How to Choose a Soundbar (Buying Guide)

How can I upgrade the audio in my living room so that I can better enjoy TV shows, sports, and music?

Putting in an amplifier and surrounding yourself with numerous large speakers is one possibility.

However, there are many who would rather not go to such lengths in order to achieve superior audio quality.

Since this is the case, soundbars have become very common. A smaller, simpler speaker can help you get better results.

There are a surprising number of choices to make before purchasing a soundbar, though.

Do several kinds of soundbars exist? How about 5.1 or 7.1 surround? Is there anything like a Dolby Atmos soundbar or a wireless subwoofer?

Then there’s the question of what kind of connection you’ll need and how you’ll run the wires to your TV.

Learn everything you need to know about soundbars from this comprehensive guide.

Table of Content

1. How to Choose a Soundbar (Buying Guide)
2. What is a soundbar
3. What is a soundbase
4. What makes a soundbar standout?
5. How to choose a soundbar
6. Soundbar Size
7. Soundbar package
8. Number of channels
9. Soundbar Power
10. Switching
11. Sound Quality
12. Active or passive soundbar?
13. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Compatibility
14. Wireless audio
15. Soundbar Functionality
16. How much you should pay for a soundbar?
17. Which brand to choose
18. Conclusion

What is a soundbar?

A soundbar is a compact and stylish alternative to a traditional home theatre system. It is a single, long, thin speaker that is designed to be placed in front of or below your TV. Soundbars are an all-in-one speaker system that provides an easy and convenient way to enhance the audio quality of your TV, movies, and music.

One of the main advantages of a soundbar is its compact size. Unlike a traditional home theatre system that requires multiple speakers and wires, a soundbar is a single, sleek unit that can be easily placed in front of or below your TV. This makes it a great option for people with limited space or who want a more minimalistic look.

In addition to its compact size, a soundbar is also easy to set up. Most soundbars can be easily connected to your TV via an HDMI cable or Bluetooth. Some models even come with a wireless subwoofer that can be placed anywhere in your room for added bass.

There are several types of soundbars to choose from, including those with a built-in subwoofer, wireless subwoofers, and those that can be connected to a home automation system. Some soundbars are designed to be mounted on the wall, while others are meant to be placed on a shelf or table.

When it comes to sound quality, most soundbars offer a frequency range of at least 40Hz to 20kHz. This means that they can reproduce a wide range of audio frequencies, from deep bass to high treble. Some higher-end models even offer surround sound capabilities, giving you a more immersive listening experience.

What is a soundbase?

A soundbase is a type of speaker system that is designed to be placed under your TV. It is similar to a soundbar, but instead of being a long and thin speaker that is placed in front of or below your TV, a soundbase is a larger and wider unit that is meant to support your TV on top of it.

One of the main advantages of a soundbase is that it allows you to elevate your TV to a more comfortable viewing height without the need for a TV stand or wall mount. It also helps to declutter your living room by eliminating the need for multiple speakers and wires.

Like soundbars, soundbases are an all-in-one speaker system that provides an easy and convenient way to enhance the audio quality of your TV, movies, and music. Most soundbases have multiple connectivity options, such as HDMI and Bluetooth, making it easy to connect to your TV and other devices.

In terms of sound quality, most soundbases offer a frequency range of at least 40Hz to 20kHz. This means that they can reproduce a wide range of audio frequencies, from deep bass to high treble. Some higher-end models even offer surround sound capabilities, giving you a more immersive listening experience.

Overall, a soundbase is a great option for people who want a compact and stylish way to enhance the audio quality of their TV and declutter their living room. It is an all-in-one speaker system that is easy to set up and provides a convenient and comfortable way to enjoy your favorite TV shows, movies, and music.

What makes a soundbar stand out?

1. Compact size: One of the main advantages of a soundbar is its compact size. Unlike a traditional home theater system that requires multiple speakers and wires, a soundbar is a single, sleek unit that can be easily placed in front of or below your TV. This makes it a great option for people with limited space or who want a more minimalistic look.
2. Easy setup: Soundbars are very easy to set up. Most models can be easily connected to your TV via an HDMI cable or Bluetooth. Some models even come with a wireless subwoofer that can be placed anywhere in your room for added bass.
3. Improved audio quality: The main purpose of a soundbar is to improve the audio quality of your TV, movies, and music. Most soundbars offer a frequency range of at least 40Hz to 20kHz, which means they can reproduce a wide range of audio frequencies, from deep bass to high treble. Some higher-end models even offer surround sound capabilities, giving you a more immersive listening experience.
4. Multiple connectivity options: Most soundbars have multiple connectivity options, such as HDMI and Bluetooth, making it easy to connect to your TV and other devices. This allows you to stream music from your phone or tablet and control the soundbar with your TV remote.
5. Variety of designs: Soundbars come in a variety of designs and finishes to match your home decor. Some are designed to be mounted on the wall, while others are meant to be placed on a shelf or table. This allows you to choose a soundbar that fits your personal style and the layout of your room.

In conclusion, a soundbar is a convenient and stylish way to enhance the audio quality of your TV, movies, and music. Its compact size, easy setup, and multiple connectivity options make it a popular choice for people who want to improve their home entertainment experience.

How to Choose a Soundbar?

 The variety of available soundbars may surprise you, but this list will help you zero in on the one that suits your needs the most.

Features to seek for in a good soundbar:

Soundbar Size

Soundbars differ in size, shape and installation method. Some models are designed for installation on a bedside table in front of the TV, others are for wall mounting, and others have a universal design. There is no need to look for a model that exactly matches the width of the TV, except for aesthetic reasons. If you plan to use a shelf version of the soundbar, make sure before purchasing that the option you choose will not block the bottom of the TV. Other things being equal, models with a larger width are able to provide better sound – a wider stereo image and better channel separation. For example, if you have a large living room or open floor plan, you may want a larger soundbar with a greater wattage to fill the space with sound. On the other hand, a smaller soundbar may be sufficient for a bedroom or office.

In addition to the size of the soundbar itself, you should also consider the size of the subwoofer if the soundbar has one built-in or comes with a separate subwoofer. A larger subwoofer will provide more bass, but it will also take up more space. Consider the layout of your room and where you would like to place the subwoofer when deciding on its size.

It is also important to consider the design of the soundbar. Some are designed to be mounted on the wall, while others are meant to be placed on a shelf or table. Choose a design that fits your personal style and the layout of your room.

Soundbar package

Soundbars are available in three configurations: the classic all-in-one version, the version with a separate subwoofer, and finally the most advanced version – with a separate subwoofer and a pair of wireless rear speakers. In most cases, the presence of a subwoofer has a positive effect on the sound quality, and some soundbars can be equipped with them optionally, however, this cannot be said about budget models.

All-in-one soundbars are typically capable of offering virtual multi-channel audio. However, it is important to remember that sound quality can vary markedly depending on the manufacturer. For example, Yamaha sound projectors perform quite impressively, while manufacturers less familiar with this area perform more modestly.

 

One of the main advantages of a soundbar package is that it offers a more powerful and dynamic sound than a single soundbar. The soundbar and subwoofer work together to provide a wide range of audio frequencies, from deep bass to high treble. Some soundbar packages even include additional speakers for surround sound capabilities.

Another advantage of a soundbar package is that it allows you to customize the placement of the speakers to suit your needs. For example, you can place the soundbar in front of your TV and the subwoofer and additional speakers in different parts of the room for a more immersive listening experience.

When shopping for a soundbar package, be sure to consider the size of your room, your budget, and your preferred connectivity options. Most soundbar packages have multiple connectivity options such as HDMI and Bluetooth, making it easy to connect to your TV and other devices.

Number of channels

The number of channels in a soundbar refers to the number of individual audio channels that the soundbar is capable of reproducing. The most common types of soundbars are 2-channel, 2.1-channel, and 3-channel.

Now there are soundbars on the market that offer from 2 to 15 sound channels. The simplest – two-channel – models (2.0 or 2.1) can only be considered if your goal is to improve the sound quality of television acoustics. Models with a configuration of 3.0 and 3.1 differ from two-channel ones in that they have an added center channel emitter, which has a positive effect on the reproduction of movie and TV dialogue. Soundbars with 5.1 configuration are capable of handling any available content and in fact are the optimal solution for most applications. More advanced soundbars with support for Dolby Atmos or DTS:X (5.1.2, etc.) make sense to buy only for the future- the number of records that have the corresponding track is negligible.

The number of channels in a soundbar refers to the number of individual audio channels that the soundbar is capable of reproducing. The most common types of soundbars are 2-channel, 2.1-channel, and 3-channel.

A 2-channel soundbar has two audio channels, one for the left speaker and one for the right speaker. This is the most basic type of soundbar and is suitable for small to medium-sized rooms.

A 2.1-channel soundbar has two audio channels for the left and right speakers, as well as a separate subwoofer for added bass. The subwoofer is typically wireless and can be placed anywhere in the room. This type of soundbar is suitable for medium to large-sized rooms.

A 3-channel soundbar has three audio channels, one for the left speaker, one for the right speaker, and one for the center speaker. This type of soundbar is suitable for large rooms and provides a more immersive listening experience.

In addition to the number of channels, it is also important to consider the frequency range and wattage of the soundbar. The frequency range refers to the range of audio frequencies that the soundbar can reproduce, from deep bass to high treble. A wider frequency range will provide a more dynamic and lifelike sound. The wattage refers to the power of the soundbar and should be sufficient for the size of your room.

Soundbar Power

Try not to fall for the marketing ploy when you look at the power column of the soundbar you like. Please note that in most cases the total power of all speakers installed in the soundbar is indicated, and many manufacturers deliberately speculate with data, citing results obtained with a monstrous level of distortion – 10% or more. Listening to music at this level of distortion is impossible. Be guided by common sense: the higher the total area of the speakers in the soundbar, the higher the real power. The power of a soundbar, also known as its wattage, refers to the amount of electricity it consumes and the volume it is capable of producing. The wattage of a soundbar is an important factor to consider when choosing one for your home.

A higher wattage soundbar will consume more electricity but will also be able to produce a louder and more powerful sound. This is important if you have a large living room or open floor plan and want a soundbar that can fill the space with sound.

On the other hand, a lower wattage soundbar may be sufficient for a smaller room or if you prefer a more moderate volume level. It will also be more energy-efficient and have a lower impact on your electricity bill.

When shopping for a soundbar, be sure to consider the wattage and choose one that is suitable for the size of your room and your preferred volume level. It is also important to consider the frequency range of the soundbar, which refers to the range of audio frequencies it can reproduce, from deep bass to high treble. A wider frequency range will provide a more dynamic and lifelike sound.

Switching

If the task of the soundbar is to improve the sound of standard television acoustics, it is usually equipped with only optical and analog inputs. It is important to remember that some TVs are not capable of outputting uncompressed multi-channel audio through the optical output, limiting themselves to a simplified option – two-channel PCM.

More expensive models may have an HDMI output. If the soundbar’s HDMI output and TV’s HDMI input support the ARC (Audio Return Channel) function, you can stream TV audio (TV shows, Smart TV audio, player soundtrack, etc.) to the soundbar in the highest possible quality.

Soundbars with multiple HDMI inputs can be used as a switcher (unless you’re using an AV receiver) and are the best option. If you have a 4K TV, and especially if it’s HDR capable, make sure your soundbar’s HDMI inputs support HDMI2.0 and HDCP2.2. An HDMI connection is a must if you plan to play high-definition content (or use a Dolby Atmos-enabled soundbar). Built-in Dolby Digital, DTS decoders are an absolute must if you use streaming services (Ivi.ru, OroroTV, Netflix, etc.) or watch movies on DVD or Blu-Ray. A nice bonus if the selected model supports Dolby Digital True HD and DTS- HD Master Audio.

Some soundbars can have a USB input for listening to music from a flash drive, in more advanced versions, video files (MKV, AVI, etc.) can be played via the USB interface.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of the soundbars is noticeably different. And usually you get exactly what you pay for. High-end soundbars may sound great, while entry-level models can improve the sound quality of TV speakers, but they are unlikely to match even a pair of budget bookshelf speakers in sound quality. If you’re serious about getting good sound, consider buying a premium model that can connect a subwoofer (included or optional).

Usually soundbars that are equipped with 2-way speakers sound better than models with full-range speakers. In addition, it makes sense to consider buying a soundbar with automatic sound correction for room conditions.

There are several factors that contribute to the sound quality of a soundbar, including the number of channels, the frequency range, and the wattage. The number of channels refers to the number of individual audio channels that the soundbar is capable of reproducing. A soundbar with more channels will provide a more immersive listening experience. The frequency range refers to the range of audio frequencies that the soundbar can reproduce, from deep bass to high treble. A wider frequency range will provide a more dynamic and lifelike sound. The wattage refers to the power of the soundbar and should be sufficient for the size of your room.

In addition to these technical factors, the overall sound quality of a soundbar also depends on the design and construction of the speaker itself. Higher-end soundbars may use higher-quality materials and advanced technologies to produce a more accurate and detailed sound.

Overall, sound quality is an important factor to consider when choosing a soundbar for your home. Consider the number of channels, frequency range, wattage, and the design and construction of the speaker to find a soundbar that provides the best possible audio experience for your TV, movies, and music.

Active or passive soundbar?

The vast majority of soundbars are active – they are equipped with a power amplifier. Active models are self-sufficient: plug in the power, the cable to the TV – and you can watch movies and listen to music. This is a practical and convenient solution.

Passive soundbars need a power amplifier to work – built into the AV receiver or a separate one. Usually passive models are high-end devices, the cost of which is commensurate with a pair of decent floorstanders. However, they are in high demand, especially when it comes to building a high quality home theater within design or floor space constraints. In such cases, a 3-channel soundbar is often used, replacing the front and center speakers, complemented by ceiling surround speakers and a separate subwoofer.

An active soundbar is self-powered and has its own built-in amplifier. This means that it does not need to be connected to a separate amplifier or receiver to produce sound. Active soundbars are generally more convenient and easier to set up as they only require a power outlet and a connection to your TV.

A passive soundbar, on the other hand, does not have its own built-in amplifier. It requires a separate amplifier or receiver to produce sound. Passive soundbars may offer a more high-quality sound, but they are generally more complex to set up and require additional equipment.

When deciding between an active or passive soundbar, consider your preferences and the layout of your home entertainment system. If you want a simple and convenient setup, an active soundbar may be the best option for you. If you are willing to invest in additional equipment and are more concerned with sound quality, a passive soundbar may be a better choice.

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Compatibility

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X are advanced audio formats that provide a more immersive and lifelike listening experience for your TV, movies, and music. If you are considering a soundbar for your home, it is important to consider whether it is compatible with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

Dolby Atmos is a surround sound technology that uses multiple channels and object-based audio to create a more realistic and lifelike soundstage. It allows sound to be placed and moved in a three-dimensional space, making it feel like the sound is coming from all around you.

DTS:X is a similar technology that also uses object-based audio to create a more immersive listening experience. It allows sound to be placed and moved in a three-dimensional space, creating a sense of height and depth.

Not all soundbars are compatible with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, so it is important to check the specifications of the soundbar you are considering to see if it is compatible with these advanced audio formats. Some soundbars have built-in support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, while others may require additional equipment such as a separate amplifier or receiver.

3D soundbars are a relatively new development. At the moment, new formats are being introduced, a transitional period. Not all manufacturers are keeping up with innovations, for example, some new soundbar models can only work with Dolby Atmos, while others (Yamaha YSP-5600, etc.) are able to decode both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Frankly, with all the advantages of new formats, it is unreasonable to rely solely on them when buying – this is nothing more than a pleasant addition.

Wireless audio

Many modern soundbars offer wireless music streaming. You can listen to music from your phone or tablet by connecting to the soundbar using Bluetooth, AirPlay or DTS Play-Fi protocol. If you are a fan of Apple products, you will need an AirPlay-enabled model, for owners of equipment with the Android operating system, Bluetooth is important. However, there is a universal solution that is equally suitable for iOs and Android – the DTS Play-Fi protocol, but in fairness it must be said that it is not yet common. If you plan to use Bluetooth for music streaming, look for models that support the aptX or aptX HD codec to play your recordings in good quality. Wireless audio is a convenient feature that allows you to stream music and other audio content to your soundbar from a variety of devices, such as your phone, tablet, or laptop. Many soundbars have wireless connectivity options such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, making it easy to stream audio from your devices.

One of the main advantages of wireless audio is convenience. With a wireless connection, you can easily control the audio from your devices and stream music from your favorite apps and services. You can also use your phone or tablet as a remote control for the soundbar.

Wireless audio is also flexible and allows you to move the soundbar around your home without the need for cables. This is especially useful if you have a large or open floor plan and want to move the soundbar from room to room.

When considering a soundbar with wireless audio, be sure to check the range of the wireless connection and ensure that it is sufficient for your needs. Some soundbars have a longer range than others and may be more suitable for larger homes or for use outdoors.

Soundbar Functionality

The functionality of a soundbar refers to the features and capabilities of the device. Soundbars come with a variety of features that enhance the audio quality of your TV, movies, and music, and make it more convenient to use. Here are some common features to consider when shopping for a soundbar:

1. Connectivity: Most soundbars have multiple connectivity options such as HDMI, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. This allows you to easily connect the soundbar to your TV and other devices, and stream audio from your phone or tablet.
2. Voice assistants: Some soundbars come with built-in voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This allows you to control the soundbar with your voice and access a variety of services and functions such as playing music or setting alarms.
3. Remote control: Most soundbars come with a remote control that allows you to adjust the volume and settings of the device. Some soundbars also allow you to control the device with your TV remote or through a smartphone app.
4. Equalization: Some soundbars have built-in equalization settings that allow you to adjust the balance of bass and treble to suit your preferences. This can help fine-tune the sound to your liking.
5. Surround sound: Some soundbars have surround sound capabilities that provide a more immersive and lifelike listening experience.

Models in the “basic” configuration, related to the entry level, have very meagre capabilities. In fact, apart from sound amplification, they do not know how to do anything. Slightly more expensive soundbars, especially from Korean manufacturers, are already able to intrigue. For example, some LG models have a built-in Blu-ray player with a karaoke function, while others have an FM tuner or media player to play music or movies from a flash drive.

In the middle and high school, networking opportunities appear: AirPlay and Bluetooth wireless protocols, streaming services Deezer, Spotify, etc., as well as listening to music from a network drive or computer. In fact, we are no longer dealing with a soundbar, but with a developed music center. Functions such as control from a phone or tablet and integration with components of the same name are also added here. The Denon Heos HomeCinema and the Yamaha YSP series with MusicCast technology are two of the brightest in the top class.

There are several types of soundbars available, each with its own set of features and capabilities. Here are some common types of soundbars to consider:

1. 2-channel soundbars: These are the most basic type of soundbars and have two audio channels, one for the left speaker and one for the right speaker. They are suitable for small to medium-sized rooms and provide a basic audio upgrade for your TV, movies, and music.
2. 1-channel soundbars: These soundbars have two audio channels for the left and right speakers, as well as a separate subwoofer for added bass. The subwoofer is typically wireless and can be placed anywhere in the room. 2.1-channel soundbars are suitable for medium to large-sized rooms and provide a more powerful and dynamic sound.
3. 3-channel soundbars: These soundbars have three audio channels, one for the left speaker, one for the right speaker, and one for the center speaker. They are suitable for large rooms and provide a more immersive listening experience.
4. Soundbar packages: As also previously discussed, these are complete audio systems that include a soundbar, a separate subwoofer, and sometimes additional speakers. They offer a more powerful and dynamic sound and allow for customizable speaker placement.
5. Wireless soundbars: These soundbars have built-in wireless connectivity options such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, allowing you to easily stream audio from your devices. They are flexible and can be easily moved around your home.

How much you should pay for a soundbar?

If you have a strict budget for how much you are willing to spend on a soundbar, you may easily find a model that fits your needs. 

Budget models often have fewer connections and functions, are stereo-only, and start at roughly 10000 rupees

However, this might be sufficient to enhance the sound of your TV speakers.

If you have more money to spend, think about the benefits of doing so.

Otherwise, you risk squandering money on a soundbar that has extra functions you don’t need.

Several justifications for splurging a bit more include:

• Added speakers
• Greater volume will fill a bigger space.
• improved audio quality
• greater connections
• Additional features, such as access to particular streaming services
• A better design and finish that complements your room

Which brand to choose?

Choosing which brand to choose when buying a new soundbar is one of the toughest challenges.

While there are certain well-known brands that you can find anywhere, some fantastic soundbar manufacturers are from the home audio industry.

The market is fiercely competitive. However we’ve covered some of the best soundbars for you which are as follows:

• Samsung Q800B 360W 5.1.2ch Dolby Atoms Soundbar
• Denon DHT-S716H/HEOS Bar Home Theater Soundbar with HEOS
• Bowers-Wilkins Panorama 3 – Dolby Atmos Soundbar
• Yamaha YSP 5600 Dolby Atmos Soundbar
• Klipsch Cinema 400 400W Dynamic Wireless Black Soundbar
• Sonos Beam Soundbar (Gen 2)
• LG SP11RA Dolby Atmos Soundbar

Conclusion

In conclusion, buying a soundbar can be a convenient and stylish way to enhance the audio quality of your TV, movies, and music. There are several factors to consider when choosing a soundbar, including the number of channels, the frequency range, the wattage, the connectivity options, and the functionality. Be sure to consider the size of your room, your budget, and your preferred listening experience to find the best soundbar for you.

Additionally, consider whether you want an active or passive soundbar, and whether compatibility with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X is important to you. By taking the time to research and compare different soundbars, you can find one that meets your needs and enhances your home entertainment experience.

Now that you are familiar with all that you should look for in a soundbar and what brand to go for, we hope you are all set to make your first purchase!