The Best Standalone Soundbar For 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Polk Audio Signa Solo Sound Bar
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Polk Audio Signa Solo Sound Bar

This sound bar fits most spaces, is easy to mount on a wall or place in front of your TV, and won't block your TV's bottom edge or IR remote sensor. Dolby Digital decoding creates a room-filling virtual surround sound system that easily surpasses the small speakers on your TV. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Samsung HW-A450/ZA 2.1ch Soundbar

The Samsung HW-A450/ZA 2.1ch Soundbar with Dolby Audio is a wireless soundbar that connects to your TV wirelessly and provides surround sound. The Game Mode enhances the gaming experience by syncing directional audio to on-screen action, while crosstalk cancellation minimizes distractions. Read Review

3. Best Sound Quality: Bose Soundbar for TV with Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC Connectivity

This soundbar is designed with simplicity in mind. With 2 angled full-range drivers and an optical input, it makes more sense than ever to turn your TV into a cinematic experience. Read Review

4. Best Connectivity: Bose Smart Soundbar Bluetooth Connectivity with Alexa Voice Control

The built-in Bluetooth connectivity with Alexa Voice Control expands your Alexa capabilities so you can control this smart soundbar, your TV, and your cable or satellite box with just one voice command. Read Review

An excellent sound system can make a movie, video game or music listening experience much more enjoyable. A standalone soundbar is an audio device that adds depth and clarity to your home theatre setup by projecting clear, loud sounds directly toward you instead of having them come from the TV speakers. The best soundbars are compact and don’t take up too much space but still pack plenty of punch when it comes to their performance. Depending on the size of your room, budget and other factors, there are a wide variety of soundbars available today that cater to different needs. Whether you want something affordable with stripped-down functionality or prefer to go all out with premium features like wireless streaming from your smartphone, there is something for everyone on this list of the best standalone soundbars available.

Our team had to focus on researching for 15 hours to get such results for readers. This study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. In addition, the Polk Audio Signa Solo Sound Bar with a sleek design, five powerful full-range drivers, and Dolby Digital Decoding is one of the most beautiful models available, and it comes highly recommended by us. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide worth your consideration below.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Polk Audio Signa Solo Sound Bar
Our Score:
9.8
Polk Audio
  • SET UP YOUR SOUNDBAR IN MINUTES—With all included cables, you can get this system up and running in less than 5 minutes—all you have to do is unpack, connect and you are ready to listen. A great addition to your home theater!
  • 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
  • A PREMIUM RANGE SOUND BAR—(4) 2.5" full-range drivers and bass ports deliver 10x MORE BASS THAN YOUR TYPICAL SPEAKERS and Polk's PATENTED SDA surround technology heightens & widens sound stage giving you a BEAUTIFUL, RICH AND IMMERSIVE SOUND
  • Polk’s UNWAVERING COMMITMENT, RELIABILITY, AND CRAFTSMANSHIP has made it one of the most trusted names in home entertainment & audio systems. Bring out the best in surround sound, so you can SIT BACK, RELAX AND LISTEN WITH YOUR HEART
  • HEAR EVERY WORD OF YOUR FAVORITE MOVIES, TV SHOWS AND SPORTING EVENTS – Polk's Patented Voice Adjust technology lets you customize the voice levels to reproduce clear, crisp dialogues
TOP Choice #2 Samsung HW-A450/ZA 2.1ch Soundbar
Our Score:
9.6
SAMSUNG
  • GAME MODE - Boost your gaming experience with perfectly synced directional audio that moves with the action on-screen and crosstalk cancellation that minimizes distractions
  • BLUETOOTH TV CONNECTION - Set up is a breeze. Easily connect your soundbar to your TV by connecting wirelessly
  • ONE REMOTE - Streamline control of both your Samsung TV and soundbar with just the Samsung TV remote
  • WIRELESS SURROUND SOUND COMPATIBLE - Turn your soundbar into a complete surround sound system with optional rear Samsung speakers in a few simple steps without the mess of wires
  • BASS BOOST - Give your bass an instant boost with the push of a button on the soundbar
  • ADAPTIVE SOUND LITE - Enhanced audio tracking for your content in real time, with technology that equalizes background music and consistent volume control
  • SUBWOOFER INCLUDED - Wireless subwoofer is included so you can enjoy deep bass right out of the box All-in-one
  • Enhanced dialogue: This TV speaker is designed to specifically focus on clarifying and elevating vocals and pronunciation.
  • Compact soundbar: This small soundbar is just over 2" tall for easy placement in front of your TV or mounted to a wall (wall brackets sold separately). Overall TV speaker dimensions are 2.21" H x 23.38" W x 4.02" D.
  • Build and expand: The Bose TV Speaker is compatible with the Bose Bass Module 500 or 700 and requires the Bose Bass Module Connection Cable or a standard 3.5 millimeter audio cable, sold separately.
  • Wide, natural sound: 2 angled full-range drivers deliver a more realistic, spatial audio experience for overall better TV sound from a small soundbar.
  • Simple setup: A single connection from this compact soundbar to the TV via an optical audio cable (included) or an HDMI cable (sold separately) has you up and running in minutes.
  • Bluetooth TV speaker: Pair your device to this Bluetooth soundbar to wirelessly stream your favorite music and podcasts.
  • Remote control: Compact TV speaker comes with a remote control that enables a dialogue mode to further enhance speech or add a bass boost for more depth.
  • Hear your TV better: Designed with simplicity in mind, the Bose TV Speaker is a small soundbar that clarifies speech and is a simple fix for better TV sound.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Acoustic performance: 5 full-range drivers deliver wide, clear sound, which makes it the perfect soundbar for TV, movies, games, and more.
  • Wired and Wireless Connections: The TV sound bar can easily connect to Your Bluetooth enabled devices and TV via Bluetooth 5.0 or standard audio cable connections like Optical, Coaxial, RCA inputs.
  • Soundbar with Room-filling Sound: Built in 4 full-range speakers and dual bass reflectors that deliver clear highs, strong mids and deep lows. 3 equalizer modes allow for voice clarity on TV shows, great audio experience for music and action scenes really coming to life like never before on TV.
  • Set Up In Minutes: You can install the sound bar securely on wall with included mounting kits or just place on desk under TV. It matches 32’’ or above TVs.For optical connections, please change your TV audio output to PCM,(PCM is a form of digital signal that is used to represent analogue data, and is an optional audio format on many Televisions).
  • Control with Remote or Buttons: You can control the sound bar with Remote laying in the coach or directly with buttons on it. The LED indicator shows the current mode you choose.Remote control is not compatible with universal or TV remotes
  • Ultra Slim and Sleek Design: The sound bar makes TV a pleasure with great sounding as well as great appearance with piano paint, which looks aesthetically beautiful and so slim that never blocks the TV screen!
  • Wired Connection: Support AUX USB and optical inputs, more over, the RCA cable and optical cable supplied, do not need to buy any extra cables. (Please make sure your TV audio setting to PCM for optical connection before use).
  • Wireless Connection: enjoy wireless streaming music from your phone, tablets or other bluetooth embedded devices through Bluetooth 5.0.
  • 16-Inch Ultra-Slim Soundbar:With stylish and Compact design, 3.0 inches high could fit easily under your TV and desktop monitor, great for desktop space especially student dorm rooms or bedroom. Compatible with 4K & HD TVs, PC, projectors smartphones and tablets.
  • HiFi Audio:built-in 2x powerful full-range drivers that provide which produce deep bass and clear sound for all your movie, music, TV shows and gaming, place it flat on the table to enjoy full of extensive stereo effects.
  • 5 Sound Equalizer Modes: built-in DSP technology for amazing clarity and precision,support great 5 EQs including flat, rock, jazz, pop and voice to match your favorite voice.
  • DTS Virtual: X virtual 3D surround sound
  • Included components: Remote control
  • Bluetooth streaming that allows easy switching between two devices
  • Clear Voice for enhanced dialogue clarity
  • Built-in subwoofers for deep bass in one slim sound bar
  • Simple setup with HDMI or optical
  • Clear Voice for enhanced dialogue clarity
  • Simple setup with HDMI, optical or aux connections
  • Wall-mountable with built-in keyholes
  • Bluetooth streaming for your music and podcasts
  • Built-in subwoofer and passive radiators for surprising bass
  • 4 Sound Equalizer Modes: with DSP technology, which brings amazing clarity and precision, let you enjoy all the details of dialogue, music, gaming, and movies; support 4EQs including music, movie, news, and 3D modes, choose the best sound according to your sound source, what's more, bass and treble adjustable
  • Multiple Connection: Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 for all your Bluetooth embedded devices such as smart TVs, phones, tablets, PCs; Wired connection including HDMI-ARC, optical, coaxial, aux for your traditional or smart TVs, projector, DVDs, and other devices; USB 2.0 for USB flash drivers to play MP3 music
  • Deeper Bass: 2.1 Channel with 4x 2.5inch full-range speakers and one 5.5Inch powerful subwoofer, our engineers repeatedly adjusted the sound quality infinitely, finally obtained satisfactory sound quality, S99 could produce strong heavy bass and surround sound effects, delicate midrange, treble, and other performance, a great dynamic home theater audio system for your and your families, max volume is 110dB
  • Ultra-Slim 28-Inch Sound Bar: with fashionable and classic design, 2.5 inches high could fit easily under your TV and desktop monitor, or you can place it on the cabinet or mount it on the wall, user-friendly design, super-easy setup
  • Great Customer Support: LED display; remote control supplied; optical and aux cable supplied; 100% satisfaction service and lifetime technical support, any questions, please feel free to contact us via Amazon message or contact info on the service card
  • Multi-Platform Support (Alexa, Google Assistant, Chromecast, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect)
  • HDMI eARC
  • Wireless Surround Sound Ready (SPK8-S) - Available Separately
  • Dolby Atmos & DTS:X
  • 4K Passthrough (HDCP 2.3)
  • Dolby Vision & HDR10 Passthrough
  • Meridian Audio Technology
  • High Resolution Audio 24bit/192kHz with 4K Passthrough (HDCP 2.3)
  • 5.1.2ch with 520W Total Output Power
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What To Know About The best standalone soundbar Before Purchasing It

There are numerous factors to consider buying a product. In the section below, we will give you some key points to pay attention to prior to buying a best standalone soundbar. Of course, It’s indispensable for buyers to do some research before making a purchase so that they won’t end up with something that can’t meet their expectations.

In this post, with our useful and available tips for shopping, we will make it easier for you to select and make the best decisions when tending to own the best standalone soundbar. Here is your area! Give it your attention and make it your assistant.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

Conclusion

Hopefully, our sharing above will take you much closer with your best standalone soundbar. The model we suggested for you is equipped with all things you may need. Nevertheless, suppose you have a fancy for another one, we highly recommend ZVOX Dialogue Clarifying Sound Bar with Patented Hearing Technology. To conclude, we wish you a pleasant shopping time. And if there is any problem related to this article that you wonder about, please contact us soon for timely answers. It's our pleasure to serve you!


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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.