Best Rated Sound Bars for TV: Top 10 Picks for Immersive Audio Experience
Sound bars have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to enhance the audio quality of your TV viewing experience. They are slim, easy to install, and can significantly improve the sound quality of your TV without the need for a full home theater system.
When it comes to purchasing a sound bar, there are a few things to keep in mind. The first is the type of TV you have. Some sound bars are designed to be compatible with specific TV brands or models, so it’s essential to ensure that the sound bar you choose will work with your TV. Another important factor to consider is the size of your TV. A sound bar that is too small will not provide the desired audio quality, while a sound bar that is too large may overpower your room.
In this article, we will be discussing the best-rated sound bars for TV. We have spent countless hours researching and testing various sound bars to identify the ones that provide the best audio quality, are easy to set up, and are compatible with a wide range of TV models. Whether you’re looking for a basic sound bar or a more advanced model with features like Bluetooth connectivity or voice control, we’ve got you covered.
Before we dive into our top picks, it’s essential to note that the sound quality you will experience with a sound bar is heavily dependent on the content you are watching. If you’re watching a low-quality video, even the best sound bar won’t be able to make up for it. However, with high-quality content, a good sound bar can make a significant difference in your viewing experience.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at our top picks for the best-rated sound bars for TV.
Best Sound Bars for TV
We know how important it is to have a high-quality sound system when watching your favorite movies or TV shows. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best rated sound bars for TV. These sound bars have been carefully selected based on their sound quality, ease of use, and overall value. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end sound bar with all the bells and whistles, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and enjoy our roundup of the best sound bars for TV.
Bose TV Speaker
If you’re looking for a compact soundbar that can improve your TV’s sound quality, the Bose TV Speaker is a great option.
Pros
- The soundbar delivers wide, spacious sound and a center tweeter specifically focused on elevating vocals.
- The Bose TV Speaker has a simple setup, requiring only a single connection to the TV via an optical audio cable (included) or an HDMI cable (sold separately).
- The compact soundbar can be placed just about anywhere, thanks to its small size and wall-mounting compatibility (wall brackets sold separately).
Cons
- Some users have reported that the bass is lacking, even when using the “Bass” button on the remote.
- The Bose TV Speaker only has one HDMI input, which may be a limitation for some users who need more connectivity options.
- The soundbar’s LED lights can be distracting, especially in a dark room.
We were impressed by the Bose TV Speaker’s ability to clarify speech and improve overall TV sound. The soundbar’s compact size makes it easy to place in front of your TV or mount on the wall, and the simple setup process means you can be up and running in minutes. The included remote control is easy to use, and we appreciated the ability to enable “dialogue mode” for even clearer vocals.
One potential downside is that the Bose TV Speaker only has one HDMI input, which may be a limitation for users who need to connect multiple devices. Additionally, while the soundbar’s bass is decent for its size, some users may find it lacking. However, overall we think the Bose TV Speaker is a great option for anyone looking to improve their TV’s sound quality without breaking the bank.
Amazon Fire TV Soundbar
We highly recommend the Amazon Fire TV Soundbar for anyone looking to enhance their TV audio experience.
Pros
- The dual speakers provide fuller sound, clearer dialogue, and deeper bass, making for a more immersive viewing experience.
- The DTS Virtual and Dolby Audio technology creates a three-dimensional virtual surround sound experience with more detail.
- The setup is incredibly easy – just plug in the included HDMI cable to the HDMI eARC/ARC port on your TV to instantly enjoy audio that’s always in sync.
Cons
- The device is made from only 18% recycled materials, which may be a downside for environmentally conscious buyers.
- The power adapter and cable are not included in the box, so you will need to purchase them separately.
- The Fire TV Soundbar is not compatible with all TVs, so make sure to check compatibility before purchasing.
The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar is a compact and stylish device that fits most entertainment consoles and TV stands. We were impressed with the Bluetooth connectivity, which allowed us to easily connect our phone or tablet to fill the room with our favorite music.
The device is designed and tested to work seamlessly with Fire TV, allowing for control of your TV and audio with one remote. We found this feature to be incredibly convenient. Additionally, the Fire TV Soundbar works with smart TVs and TVs connected to streaming media players.
In terms of audio power, the Fire TV Soundbar boasts 2x20W and speaker channels of 2.0. The device also supports DTS Virtual and Dolby Digital, with EQ Modes for Movies, Music, and Dialogue.
Overall, we believe the Amazon Fire TV Soundbar is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their TV audio experience.
Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar with Bass Reflex Speaker
If you’re looking for a compact, easy-to-use soundbar that delivers high-quality sound, the Sony S100F is a great option.
Pros
- The Bass Reflex speaker provides deep, powerful sound that fills the room.
- The S-Force Pro Front Surround feature creates an immersive listening experience.
- The soundbar is easy to set up and connects seamlessly to your TV with HDMI ARC.
Cons
- The voice enhancement feature doesn’t work as well as it could, and can sometimes make dialogue sound unnatural.
- The soundbar doesn’t come with a subwoofer, so the bass isn’t as strong as it could be.
- The soundbar is best suited for small rooms and may not provide enough volume for larger spaces.
We recently tested out the Sony S100F in our home office and were impressed with its performance. The soundbar was easy to set up and connected seamlessly to our TV, providing high-quality sound right out of the box.
One of the standout features of the S100F is the Bass Reflex speaker, which provides deep, powerful sound that really fills the room. We were also impressed with the S-Force Pro Front Surround feature, which creates an immersive listening experience that makes you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action.
While the voice enhancement feature is a nice touch, we found that it didn’t work as well as it could. Sometimes dialogue sounded unnatural or distorted, which was a bit distracting. Additionally, the soundbar doesn’t come with a subwoofer, so the bass isn’t as strong as it could be. If you’re looking for really deep, powerful bass, you may want to consider a different soundbar.
Overall, we think the Sony S100F is a great option for anyone looking for a compact, easy-to-use soundbar that delivers high-quality sound. It’s perfect for small rooms and home offices, and provides a great listening experience for TV shows, movies, and music.
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar With Dolby Atmos Plus Alexa and Google Voice Control, Surround Sound System for TV, Black
If you’re looking for the ultimate soundbar experience with the latest technology, the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is worth considering.
Pros
- The Dolby Atmos and Bose TrueSpace technology provide an immersive spatial audio experience.
- A.I. Dialogue Mode balances voice and surround sound for ultra-crisp vocal clarity.
- The six transducers, including two custom-engineered upward firing dipole speakers, create a 360-degree soundstage.
Cons
- The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is pricey compared to other soundbars on the market.
- The Bose Music app can be glitchy and difficult to navigate.
- Some users have reported connectivity issues when using Google Voice Control.
We were blown away by the sound quality of the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar. The Dolby Atmos and Bose TrueSpace technology create a truly immersive audio experience that makes you feel like you’re in the middle of the action. The six transducers, including two custom-engineered upward firing dipole speakers, create a 360-degree soundstage that fills the room with sound.
One of the standout features of the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is the A.I. Dialogue Mode. This feature balances voice and surround sound for ultra-crisp vocal clarity, so you never miss what your favorite characters say again. This is especially helpful for those who have trouble hearing dialogue over background noise.
The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar looks as beautiful as it sounds. The soundbar is made with premium materials and solid construction, and the refined finishes add a touch of elegance to any room. The soundbar is also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Voice Control, so you can control your entertainment, daily tasks, and access information using your voice.
In terms of setup, the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is easy to install. You can place the soundbar wherever you want, or connect it to your TV with the included optical audio cable and HDMI eARC cable. You can also use Bose SimpleSync to connect with different Bose headphones and select Bose Bluetooth speakers.
Overall, if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line soundbar with the latest technology, the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is worth the investment.
ULTIMEA Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos
If you’re looking for a soundbar that delivers a cinematic sound experience, then the ULTIMEA Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Elevates TV audio to Dolby Atmos Home Theater
- Highest-level audio transmission with HDMI-eARC
- ULTIMEA customized sound EQ programs
Cons
- Doesn’t support decoding DTS
- May not fit all TV sizes
- Some users reported connectivity issues
The ULTIMEA Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos is designed to deliver an immersive audio experience that transports you to the center of the action. With Dolby Atmos technology, it transforms stereo sound into multi-dimensional sound, providing virtual height and surround elements that fill the room with amazing sound.
One of the standout features of this soundbar is its HDMI-eARC connection, which supports high-resolution, lossless audio transmission. This ensures that there is no loss in sound quality, making it perfect for audiophiles who want the best possible audio experience.
Another great feature of the ULTIMEA Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos is its customized sound EQ programs. These programs allow you to personalize the sound to your unique requirements, whether you want balanced bass, enhanced bass levels, treble adjustments, improved sound quality, clearer vocals, EQ fine-tuning, volume reduction, and more.
Despite its many pros, the ULTIMEA Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos has a few cons to consider. It doesn’t support decoding DTS, which may limit its compatibility with certain devices. Additionally, its compact size may not fit all TV sizes, and some users have reported connectivity issues.
Overall, the ULTIMEA Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos is a great option for those looking for a soundbar that delivers a cinematic audio experience. Its Dolby Atmos technology, HDMI-eARC connection, and customized sound EQ programs make it a great investment for anyone who wants to elevate their TV audio to new heights.
Assistrust Sound Bar
If you’re looking for a soundbar that delivers crystal-clear loudness, immersive audio, and customizable sound preferences, the Assistrust Sound Bar is worth considering.
Pros
- The auto volume boost design enhances weak sound and delivers crystal-clear loudness.
- The 60W full sound stage sound bar with 4 drivers elevates flat TV audio into captivating surround sound.
- Three equalizer modes (movie, music, news) ensure cinema-quality sound, crisp melodies, and clear dialogue.
Cons
- The soundbar could be louder.
- The base plate to separate the speakers is not included and must be ordered separately.
- The soundbar is not waterproof.
We were impressed with the Assistrust Sound Bar’s sound quality. The auto volume boost design enhanced weak sound and delivered crystal-clear loudness. The 60W full sound stage sound bar with 4 drivers elevated flat TV audio into captivating surround sound, spanning from subtle whispers to powerful explosions. We also appreciated the three equalizer modes (movie, music, news) that ensured cinema-quality sound, crisp melodies, and clear dialogue.
The soundbar was easy to set up and could be connected wirelessly through Bluetooth 5.0 or wired through ARC/OPT/AUX cables. In ARC mode, we could control the soundbar using our TV remote. We also appreciated the illustrated instructions and videos provided for effortless setup.
The Assistrust Sound Bar comes with an 18-month warranty along with round-the-clock online support and a hassle-free replacement policy within 60 days of purchase. We were pleased with the customer service and felt that our satisfaction was prioritized.
Overall, if you’re looking for a soundbar that delivers crystal-clear loudness, immersive audio, and customizable sound preferences, the Assistrust Sound Bar is a great option to consider.
LG S95TR Sound Bar with Wireless Dolby Atmos Soundbar and Rear Speakers
If you’re looking for a high-end soundbar that offers premium sound quality, the LG S95TR is an excellent choice. With its Dolby Atmos and DTS technology, the soundbar delivers an immersive audio experience that will elevate your home theater to a new level.
Pros
- The up-firing rear speakers have true wireless connectivity that can be positioned anywhere and calibrated accordingly.
- The triple up-firing speaker channels, including an industry-exclusive up-firing center channel, provide a wider and richer soundstage for an immersive sound experience.
- The WOW Orchestra feature uses the audio from your LG TV and LG Soundbar to produce the ultimate listening experience.
Cons
- The system is quite expensive, which may be a deal-breaker for some.
- The lack of adjustments for the software may disappoint some users.
- Some users have reported issues with popping noises and bass speaker disconnections.
We were impressed with the LG S95TR’s advanced room calibration feature, which uses the built-in microphone to precisely measure the dimensions of the room and detect the rear speaker location. AI then analyzes this spatial information and optimizes audio settings accordingly, resulting in a richer, deeper, and clearer surround sound experience with no sound delay.
The soundbar also offers multi-platform support, allowing you to choose your go-to voice assistant like Google Assistant or Alexa and control your favorite features like Chromecast and AirPlay 2 through your LG Soundbar. The WOWCAST built-in with wireless Dolby Atmos feature is another highlight, offering the power of Dolby Atmos and DTS surround sound without any visible wires.
Overall, the LG S95TR is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-end soundbar that delivers an immersive audio experience. However, the system’s high price tag and lack of adjustments for the software may be a deal-breaker for some users.
OXS Sound Bars for TV, Home Theater Audio with Built-in Subwoofer, 3D Surround Sound System TV Sound Bar, TV Speakers, Bluetooth 5.0/Aux/Optical/Coaxial, 80-Watt, 3Eqs, Wall Mountable S3
If you’re looking for an affordable soundbar that delivers great sound quality, the OXS S3 Soundbar is a great choice. With its enhanced dialogue technology and 3D surround sound, it can make your movie-watching experience unforgettable.
Pros
- The built-in DSP technology delivers rousing highs and deep lows, making the sound more accurate and the vocals clearer.
- The soundbar has a surround sound system that can turn an ordinary TV into a 3D surround sound.
- You can tune your TV speakers soundbar to 3 different equalizer modes (Movie mode, Music mode, News mode/Game mode) via button or remote to get the best audio performance.
Cons
- The remote control may not be very durable, and it may not work properly after a few months of use.
- The soundbar may not be compatible with all TV models, and you may need to go into the controls and switch the audio to PMC for the optical connection to work.
- You may need to turn the soundbar off separately, and there is no timer to shut it off automatically.
We were impressed with the OXS S3 Soundbar’s performance and sound quality. The soundbar is easy to install and supports multiple wireless and wired connections. The light guide for connections and equalizer modes on the soundbar helps you know the usage status timely. The stylish design allows you to place the soundbar directly on the table, stand, cabinet, or mount it on a wall to save your space according to your home decoration style and personal preferences.
The soundbar’s Bluetooth 5.0 Transmission provides lossless audio transmission and 360-degree sound, and it also supports COAXIAL, USB, AUX, OPTICAL wired audio input to connect with the TV/PC. The sound reproduction is better than most products on the market, and you can hear every music note beating on each music performance and not miss anything on each dialogue. The soundbar is a great solution for your high-performance audio needs, letting you enjoy at home as if you are on the Cinema Scene!
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a soundbar that delivers great sound quality and is easy to use, the OXS S3 Soundbar is an excellent choice. It’s affordable, stylish, and delivers enhanced dialogue technology and 3D surround sound that makes your movie-watching experience unforgettable.
Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar
If you’re looking for a soundbar that’s easy to set up and delivers great sound, the Polk Audio Signa S2 is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The included wireless subwoofer delivers deep bass impact that enhances your home theater experience.
- Polk’s patented Voice Adjust technology ensures that dialogue is clear and easy to understand.
- The soundbar is slim and unobtrusive, making it easy to mount on the wall or place in front of your TV.
Cons
- The soundbar lacks some of the advanced features found on more expensive models, such as support for Dolby Atmos.
- Some users have reported issues with the soundbar losing its connection to the subwoofer.
- The soundbar may not be powerful enough to fill very large rooms with sound.
We were impressed with the sound quality of the Polk Audio Signa S2. The included wireless subwoofer delivers deep bass that really enhances the overall sound experience. We also appreciated the Voice Adjust technology, which made it easy to hear dialogue even in scenes with a lot of background noise.
Setting up the soundbar was a breeze – we were able to get everything connected and ready to go in just a few minutes. The included HDMI and optical cables made it easy to connect the soundbar to our TV, and we appreciated the fact that Polk included everything we needed to get started.
One thing to keep in mind is that the soundbar may not be powerful enough to fill very large rooms with sound. If you have a very large living room, you may want to consider a more powerful model. However, for most users, the Polk Audio Signa S2 should be more than sufficient.
Overall, we think the Polk Audio Signa S2 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality soundbar that won’t break the bank. With its slim design, easy setup, and great sound quality, it’s a great addition to any home theater setup.
VIZIO V-Series 2.1 Home Theater Sound Bar
Looking for a simple yet powerful solution to enhance your TV audio? Look no further than the VIZIO V-Series 2.1 Home Theater Sound Bar.
Pros
- Experience the performance and features of a larger, more complex home theater system in a simple solution designed to blend seamlessly into any home.
- Brilliant clarity, thunderous bass, and Dolby Audio and DTS Digital Surround support combine for performance beyond its size.
- Get setup and listening in minutes with HDMI ARC and Bluetooth connectivity for unparalleled ease of use, control, and access to your content.
Cons
- No built-in voice assistant.
- No Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Limited customization options.
We recently tried out the VIZIO V-Series 2.1 Home Theater Sound Bar and were impressed with its powerful performance and easy setup. The sound bar’s sleek and modern design seamlessly blends into any environment, and the wireless subwoofer delivers deep and thunderous bass.
Connecting the sound bar to our TV was a breeze thanks to the HDMI ARC and Bluetooth connectivity options. We were able to control the sound bar with the included remote or through our TV remote with HDMI CEC.
The sound bar’s 2.1-channel sound provided a powerful and immersive experience while watching movies and playing games. The Dolby Audio and DTS Digital Surround support ensured that every sound was clear and detailed.
While the sound bar does not have built-in voice assistant or Wi-Fi connectivity, we found that the HDMI ARC and Bluetooth options were more than enough for our needs. The limited customization options may be a drawback for some users, but we found that the default settings provided excellent sound quality.
Overall, we highly recommend the VIZIO V-Series 2.1 Home Theater Sound Bar for anyone looking for a simple and powerful solution to enhance their TV audio.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a sound bar for your TV, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve put together a list of factors to help you choose the best product for your needs.
Sound Quality
The first and most important factor to consider is sound quality. Look for a sound bar with good frequency response and a high signal-to-noise ratio. This will ensure that the sound is clear and crisp, with no distortion or interference.
Connectivity
Another important factor is connectivity. Make sure that the sound bar you choose is compatible with your TV and other devices, such as your smartphone or tablet. Look for a sound bar with multiple input options, such as HDMI, Bluetooth, and USB, so that you can easily connect all of your devices.
Size and Design
The size and design of the sound bar is also important. Make sure that the sound bar is the right size for your TV and that it will fit comfortably in your living room. Look for a sound bar with a sleek and modern design that will complement your home decor.
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that the sound bar may have. Some sound bars come with built-in voice assistants, such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, while others may have advanced EQ settings or surround sound capabilities. Consider which features are important to you and choose a sound bar that has them.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best sound bar for your TV and enjoy high-quality audio in your home.