The Best Soundbar For Virtual Surround Sound In 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: VIZIO V-Series 5.1
The VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater System provides the ultimate audio-visual experience with room-filling, floor-to-ceiling virtualized 3D sound. With its built-in voice assistant and 360° Surround Sound, this system enhances any content you enjoy with immersive, lifelike sound that's sure to take your entertainment to new heights. Read Review
2. Runner Up: LG SN5Y Sound Bar w/Subwoofer
Transform any movie, TV show or playlist into an immersive, multidimensional audio experience with the LG SN5Y Sound Bar w/ Subwoofer. With three powerful drivers, Bluetooth streaming and a built-in subwoofer for deep bass, you'll feel every detail. Read Review
3. Best Resolution: JBL Bar 5.1 Soundbar
JBL is pleased to introduce the Bar 5.1, a new soundbar that brings an immersive virtual 5.1 sound experience for your TV without any extra wires or speakers or speakers. This JBL surround sound bar is compatible with your TV and comes with built-in Chromecast, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice-enabled multi-room audio support through Amazon Alexa. Read Review
4. Best Wireless Connection: LG SL5Y 2.1 Channel High Resolution Sound Bar
The LG SL5Y 2.1 Channel High Resolution Sound Bar is a wireless rear speaker ready, DTS Virtual Surround enabled sound bar with 400W total power. The LG SL5Y features the latest sound technology that includes high-resolution audio, DTS virtual surround and an upgraded design with multiple color options to match your home decor. Read Review
5. Best Deep Sound: JBL JBL2GBAR51IMBLKAM Bar 5.1 Soundbar
This JBL 5.1 surround sound system features the best resolution, powerful wireless subwoofer delivers deep, thrilling sound and includes everything you need without any extra wires. You can stream all your favorite music right from your tv to this wireless soundbar with Chromecast, airplay2 and Bluetooth built in. Read Review
The days of wires, external speakers, and the need for a separate device to handle audio are largely gone. Nowadays, most TVs come with built-in speakers that are more than enough for watching your favorite shows and movies. However, if you’re trying to experience virtual surround sound or other high-end audio features, a separate system is required.
Sound bars are the perfect solution: they provide everything you need in terms of audio quality, but they don’t take up much space either. As a result, they’re becoming increasingly popular. What we like the most about them is the fact that they can be placed pretty much anywhere in your living room without bothering anyone else who might be there at the same time.
Following extensive study and analysis, We think the best soundbar for virtual surround sound of 2024 is VIZIO V-Series 5.1. However, it is not the only thing on our list. We also show a full buyer's guide and a number of different options are available to help you find the most suitable.
RELATED: Our top professionals have tested, examined, and ranked the 10 best soundbar with google assistant of 2024 for you. See our top picks here.
Our Top Picks
DTS Virtual:X - Enhances any content with room-filling, floor-to-ceiling virtualized 3D sound.
5” Wireless Subwoofer - Place the wireless subwoofer anywhere in the room to add deep booming bass.
Voice Assistant Input - Use our voice to control your Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant devices through the sound bar with a dedicated 3.5 Aux or Persistent Bluetooth connection.
Optimized for 4K HDR content with Dolby Audio 5.1 - Bring out the best audio performance from your 4K HDR content with Dolby Audio 5.1 when connected through HDMI.
America's #1 Sound Bar* - VIZIO has been filling homes with truly immersive audio for over 10 years, and our sound bars just keep getting better. We are proud to provide our customers with top-tier audio products that bring movies, shows, podcasts, music, and more to life like never before. (*#1 Sound Bar Brand in 1H 2022 Source: The NPD Group/Retail Tracking Service, U.S., based on units, Jan. - June 2022 combined.)
Loud and Clear - The 96dB sound pressure level and 50Hz – 20kHz frequency range deliver dynamic and accurate Sound.
DTS Virtual: X - Hear every detail. Transform any movie, TV show or playlist into an immersive, multidimensional audio experience..
2.1 Channel 400W - Perfect when you want to give your TV a boost with sound bar and subwoofer - 2.1ch sound, great audio quality and minimalist design.
Wireless Surround Sound Ready - Wirelessly pair the 2.0ch Rear Speaker Kit expansion to deliver audio from behind for greater depth and immersive surround sound. (Rear Speaker Kit available separately)
Bluetooth Streaming - Wirelessly stream with Bluetooth 4.2 to provide range and reliability to wirelessly connect your LG sound bar to your tablet, phone or other device.
High Resolution Audio (24bit / 96kHz): Sounds closer to the real thing. Higher sampling rates and bit depth provide sound quality that surpasses CDs.
An impressive 550w of total system power
4k pass-through with hdr 10 and dolby vision provides the best resolution
Jbl surround sound brings an immersive virtual 5.1 sound experience for your tv without any extra wires or speakers
Built-in chromecast, airplay2 and bluetooth
Connector type: HDMI
10"" wireless subwoofer delivers deep, thrilling sound
Now with alexa multi-room audio
Wireless rear speaker ready (available separately)
High resolution audio (24bit/96kHz)
2. 1 channel with 400W total power
DTS virtual: x sound
4k pass-through with hdr 10 and dolby vision provides the best resolution
An impressive 550w of total system power
JBLsurround sound brings an immersive virtual 5. 1 sound experience for your tv without any extra wires or speakers
10"" wireless subwoofer delivers deep, thrilling sound
Built-in chromecast, airplay2 and bluetooth
SINGLE CABLE HDMI CONNECTIVITY WITH ARC – Connect your TV to Blu-Ray, gaming console or any audio source using the optical digital input or the HDMI port via Audio Return Channel (HDMI & optical cable included). It's convenient and straightforward
LET YOUR TV COME TO LIFE – Equipped with dual 1.25" x 4.4" mid-range drivers, detailed crisp 1" tweeters and Dolby DTS, you will IMMERSE YOURSELF IN VIRTUAL SURROUND SOUND AT HOME WITH THEATER-QUALITY AUDIO
ENJOY WIRELESS MUSIC STREAMING from your favorite streaming apps such as Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, and others through the built-in Bluetooth technology
DEEP POWERFUL BASS – Give your favorite movies, music and shows the deep, rich bass they deserve. No unsightly tangled wires or cables. Just place the included wireless subwoofer anywhere in the room and let the whole place rumble
With its 100-year legacy & Japanese precision technology, Denon BRINGS PURITY OF SOUND AND JOY TO YOUR LIFE. Immerse yourself in multi-dimensional audio and Hi-Fi surround sound with this soundbar & subwoofer for an exceptional home entertainment system
LOW PROFILE DESIGN THAT FITS MOST SPACES – At just under 2" tall, the sound bar fits below the TV allowing uninterrupted viewing and won't block the IR remote sensor. Place it on a shelf or wall-mount it using the included mounting template
HEAR EVERY WORD WITH DIALOGUE ENHANCER – Denon brings to you an intelligent way of enhancing dialogues that makes them sound crystal clear without having to adjust the volume. Even the most complex audio tracks will now be loud and clear
CLEAR & CRISP DIALOGUES - Polk's Proprietary Voice Adjust Technology adjusts the voice levels from the sound bar, so you hear every word, loud and clear. For sound optimized by content-type, use the one-button presets for movie, music and night mode
VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY - Features (1) HDMI ARC output, (1) Optical Audio Input, and (1) USB-A to play music from various sources. The setup is simple and frustration-free so you can start enjoying your music out of the box
GREAT SOUND FOR VIRTUALLY ANY TV - Featuring a 6-driver array with (2) 3.8" x 2.7" mid-range drivers, (2) 1" tweeters and (2) 4.3" x 3.9" passive radiators, enjoy room-filling, immersive Dolby & DTS virtual surround sound without any additional speakers
A LOW-PROFILE SOUNDBAR WITH BIG, DETAILED HOME AUDIO SOUND - 3D virtual surround sound, multiroom music and a slim low-profile design that does not block your TV or remote's sensor, the new Polk React Sound Bar brings out the best from your existing TV
BUILD A 5.1 CHANNEL SOUND SYSTEM with the FULL REACT FAMILY - For big, bold and impactful sound, add the optional SR2 wireless surround speakers and/or Polk React wireless sub with this Sound Bar to create a well-rounded home setup - no extra wires needed
STREAM UNLIMITED MUSIC - Connect your smartphone, tablet or other compatible devices for direct streaming or use popular streaming services like Spotify, Pandora, TuneIn, and more to enjoy countless hours of music and videos to your liking
MASSIVE ALEXA INTEGRATION - Play the same music across rooms, or different ones on each device, with full voice-control compatibility. Control Smart Home Devices. Use Alexa Calling and Messaging to US, Canada and Mexico - all from your sound bar
SLIM PROFILE IN WALL-MOUNTABLE OPTION - At 2.6" tall, the sleek bar fits into most spaces and can be placed in front of the TV without blocking the TV’s sensor. Easy to wall mount using the included mounting template, it blends perfectly with your décor
EXPERIENCE VIRTUAL SURROUND SOUND, multi-dimensional audio and enhanced bass from your TV’s streaming apps, Blu-ray movies, as the compact soundbar offers quick connectivity using the HDMI eARC and optical inputs, WITHOUT THE NEED FOR ADDITIONAL SPEAKERS
TRANSFORM YOUR TV INTO A HOME ENTERTAINMENT CENTER with DHT-S217 soundbar, integrated with down-firing subwoofers, for a thrilling 3D audio experience with Dolby Atmos overhead effects pumping DYNAMIC THEATER-QUALITY AUDIO into your entertainment setup
EASY SET UP & USER EXPERIENCE - Quickly connect the system to your TV or other devices with the included HDMI or aux cables or via the optical input including the subwoofer pre-out
HEAR EVERY WORD with the Dialogue Enhancer that SHARPENS DIALOGUE CLARITY, making them sound crystal clear without needing to adjust the overall volume. Select from 4 pre-set EQ modes – pure, movie, music and night mode - for a custom listening experience
ENHANCED MUSICAL EXPERIENCE - With the built-in subwoofers, this soundbar lets you WIRELESSLY STREAM your favorite tracks, podcasts, and other audio content by pairing your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or any other device via Bluetooth
TV & IR REMOTE CONTROL COMPATIBILITY – The soundbar is accompanied with a newly improved InfraRed reception remote having extended reach that is compatible with many TV remotes. Plus connect and control your TV or Blu-Ray player via HDMI eARC connection
BUILT-IN CENTER SPEAKER - A dedicated speaker enhances dialogue so you hear every word.
1 Year Extended Epic Protect Warranty in Addition to the Included Full Manufacturer Warranty. Intended for Residential Use Only
SUBWOOFER INCLUDED - Wireless subwoofer included.
DOLBY DIGITAL 5.1 / DTS VIRTUAL:X - Immersive surround sound simulation that draws you in.
ADAPTIVE SOUND LITE - Optimizes sound to video content.
Wireless Surround Sound Ready (SPK8-S)
Meridian Audio Technology
5.1ch with 440W Total Output Power
High Resolution Audio 24bit/96kHz with 4K Passthrough (HDCP 2.3)
Power source type: Corded Electric
What to Look For in a best soundbar for virtual surround sound?
A range of elements, including those listed below, influence the best soundbar for virtual surround sound. The study process varies depending on the material. We'll be able to assist you and provide solutions since we're here to help you.
Please keep in mind the following points before selecting best soundbar for virtual surround sound:
Wired/wireless Speakers
Connectivity
Number Of Channels And Speakers
Size
Wi-Fi And Bluetooth
Ease Of Set-up And Use
Subwoofer
Additional Features
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.
RELATED: A best soundbar for 60 inch tv is one of the most significant advantages of a home event. It gives you an immersive experience and makes it easier to bring friends to events in your home.
FAQs
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 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.
Are Soundbars Really Worth It?
They are well worth the investment when compared to how loud your TV sounds. A soundbar costs only $100 and can make your TV viewing experience 10x better. A soundbar can make it easier to understand speech by allowing TV speakers to face down.
Can 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.
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 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.
Where Do I Place My Soundbar?
The soundbars can be placed directly in front of your TV using a stand, or any other type of furniture. They are usually less than 2 inches high so they won't interfere with the infrared remote port of your TV or block it. Some soundbars are also wall-mountable and include brackets. There are third-party kits that can be used to mount soundbars on the wall.
Can You Add 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.
When updated data are available, our system and editor will update a list of best soundbar for virtual surround sound. Please periodically review our website for the newest data.
We can help you with more than just finding best soundbar for virtual surround sound. Please do not hesitate to contact us when you need assistance.
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