The 8 Best Soundbars With Subwoofer – Summer 2023: Reviews
- Table of Contents
- Intro
-
Best Soundbar
-
Best Upper Mid-Range
-
Best Mid-Range
-
Best Lower Mid-Range
-
Best Budget
-
Best Built-In
-
Best Small
-
Best With Two Subwoofers
- Notable Mentions
- Recent Updates
- All Reviews
- Discussions
Updated Jul 12, 2023 at 09:48 am
By Becca Fischer
Whether you’re a fan of watching action movies or listening to bass-heavy music genres, you may want a soundbar with a dedicated subwoofer. A subwoofer can generally deliver a deeper, more powerful bass than a standalone bar, which helps you feel the deep thump and rumble in bass-heavy content. Since subwoofers can be fairly large, you may want to confirm that you have enough space for the whole setup in your TV room. If space isn’t an issue and you want to feel a deep, extended bass in your audio content, consider a soundbar setup with a dedicated sub.
We’ve tested over 175 soundbars, and below, you’ll find our recommendations for the best soundbars with subwoofer, including the best soundbar with subwoofer built in. See our picks for the best soundbars, the best budget soundbars, and the best Dolby Atmos soundbars.
-
Best Soundbar With Subwoofer
Samsung HW-Q990C
Searching
Finding Store
Searching
Finding Store
Mixed Usage
8.5
Dialogue/TV Shows
8.8
Music
8.5
Movies
8.
4Channels
11.1.4
See all our test results
The best soundbar with a subwoofer we’ve tested is the Samsung HW-Q990C. This premium 11.1.4 setup is the next generation of the Samsung HW-Q990B and comes with the same large, powerful subwoofer to bring all the thump and rumble in the bass range. This model offers a better bass performance, as the sound is more even and controlled out-of-the-box, ensuring that vocals and other instruments remain clear in the mix while you listen to your favorite tunes. Since the bar is super customizable, you can adjust the amount of bass with its graphic EQ and other presets.
This top-of-the-line soundbar shines with everything from movies to music to TV shows. Immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos are supported on this bar, and its satellites help spread sound effects to the space all around you for a clear and real feel. Its stereo soundstage isn’t quite as impressive as other premium models, like the Sonos Ultimate Immersive Set with Arc and the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 with Speakers + Bass Module, which are good options, especially if you already own products in those ecosystems.
However, the Sonos and the Bose don’t have as many sound customization tools as they lack graphic EQs. Therefore, the Samsung is the better choice overall.See our review
-
Best Upper Mid-Range Soundbar With Subwoofer
Samsung HW-Q930B
Searching
Finding Store
Searching
Finding Store
Mixed Usage
8.2
Dialogue/TV Shows
8.4
Music
8.1
Movies
8.1
Channels
9.1.4
See all our test results
If you’re looking for a premium bar with a subwoofer at a slightly more affordable price, check out the Samsung HW-Q930B.
This high-end model can bring plenty of thump and rumble in the low-bass, making it a great choice for bass-centric music and intense movie scenes. It comes with a dedicated subwoofer, and while it’s a little smaller than what you get with the Samsung HW-Q990C, it has no trouble reproducing an impressive low-frequency extension. Plus, it has lots of the same customization tools as its more premium cousin. You can use the bass and treble adjustments and the graphic EQ to add more punch to your audio.This soundbar is also designed to make the most of more immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital. Though it’s a 9.1.4 setup, meaning that it comes with two fewer surround channels than the Q990C, it can still provide an all-around feel right in your living room. Its two satellite speakers reproduce sound effects for a clear and real feel, and dialogue is easy-to-follow in the mix. The sub isn’t quite as controlled as what you get with the Q990C, but you can still adjust its performance with the customization features.
Overall, it offers similar performance at a lower price, and you may find it’s a better value depending on your listening habits.See our review
-
Best Mid-Range Soundbar With Subwoofer
Vizio Elevate
Searching
Finding Store
Searching
Finding Store
Mixed Usage
7.9
Dialogue/TV Shows
8.2
Music
7.8
Movies
7.8
Channels
5.1.4
See all our test results
Wallet-conscious shoppers can also look at another more affordable option, the Vizio Elevate.
It’s the best mid-range bar we’ve tested and a good choice for listening to many different types of audio content. Like most Vizio soundbars, its dedicated subwoofer can reproduce a deep and thumpy low-bass, ensuring you feel all the rumble in action-heavy movies or bass-heavy music genres. There’s already some extra emphasis in the bass right out of the box, and you can use its bass and treble adjustments to get a different sound if you like. However, unlike the Samsung HW-Q990C, you won’t find a room correction feature, so it sounds different depending on your room. You also have to wire the satellites to the sub to get them to work, which isn’t ideal for every living area.The Vizio stands out from the crowd thanks to its unique design, with sides that automatically rotate upwards when you watch Dolby Atmos or DTS:X height content. It’s a tool that brings more width and dimension to its soundstage, giving you the sense that audio is coming from all around you. You can turn this feature on when you watch other kinds of content, like Dolby Digital.
Its rear satellites bring a more immersive feel, meaning sound effects seem clear and real in the space around you. This soundbar offers a stand-out performance for the price, and it’s worth a look if you want a bar with a subwoofer.See our review
-
Best Lower Mid-Range Soundbar With Subwoofer
Vizio M Series M512a-H6
Searching
Finding Store
Searching
Finding Store
Mixed Usage
8.2
Dialogue/TV Shows
8.4
Music
8.0
Movies
8.1
Channels
5.
1.2See all our test results
The Vizio M Series M512a-H6 is an alternative to the Vizio Elevate that’s available at a more affordable price. It’s a 5.1.2 setup that comes with two rear speakers in addition to a dedicated sub. Like the top-of-the-line models, it brings plenty of thump and rumble in the bass, so you feel the excitement in everything from bass-heavy music to more intense movie scenes. It has the same enhancement features as the Elevate, including bass and subwoofer level adjustment features, letting you control how much rumble you feel. Dialogue remains clear and present in the mix, and overall, it’s a versatile choice suitable for all sorts of audio content.
If you watch lots of movies, especially on different streaming platforms, this bar’s a good choice for you, too. It supports surround sound formats like Dolby Digital in addition to Dolby Atmos. The resulting sound is fairly immersive, especially with its satellites on hand to bring sound effects to the space around you, as if you were in the middle of the action.
It doesn’t feel as clear or real as what you get with our top picks. You won’t find rotating sides like the Vizio Elevate, and its satellites don’t have up-firing drivers for Atmos content, either. As a result, you don’t get as much height, which is especially noticeable in scenes where objects fly over your head. For the price, it’s a good value, but it’s not the best of the best.See our review
-
Best Budget Soundbar With Subwoofer
Vizio V Series V51-H6
Searching
Finding Store
Searching
Finding Store
Mixed Usage
7.6
Dialogue/TV Shows
8.3
Music
7.8
Movies
7.
0Channels
5.1
See all our test results
If you’re looking for a solid bar at a more affordable price, check out the Vizio V Series V51-H6, the best soundbar with a subwoofer in the budget category we’ve tested. Its dedicated subwoofer brings plenty of thump and rumble in the low-bass, so you feel the excitement in bass-heavy genres like EDM and intense scenes in your favorite movies. You can use its bass and subwoofer level adjustments to customize its sound if you prefer a little more boom. Its mid-range remains quite balanced, too, so you don’t have any trouble following the action on your screen, even with punchy bass.
This soundbar stands out from other similarly-priced models thanks to its included rear satellites. These two speakers are a handy add-on, especially if you like to watch a lot of multi-channel content, including 5.1 surround sound formats like Dolby Digital that are found on many different streaming platforms.
Essentially, they bring greater clarity to your audio, so sound effects seem more real in the space around you, as if your favorite movies were taking place in your living room. That said, like most bars in its price range, it doesn’t enable you to take advantage of more immersive formats like Dolby Atmos, which is unfortunate. However, if you don’t watch much Atmos content, it’s still a solid option for bass lovers at a wallet-friendly price.See our review
-
Best Soundbar With Subwoofer Built In
Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar MAX
Searching
Finding Store
Searching
Finding Store
Mixed Usage
8.0
Dialogue/TV Shows
8.5
Music
7.
6Movies
7.8
Channels
5.1.4
See all our test results
Not everyone has space in their living room for a dedicated subwoofer. In these cases, bars with built-in subwoofers offer a great alternative. The Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar MAX is the best one we’ve tested, and it’s one of the few bars with a built-in sub that can reproduce a similar low-frequency extension to the other models on our list. You can feel the deep thump and rumble in your seat, whether listening to bass-heavy music or action-packed movie scenes. Simply bump up the bass using the included bass adjustment feature to ensure you hear these frequencies at the same volume as others.
This soundbar supports many commonly-used audio formats, including Dolby Digital and Dolby Atmos. Thanks to its unique 3D virtual surround mode, sound comes from over and around you, replicating the experience you get with systems with wireless speakers.
That said, it’s still a large and heavy model, which may not be ideal depending on the setup of your living space. If you’re looking for a more compact soundbar with a solid bass performance, check out the standalone Sonos Arc or the standalone Bose Smart Soundbar 900. They don’t have built-in subwoofers, and their low-frequency extension isn’t quite as impressive as the Sennheiser, but you still feel a solid amount of bass for a standalone model.See our review
-
Best Small Soundbar With Subwoofer
Sonos Beam (Gen 2) with Sub Mini + One SL Speakers
Searching
Finding Store
Searching
Finding Store
Mixed Usage
8.0
Dialogue/TV Shows
8.3
Music
8.
0Movies
7.8
Channels
7.1
See all our test results
Depending on the shape and size of your living room, you may prefer a smaller and more compact soundbar like the Sonos Beam (Gen 2). At less than 26 inches in width, this soundbar keeps the same style as the original Sonos Beam, but the second generation adds support for Dolby Atmos content that you’re likely to find on many different streaming platforms and Blu-rays. Despite its small size, the bar uses psychoacoustic principles to stretch sound well past the edges of the bar itself, so you feel as immersed in your audio as you would with some of the larger options on the market.
While the bar is available on its own, adding the Sub Mini dramatically improves its bass reproduction. The small subwoofer packs a punch in the bass range, so you feel the thump and rumble in action-packed movie scenes and bass-heavy music genres.
Plus, the subwoofer levels are adjustable, so you can add even more punch to the bass if you like. As with the larger Sonos Arc, you get access to a room correction feature called Trueplay, too, which optimizes the bar’s output based on your room’s unique acoustics. That said, this setup doesn’t get as loud as the larger models, and more astute audiophiles will recognize that it doesn’t reproduce as much height with Atmos content. Still, it’s a solid pick if you’re low on space.See our review
-
Best Soundbar With Two Subwoofers
Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2 eARC
Searching
Finding Store
Searching
Finding Store
Mixed Usage
7.9
Dialogue/TV Shows
8.
2Music
7.7
Movies
7.8
Channels
9.2.4
See all our test results
Similarly, if you have a larger and more open living space, you’ll want a soundbar capable of filling the room with sound. In that case, the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2 eARC is your best bet. It’s a unique 9.2.4 setup with two subwoofers and four satellites to bring an immersive sound to your living room. The extra sub balances the bass reproduction throughout your room, so you don’t notice any “holes” or gaps in the soundstage, while the added satellites bring sound effects all around your room for a clear and life-like feel. Whether you’re listening to surround sound or heightened content, you feel right in the middle of the action on the screen.
This bar is the upgraded version of the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.
2Ch with additional features, including eARC support, meaning you can enjoy DTS:X content on your favorite Blu-rays, too. Sound enhancement features are limited compared to top picks like the Samsung HW-Q990C. It doesn’t offer a true room correction feature as it doesn’t have a microphone to analyze your living space, for example. That said, its unique Spatial Surround Elevation technology lets you choose between three different sound presets based on the size of your room, which is a nice touch. This setup’s hefty design isn’t ideal for all living spaces, and you may not have room for the extra sub and satellites. Still, it’s a solid choice if you have a unique shape in your listening area.See our review
4
However, the Sonos and the Bose don’t have as many sound customization tools as they lack graphic EQs. Therefore, the Samsung is the better choice overall.
This high-end model can bring plenty of thump and rumble in the low-bass, making it a great choice for bass-centric music and intense movie scenes. It comes with a dedicated subwoofer, and while it’s a little smaller than what you get with the Samsung HW-Q990C, it has no trouble reproducing an impressive low-frequency extension. Plus, it has lots of the same customization tools as its more premium cousin. You can use the bass and treble adjustments and the graphic EQ to add more punch to your audio.
Overall, it offers similar performance at a lower price, and you may find it’s a better value depending on your listening habits.
It’s the best mid-range bar we’ve tested and a good choice for listening to many different types of audio content. Like most Vizio soundbars, its dedicated subwoofer can reproduce a deep and thumpy low-bass, ensuring you feel all the rumble in action-heavy movies or bass-heavy music genres. There’s already some extra emphasis in the bass right out of the box, and you can use its bass and treble adjustments to get a different sound if you like. However, unlike the Samsung HW-Q990C, you won’t find a room correction feature, so it sounds different depending on your room. You also have to wire the satellites to the sub to get them to work, which isn’t ideal for every living area.
Its rear satellites bring a more immersive feel, meaning sound effects seem clear and real in the space around you. This soundbar offers a stand-out performance for the price, and it’s worth a look if you want a bar with a subwoofer.
1.2
It doesn’t feel as clear or real as what you get with our top picks. You won’t find rotating sides like the Vizio Elevate, and its satellites don’t have up-firing drivers for Atmos content, either. As a result, you don’t get as much height, which is especially noticeable in scenes where objects fly over your head. For the price, it’s a good value, but it’s not the best of the best.
0
Essentially, they bring greater clarity to your audio, so sound effects seem more real in the space around you, as if your favorite movies were taking place in your living room. That said, like most bars in its price range, it doesn’t enable you to take advantage of more immersive formats like Dolby Atmos, which is unfortunate. However, if you don’t watch much Atmos content, it’s still a solid option for bass lovers at a wallet-friendly price.
6
That said, it’s still a large and heavy model, which may not be ideal depending on the setup of your living space. If you’re looking for a more compact soundbar with a solid bass performance, check out the standalone Sonos Arc or the standalone Bose Smart Soundbar 900. They don’t have built-in subwoofers, and their low-frequency extension isn’t quite as impressive as the Sennheiser, but you still feel a solid amount of bass for a standalone model.
0
Plus, the subwoofer levels are adjustable, so you can add even more punch to the bass if you like. As with the larger Sonos Arc, you get access to a room correction feature called Trueplay, too, which optimizes the bar’s output based on your room’s unique acoustics. That said, this setup doesn’t get as loud as the larger models, and more astute audiophiles will recognize that it doesn’t reproduce as much height with Atmos content. Still, it’s a solid pick if you’re low on space.
2
2Ch with additional features, including eARC support, meaning you can enjoy DTS:X content on your favorite Blu-rays, too. Sound enhancement features are limited compared to top picks like the Samsung HW-Q990C. It doesn’t offer a true room correction feature as it doesn’t have a microphone to analyze your living space, for example. That said, its unique Spatial Surround Elevation technology lets you choose between three different sound presets based on the size of your room, which is a nice touch. This setup’s hefty design isn’t ideal for all living spaces, and you may not have room for the extra sub and satellites. Still, it’s a solid choice if you have a unique shape in your listening area.Notable Mentions
- Sony HT-A7000 with Speakers + Bass Module:
The Sony HT-A7000 with Speakers + Bass Module is a well-built 7.1.2 setup with a dedicated sub that can reproduce a thumpy low-bass. It doesn’t offer many sound customization features compared to other premium models like the Samsung HW-Q990C.
See our review - Klipsch Cinema 1200:
The Klipsch Cinema 1200 is a good alternative if you want a soundbar with a bass-heavy sound right out of the box. It’s pricy, though, and not as well-built as our top picks, like the Samsung HW-Q990C.
See our review
It doesn’t offer many sound customization features compared to other premium models like the Samsung HW-Q990C.Recent Updates
-
Jul 12, 2023:
Minor text updates, including the addition of the Sonos Ultimate Immersive Set with Arc as an alternative to the Samsung HW-Q990C. -
May 16, 2023:
Replaced the Samsung HW-Q990B with the next generation Samsung HW-Q990C. -
Apr 21, 2023:
No changes in product picks after verifying their accuracy and availability.
-
Feb 21, 2023:
Confirmed picks; minor updates to the text for accuracy. -
Dec 23, 2022:
Replaced the TCL Alto 6+ with the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) with Sub Mini + One SL Speakers as Best Small Soundbar With Subwoofer.
All Reviews
Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best soundbars with a subwoofer for most people to buy. We factor in the price (a cheaper soundbar wins over a pricier one if the difference isn’t worth it), feedback from our visitors, and availability (no soundbars that are difficult to find or almost out of stock everywhere).
If you would like to choose for yourself, here’s the list of all our reviews for soundbars that come with a subwoofer. Be careful not to get caught up in the details.
No soundbar is perfect. Personal taste, preference, and listening habits will matter more in your selection.
14 Best Soundbars for Every Budget (2023): Vizio, Sonos, Samsung, Yamaha, Sony
Parker Hall
Gear
Every television deserves a row of speakers to call its own. These are our favorites.
If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more. Please also consider subscribing to WIRED
Featured in this article
Best Affordable Bar
Vizio M Series 2.1
Read more
$178 at Walmart
Best Under $500
Vizio M-Series 5.1.2 Soundbar
Read more
$400 at Amazon
Best Dolby Atmos Bar
Samsung HW-Q990B
Read more
$1,498 at Amazon
Another Good Atmos Bar
Vizio M-Series Elevate
Read more
$500 at Amazon
Show more
4 / 16
You probably already shelled out good money for a nice big TV and maybe a streaming gadget for your Netflix.
But it doesn’t matter how large your screen is or how much it cost—the speakers in your TV probably sound awful.
You’d be surprised how much more you enjoy those shows with a halfway decent soundbar or surround system hooked up to your primo panel. Explosions pop, dialog sounds far crisper, and you may even notice sonic details in your favorite films that you’ve never picked up before.
Need some advice on how to find a perfect bar? Check our our full article on How to Buy a Soundbar before picking one below.
Updated February 2023: We’ve added information about the Sonos Ray, added the Vizio M-Series Elevate, and updated links and prices.
Why You Need a Soundbar
We have yet to test a new TV that didn’t sound crummy without some kind of audio accessory. That’s mostly due to the way televisions are designed. Great-sounding speakers are bulky, and as TVs have gotten thinner, with shrinking bezels and sleeker designs, manufacturers are having a harder time building good speakers into them.
You can spend as little as $150 on a new soundbar with a subwoofer, and it’s essential to getting the most out of your viewing experience. To help, we put together this list of the best soundbars we’ve tested, including soundbars sold on their own, as well as models that come bundled with a subwoofer. We’ve also compiled some advice on how to make the most of your purchase.
Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off). This includes unlimited access to WIRED.com and our print magazine (if you’d like). Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.
-
Photograph: Vizio
Best Affordable Bar
Vizio M Series 2.1
This is a great entry-level soundbar if you don’t have much to spend. It has a sleek design and surprisingly good bass for a soundbar that doesn’t come with a subwoofer. We’ve recommended Vizio bars for years for their ease of use, and this one definitely ticks that box, with an HDMI ARC connection that allows your TV remote to control the volume and a Bluetooth connection for quickly playing your favorite tunes.
The only downside? While it does have plenty of bass, a dedicated subwoofer would certainly help when watching Michael Bay films.Inputs: HDMI ARC, optical cable, coaxial cable, and Bluetooth
$178 at Walmart
-
Photograph: Vizio
Best Under $500
Vizio M-Series 5.1.2 Soundbar
If you’re into console gaming, you know how important it is to detect that opponent creeping behind you in the shadows. This affordable Dolby Atmos soundbar from Vizio (9/10, WIRED Recommends) helps you hear every footstep in real, physical space. Atmos bars fire sound upward, expanding your TV’s soundstage. This means gamers can hear what’s going on above them and have a better shot at avoiding that gun-toting helicopter flying overhead. Two upward-firing rear surround speakers also come in the box.
For under $500, it’s one of the most affordable Atmos-enabled soundbar bundles you’ll find with surround speakers, making it a no-brainer for anyone who values fantastic sound.
Inputs: 2 HDMI ports (one ARC), 3.5 mm, optical, USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi
$400 at Amazon
$350 at Best Buy
-
Photograph: Samsung
Best Dolby Atmos Bar
Samsung HW-Q990B
For a few years, companies have been making giant soundbar systems meant to imitate old-school home theaters. For a few years, they’ve been pretty great. The Samsung HW-Q990B (8/10, WIRED Recommends), though, is the best I’ve ever heard, thanks to Samsung’s excellent audio processing, a massive 15 drivers, and the ability to bounce tones around your room. It’s also the first Samsung soundbar to feature wireless Dolby Atmos, which means you don’t need to connect the surround speakers and subwoofer to anything other than an outlet. It’s pretty nifty. The only downside? It’ll cost you about as much as a decent traditional system.
$1,498 at Amazon
$1,500 at Best Buy
-
Photograph: Vizio
Another Good Atmos Bar
Vizio M-Series Elevate
If you want more full-featured Dolby Atmos and you like a bit of flair, this more expensive model from Vizio (8/10, WIRED Recommends) might be for you.
Drivers pop out of the side and aim toward your ceiling when Atmos content is playing, giving it a nifty party trick to show your pals. Sound quality is solid too, and we like the compact design and easy setup. However, you will have to route some speaker cables for the rear surrounds.$500 at Amazon
$698 at Walmart
The only downside? While it does have plenty of bass, a dedicated subwoofer would certainly help when watching Michael Bay films.
Drivers pop out of the side and aim toward your ceiling when Atmos content is playing, giving it a nifty party trick to show your pals. Sound quality is solid too, and we like the compact design and easy setup. However, you will have to route some speaker cables for the rear surrounds.Most Popular
-
Photograph: Sonos
The Smartest Soundbar
Sonos Beam (Gen 2)
Sonos’ second-generation Beam doesn’t look much different from the first generation, but the sonic upgrade is immense. You get immersive Dolby Atmos interpretation, thanks to Sonos’ superb onboard audio processing. The bar pairs with both Alexa and Google Assistant so you can do everything from setting alarms to asking it the weather. Sonos connectivity also means you can use it as part of a multiroom audio system, where it is compatible with every major streaming service.
If you want to expand your system, you can even add other Sonos speakers as surrounds, and a Sonos-made subwoofer for bass down the line.
Inputs: HDMI eARC, Ethernet for internet, IR receiver to connect to TV remote, Wi-Fi
$499 at Amazon
$499 at Sonos
$499 at Target
$470 at Walmart
-
Photograph: Polk Audio
Best Soundbar-Subwoofer Combo
Polk Audio Signa S4
Many companies offer basic 2.1 soundbars, but very few pack the soundstage of this Dolby Atmos-enabled bar from Polk. It’s simple and easy to set up, with a basic, no-frills remote and an HDMI ARC connection to plug into a modern TV. You choose between Cinema, Night, and Music modes, which serve their intended purposes well. Cinema mode works in a simulated 3.1.2 Atmos surround—it’s pretty room-filling! Music mode gives you a more normal stereo image. Night mode limits the subwoofer action so you don’t wake the neighbors. I’ve been spending time with this bar in preparation for a full review, so look for that in the next update, along with more personal insights.
Inputs: HDMI (ARC), Bluetooth, Optical
$399 at Amazon
$399 at Walmart
-
Photograph: Phil Barker/Sony
Best Standalone Bar
Sony HT-X8500
Many dream of immersive audio but don’t quite have the space to place dedicated surround speakers and a subwoofer.
That’s where this tiny bar from Sony shines. The HT-X8500 is a single unit with a built-in subwoofer and the ability to bounce the side and height channels of a Dolby Atmos signal around your room. It’s not as good as having speakers actually behind or above you, but for $300 (and a single bar), Sony’s audio processing delivers some pretty great sound. Inputs: 2 HDMI ports (one ARC), Bluetooth, Optical
$292 at Amazon
$395 at Walmart
That’s where this tiny bar from Sony shines. The HT-X8500 is a single unit with a built-in subwoofer and the ability to bounce the side and height channels of a Dolby Atmos signal around your room. It’s not as good as having speakers actually behind or above you, but for $300 (and a single bar), Sony’s audio processing delivers some pretty great sound. Most Popular
-
Photograph: Roku
A Bar With Roku
Roku Smart Soundbar
If you’re after a soundbar that also doubles as an awesome streaming device, WIRED senior writer Adrienne So swears by the Roku smart soundbar. After she spent years without a soundbar, I sent her home with Roku’s latest model, and she was so impressed that she shouted it from the rooftops. Setup is extremely easy, and because it comes with Roku’s simple streaming interface (and support for surround sound, as well as 4K and High Dynamic Range video), you can stream movies and shows from just about every streaming service.
You can also add a Roku subwoofer or surround-sound speakers down the line. We encourage getting a sub.We’ve also linked to Roku’s Walmart version, named “Onn,” below. It’s cheaper and slightly weaker but still a lot nicer than standard TV speakers, and it also comes with Roku built in.
Inputs: 1 HDMI port (with ARC), optical, Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5 GHz), USB 2.0, Bluetooth, voice remote
$129 at Walmart (Onn Version)
-
Photograph: Roku
For Small Spaces
Roku Streambar
If you have a small TV in the kitchen or office, or just have a tiny home, space is of the essence! That’s why I love the new Roku Streambar. It’s petite but has true stereo sound and a Roku streaming player built in. The WIRED team hasn’t spent much time with this one, but on physical specs alone this is a hard bar to beat for tight spaces. No more tiny TV speakers!
If you’re looking for a soundbar that has a bit better sound (but no streaming interface), check out the Sonos Ray (9/10, WIRED Recommends).
Inputs: HDMI ARC, Optical, USB
$125 at Amazon
$130 at Target
-
Photograph: ZVOX
Best for Those With Hearing Loss
ZVox AccuVoice AV157
If you or someone you love has a hard time hearing what the voices onscreen are saying, consider this awesome little soundbar from lesser-known (but long-standing) brand Zvox. The company has perfected what it calls “AccuVoice” technology, which uses digital signal processing to make voices sound clearer. It does this better than any bar I’ve tested with a similar feature.
Inputs: Optical, 3.5 mm, (requires its own remote)
$200 at Amazon
$200 at Walmart
You can also add a Roku subwoofer or surround-sound speakers down the line. We encourage getting a sub.
Most Popular
-
Photograph: Yamaha
A Smart Soundbar With a Sub
Yamaha ATS-2090
If you’re looking for a soundbar-subwoofer combo that doubles as a smart speaker for your living room, there is no better option than the Yamaha YAS-209.
It has Amazon Alexa built in, two virtual surround sound modes, Wi-Fi, Spotify Connect, and Bluetooth. You can use your voice to do everything from playing Taylor Swift to checking the weather. That’s a heck of a lot of features for a semi-affordable bar.It also sounds better than it has any right to at this price. Audio comes through crisp and clear, with impressive width and depth, and the included subwoofer bolsters explosions, footsteps, and your favorite bass-heavy tunes.
Inputs: 2 HDMI ports (one ARC), optical, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, and mics for voice-activated Alexa
$220 at Amazon
$230 at Walmart
-
Photograph: SENNHEISER
Best Luxury Soundbar
Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar
The acclaimed audio brand Sennheiser waited decades to launch its first home soundbar. The company’s massive—and massively expensive—Ambeo showcases some of the most advanced processing and audio quality we’ve ever heard from a single bar. Even without the addition of satellite speakers for surround, the Ambeo uses its tech to throw sound around your space with full Dolby Atmos immersion.
At times, it sounds so good you might think there are tiny speakers flying around your room.It’s the best-sounding bar we’ve ever heard. It doesn’t matter whether you’re watching Netflix Originals or listening to your favorite music; the Ambeo just offers rich, detailed sound. It’s not for the budget-conscious, but this is the crème de la crème of compact home theater audio. Much as LG, Samsung, and Sony use exceptional image quality to convince people to shell out thousands of dollars for their flagship televisions, Sennheiser can bank on the Ambeo’s superior audio to attract discerning buyers.
Inputs: 3 HDMI ports (one ARC), optical, RCA, Bluetooth, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Google Chromecast built in
$2,000 at Amazon
$2,000 at BH Photo
$2,000 at Sennheiser
-
Photograph: Nakamichi
The Bassiest Setup
Shockwafe 9.2 Dolby Atmos Soundbar
WIRED reviewer Jaina Grey has spent a little more than a year with this massive dual-subwoofer soundbar system from Japan.
It provides earth-shattering bass, courtesy of two huge subwoofers, while a pair of side speakers and rear speakers offer more lifelike reproduction than soundbars that bounce sound off the walls for side and rear noises. It also features support for all major object-based surround formats, like DTS:X and Dolby Atmos. It’s a super-large system for most spaces, but if you have a big room, the extra bass response helps things feel more cinematic. Those side and rear drivers make it great for playing online video games, where hearing footsteps behind you comes in handy.Inputs: HDMI, Optical, Coaxial. Bluetooth (AptX)
$650 at Amazon (7.2 Surround Version)
$1,200 at B&H (9.2 Surround Version)
It has Amazon Alexa built in, two virtual surround sound modes, Wi-Fi, Spotify Connect, and Bluetooth. You can use your voice to do everything from playing Taylor Swift to checking the weather. That’s a heck of a lot of features for a semi-affordable bar.
At times, it sounds so good you might think there are tiny speakers flying around your room.
It provides earth-shattering bass, courtesy of two huge subwoofers, while a pair of side speakers and rear speakers offer more lifelike reproduction than soundbars that bounce sound off the walls for side and rear noises. It also features support for all major object-based surround formats, like DTS:X and Dolby Atmos. It’s a super-large system for most spaces, but if you have a big room, the extra bass response helps things feel more cinematic. Those side and rear drivers make it great for playing online video games, where hearing footsteps behind you comes in handy.Most Popular
-
Photograph: Platin
A Completely Wireless System
Platin Monaco 5.1 (WiSA)
Five small speakers and a compact under-couch subwoofer make up this extremely simple and easy to use system from Platin Audio (8/10, WIRED Recommends).
It uses WiSA technology to stream and sync audio from a puck that you place near your screen or projector. It’s among the simplest surround-sound setups I’ve had the pleasure of setting up, requiring just a power source for each speaker and a single HDMI cable to plug into the puck. From there, an app and your TV’s remote control the system. This has come to be among my favorite rigs for testing because I don’t have to move anything other than an HDMI cable between devices. I also like how sleek and well-made the speakers are, with beautiful woven cones and black cases that don’t get in the way visually.
$800 at Amazon
$1,498 at Walmart
-
Photograph: B&H
Honorable Mentions
They’re Pretty Good
There are a lot of great soundbars out there, and we don’t have room to feature them all. Here are some others you might want to consider.
The LG SP9YA for $697: This is a good Atmos bar for smaller rooms.
It comes with a wireless subwoofer and can be upgraded with LG-made surround speakers.The Polk React for $269: This soundbar works if you want to get surround sound eventually but don’t have the cash right now. The Alexa-enabled soundbar is fine on its own, with surround speakers and subwoofers available from Polk if you want to upgrade.
The Vizio Elevate for $700: This is an awesome-looking soundbar with side speakers that swivel skyward when you’re watching content with object-based audio. It’s a nice-sounding bar, and that gimmick is neat, but there are better options for under $1,000.
The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 for $799: If you want a premium bar that has great sound and can be expanded with satellite speakers but aren’t a fan of Sonos, Bose has you covered—though you might not like the $799 price tag. We have also heard complaints about issues with the wireless functionality.
-
Photograph: Amazon
Get Hooked Up
Properly Connect Your Soundbar
We’ve included a list of available connectivity options next to every soundbar on our list. The vast majority of soundbars will connect to your TV via optical or HDMI cables—HDMI being preferable in most cases.
If your TV and soundbar both have an HDMI-ARC port (the cable port looks like HDMI, but it’s labeled ARC), try connecting that way. It will allow you to use the volume buttons on your TV remote to control the soundbar’s volume. Also make sure CEC is enabled. Use an optical cable only if HDMI isn’t available.
Finally, check your TV audio menus to make sure your TV’s internal speakers are set to off (so you don’t get any weird audio fluttering) and find the best spots to place your speakers and sub.
It uses WiSA technology to stream and sync audio from a puck that you place near your screen or projector. It’s among the simplest surround-sound setups I’ve had the pleasure of setting up, requiring just a power source for each speaker and a single HDMI cable to plug into the puck. From there, an app and your TV’s remote control the system. 
It comes with a wireless subwoofer and can be upgraded with LG-made surround speakers.
Parker Hall is an associate editor of product reviews at WIRED. He focuses on audiovisual and entertainment products. Hall is a graduate of the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, where he studied jazz percussion.
After hours, he remains a professional musician in his hometown of Portland, Oregon.
TopicsShoppingbuying guidesSoundbars
More from WIRED
Soundbars & Sound Projectors – Audio, Home Theater – Products – Yamaha
Site search
- Home
- Products
- Audio, Home Cinema
- Sound Bars & Sound Projectors
- Soundbars
7.1.2-equivalent surround sound reproduction is implemented using proprietary Digital Sound Projector technology, which allows you to recreate a three-dimensional sound stage in music and films. The MusicCast function, using a special application, makes it possible to use devices from different manufacturers in a single system.
Specially designed system for creating superb, exceptionally high quality surround sound. Support for wireless MusicCast technology expands the possibilities of music playback. The YSP-2700 brings great sound with amazing presence to your living room.
Other colors available
C20A – Compact soundbar with built-in subwoofer, bluetooth connection and Clear Voice technology.
Other colors available
The
B20A is a virtual surround sound bar with built-in subwoofer and Clear Voice technology.
Minimalism with impressive possibilities. Enjoy Yamaha signature sound in your favorite movies, music and games from a compact and discreet soundbar that can be placed in front of your TV or hung on the wall.
Alexa’s built-in voice control lets you control your soundbar and smart home devices by simply speaking. Setup is quick and easy – just connect your device to your TV and use Bluetooth® to stream your music and other audio wirelessly.
Take your TV sound to the next level. Enhance your TV, movie and game experience with a compact system with built-in WiFi, DTS® Virtual:X™ virtual surround sound, wireless subwoofer, Bluetooth® support, and streaming from Spotify and home media.
Take your home theater experience to new heights with breathtaking DTS Virtual:X™ surround sound. Compatible with the latest 4K Ultra HD TVs, the MusicCast BAR 400 with Wireless Subwoofer provides a range of connectivity options, including Bluetooth® and HDMI®, as well as built-in music streaming services and MusicCast multi-room features.
org/” typeof=”BreadcrumbList”>
Does the soundbar need a subwoofer: ease of use
Contents
- Does the soundbar need a subwoofer? Ease of use
- Bulky subwoofer
- Why is a subwoofer recommended for soundbars?
- Bass enhancement
- Building a complete speaker system
- Focusing on the main elements
- Increasing the sound system volume
- Cinema effect
- Three-component system frequency response
- What are the disadvantages of a subwoofer?
Does the soundbar need a subwoofer? Ease of use
If you like loud music or playing games with percussion, chances are you need to add a subwoofer to your soundbar.
It will help to enhance the bass and make the sound even more realistic. However, this is not always convenient and profitable. If you don’t use your soundbar to play music, but only use it for TV programs and movies, then a subwoofer may not be necessary. Therefore, the decision to use a subwoofer for a soundbar depends on your personal needs and sound preferences. If you still decide to purchase a subwoofer, then you should pay attention to some additions.
Bulky subwoofer
The subwoofer is large due to the need to produce loud bass. Low frequencies require more energy to produce the same sound pressure, which necessitates the use of larger speakers. Although it is potentially possible to create compact subwoofers through the use of a large amplitude of movement of the speakers, this solution is not yet applicable in practice. In-ear headphones, on the other hand, do not require large drivers to generate loud bass due to the way they work inside the ear and the volume required to create high sound pressure.
Why is a subwoofer recommended for soundbars?
Adding a subwoofer to a soundbar is a common practice for audio enthusiasts and audio professionals. But there are several reasons why it is recommended to attach a subwoofer to soundbars.
Bass enhancement
Subwoofers are specialized in reproducing low frequencies that cannot be reproduced by conventional speakers. Most soundbars have speakers with a limited range, and adding a subwoofer improves the sound quality at low frequencies. This is especially useful when listening to music, sound effects in movies and games.
Creating a complete speaker system
Adding a subwoofer to a room creates a complete speaker system, a priority for audiophiles. The soundbar and subwoofer combination allows you to reproduce a variety of sound material with high fidelity and a wide frequency range.
Focusing on the main elements
Another reason to add a subwoofer is to improve the sound quality in the main elements of the dialogue or piece of music.
When low frequencies are played on the soundbar, they can detract from the content itself. Adding a subwoofer can reduce this effect, especially when watching movies or playing music.
Increasing the volume of the sound system
The subwoofer and the soundbar work in symbiosis, so adding a subwoofer improves the sound volume. A subwoofer can boost low frequencies, allowing the soundbar to produce a wider range of frequencies in less volume. This makes it possible to increase the volume of the sound system without losing sound quality.
Cinematic effect
If you want to create a cinematic effect in your home, adding a subwoofer is a must. Most of the sound effects used in movies are played at low frequencies. The addition of a subwoofer allows for deep and realistic bass, which adds more dimension and dynamics to the sound.
As a result, as we can see, the addition of a subwoofer to the soundbar brings many benefits, including improved sound quality, volume, creating a complete speaker system and a cinema effect.
AFC of a three-component system
The frequency-amplitude response (AFC) of the system is characterized by an almost linear transmission in the range of 100-10000 Hz, which indicates its high quality. Although a dip can be seen at high frequencies, this effect is specific to each model, and in general most soundbars present a more advantageous appearance at this frequency. The absence of bass (20-60 Hz) is a typical feature of this type of acoustics.
As a comparison, we can consider the frequency response of a three-component 5.1 audio system. Without the use of a subwoofer, the user loses the ability to hear the bass. This is most noticeable with loud sound. However, if you prefer to watch movies at minimum volume, the distortion of the sound picture will be minimal. Most soundbars handle bass well enough at 60-70 dBA (normal conversation volume), and with a slight increase in volume, the loss of low frequencies will not be too noticeable. However, in order to get real bass, the soundbar definitely needs a subwoofer.
However, there are soundbar models that do a great job of delivering bass without a subwoofer. If it is not important for you that the glasses in the windows shake from the bass, then you can find a suitable soundbar model for yourself. However, replacing an audio system with a subwoofer completely with a soundbar will not work.
Manufacturers are looking for different ways to compensate for the small size of the speakers in soundbars and provide better bass. However, this is done at the cost of increasing the price and is not always justified. A budget soundbar combined with an inexpensive subwoofer can provide better sound quality than a soundbar from expensive market models.
☝ If you don’t like subwoofers, you should know that soundbars don’t always deliver high quality sound. They are more of a compromise to improve the sound of the TV’s ultra-slim speakers. There are modern soundbars that create a believable 3D scene and produce decent sound, but they are much more expensive than 5.
1 systems that do the same thing.
☝ If you need good sound quality at an affordable price, then it is better to build an audio system with a subwoofer or buy a ready-made 5.1 kit.
☝ If you have a high-quality soundbar and want to enjoy great bass, you can buy a subwoofer separately. However, there are difficulties with its connection, since most subwoofers are designed for the 5.1 standard using “tulips”, and many modern TVs do not have sound outputs other than HDMI. But, there are many ways to solve the problem:
- If your soundbar has an HDMI output, you can connect a subwoofer using an HDMI to RCA adapter.
- By connecting the subwoofer to a TV via Bluetooth, you can enjoy excellent sound quality wirelessly.
- If the soundbar is connected to a sound source via an audio line-out, a divider adapter can be used.
- An HDMI junction will help connect both a soundbar and a subwoofer, but when using an adapter.
One of the attractive features of soundbars is their compact size and modern look.