Best Surround Sound System for TV: Top Picks for an Immersive Viewing Experience

Watching TV is a popular pastime for many people, whether it’s catching up on the latest shows or watching a movie with friends and family. However, the sound quality that comes from the TV’s built-in speakers is often subpar, leaving viewers with a less-than-optimal experience. This is where a surround sound system for TV comes in, providing a more immersive and high-quality audio experience.

A surround sound system for TV typically includes multiple speakers that are strategically placed around the room to create a surround sound effect. This allows viewers to feel like they are part of the action, with sounds coming from different directions and angles. Additionally, many surround sound systems come with a subwoofer, which provides deep bass and enhances the overall sound quality.

When looking for the best surround sound system for TV, there are several factors to consider. One critical thing to pay attention to is the compatibility of the system with your TV. Some systems may only work with certain types of TVs, so it’s essential to ensure that the system you choose will work with your TV.

Other factors to consider include the number of speakers included in the system, the sound quality, and the ease of setup and use. Additionally, the size of the room where the system will be used should be taken into account, as larger rooms may require more powerful and larger speakers.

We spent hours researching and testing various surround sound systems for TV to identify the ones that provide the best audio experience. In the following sections, we will discuss the top options and what sets them apart from the rest.

Best Surround Sound Systems for TV

We know how important it is to have a great audio experience when watching TV. A good surround sound system can make you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action, with crisp and clear sound that adds depth and dimension to your favorite movies and shows. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best surround sound systems for TV, so you can choose the one that’s perfect for your home entertainment setup. Our team of experts has researched and tested each of these systems to make sure they deliver top-notch sound quality and user-friendly features. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best surround sound systems for TV.

VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly surround sound system for your TV, the VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar is worth considering.

Pros

• The low-profile design of the soundbar and wireless subwoofer blend seamlessly into any environment, making it an excellent choice for those who want a clean, modern look.
• With six total speakers, including a 4.5″ wireless subwoofer, the VIZIO V-Series delivers powerful performance with brilliant clarity and thunderous bass. Dolby Audio and DTS Digital Surround support combine for a room-filling, surround sound experience.
• Setup is a breeze with HDMI ARC and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for unparalleled ease of use, control, and access to your content.

Cons

• While the VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar is an excellent budget option, it may not provide the same level of sound quality as more expensive models.
• Some users have reported issues with the Bluetooth connectivity, which may require troubleshooting to resolve.
• The soundbar is 36 inches wide, which may not be suitable for smaller TVs or rooms.

Overall, we recommend the VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar for those looking for a budget-friendly surround sound system that delivers powerful performance and easy setup. While it may not provide the same level of sound quality as more expensive models, it’s an excellent choice for those on a budget who want a clean, modern look and a room-filling, surround sound experience.

Yamaha Audio YHT-4950U 4K Ultra HD 5.1-Channel Home Theater System with Bluetooth, black

If you’re looking for a home theater system that delivers great sound quality and is easy to set up, the Yamaha Audio YHT-4950U could be a great option for you.

Pros

• Easy to set up with Yamaha YPAO room optimization and flexible speaker placement options
• Complete compatibility with the latest HDMI standards, including 4K video at 60 frames/second pass-through and HDR (High Dynamic Range) Video, including Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma
• Bluetooth functionality for streaming all your favorite music and podcasts

Cons

• No wireless functionality
• Large and heavy subwoofer may be difficult to move around
• No waterproofing

Setting up the Yamaha Audio YHT-4950U was a breeze thanks to the Yamaha YPAO room optimization and flexible speaker placement options. We were able to get the perfect sound for our room without too much fuss, and the virtual cinema front allowed for a 5.1-channel surround sound installation.

One of the standout features of this home theater system is its complete compatibility with the latest HDMI standards. We were able to enjoy 4K video at 60 frames/second pass-through, as well as HDR (High Dynamic Range) Video, including Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma. The result was an incredibly realistic and natural picture quality that made our movies and TV shows look better than ever before.

Another great feature of the Yamaha Audio YHT-4950U is its Bluetooth functionality. We were able to easily stream all our favorite music and podcasts from our smartphones and other devices, making it easy to enjoy our favorite content without having to fuss with cords and cables.

One downside of this home theater system is that it doesn’t have any wireless functionality, so you’ll need to connect everything with cables. Additionally, the subwoofer is quite large and heavy, which could make it difficult to move around if you need to rearrange your room. Finally, it’s worth noting that the system isn’t waterproof, so you’ll need to be careful if you’re using it in a damp or humid environment.

Overall, the Yamaha Audio YHT-4950U is a great option if you’re looking for a home theater system that delivers great sound quality and is easy to set up. With its complete compatibility with the latest HDMI standards, Bluetooth functionality, and flexible speaker placement options, it’s a versatile and powerful system that’s sure to impress.

ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar

If you’re looking for an immersive surround sound experience for your TV, the ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The SurroundX algorithm makes sound move around you, creating a truly immersive experience.
• Comes with 2 rear speakers and 1 subwoofer, bringing you the cinematic experience.
• Customizable bass and surround sound volume, allowing you to control your audio environment.

Cons

• The small surround sound speakers may not match the sound of the soundbar.
• Not a true surround sound set.
• Some users report difficulty in getting the speakers to work properly.

We recently had the chance to test out the ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar and were impressed with its performance. The SurroundX algorithm really does make sound move around you, creating a truly immersive experience. The two rear speakers and subwoofer add to the overall experience, bringing you the cinematic experience you’re looking for.

One of the standout features of this surround sound system is the ability to customize the bass and surround sound volume. This allows you to control your audio environment and create a truly bespoke audio experience. We found this feature to be incredibly useful and it really helped us fine-tune the sound to our liking.

While we were impressed with the overall performance of this surround sound system, we did notice that the small surround sound speakers may not match the sound of the soundbar. Additionally, while this system does create surround sound, it’s not a true surround sound set. Some users have reported difficulty in getting the speakers to work properly, so keep that in mind if you’re considering this system.

Overall, we think the ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar is a great option for anyone looking for an immersive surround sound experience for their TV. With customizable bass and surround sound volume, you can create a truly bespoke audio experience that’s tailored to your preferences.

Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar With Dolby Atmos Plus Alexa and Google Voice Control, Surround Sound System for TV, White

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line wireless speaker and surround sound system for TV, the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar with Dolby Atmos and Voice Control is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The Dolby Atmos and Bose TrueSpace technology separates sounds and places them in different parts of a room for an immersive spatial audio experience.
• A.I. Dialogue Mode balances voice and surround sound for ultra-crisp vocal clarity, so you never miss what your favorite characters say again.
• With six transducers, including two custom-engineered upward firing dipole speakers, it will feel like your space is filled with sound from every direction, even overhead.

Cons

• The price is quite high compared to other soundbars in the market.
• The surround sound effect may not be as good in smaller rooms.
• The soundbar is quite long, which may not fit well with smaller TV sets.

We recently had the opportunity to test this soundbar, and we were blown away by the sound quality. The Dolby Atmos feature creates a truly immersive experience, and we felt like we were in the middle of the action while watching movies and playing games. The A.I. Dialogue Mode is also a great addition, as it makes it easier to hear what the characters are saying, even during action-packed scenes.

The setup process was straightforward, and we were able to connect the soundbar to our TV using the included optical audio cable and HDMI eARC cable. The Bose Music app made it easy to control the soundbar, and we were able to adjust the settings to our liking.

One thing we loved about this soundbar is the sleek design. The premium materials, solid construction, and refined finishes make it look as beautiful as it sounds. We also appreciated the built-in Amazon Alexa and Google Voice Control, which allowed us to control our entertainment and daily tasks using our voice.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality soundbar that delivers immersive sound and looks great in your living room, the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar with Dolby Atmos and Voice Control is an excellent choice.

Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel Dolby Atmos/DTS Soundbar with Dual 10″ Subwoofers (Wireless), 4 Rear Surround Effects Speakers, eARC and SSE Max Technology (Flagship) Ultra 9.2 DTS-X/Atmos/eARC/SSE Max

If you want an immersive audio experience, the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel Dolby Atmos/DTS Soundbar is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The soundbar delivers unmatched 360° surround and bass performance, making it perfect for cinema, music, and gaming experiences.
• With Spatial Surround Elevation (SSE) MAX TECHNOLOGY, the soundbar delivers enhanced multi-directional surround from three advanced audio processing engines.
• The soundbar comes with two industry-exclusive supercharged dual 10” wireless subwoofers that propel bass performance to new heights.

Cons

• The soundbar is expensive compared to other options in the market.
• The setup process can take longer than 30 minutes, especially if you are not familiar with sound systems.
• The soundbar is bulky and takes up a lot of space.

We were impressed with the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel Dolby Atmos/DTS Soundbar’s performance. The soundbar delivered an immersive audio experience that transported us into a rich, all-enveloping 360° sound bubble filled with lifelike surround objects. The soundbar was easy to connect to our TV, thanks to its future-proof connectivity options.

The soundbar’s Spatial Surround Elevation (SSE) MAX TECHNOLOGY delivered enhanced multi-directional surround from three advanced audio processing engines, making it perfect for cinema, music, and gaming experiences. The soundbar comes with two industry-exclusive supercharged dual 10” wireless subwoofers that propel bass performance to new heights, featuring upgraded high output amplifiers and subwoofer drivers that harness effortless power, transforming our entire room into a sweet spot filled with thunderous, yet balanced lows.

However, the soundbar is expensive compared to other options in the market, and the setup process can take longer than 30 minutes, especially if you are not familiar with sound systems. Additionally, the soundbar is bulky and takes up a lot of space, which may not be suitable for smaller rooms.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a high-end sound system that delivers an immersive audio experience, the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel Dolby Atmos/DTS Soundbar is an excellent choice. However, if you are on a budget or have limited space, you may want to consider other options.

ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar

We highly recommend the ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar for anyone looking to elevate their home entertainment experience with a cinematic sound.

Pros

• The SurroundX Technology delivers immersive surround sound that moves around you.
• Comes with two rear speakers and one subwoofer for a complete 5.1 channel sound experience.
• Customizable bass and surround sound that can be adjusted to your preference.

Cons

• The small surround sound speakers have minimal sound compared to the soundbar.
• The BassMAX Technology could use a bit more power.
• The ULTIMEA Customized Sound EQ software is not readily available and requires contacting the seller.

The ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar is a breeze to set up and supports multiple wired and wireless connections. The soundbar can be placed on a stand, cabinet, or under the TV, making it a perfect addition to your home theater sound system.

The SurroundX algorithm converts 2.0 PCM to 5.1 surround signal, which makes sound move around you, creating an immersive sound experience. The aerospace-grade magnets used in the speakers deliver clear and distinct surround sound, and the volume of the rear surround speakers can be adjusted to three levels by pressing the surround button on the remote.

This soundbar comes with two rear speakers and one subwoofer, which brings you the cinematic experience with our decoded playback device. The 19.6 feet cable used to connect surround speakers to the subwoofer allows you to place surround sound speakers anywhere according to your preference.

The ULTIMEA soundbar for smart tv with subwoofer owns three models at different scenes for you: movie, dialogue, and music. You can switch it to any mode with one press on the remote controller. The bass volume can also be adjusted to three levels by pressing the bass button on the remote.

The ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar applies BassMAX Technology, enhanced magnetic circuit design, and a larger cabinet to deliver a deep and powerful bass. However, it could use a bit more power to truly make an impact.

In conclusion, the ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their home entertainment experience with a complete 5.1 channel sound system. The customizable bass and surround sound, along with the immersive SurroundX Technology, make it a great addition to any home theater.

Bose Smart Soundbar 600

We highly recommend the Bose Smart Soundbar 600 for anyone who wants an immersive, high-quality sound experience while watching movies, TV shows, or listening to music.

Pros

• The Dolby Atmos soundbar with TrueSpace technology and upward firing transducers deliver a shockingly immersive sound experience.
• The Bose TrueSpace technology intelligently upmixes signals other than Dolby Atmos, like stereo or 5.1, to create an immersive multi-channel sound experience.
• The soundbar is packed with technology, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Chromecast built-in compatibility, and Amazon Alexa voice control.

Cons

• The soundbar is relatively expensive compared to other soundbars in the market.
• The Bose app can be confusing to navigate and set up.
• The soundbar is not compatible with all TV models.

The Bose Smart Soundbar 600 is a great addition to any home entertainment system. The soundbar is designed to deliver a full immersion experience for all entertainment, including movies, TV shows, and music. The Dolby Atmos soundbar with TrueSpace technology and upward firing transducers separate instruments, dialogue, and effects, then place them throughout the room, including overhead. Even for content that’s not Atmos-encoded, the Bose TrueSpace intelligently analyzes signals other than Atmos, like stereo or 5.1, and upmixes them to create an immersive multi-channel sound experience.

The soundbar is packed with technology that makes it easy to stream content anyway you want. You can connect to Wi-Fi to access integrated music services and internet radio stations through the app. Or stream songs and video with Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, or Chromecast built-in. For more music throughout your home, group the soundbar with other Wi-Fi-enabled Bose products. Bose SimpleSync technology lets you pair it with a compatible Bose headphone or Bluetooth speaker for private listening or more sound.

The Bose Smart Soundbar 600 is also a voice control soundbar with Amazon Alexa built in. And Bose Voice4Video technology lets you control the soundbar, your TV, and cable/satellite box with your voice. Or use Works With Google Assistant capabilities with a compatible Google device. There’s also an included remote, or you can access all of your music in the Bose app. Setup is easy with one connection to the TV (HDMI eARC/ARC and optical audio cables are included) and step-by-step instructions in the Bose app.

In conclusion, the Bose Smart Soundbar 600 is a great investment for anyone looking for a high-quality sound experience while watching movies, TV shows, or listening to music. The soundbar is packed with technology that makes it easy to stream content, and the Amazon Alexa voice control makes it easy to control the soundbar, your TV, and cable/satellite box with your voice.

ULTIMEA 5.1 Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos

If you’re looking for a powerful and immersive surround sound system for your TV, the ULTIMEA 5.1 Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Advanced Decoding Technology: ULTIMEA soundbar with Dolby Atmos builds a more immersive surround sound than Dolby Digital and Dolby Audio.
• Three modes to switch: This tv sound bar applies different algorithms to improve your experience.
• True 5.1 Immersive Surround Sound System: sound bar for smart tv can deliver a crystal-clear dialogue, and improve capabilities of surround sound by adding 2 surround speakers and 1 subwoofer.

Cons

• The soundbar is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to mount on the wall.
• The soundbar may not be compatible with all TVs, so be sure to check before purchasing.
• The subwoofer is not as powerful as some other models on the market.

We were impressed with the ULTIMEA 5.1 Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos. The advanced decoding technology really does create a more immersive surround sound experience, and the three different modes make it easy to switch between different types of content.

The true 5.1 immersive surround sound system is also a major selling point. The crystal-clear dialogue and improved capabilities of surround sound really do make a difference, and the addition of 2 surround speakers and 1 subwoofer helps to create a truly immersive experience.

That being said, there are a few downsides to this product. The soundbar is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to mount on the wall. Additionally, the soundbar may not be compatible with all TVs, so be sure to check before purchasing. Finally, the subwoofer is not as powerful as some other models on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful and immersive surround sound system for your TV, the ULTIMEA 5.1 Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos is definitely worth considering.

ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar

If you’re looking for a powerful and customizable surround sound system for your TV, the ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The included 2 rear speakers and subwoofer provide a truly immersive cinematic experience.
• The SurroundX algorithm and aerospace-grade magnets deliver clear and distinct surround sound that moves around you.
• BassMAX Technology and a larger cabinet provide deep, room-filling bass.

Cons

• The soundbar’s design is a bit bulky and may not fit well in smaller spaces.
• The soundbar’s Bluetooth connectivity can be a bit finicky at times.
• The included instructions can be a bit confusing and require some patience to follow.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar and were impressed with its performance. The included rear speakers and subwoofer really added to the overall experience, providing a truly immersive sound that made us feel like we were in the middle of the action.

The SurroundX algorithm did an excellent job of converting 2.0 PCM to 5.1 surround signal, and the aerospace-grade magnets in the speakers delivered clear and distinct surround sound that really made us feel like we were in a movie theater. We also appreciated the ability to adjust the volume of the rear speakers and subwoofer to our liking.

The BassMAX Technology and larger cabinet provided deep, room-filling bass that really added to the overall experience. We also liked the ability to customize the sound with the three different modes (movie, dialogue, and music) and the ability to adjust the surround and bass volume to our liking.

While we were impressed with the performance of the ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar, we did have a few minor complaints. The soundbar’s design is a bit bulky and may not fit well in smaller spaces. We also experienced some connectivity issues with the Bluetooth, although this was a minor issue that was easily fixed. Finally, the included instructions can be a bit confusing and require some patience to follow.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the ULTIMEA 5.1 Surround Sound Bar to anyone looking for a powerful and customizable surround sound system for their TV. With its impressive performance and user-friendly features, it’s definitely worth considering.

MZEIBO TV Sound Bar

If you’re in the market for a powerful and immersive audio experience, the MZEIBO TV Sound Bar is a great choice.

Pros

• Unmatched audio experience that rivals the best movie theaters
• Advanced DSP technology for pristine sound quality
• Personalized sound profiles for tailored audio experiences

Cons

• Some users have reported occasional connectivity issues with Bluetooth
• The soundbar is fairly lightweight, which may not be ideal for those looking for a more substantial audio setup
• The sound quality may not be as impressive for music as it is for movies and TV shows

We were blown away by the MZEIBO TV Sound Bar’s audio quality. The advanced DSP technology ensures that every note and dialogue is rendered with unparalleled precision, while the personalized sound profiles enhance every moment with tailored audio experiences. We loved how easy it was to set up and connect to our TV, and the seamless connectivity options make it a breeze to switch between different devices.

One potential downside is that some users have reported occasional connectivity issues with Bluetooth, although we didn’t experience any problems during our testing. Additionally, while the soundbar is fairly lightweight and easy to move around, it may not be ideal for those looking for a more substantial audio setup. Finally, while the sound quality is impressive for movies and TV shows, it may not be as impressive for music.

Overall, we highly recommend the MZEIBO TV Sound Bar for anyone looking for a powerful and immersive audio experience. With its advanced technology, personalized sound profiles, and seamless connectivity options, it’s a great choice for any home theater setup.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a surround sound system for your TV, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind when shopping for a surround sound system:

Audio Quality

The most important feature to look for in a surround sound system is audio quality. The system should be able to provide clear and crisp sound, with a good balance of bass and treble. Look for systems with high-quality speakers and subwoofers, as well as those with Dolby Digital or DTS support for immersive audio.

Compatibility

Make sure the surround sound system you choose is compatible with your TV and other devices. Check the system’s connectivity options, such as HDMI or Bluetooth, to ensure it can be easily connected to your TV, gaming console, or other audio sources.

Room Size

Consider the size of the room where you will be using the surround sound system. Larger rooms may require more powerful speakers and subwoofers to fill the space with sound, while smaller rooms may not need as much power.

Price

Of course, price is also an important factor to consider. Determine your budget before shopping for a surround sound system and look for products that offer the best value for your money. Keep in mind that higher-priced systems may offer better quality and more features, but there are also affordable options that can still provide excellent audio performance.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a surround sound system that will provide a great audio experience for your TV viewing and other entertainment needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should we consider when choosing a surround sound system for our living room?

When choosing a surround sound system for your living room, there are a few factors to consider. The size of the room, the layout, and your budget are all important considerations. You should also think about the type of content you will be watching and listening to, as some systems may be better suited for certain types of media.

How does Dolby Atmos enhance the home theater experience?

Dolby Atmos is a surround sound technology that adds height channels to the traditional 5.1 or 7.1 speaker setups. This allows for more immersive sound, as sounds can be placed and moved in a three-dimensional space. This technology can enhance the home theater experience by making it feel more like you are a part of the action.

What are the advantages of wireless surround sound systems for TVs?

Wireless surround sound systems offer a few advantages over traditional wired systems. They are generally easier to set up, as there are no wires to run and hide. They also offer more flexibility in terms of speaker placement, as you can move them around more easily. However, they may not offer the same level of sound quality as wired systems.

What factors determine the best sound system for a home theater setup?

The best sound system for a home theater setup depends on a few factors. The size and layout of the room, the type of content you will be watching, and your budget are all important considerations. You should also think about the number of speakers you want, as well as the type of technology you want to use.

Is a 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound system better for a home TV setup?

The choice between a 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound system depends on the size of your room and your personal preferences. A 5.1 system is generally sufficient for most living rooms, while a 7.1 system may be better suited for larger rooms. However, a 7.1 system may not offer a significant improvement in sound quality over a 5.1 system.

How do soundbars compare to traditional surround sound systems?

Soundbars are a popular alternative to traditional surround sound systems, as they are generally easier to set up and take up less space. However, they may not offer the same level of sound quality or immersion as a traditional system. If you have a small living room or don’t want to deal with the hassle of setting up a full surround sound system, a soundbar may be a good option.