The Best Sounding Soundbar For 2024

Dan Simmons By, Dan Simmons
Updated
Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar

Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar delivers excellent sound and value on par with any mid-to high-range sound bars available in the market. At just over 2" tall, it fits most spaces — easily wall-mount it or place it in front of your TV. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: YAMAHA SR-B20A Sound Bar with Built-in Subwoofers and Bluetooth

To experience an elevated audio experience with the TV, Sound Bars are the perfect alternative to a home theater system. The YAMAHA SR-B20A sound bar is designed to perform and last with high-quality components, a stylish design and wireless streaming capabilities. Read Review

3. Best Compatible: Polk Audio Signa S3 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar

The Polk Audio Signa S3 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar and Wireless Subwoofer with Built-in Chromecast is a home theater upgrade. Hear clear, crisp dialogue with three distinct settings that include voice adjustment technology for improved sound clarity and reduced voice delays. Read Review

4. Best Sound Quality: YAMAHA SR-C20A Compact Sound Bar with Built-in Subwoofer and Bluetooth

The Yamaha SR-C20A Compact Sound Bar is designed to provide amazing sound for your TV. The built-in subwoofer and passive radiators for surprising bass are perfect for watching action movies or playing video games. Bluetooth streaming for your music and podcasts make it easy to enjoy all of your favourite entertainment. Read Review

Soundbars are fantastic for bringing life to your home cinema. They can also be a great way of upgrading the audio quality of your TV, especially if you’re watching something on Netflix or Amazon Prime Video and want to hear every spooky creak and giddy cackle.

A soundbar is essentially an all-in-one speaker designed to fit below or above your TV monitor, rather than beside it. They’re perfect for anyone who doesn’t have much floor space or wants to streamline their AV setup. With that in mind, here are our top picks for the best-sounding soundbars available today. 

To get the results you will read next is thanks to the hard work of our team during 15 hours of product research and analysis. As a direct consequence, we were able to identify Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar as the top model for this year. Using Polk Adjust Technology of this product, you can adjust the voice levels to reproduce clear, crisp dialogue and never miss a word of your favorite movie, TV show, or sporting event.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar
Our Score:
9.8
Polk Audio
  • UPGRADE YOUR HOME THEATER EXPERIENCE – Watch your favorite shows on your 4K HD Smart TV with exceptional picture quality & crystal clear sound. With numerous connection possibilities, plug in any audio source via HDMI ARC, optical input & AUX
  • WIRELESSLY STREAM MUSIC from your favorite streaming apps like Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, and others directly from your smartphone, tablet or other compatible device through the built-in Bluetooth technology
  • EXCELLENT SOUND AND VALUE on par with any mid- to high-range sound bars available in the market. At just over 2" tall, it 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
  • SET UP YOUR SOUND BAR IN MINUTES — With the included subwoofer, HDMI and optical cables quickly connect your TV to the sound bar. Get set up and listening in minutes
  • A PREMIUM ULTRA-SLIM SOUND BAR WITH INCLUDED WIRELESS SUBWOOFER – 5 powerful full-range drivers deliver BEAUTFUL RICH SOUND WITH DEEP BASS. POLK’S EXCLUSIVE VOICE ADJUST TECHNOLOGY & Dolby Digital Decoding maximizes sound clarity & reduces voice delays
TOP Choice #2 YAMAHA SR-B20A Sound Bar with Built-in Subwoofers and Bluetooth
Our Score:
9.7
Yamaha Audio
  • DTS Virtual: X virtual 3D surround sound
  • Bluetooth streaming that allows easy switching between two devices
  • Included components: Remote control
  • Built-in subwoofers for deep bass in one slim sound bar
  • Simple setup with HDMI or optical
  • Clear Voice for enhanced dialogue clarity
TOP Choice #3 Polk Audio Signa S3 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar
Our Score:
9.6
Polk Audio
  • POLK’S EXCLUSIVE VOICE ADJUST TECHNOLOGY & Dolby Digital 5.1 Decoding helps maximize sound clarity & reduces voice delays. Hear clear, crisp dialogue of your favorite movies, TV shows and sporting events with three distinct settings
  • WIRELESSLY STREAM MUSIC from your favorite streaming apps like Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, and more from your smartphone, tablet or other compatible devices via Bluetooth, or use Google Chromecast to listen to music over Wi-Fi with your Google Home speaker
  • ULTRA-SLIM SOUNDBAR WITH WIRELESS SUBWOOFER – Features 2.1 channel performance-tuned drivers - (2) 1.25” x 4.4”oval mid-range drivers & (2) 1” Tweeters, and the included 5.25” subwoofer delivers INCREDIBLE ROOM-FILLING SOUND WITH DEEP BASS
  • EXCELLENT SOUND AND VALUE on par with any mid- to high-range sound bars available in the market. At 2" tall, the Signa S3 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
  • UPGRADE YOUR HOME THEATER SURROUND SOUND SYSTEM – Watch your favorite shows on your 4K and 8K HD Smart TV with exceptional picture quality & clear sound. With numerous connection possibilities, plug in any audio source via HDMI ARC, optical input & 3.5mm audio jack
  • SET UP YOUR SOUND BAR IN MINUTES — the included HDMI and optical cables quickly connect your TV and subwoofer to the sound bar
  • Wall-mountable with built-in keyholes
  • Built-in subwoofer and passive radiators for surprising bass
  • Bluetooth streaming for your music and podcasts
  • Clear Voice for enhanced dialogue clarity
  • Simple setup with HDMI, optical or aux connections
  • Button and Remote Control : Use BYL’s remote control to switch between dialogue, movie, and music modes to tailor the sound output to your entertainment.Moreover, Bass and Treble can be adjustable as your favor.
  • Beef Up Version: Noise-free Sound,Boosted Bass, Bigger Power (Max up to 100Watt).Utilized Noise-free technology to ensure every layer of Audio is delivered flawlessly. Extended length to 40 Inch which is Meticulously- designed for your smart TV and sweet Home.
  • DSP Technology: Thanks for the Digital Signal Processing, there are three different modes (Movie, Music, Dialog) for your option. Be footloose and start to enjoy what you like.
  • Rock-Solid Sound: Quad built-in 3-Inch imported and advanced full-range drivers; dual high-sensitivity spherical silk film tweeter drivers, twin craftsman-processed bass reflex tubes. All they only serve for serious stereo sound with exceptional clarity and zero distortion. According to our substantial survey, most speaker drivers are less than 3-Inch in the market.
  • Sleek design: This wireless soundbar is just over 2" tall for low placement in front of your TV or wall mounting (wall brackets sold separately). Overall dimensions are 2.21" H x 26.58" W x 4.02" D.
  • Built-in Alexa: Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant are built into this smart soundbar for hands-free voice control. And a noise-rejecting mic system listens in every direction for your voice.
  • Like no other: This elegant sound bar for TV, movies, music, and games delivers spacious sound, exceptional clarity, and rich bass, while finished in matte-Black with seamless metal grille.
  • Build and expand: This Bluetooth soundbar is compatible with other Bose products for Multiroom listening or add the Bose Bass Module 500 or 700 or the Bose Surround Speakers 700.
  • Acoustic performance: 5 full-range drivers deliver wide, clear sound, which makes it the perfect soundbar for TV, movies, games, and more.
  • Connectivity: Pair your device to this wireless soundbar to stream your favorite music and more via a Bluetooth connection, your home Wi-Fi network, Apple AirPlay 2, or Spotify Connect.
  • TV voice control: Exclusive Bose Voice for Video technology expands your Alexa capabilities, allowing you to control this smart soundbar, your TV, and your cable,satellite box with 1 voice command.
  • Simple setup: Connect this smart soundbar to your TV via an optical audio cable (included) or an HDMI cable (sold separately) and download the Bose Music app for step-by-step setup.
  • Subwoofer (WxHxD)-7.1 x 15.4 x 11.5 inches
  • Included Components: Wall Mount Bracket, Cable Management
  • Power Source Type: Corded Electric
  • Dual built-in subwoofers for deep bass
  • One-cable HDMI eARC for simple, high-quality connection to your TV
  • 7.1.2ch Dolby Atmos/DTS X with Vertical Sound Engine
  • Slim, low-profile design complements your TV
  • 4K HDR passthrough-enabled to ensure a high-quality entertainment experience
  • Voice enhancement for greater clarity
  • Easily integrates with your AV system with HDMI and optical inputs
  • Seven different sound modes to enhance your entertainment experience
  • In the box: Remote Control, Batteries for remote, HDMI Cable, AC Adaptor, AC Cord, Quick Setup Guide, Instruction Manual
  • All sound upscaled close to 7.1.2ch audio
  • 🎵Touch and Remote: Smooth touch screen and infrared remote control, the speaker is responsive, allowing you to easily control this sound bar.
  • 🎵Bluetooth 5.1 advantage: 4 times signal range; 2 times connection speed; 8 times data transmission.
  • 🎵3D surround sound: The sound field is wide and the left and right displacement of the sound is extremely precise and clear. This makes the flat TV sound stereo.
  • 🎵2.1 channel 100watt: Built in 2 subwoofers and 2 full-range speakers, the max goes up to 100watt.
  • 🎵Sleek Premium Design & Lightweight Finish: This simple and stylish design can be integrated into a variety of home decoration styles and is the best partner for your TV.
  • Certified for Humans – Smart home made easy for non-experts. Setup with Alexa is simple.
  • With AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music and Chromecast built-in, you can stream all your favorite online content in amazing sound quality, with a simple finger tap.
  • Punchy bass without the need for a separate subwoofer thanks to four passive radiators built-in.
  • Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam surround sound gives you an immersive and exciting 3D sound experience and a wide soundstage.
  • Dolby Vision coupled with 4K pass through will allow enjoy pristine video quality.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

The main aspects you should think about before purchasing best sounding soundbar

Would you like to understand exactly what you've been doing before buying something? If that's the case, you should follow this blog article. In it, I'll go over the main factors you should think about before purchasing best sounding soundbar.

These features are supposed to keep your purchasing intention as informed as possible and to ensure that you find the best sounding soundbar for your needs.

What's holding you back? What other reasons do people give for purchasing inferior products rather than the top-of-the-line product they desire? We'll be around when you're prepared to intervene. Please read the following points to help you select best sounding soundbar easier.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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 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

When looking for best sounding soundbar, it's not always clear where to begin. We produced this list of key factors to serve as a preliminary step prior to actually making your purchase to assist you in making an informed decision.

We hope that these sections will assist you in making the best decision possible and saving you money on items that do not work or are poorly. If you have any questions about our product selections, please visit Sound Bar, Wohome 38 Inch 100W Soundbar for TV with 6 Speakers. This will be the most fantastic option for your expectations.


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About Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons is a writer who loves home theater and HiFi audio. As the editor of TheAudioInsights, he has helped countless people enjoy the best possible sound quality in their homes. He is an audiophile who takes great pleasure in helping others find the perfect audio equipment for their needs. When he's not writing or editing, Dan enjoys listening to music and spending time with his family.