complete Immersion with Discreet Volume Adjustable Surround Speakers
10 Sony Z9F 3.1ch Sound bar
Our Score:
8.4
Sony
  • High-resolution Audio capable
  • Stream music, online radio, and podcasts from your Amazon connected device directly to your Z9F soundbar. Just ask Alexa.
  • Built-in Wi-Fi and easy BLUETOOTH streaming
  • 4K HDR compatible
  • In the box: Remote (RMT-AH400U), Batteries for remote, HDMI Cable, Wall Hanging Bracket (with screws x 2), Wall Mount Template
  • Wireless Subwoofer included
  • Ultimate Home Theater Upgrade with 3.1ch Dolby Atmos DTS: X and Vertical Sound Engine
  • Seven sound modes for enhanced movies, music, gaming, news and sport
  • Stream and control audio content with your favorite smart devices
  • Voice enhancement for greater clarity
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best tv soundbar system?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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 tv soundbar system 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 SAMSUNG HW-S50A 3.0ch Soundbar to find another option that is a good fit for you.


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About Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony is a freelance writer and computer expert who enjoys helping others get the most out of their technology. He has written extensively about laptops, soundbars, and other computer-related topics, and he currently serves as the editor of The Audio Insights website. When he's not writing or tinkering with his gadgets, Piers can be found spending time with his wife and family.