Expert-Approved Soundbars: Upgrade Your TV Audio in Style

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Most TVs come with mediocre built-in speakers that deliver muddy dialogue and weak bass. That's why we recommend investing in a soundbar. The best soundbars can be a game changer for your home entertainment setup, providing bigger bass, cleaner speech, and a wider soundstage.

Our team of technology specialists has spent more than ten years evaluating audio equipment and leveraging this expertise to choose the finest soundbars for different requirements. We highly recommend the top choice for the majority of users as follows: Yamaha YAS-209 This adaptable soundbar is ideal for those seeking a budget-friendly option with excellent overall performance. However, enthusiasts looking for a complete Dolby Atmos setup featuring specialized surround sound speakers and upward-firing drivers might want to invest more in a robust system. Samsung HW-Q990C .

Here, you can explore our selections for the top soundbars of 2025. Our range includes various models suitable for different budgets and needs, starting from basic stereo choices up to high-end setups featuring 11.1.4 surround sound technology.

Our favorite choices for the finest soundbars

Best overall: Yamaha YAS-209 - See at Amazon

Top luxury Dolby Atmos setup: Samsung HW-Q990C - See at Amazon

Top choice for midrange in Dolby Atmos: Vizio Elevate 5.1.4 Channel Soundbar - See at Amazon

Best entry-level Atmos bar: Bose Smart Soundbar - See at Amazon

Best all-in-one option: Sonos Arc Ultra - See at Amazon

Best for budget shoppers: Vizio V-Series V21d-J8 - See at Amazon

Best premium bar: Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Max - See at Amazon

Best compact model: Roku Streambar - See at Amazon

Best overall

Our top choice as the best soundbar overall goes to the YAS-209. Offering solid audio performance without breaking the bank, this compact audio solution caters well to those seeking a sleek alternative to traditional TVspeakers, making it an excellent enhancement over basic factory-installed options.

The 2.1-channel setup features a 36-inch soundbar along with a wireless subwoofer designed specifically for low-frequency sounds. This configuration supports basic stereo reproduction through separate left and right channels yet incorporates DTS Virtual:X technology to generate an immersive surround sound experience. Although this may fall short compared to more expensive options we suggest, it still performs reasonably well. Whether you enable the virtual surround mode or keep it off, the system ensures crisp and well-balanced audio across different media types.

The YAS-209 connects to your TV using its HDMI ARC port, and the soundbar has a handy HDMI-in port that supports passing through video at up to 4K resolution at 60Hz with HDR However, not including Dolby Vision, content can be streamed through a connected device such as a gaming console or Blu-ray player. The television includes an optical audio port for compatibility with older TVs that lack HDMI ARC functionality. Additionally, you have the option to wirelessly play music using either Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity.

With its built-in microphones, the YAS-209 also has integrated support for Amazon Alexa, enabling voice control for functions like volume. All this at such a low price keeps the YAS-209 at the top of the list for many shoppers and reviewers alike, easily making it one of the best soundbars on the market.

Top-of-the-line Dolby Atmos setup

Samsung's 11.1.4-channel Q990C is the best Dolby Atmos soundbar We have evaluated this extensive multipart setup. Though not as streamlined as some of our other choices, it immerses you completely in continuous audio.

The Dolby Atmos technology aims to distribute audio effects in every direction, even overhead, and the Q990C excels at this function. Featuring four upward-facing drivers that reflect Atmos sounds off your ceiling, along with four lateral drivers, a set of dedicated rear speakers, a robust subwoofer, and numerous extra drivers, the HW-Q990C is a formidable system that immerses you right into the heart of the scene.

However, this setup doesn’t merely focus on strength. In our tests, it also excelled in providing great stability and smooth shifts between different audio tracks, making it capable of elevating content ranging from comedies and blockbusters to jazz and rap music.

The system comes packed with features, including integrated Alexa voice control and compatibility with all key audio formats. Besides supporting Dolby Atmos, the Q990C also works seamlessly with competing technologies like DTS:X as well as numerous high-resolution audio file types. It offers various connectivity options such as HDMI eARC, an optical port, and two HDMI ports capable of passing through 4K HDR signals (although these do not reach the full capabilities of HDMI 2.1 necessary for smooth 120Hz gameplay).

The accessories come with an easy-to-use remote control, or alternatively, you can utilize the Samsung SmartThings app to adjust settings such as equalizer and each channel’s volume. Additionally, this soundbar is compatible with numerous devices from the same brand for seamless pairing. best Samsung TVs , like the S95D 4K OLED , through Q-Symphony. This capability enables you to utilize your TV’s speakers as part of an integrated sound system alongside the Q990C.

Purchasers should be aware that Samsung additionally offers a more recent model of this soundbar, the Q990D The revised version keeps the original design intact while introducing several new features such as HDMI 2.1 compatibility for 4K/120Hz pass-through when hooked up to a PlayStation 5 or an Xbox Series X console. Although we believe the more affordable Q990C still offers greater value, the Q990D stands out as a solid choice for those seeking enhanced gaming functionalities.

Read our Samsung HW-Q990C Soundbar review .

Top choice for midrange in Dolby Atmos

If you're looking for an Atmos-enabled audio setup for less than $800, it’s hard to top the Vizio Elevate soundbar when it comes to immersion. While more expensive than basic stereo models, this option remains among the most budget-friendly choices for experiencing a complete 5.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos effect.

The Elevate includes left, center, and right channels within the soundbar, complemented by two upward-facing drivers that reflect sounds off your ceiling for immersive overhead effects. Additionally, it comes with two wired rear speakers equipped with their own upward-firing drivers, as well as an independent eight-inch wireless subwoofer.

The innovative design of the Elevate includes front high-mounted speakers with a rotating mechanism that adjusts their angle based on your content. These speakers pivot upward when playing 3D audio formats such as Dolby Atmos or DTS:X to generate immersive overhead sounds. In contrast, for standard audio mixes, they shift forward to enhance the breadth and intensity of the frontal auditory field.

Elevate’s somewhat substantial dimensions and tethered back speakers render it bulkier and less compact compared to many alternative soundbars. However, this setup shines when it comes to delivering high-quality audio. It provides an almost unparalleled immersive experience that rivals several conventional home theater systems we have evaluated.

Read our Vizio Elevate Soundbar review .

Best entry-level Atmos bar

The Bose Smart Soundbar lives up to its title by combining the functions of a soundbar and a smart speaker into one unit. Featuring integrated microphones for Amazon Alexa voice commands, this device also works seamlessly with Google Assistant through connection with an additional gadget. Additionally, it stands out as one of the more affordable options available that still offers Dolby Atmos audio technology.

The Smart Soundbar represents a minor update over its predecessor, which has been discontinued. Smart Soundbar 600 The updated version of the model remains identical in terms of physical design and driver setup. However, this enhanced choice introduces two new software functionalities: an artificial intelligence conversation mode and compatibility with Bose earbuds functioning as rear speakers.

Even though it’s small in size, the Smart Soundbar offers remarkable audio quality, which left us quite impressed with its robust sound output. What stood out particularly was the crystal-clear dialogue reproduction at standard settings, making it easy to follow conversations during intense action sequences as well. For those who still find it difficult to hear spoken parts, an advanced AI-powered dialogue enhancement feature ensures clearer voice sounds without compromising other auditory elements. This distinguishes it from comparable models. Sonos Beam Which employs virtualization technologies to create Atmos effects, this Bose model features genuine upward-facing speakers for delivering more realistic overhead sound.

Buyers can use the Bose Music App for easy setup, intuitive controls, and access to popular streaming services like Spotify and Amazon Music. You can stream additional services like Apple Music using AirPlay 2, Chromecast, or Bluetooth. The Bose Smart Soundbar can also be paired with other Bose speakers to create a multi-room audio system or to add satellite speakers for a true surround sound setup.

You can also use Bose Ultra Open Earbuds As rear speakers equipped with the new personal surround sound function. In our trials, this performed quite effectively, enabling us to pick up audio effects via the earbuds even as we could still hear the soundbar clearly. Nonetheless, it comes across more like an impressive bonus rather than a major attraction for purchase.

On the negative side, the Smart Soundbar does not support DTS audio formats and has somewhat weak low bass frequencies. It can be paired with a Bose subwoofer, such as the Bose Bass Module 500 , but that increases the cost twofold.

Nevertheless, despite lacking a dedicated subwoofer, the Bose Smart Soundbar remains among the top choices in its price range at $500. It particularly excels if you desire Dolby Atmos support, crisp dialogues, and smart integration with Alexa within an all-in-one sleek design.

Check out our guide to everything about it best Bose soundbars .

Best all-in-one option

The Sonos Arc Ultra embodies the essence of an all-encompassing soundbar in numerous aspects. Featuring a stylish build, it delivers an enveloping auditory experience and a streamlined installation process that allows for quick activation. As the follow-up to the basic version, this particular model stands out. Sonos Arc , and the Ultra provides a significant enhancement in bass response and general audio clarity.

For enhanced performance, the Ultra incorporates Sonos’ advanced Sound Motion driver. This innovation allows for robust bass within a smaller form factor, enabling extra tweeters throughout the speaker array. Featuring a total of 14 drivers—including those designed for side and upward firing—the Arc Ultra delivers a 9.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos surround sound experience, enveloping listeners in an immersive auditory sphere. As Sonos fully embraces Dolby Atmos for music streaming, users can enjoy these high-quality audio tracks through compatible platforms such as Amazon Music using the Sonos application.

The application allows you to adjust the audio settings and link additional Sonos speakers. When used alongside a pair of devices, the Arc Ultra also features the company’s “TV Swap” functionality. Sonos Ace headphones So you can switch to private listening. Nonetheless, numerous users faced difficulties with Sonos’ software during the previous year when they launched an updated version of their application. While some of these glitches have been fixed, it isn’t entirely flawless yet. Still, our reviewer did not come across significant snags and found them insignificant enough not to diminish the general worth of the Arc Ultra.

The Arc Ultra boasts a sleek, minimalistic design which is attractive; however, it also comes with certain drawbacks. Similar to its forerunner, this model offers restricted connectivity choices. It lacks additional HDMI ports or an optical output, although purchasing an external optical adapter might help address this issue. Additionally, even though conventional DTS 5.1 audio compatibility is present, the device falls short of supporting more advanced formats like DTS:X.

Positively, the Arc Ultra introduces an important addition not present in the initial version of the Arc: Bluetooth compatibility. Additionally, it comes with a refined Advanced Speech Enhancement function designed to highlight spoken content without affecting the clarity of other audio elements.

While the Arc Ultra comes with a steep $999 price tag, we believe its exceptional performance makes it worth the investment. Boasting superior sound quality and numerous contemporary features, it ranks among the top soundbars we have evaluated and provides an efficient method for enhancing your audio system.

Read our Sonos Arc Ultra review .

Take a look at our guide to the best Sonos soundbars .

Best for budget shoppers

The Vizio V-Series V21d-J8 is an uncomplicated 2.1-channel soundbar designed for cost-conscious consumers. While it lacks sophisticated audio capabilities and Dolby Atmos support, this budget-friendly option still provides a noticeable improvement compared to the standard speakers typically included with many mid-range televisions.

The soundbar features integrated woofers, providing you with two primary audio channels for clear stereo sound along with some additional bass, despite lacking an independent subwoofer. Additionally, Vizio incorporates DTS Virtual:X technology to create simulated surround and overhead sounds. While this isn’t nearly as sophisticated as systems such as Sennheiser’s Ambeo Max, it does enhance the overall spatial quality of the device’s audio output.

Unlike the usual rectangular shape common in many soundbars, the V-Series features sloped edges that form a hexagon-like silhouette. The control buttons for functions such as volume adjustment, input selection, Bluetooth connectivity, and power are located on the side of the speaker bar.

The soundbar features an HDMI ARC port for seamless integration with contemporary smart televisions. Additionally, it includes an optical audio port should your television lack HDMI capabilities. While the device does not support HDMI video pass-through, you can connect vintage audio devices using the 3.5mm auxiliary input on the soundbar.

The V-Series includes Bluetooth support for wirelessly playing audio from your phone, simplifying music streaming. However, it does not offer WiFi streaming capabilities. A supplied remote control allows you to manage settings like volume levels, use fundamental EQ functions, and switch between different operating modes effortlessly.

Take a look at our guide covering everything about the best budget soundbars .

Best premium bar

Although the Sonos Arc Ultra offers excellent all-in-one sound at $1,000, the Ambeo Soundbar Max elevates the bar even higher. Featuring top-tier components coupled with advanced software solutions, this luxury soundbar delivers an unmatched virtual surround sound experience within one device. However, this superior quality comes at a cost; priced at $2,500, the Ambeo Soundbar Max stands as the priciest choice among these options.

The Ambeo Max is an imposing soundbar, measuring 50 inches in width and weighing 40 pounds, which can be challenging for certain living room arrangements. However, this robust build allows Sennheiser to include five tweeters, six four-inch midrange drivers positioned both upfront and at the sides, along with two 3.5-inch upward-facing speakers. These various drivers work together; they reflect sounds off your ceilings and walls to create the illusion that auditory effects originate from every direction within a complete 5.1.4-channel setup.

In our trials, the bar produced an engrossing audio environment that offered the most authentic surround sound experience we have encountered from a solitary soundbar. Although it doesn’t match the realism of employing genuine rear and ceiling-mounted speakers, the Ambeo Max serves as a more practical substitute for installing a comprehensive multi-speaker home cinema setup.

Like one would anticipate from Sennheiser, the Ambeo Max shines particularly well with music streaming, delivering lush and intricate audio spanning various genres. Although this soundbar lacks a built-in subwoofer, it still offers substantial mid-bass output. Should you desire additional bass presence, feel free to connect an external subwoofer of your preferred make.

Similar to most of our top soundbar choices, the Ambeo Max includes support for both WiFi and Bluetooth, enabling seamless wireless music streaming directly from numerous devices. best music streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music.

Read our Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Max evaluation .

Best compact model

If you're looking for an extremely compact soundbar, and A fresh addition to the world of streaming devices, the Roku Streambar might just be the versatile one-stop solution you've been seeking. Besides being more compact than any other soundbar we’ve featured here, this gadget also offers built-in capabilities for video playback across various platforms. best streaming services This renders the Streambar ideal for compact areas requiring an enhancement in audio and media playback capabilities, such as a bedroom, apartment, or dormitory.

In terms of audio quality, the Streambar includes four 1.9-inch full-range drivers designed for standard two-channel stereo reproduction. It lacks advanced virtualization settings intended to create an artificial surround sound experience, and it does not come with a dedicated subwoofer for enhanced low-frequency output. However, despite these limitations, the Streambar delivers impressively clear sound considering its compact design.

Sure, let’s make this clearer: You shouldn’t expect the same level of range, precision, or clarity as with larger soundbars, but throughout our assessment, the Streambar still provided a significant improvement compared to typical television speakers. Additionally, we appreciate how straightforward it is to enhance the Streambar’s audio quality by incorporating additional components. wireless Roku subwoofer and wireless satellite speakers For approximately $560, you can assemble a full 5.1 surround sound system that's easy to install.

As a media player, the Streambar grants you entry into Roku’s vast collection of channels, featuring well-known services such as Disney Plus , Prime Video , and Hulu It also enables up to 4K playback featuring high dynamic range via the HDR10 format. However, although the device’s navigation speed is adequate, the Streambar doesn’t offer the same quick responsiveness as the best streaming devices , like the Roku Ultra .

The convenient voice-controlled remote from Roku comes included, making it simpler to look for content. Although it doesn’t have an integrated digital assistant, this soundbar works well with standalone Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant devices.

While there are various tiny soundbars available, the Streambar stands out due to its integrated video streaming feature and budget-friendly $130 price point, making it our top pick.

Read our Roku Streambar review .

How we test soundbars

Our specialists evaluate different aspects such as audio performance, supported formats, connection choices, and intelligent functionalities to identify top-tier soundbars. With over ten years of assessing home entertainment devices under our belt, we apply this accumulated knowledge to shape our evaluation criteria.

We likewise assess elements such as total value, construction quality, visual appeal, and user-friendliness. Convenience after all serves as a significant benefit when opting for a soundbar instead of a conventional speaker system. Top-tier soundbars ought to be straightforward to install and blend seamlessly with your home entertainment configuration.

In assessing soundbars, we examine their ability to handle low-, mid-, and high-frequency ranges through a selection of test videos from various genres like action, drama, and comedy. Additionally, we check the clarity of dialogue with several configurations and gauge the audio output at different volumes to confirm that the device maintains quality even when turned up loudly.

We similarly play an array of music tracks chosen to highlight varying frequencies. This allows us to assess whether the soundbar produces a tinny or distorted sound and ensures clear audio with distinct instrument separation across genres like rock, pop, acoustic, and hip-hop.

Key features to search for when choosing a soundbar

While purchasing a soundbar, make sure to carefully examine different specifications, such as dimensions and the amount of audio channels it supports.

Budget-friendly soundbars usually come in compact sizes and offer only fundamental two-channel stereo capabilities, whereas pricier options boast bigger designs with advanced features such as additional channel support for immersive surround sound experiences. Certain units comprise just one soundbar component; however, certain versions might also incorporate an independent subwoofer or supplementary satellites. Larger setups featuring multiple speaker components provide superior acoustic quality yet require more space accordingly.

Every top-tier soundbar includes fundamental stereo PCM and Dolby Digital capabilities as basics. However, for an enhanced auditory encounter, seek out models that offer DTS Virtual:X or genuine spatial audio technologies such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

Top-tier soundbars typically utilize HDMI ARC or eARC connections for linking with your television; however, it’s advantageous when these units offer extra cabled alternatives such as an optical port or 3.5mm jack to interface with more outdated televisions or supplementary audio equipment. Additionally having further HDMI outputs to relay video signals from linked gadgets like DVD players or game consoles is beneficial yet not always anticipated in budget-friendly versions.

Wireless music transmission via Bluetooth is prevalent among top-tier soundbars; however, models equipped for Wi-Fi streaming typically offer superior audio performance. Should your preference lean towards a soundbar that also functions as a smart speaker, ensure it includes integrated microphones along with support for either Amazon’s Alexa or Google Assistant.

What steps should I follow to hook up my soundbar?

The majority of soundbars we evaluate hook up to a television using an HDMI cable through either an HDMI ARC or eARC port. These connections types are preferred for their convenience and because they're necessary for transmitting superior audio standards such as Dolby Atmos directly from the TV. Typically, this HDMI ARC link lets you manage both the volume and power settings of the soundbar using just your TV remote, thus minimizing wire clutter.

If you’re using a television model from previous years, it’s quite likely that it still supports HDMI ARC. To confirm this, check your TV’s input options and look for an HDMI port marked either “HDMI ARC” or “HDMI eARC.”

Take a look at our guide to the best HDMI cables For our premier suggestions to pair with soundbars and televisions.

If your television lacks HDMI ARC or eARC capabilities, opt instead for an alternate connection method such as an optical digital output. While this will maintain decent audio quality, it won’t handle advanced 3D audio standards like Dolby Atmos. You might then think about getting a new TV with these features included.

Entry-level 4K TVs with HDMI ARC can now be purchased for about $500 or less, depending on size. Check out our TV buying guides for top recommendations across different price ranges:

• Best TVs
• Best 4K TVs
• Best smart TVs
• Best budget TVs
• Best TVs under $500

Soundbar FAQs

Are soundbars worth it?

Typically, inexpensive soundbars offer superior audio quality compared to the speakers integrated into most display devices. To reduce expenses and accommodate the slim profile of modern screens, televisions often come with tiny drivers placed inadequately, leading to weak and unclear sounds. High-quality soundbars enhance your viewing experience by providing greater depth, sharper definition, and richer low-frequency tones.

Soundbars can enhance the clarity of speech and various sounds for people who have difficulty hearing. This improvement is particularly noticeable in soundbars equipped with a separate center channel, as this is typically where most spoken dialogues and key audio effects from movies and television shows are channeled.

What dimensions of soundbar do you recommend I purchase?

When purchasing a new soundbar, size plays a crucial role. Numerous sleek, one-piece soundbars typically measure about 25 inches across, whereas certain designs, such as the Roku Streambar, might be as narrow as 14 inches. Conversely, premium soundbar options can extend up to an impressive 50 inches in width.

In general, larger soundbars tend to offer superior audio quality because they can include additional speakers with bigger sizes. However, compact models are typically less expensive, simpler to install, and more user-friendly.

If you intend to place your soundbar on an entertainment stand alongside your television, it’s advisable to measure that space beforehand. Doing so will help guarantee that the chosen soundbar fits properly without being excessively broad for the designated spot. TV stand And ensure its height doesn't obstruct your view of the screen.

Is it possible for soundbars to produce surround sound?

Top-tier soundbars have the capability to handle several audio channels for providing an immersive surround sound experience. The number of these channels indicates the various directions from which sounds can emanate via the equipment.

Beginner soundbars typically offer dual-channel functionality for simple left-right stereo experience; however, numerous mid-tier and premium versions may provide immersive surround sound through five or more channels. Such systems usually incorporate a dedicated center speaker for clear dialogues along with back-facing channels using additional audio components, external satellites, or advanced simulation methods.

The channel details are provided as a sequence of up to three digits divided by periods. The initial digit signifies the count of conventional ear-level channels such as left, right, and center. The subsequent digit denotes whether there is a specific low-frequency channel or an independent subwoofer for enhanced bass. The last digit shows the quantity of height channels present for supporting Dolby Atmos technology.

Customers seeking merely an enhancement over their television’s built-in speakers may find satisfaction with a small 2.0 or 2.1 soundbar setup. However, those aiming for a comprehensive home cinema atmosphere should consider investing in a 5.1 surround sound system or better yet, something even more advanced.

To find additional suggestions, take a look at our comprehensive guide to the topic. best surround sound systems .

What is Dolby Atmos?

Dolby Atmos represents an advanced surround sound technology utilizing object-oriented audio mixing techniques. Essentially, this allows for highly accurate placement of sounds throughout your space, enveloping you completely as effects are directed in every direction, even from up high. To illustrate, during scenes where rainfall descends from above or a helicopter passes overheard, listeners will distinctly perceive these auditory cues originating directly overhead.

Dolby Atmos soundbars employ one of two techniques to generate overhead sound effects. The initial approach relies on audio processing to simulate an elevated auditory experience using standard ear-height speakers. Alternatively, these devices may utilize upward-facing drivers directed towards the ceiling rather than forwards, enabling sounds to reflect down for a heightened effect. Typically, high-quality up-firing drivers deliver a far more realistic impression of aerial acoustics compared to what can be achieved through processing alone.

For additional details, refer to our What is Dolby Atmos explainer.

Is a subwoofer necessary for me?

A subwoofer can be an integral part of your cinematic and musical experience. Due to basic physics, soundbars alone can't offer the deep bass frequencies you'd get from a subwoofer. If you're looking for earth-rattling thunder, hefty boom from explosions, and powerful bass beats, you'll want to consider a soundbar that either includes a subwoofer or, at the very least, allows you to add one later.

To find our top picks, take a look at our guide to the best soundbars with subwoofers .

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