The Best Soundbar Surround Sound System For 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
SAMSUNG HW-Q950A 11.1.4ch Soundbar
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall Dolby Atmos Bar: SAMSUNG HW-Q950A 11.1.4ch Soundbar

The Samsung flagship HW-Q950A soundbar ( 8, WIRED Recommends ) features a huge 11.1.4 driver array that spans two satellite speakers, a subwoofer, and the actual bar. Read Review

2. Best Soundbar-Subwoofer Combo: Polk Audio Signa S4 Ultra-Slim Soundbar

Few offer the same soundstage as this Polk-enabled bar. There are three modes to choose from Cinema, Night and Music. Each serves its purpose well. Read Review

3. Best Standalone Bar: Sony HTX8500 2.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar

The HT-X8500 unit is a single unit that has a subwoofer built-in and can bounce Dolby Atmos signals around your room. Read Review

4. Best Soundbar Under $500: VIZIO M-Series 5.1.2 Premium Soundbar

For less than $500, the Vizio M Series H6 soundbar is our favorite. Its setup is versatile and can be used to listen to music, movies, or TV without spending a lot. Read Review

Soundbars have a few advantages over traditional home theater speaker systems: They take up less space and are much easier to set up. There's a soundbar for everyone, whether you want one that supports Dolby Atmos or another that you can plug in your MP3 player to. Not all soundbars are equal and some offer a better listening experience. You want something that can be used with all your devices. Soundbars that reproduce the dialogue on your TV shows accurately and with great detail.

Below are the SAMSUNG HW-Q950A 11.1.4ch Soundbar of the best soundbars we've tested. Check out our recommendations for the most affordable soundbars and the best soundbar surround sound system.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 SAMSUNG HW-Q950A 11.1.4ch Soundbar
Our Score:
9.8
SAMSUNG
  • Package Dimensions: 129.54 H x 27.94 L x 60.96 W (centimeters)
  • Package Weight: 27.216 kilograms
  • Package Quantity: 1
  • Country of Origin : VietNam
TOP Choice #2 Polk Audio Signa S4 Ultra-Slim Soundbar
Our Score:
9.6
Polk Audio
  • ADVANCED ULTRA-SLIM SOUNDBAR & WIRELESS SUB - The Signa S4 with an upgraded 7-driver array & a dedicated full-range center channel delivers True 3D Surround Sound (Dolby Atmos 3.1.2 certified) and the 5.25" sub gives you a WIDE SOUND STAGE AND DEEP BASS
  • POLK'S EXCLUSIVE VOICE AND BASS ADJUST TECHNOLOGY, along with S4's center channel lets you customize voice and bass levels, so you hear crystal clear dialogues and maximize bass without missing a word. For maximum impact, control the sub and the sound bar's bass using Bass Adjust Technology
  • NUMEROUS CONNECTION POSSIBILITIES - Plug in your audio source via the provided inputs - (1) optical, (1) analog 3.5mm, or Bluetooth, and USB-A (for firmware updates). Enjoy uncompromised audio experience over the eight channels via the HDMI (eARC) output
  • 1-CABLE SETUP, WORKS WITH ANY TV INCLUDING THE LATEST 8K ULTRA-HD TVs - Get this system up and running in less than 5 minutes—all you have to do is unbox, connect and you are ready to listen. A great addition to your home theater!
  • EXCELLENT SOUND AND VALUE - At par with any mid- to high-range sound bars available in the market. At 2.4" tall, the Signa S4 fits most spaces - easily wall-mount it or place in front of your TV. It won’t block your TV’s bottom edge or IR remote sensor
  • UP-FIRING SPEAKERS FOR HEIGHT ELEVATION - In addition to L/R Tweeters (1"), (2) Racetrack Mid Drivers (4.7" x 1.6") and a 1" Center, the left/right elevation speakers (2.6") utilize Atmos' height channels for an immersive 3D sound over your head
  • WIRELESSLY STREAM MUSIC from your favorite streaming apps like Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, and others directly from your smartphone, tablet, or other compatible devices via built-in Bluetooth technology
TOP Choice #3 Sony HTX8500 2.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar
Our Score:
9.5
Sony
  • All sound upscaled close to 7.1.2ch audio
  • Seven different sound modes to enhance your entertainment experience
  • Easily integrates with your AV system with HDMI and optical inputs
  • Dual built-in subwoofers for deep bass
  • One-cable HDMI eARC for simple, high-quality connection to your TV
  • 4K HDR passthrough-enabled to ensure a high-quality entertainment experience
  • In the box: Remote Control, Batteries for remote, HDMI Cable, AC Adaptor, AC Cord, Quick Setup Guide, Instruction Manual
  • Voice enhancement for greater clarity
  • 7.1.2ch Dolby Atmos/DTS X with Vertical Sound Engine
  • Slim, low-profile design complements your TV
4 VIZIO M-Series 5.1.2 Premium Soundbar
Our Score:
9.4
VIZIO
  • Separate Tweeters and Woofers - True 2-way speaker design delivers pristine clarity and a wider audio range.
  • Dynamic and Accurate Sound - The 103dB sound pressure level and 45Hz – 20kHz frequency range deliver high-performance sound.
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS:X - Cinematic, life-like 3D surround sound around and above you.
  • 11 High-Performance Speakers - With separate tweeters and woofers, deliver fuller, clearer and more powerful sound.
  • 2 Upfiring Speakers - Reflect accurate overhead sound off the ceiling for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content.
5 VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Soundbar
Our Score:
9.2
VIZIO
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Loud and Clear: The 96dB sound pressure level and 50Hz – 20kHz frequency range deliver dynamic and accurate Sound.
  • 5” Wireless Subwoofer Place the wireless subwoofer anywhere in the room to add deep booming bass.
  • DTS Virtual:X: Enhances any content with room-filling, floor-to-ceiling virtualized 3D sound.
6 JBL Bar 9.1 - Channel Soundbar System
Our Score:
9.0
JBL
  • With detachable, battery powered surround speakers you can enjoy real surround sound without the wires
  • Connector Type: Optical
  • Built-in Dolby Atmos and DTS: X decoding
  • Wireless Communication Technology: Wi-Fi
  • Experience deep bass with a 300W, 10" powered subwoofer
  • 820W Output power
  • Included Components: Main Soundbar, Detachable Wireless Surround Speakers (2), Wireless Subwoofer Remote Control, Power Cords, Hdmi Cable, (2)L-Shape Wall-Mount Bracket (Main Bar), (2) U-Shape Wall-Mount Bracket (For Surround Speakers), Kit With Screws
  • Ultra HD 4K Pass-through with Dolby Vision
  • Power Source Type: Corded Electric
7 ZVOX Dialogue Clarifying Soundbar
Our Score:
8.9
ZVOX
  • 24 watt Class D digital amplifier
  • Dolby Digital decoding
  • AccuVoice dialogue enhancement with 12 levels of voice boost
  • New remote control uses large buttons with easy to read labels
  • Patented AccuVoice technology delivers state-of-the-art voice clarity.
8 Yamaha ATS-2090 36" 2.1 Channel Soundbar
Our Score:
8.7
Yamaha Audio
  • Easy setup with HDMI or Optical cable and automatic subwoofer connection
  • With Alexa, playing music is as simple as asking for a song, artist, or genre from Amazon music and more. Play multiroom music with other Alexa devices
  • Alexa built-in for control of your sound bar, setting timers, controlling lights, thermostats and more without an extra device!
  • Clear voice for enhanced dialogue clarity
  • Yamaha ATS-2090 2.1-Channel Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer and Alexa Built-In (Black) - Remote Control - Yamaha 2 Year Limited Warranty
9 SENNHEISER AMBEO Soundbar
Our Score:
8.5
Sennheiser
  • Easy wireless streaming for your home compatible devices with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth or from the cloud via built-in Chromecast system
  • Included components: AMBEO Soundbar, calibration microphone, remote control, owners manual
  • Power source type: Corded Electric
  • Turn your home stereo or 5.1 audio into a 3D surround sound experience with the integrated Upmix Technology, also fully compatible with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and MPEG-H
  • Fully immersive 5.1.4 channel 3D high-quality sound experience with deep 30Hz bass without the need for an additional subwoofer, thanks to Sennheiser’s bespoke AMBEO audio technology
  • Customize your home listening experience with a built-in equalizer and three bespoke AMBEO 3D technology modes for your home audio sound bars
  • Delivers 3D surround sound adjusted to the characteristics of your living room via advanced room calibration and the latest virtualization sound bar technology developed with Fraunhofer
  • Five dedicated tweeters deliver studio-grade sound, and midrange voices are reproduced with stunning precision giving you an even better home theater experience
10 ZVOX SB500 Aluminum Soundbar
Our Score:
8.4
ZVOX
  • Dual built-in subwoofers with Mega Bass produce great bass without external subwoofer. Can be wall-mounted, placed upright on furniture, or placed "flat" on furniture
  • The SB500 uses a high-efficiency 140 watt Class D digital amplifier,Speakers: (3) 2" long-excursion full-range speakers
  • Multiple inputs make it simple to add Chrome cast Audio for multi-zone Wi-Fi streaming music.
  • Room-filling 3D sound from a single anodized aluminum cabinet.Works well with TVs from 50 ”- 90”. Works with your current remote control.
  • 6-Mode AccuVoice feature uses hearing aid technology to deliver ultra-clear dialogue.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

Several things a reader must do before selecting best soundbar surround sound system

Actually, best soundbar surround sound system can be discovered by following these simple steps. Individuals should first understand their needs and the requirements which will guide their decision-making procedure.

Then they must investigate all options available to decide which product satisfies those needs and meet those criteria. After that, the buyer can narrow down their options based on factors such as cost and dependability. Let’s check the tips for better purchase:

Ease Of Set-up And Use

It is easy to hook up the soundbar with your TV or other device and get started using it immediately. This can be gauged by looking at the manual or reading some user reviews.

Subwoofer

In large rooms, a soundbar with an external subwoofer (or dedicated soundbar) can be more effective than one without it. A subwoofer that is well made will enhance low-end sound quality and add a cinematic vibe to your system. A sub that is poorly designed can cause a drop in sound quality. A soundbase is a great option if you need bass, but aren't able to fit an external sub. They include an integrated subwoofer.

Wi-Fi And Bluetooth

Bluetooth is an important soundbar feature that allows you stream music from compatible phones, tablets and computers to your soundbar. Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to stream music from your Spotify account or access cloud music libraries.

Additional Features

You might also want these features in your soundbar:
There are special sound modes for various audio types, such as watching movies, listening to music, or gaming. You can adjust the treble and bass settings depending on what you are watching/listening too.
Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa for voice-controlled music.
Front-panel displays that display important information, such as volume levels. Make sure to check if this display is able to be switched off when it's not in use so that it does not become distracting.

Connectivity

Soundbars typically only require one cable to connect with your TV. HDMI is the best choice. Make sure that your soundbar is equipped with all necessary ports for connecting to Blu-ray players and USB storage. You should check if your soundbar has a pass-through function that transmits 4K HDR video from your 4K HDR TV.

Number Of Channels And Speakers

A soundbar with just 2.1 channels may be enough to enhance the audio quality of your TV. A 5.1 and 7.1 models might offer better sound quality when you watch TV/movies or listen to audio. Dolby Atmos is available on 5.1.2 and 7.1.2 models. This technology allows for a richer experience. It involves placing speakers higher than the roof, to create sound from above.

Wired/wireless Speakers

Some soundbars allow for wired and wireless connection to other speakers. Some soundbars only support a subwoofer. However, a few models offer "surround sound" connectivity, which allows you to connect other speakers to the rear of the room to replicate 5.1. You can purchase these speakers separately or as a bundle at an extra cost.

Size

To ensure that the unit will not block the screen, or interfere with the remote control or display of your TV's remote, check its dimensions. You should also check that the design of the unit matches your TV.

FAQs

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 A Sound Bar Be Used As A Center Speaker?

There are some that can and others that can't, but it's not something we recommend. Although a passive soundbar could technically be used to provide center channel speakers, this is not what it was designed for. This is like asking a pitcher to play both catch and second base instead of the only position that he excels at.

Can You 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.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

Conclusion

Before making a purchase decision, the reader should do the following. It's critical to keep these factors in mind when looking for the best soundbar surround sound system since they can help to ensure that you discover what's worth the investment. If you need another option for best soundbar surround sound system, you should look into VIZIO Sound Bar for TV, M-Series 36” Surround Sound System. Hope you have a nice shopping day!


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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.