Many HDMI connections now support audio return channels-either ARC or eARC, the latter with more bandwidth for higher-resolution and immersive audio formats-a feature that lets a TV send audio back to the sound base or soundbar. HDMI: Some soundbars have one or more HDMI inputs and may include an HDMI output to the TV, allowing you to use the soundbar to switch between video source components. Additional options allow you to stream content wirelessly. You’ll need a variety of inputs for connecting various audio and video sources, so make sure the inputs on the soundbar or sound base match the outputs on the source components. But if you want to use the soundbar for music as well as TV, we recommend a model with a Very Good or Excellent score for sound quality.Ĭompare warranties. Most manufacturers provide 12 months of coverage, but check before you buy. It will be a step up from almost any TV’s built-in sound. With soundbar speaker systems, this is usually accomplished by having upfiring drivers in the main enclosure, and sometimes also in the rear satellites.Ĭonsider placement. If you’ll be placing the soundbar on your TV stand, make sure there’s enough room in front of the set, and check to see that the soundbar isn’t so tall that it will block the remote control’s line of sight to the TV.ĭon’t overbuy. If you’re using the soundbar only for listening to your TV, you can go for a low-priced, no-frills model that has at least decent sound quality in our ratings. Some new models include Dolby Atmos, a newer immersive sound technology that adds the element of height to speaker systems. If you want true surround sound, buy a soundbar with a subwoofer and rear speakers-preferably wireless-for multichannel sound. Audition soundbars in the store if you can, and ask about returns and exchanges if the one you buy doesn’t suit you once you get it home.ĭecide how many channels you want. If you simply want to enhance your TV sound, a soundbar with 2.1 channels (two front channels and a separate subwoofer) could be enough. Try them out. Soundbars with similar scores in our ratings for sound quality are likely to sound different from each other because of the way they handle various frequencies and how they interact with the acoustics in your room. Some come with popular voice systems, such as Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit (with Siri), or Google Assistant built in, and others require the use of another voice-enabled smart speaker to respond to voice commands. One other thing to consider: Do you want the ability to use your voice to control the speaker? Many soundbars are now smart speakers that can respond to voice commands to raise the volume, change inputs, and sometimes control a TV or other smart devices in your home. But there are also some newer, pricier models that have enough power to fill even a larger room. Many inexpensive soundbars can be great if you have a small or medium space and want a simple way to enhance your TV’s sound. Note that many less expensive soundbars have less power and fewer features than a component audio system, so they’re not the best choice for a very large room, nor for audiophiles craving a theaterlike experience.
That means a soundbar with a Good rating for sound will sound better than a TV with a Good rating. We judge them more like speakers designed for listening to music. In our ratings, a soundbar speaker is held to a higher standard than a TV for audio quality. Here’s an important note for CR members, who can access all our ratings.
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