How to choose a soundbar for a TV: review and rating of the TOP 15 best models of 2021

Overview of models of soundbars for TVs. Description of their technical capabilities and features, advantages and disadvantages. What characteristics should be considered first of all when choosing a soundbar.

Full-size speaker systems and home theater systems are not always suitable for users for various reasons.

home soundbar is an interesting solution that can significantly improve the sound of the TV and create the effect of volume.

Consider a review of the best models in terms of advantages and disadvantages, main characteristics, expert opinions, consumer reviews.

The presented rating of soundbars includes the models of this compact acoustics that are optimal in terms of price and quality.

Rating of the TOP-15 best soundbars for TV

Place	Model	Price
TV soundbars with 2.0 configuration
#1	Xiaomi Redmi TV Soundbar
2.1 format models
#1	LG SJ3
#2	JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass
#3	JBL Cinema SB160
#4	Sony HT-S350
Soundbars with 3.1 configuration
#1	Samsung HW-T650
#2	LG SL6Y
#3	Sony HT-ZF9
5.1 format models
#1	Sony HT-S700RF
#2	JBL Bar 5.1 Surround
#3	Samsung HW-Q60T
#4	Samsung HW-Q6CT
7.1 TV soundbars
#1	YAMAHA YSP-2700
#2	YAMAHA YSP-5600
#3	Sony HT-ST5000

Criteria for choosing a soundbar for a TV

Primarily necessary pay attention to what functions the TV has or may optionally have.

And, based on this, consider the possibility of using a particular soundbar.

Keep in mind! When choosing acoustics, it is worth considering the following:

Number of channels.
There are several formats of multichannel acoustics - 2.0, 2.1, 3.1, 4.1, 5.1, 7.1.
The first digit means the number of speakers (channels), the second - the number of subwoofers (at the same time, the lion's share of household systems is equipped with one low-frequency link).
Power.
An important parameter that is directly related to the volume of the device and the possibility of sounding rooms of different sizes.
50-watt models are suitable for small rooms.
Devices with a power of 100 W will be optimal for rooms with an area of 20-30 square meters.
The 200-watt models will sound great in larger spaces.
Connectors and interfaces.
The stereo input is suitable for connection with playback of audio material in 2.0 or 2.1 format.
Optical input and HDMI provide better quality multi-channel sound in high definition.
Bluetooth allows you to play tracks from your phone or other device "over the air", wirelessly connect the subwoofer and rear speakers.
Wi-Fi and Ethernet are useful for connecting to streaming services.

TV soundbars with 2.0 configuration

This format is limited to two audio channels.

Important! Soundbars with a 2.0 configuration allow you to get regular stereo sound. Such devices are inexpensive and are not equipped with subwoofers.

Xiaomi Redmi TV Soundbar

The Xiaomi Redmi TV Soundbar model stands out for its compact size, corresponds to the 2.0 format and reproduces audio material in a fairly wide range (80-20000 Hz) with high quality.

The declared sound power of the soundbar allows its use in medium and small rooms.

The device is equipped with an audio input and S/PDIF optics.If necessary, connection via Bluetooth interface is possible.

The presented model is equipped with accessories for wall mounting. This sound system is assembled in a case made of high quality materials.

Specifications:

total power - 30 W;
dimensions - 780? 63? 64 mm;
weight - 1.5 kg;
interfaces/connectors — line and optical inputs, Bluetooth;
features — mounting accessories included.

Advantages

stylish appearance;
provided for wall mounting;
compact dimensions;
fast connection via Bluetooth,
sufficient power.

Flaws

Marked and easily scratched case;
lack of a control panel;
mediocre sound.

2.1 format models

Such kits equipped with both a main panel and a subwoofer. The devices have a basic set of functions and produce an acceptable sound.

Rating of the best soundbars in 2-1 format according to customer reviews and ratings.

LG SJ3

Model LG SJ3, equipped with popular interfaces for connection, will allow you to enjoy your favorite music, the source of which can be any TV, tablet, smartphone or other device.

The unit is equipped with a special function that makes it possible to start playback instantly, even if the soundbar is in standby mode.

The presented sound system is characterized by high output power, but due to its compact size it can be installed in any convenient place.

The subwoofer supports wireless connection. The maximum power consumption of the kit is 60 W, in standby mode this figure is 1 W.

Specifications:

total power - 300 W;
front panel - 100 W, 950? 71? 47 mm, 2.47 kg;
subwoofer - 200 W, 171? 320? 252 mm, 4.2 kg;
interfaces/connectors — Bluetooth, USB-A, mini-jack, optical input;
features - control from the remote control / TV / smartphone.

Advantages

compact dimensions;
high output power;
quality sound in general;
high-quality assembly and materials;
low price.

Flaws

lack of HDMI connector and equalizer;
no audio outputs.

JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass

The JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass Kit with a total output power of 300W includes two independent units - a front speaker and a subwoofer in an MDF cabinet with minimal vibration even at the highest volume.

Additional advantages of the presented soundbar include the option of wireless connection to other devices via Bluetooth.

The model is universal in terms of installation - it can be installed both on the wall and on the shelf.

The device is equipped with up-to-date interfaces. High-quality multi-channel sound reproduction is guaranteed by the built-in Dolby Digital decoder.

Specifications:

total power - 300 W;
front panel - 100 W, 965? 58? 85 mm, 2.16 kg;
subwoofer - 200 W, 240? 379? 240 mm, 5.67 kg;
interfaces/connectors — Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-A, optical input, HDMI;
features — control from the remote control.

Advantages

modern design;
fast wireless connection interface;
easy installation;
two HDMI ports for connection.

Flaws

not compatible with all TVs;
dips in medium and high frequencies;
high price.

JBL Cinema SB160

Model JBL Cinema SB160 in an elegant case made of high-quality materials.

It is the epitome of an ideal speaker system that efficiently reproduces the sound content of movies and TV series.

The unit can be placed on a wall or on any suitable horizontal surface.

The package includes a convenient wall mount. The high power of the kit and the built-in Dolby Digital decoder allow you to broadcast loud and surround sound.

Through the Bluetooth interface, users can stream audio content from a smartphone or tablet to the soundbar.

Specifications:

total power - 220 W;
front panel - 104 W, 900? 67? 63 mm, 1.65 kg;
subwoofer - 116 W, 170? 345? 313 mm, 5 kg;
interfaces/connectors — Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, optical input, HDMI;
features — control from the remote control.

Advantages

ease of connection and configuration;
fast synchronization with a subwoofer;
control from one remote control;
included is a wall mount;
quality assembly.

Flaws

few user settings;
no equalizer;
There is no optical cable included.

Sony HT-S350

Model Sony HT-S350, made in accordance with the 2.1 format, guarantees high sound quality of any audio source connected to it - TV, tablet or smartphone.

The presented set consists of a front panel and a subwoofer.

The high power of the components guarantees clear and loud reproduction of audio material.

The design allows you to position the main column both vertically and horizontally.

The wireless subwoofer can be placed separately on the floor, shelf or pedestal. The soundbar is equipped with Dolby Digital and Dolby Dual Mono decoders.

Specifications:

total power - 320 W;
front panel - 170 W, 900? 64? 88 mm, 2.4 kg;
subwoofer - 150 W, 190? 382? 390 mm, 7.8 kg;
interfaces/connectors — Bluetooth, optical input, HDMI;
features — control from the remote control.

Advantages

stylish appearance;
deep and powerful low frequencies;
stable operation of Bluetooth;
off indicators.

Flaws

uninformative indication;
average sound quality in general;
not very clear connection instructions.

Soundbars with 3.1 configuration

The three-channel configuration of one central and two side radiators in these devices is complemented by a subwoofer.

Note! Some models support DTS or Dolby Digital formats, recognize and emulate Dolby Atmos sound.

TOP 3 soundbars

Samsung HW-T650

With the Samsung HW-T650 soundbar, the user gets the opportunity to create a real home theater with powerful, loud and clear sound with a wide frequency range.

The kit is equipped with an active type wireless subwoofer with Bluetooth connectivity.

The front panel housing has a USB port for listening to music from compatible devices.

This model is equipped with a special game mode with customized sound settings to create the right atmosphere.

Specifications:

total power - 340 W;
front panel - 180 W, 980? 58? 90 mm, 2.4 kg;
subwoofer - 160 W, 205? 353? 303 mm, 6.2 kg;
interfaces/connectors — Bluetooth, USB-A, optical input, HDMI;
features - control from the remote control / TV.

Advantages

strong and clear sound;
many manual settings;
nice design;
easy connection and use.

Flaws

lack of volume;
mediocre low frequencies;
high price tag.

LG SL6Y

The LG SL6Y is an incredibly stylish and compact sound system with the most crisp, spacious and clear sound from the front speaker and wireless subwoofer.

With the Bluetooth module built into the device, the user will forget about interfering cables and will be able to instantly connect any supported sound source to the soundbar "over the air".

Stylish and elegant "appearance" presented acoustics allows you to use it in a modern interior.

The compact dimensions make it possible to conveniently place the device anywhere, including the wall.

Specifications:

total power - 420 W;
front panel - 200 W, 1060? 57? 85 mm, 3.45 kg;
subwoofer - 220 W, 171? 393? 249 mm, 5.3 kg;
interfaces/connectors — Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-A, optical input, HDMI;
features - control from the remote control / TV / smartphone.

Advantages

stylish design;
pure sound;
convenient volume control of the central channel;
Bass Blast mode
compact subwoofer.

Flaws

the subwoofer is not the most powerful;
no protection against third-party Bluetooth connections;
overpriced compared to similar models.

Sony HT-ZF9

The Sony HT-ZF9 is an excellent addition to any modern TV and will allow you to enjoy clear and vivid sound of 3.1 audio material.

The kit includes a powerful soundbar and a separate subwoofer unit with wireless connectivity.

Elegant design and compact dimensions will make presented acoustics an excellent addition to any interior.

This system is equipped with support for DLNA and current decoders.

The package includes an HDMI cable, a remote control with batteries and a wall mount.

Specifications:

total power - 400 W;
front panel - 300 W, 1000? 64? 99 mm, 3.1 kg;
subwoofer - 100 W, 190? 382? 386 mm, 8.1 kg;
interfaces / connectors - Chromecast, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LAN, USB-A, mini-jack, optical input, HDMI;
features - display, remote control, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa.

Advantages

high sound quality;
large margin of volume;
modern design;
completely switchable display;
two-level dialogue amplification mode;
support for modern formats.

Flaws

the remote control collects dust;
too close location of HDMI connectors;
there is no Russian language in the soundbar menu.

5.1 format models

The most popular and common configuration for surround sound Equipped with a central speaker, side and rear speakers, as well as a powerful subwoofer.

Such a system fully reproduces 5.1 sound.

Sony HT-S700RF

The Sony HT-S700RF kit, with an amazing 1kW total output power, makes it effortless to build a complete home theater audio system.

The model is equipped with five sound sources, including a 240 W subwoofer, 152 W rear floor speakers and a 456 W front panel.

The unit is equipped with a built-in player that supports USB connection and Bluetooth wireless connection.

The soundbar boasts a night mode, as well as the ability to control from a smartphone and using a remote control.

Specifications:

total power - 1000 W;
front panel - 456 W, 900? 64? 90 mm, 3 kg;
rear speakers - 152 W? 2.78? 1200? 78 mm, 3.6 kg;
subwoofer - 240 W, 231? 438? 378 mm, 10.2 kg;
interfaces/connectors — Bluetooth, HDMI, USB, line/optical inputs;
features - built-in player, control from a smartphone / remote control.

Advantages

ease of setup;
excellent sound quality;
perfect Bluetooth performance;
there is an analog input.

Flaws

short HDMI cable;
There is no rear speaker balance adjustment.

JBL Bar 5.1 Surround

JBL Bar 5.1 Surround Kit with powerful and clear built-in speakers.

Can be used as a home theater audio link or as a standalone music listening device.

With a total output power of 550 W, the effective frequency range of the device is 40–20,000 Hz.

The subwoofer has the option of connecting to the system via a Bluetooth interface.

Built-in DTS, Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro Logic II decoders guarantee surround multi-channel playback.

The device is controlled with the remote control included in the delivery.

Specifications:

total power - 550 W;
front panel - 250 W, 1018? 58? 100 mm, 2.85 kg;
subwoofer - 300 W, 305? 440? 305 mm, 10.62 kg;
interfaces/connectors - AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LAN, USB-A, mini-jack, optical input, HDMI;
features - control from the remote control / TV.

Advantages

excellent sound quality in general;
easy installation;
simple setup;
stylish design.

Flaws

no built-in equalizer;
rather weak effect of ambient sound;
hard to read display.

Samsung HW-Q60T

The Samsung HW-Q60T soundbar is not only a surround sound effect that gives the user a deep feeling, but also a powerful deep bass that enhances the above impact.

In addition to musical settings and cinematic presets, the presented soundbar will delight you with a game mode.

With a total power of 360 W, the kit is quite compact and can be easily placed in any convenient place.

The equipment is controlled by means of a remote control.

This accessory also allows you to adjust the power, volume and sound effects.

Specifications:

total power - 360 W;
front panel - 200 W, 980? 58? 105 mm, 3.4 kg;
subwoofer - 160 W, 205? 353? 303 mm, 6.2 kg;
interfaces/connectors — Bluetooth, optical input, HDMI;
features - control from the remote control / TV.

Advantages

high-quality sound;
powerful low frequencies;
autostart when you turn on the TV;
comfortable and friendly settings.

Flaws

the display is located on the edge of the soundbar;
small display size
The soundbar does not remember the Bluetooth connection.

Samsung HW-Q6CT

The classic-style Samsung HW-Q6CT is designed to work with a TV.

However, if desired, it can be used as audio equipment at parties.

The soundbar is a 5.1-channel speaker system with a total output power of 330W.

Support for DTS and Dolby Digital surround sound technologies ensures maximum immersion in what is happening on the screen.

The built-in USB port allows you to connect external digital media to play audio files. Bluetooth wireless technology allows you to stream music.

Specifications:

total power - 330 W;
front panel - 200 W, 980? 58? 105 mm, 3.4 kg;
subwoofer - 130 W, 205? 353? 303 mm, 4 kg;
interfaces/connectors — Bluetooth, USB-A, optical input, HDMI;
features - control from the remote control / TV.

Advantages

loud and clear sound;
excellent volume with the right settings;
stylish design;
connection both via optics and HDMI / Bluetooth.

Flaws

relatively weak low frequencies;
impressive price tag.

7.1 TV soundbars

Reference! Home theater soundbars consist of seven multi-channel surround speakers and a subwoofer.

The sound quality and three-dimensional scene in the presented models guarantee complete immersion in movies or audio tracks.

YAMAHA YSP-2700

YAMAHA YSP-2700 model with sixteen main channel speakers with individual digital amplifiers and separate high power subwoofer unit.

Allows you to get crystal clear and surround audio in 7.1 format.

The Digital Sound Projector technology in this unit corrects the direction of sound waves to create an immersive experience.

Auto-tuning allows you to instantly select the optimal parameters for a particular room.

Wireless connection allows you to broadcast audio and connect to popular Internet services.

Specifications:

total power - 107 W;
front panel - 32 W, 944? 51? 154 mm, 4 kg;
subwoofer - 75 W, 295? 297? 307 mm, 9.1 kg;
interfaces/connectors - AirPlay, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LAN, optical/coaxial inputs, HDMI, subwoofer output, RCA;
features - display, control from the remote control / smartphone.

Advantages

decent sound;
surround sound;
convenient management;
support for streaming services Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, Internet radio.

Flaws

subjectively few high frequencies;
no equalizer;
high price.

YAMAHA YSP-5600

The Yamaha YSP-5600 SWK soundbar is a powerful, technologically advanced and extremely compact device for emulating a 3D audio scene with surround sound in movies and music.

The design of the device provides for 44 precisely positioned emitters.

Acoustic waves are directed to the walls and ceiling when the soundbar is placed correctly.

Reflections provide the listener with spectacular spatial sound.

The device supports many modern formats - Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS.

Users have the ability to use the soundbar for wireless playback of tracks from mobile devices.

Specifications:

total power - 128 W;
dimensions - 1100? 212? 93 mm;
weight - 11.7 kg;
interfaces / connectors - AirPlay, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LAN, DLNA, RCA, optical / coaxial inputs, IR, HDMI, subwoofer output;
features - display, control from the remote control / smartphone.

Advantages

powerful, voluminous sound;
a large "range" of connectors;
convenient management;
phone synchronization.

Flaws

expensive accessories;
uninteresting appearance;
confusing menu.

Sony HT-ST5000

The Sony HT-ST5000 model with surround sound system will provide the listener with complete immersion in music content and leave an unforgettable movie experience.

The presented speakers are compatible with USB storage media, support NFC, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies.

A separate subwoofer module with a claimed 400 watts of continuous power delivers rich low frequencies.

The main panel is made of metal and plastic. It is quite compact, suitable for placing on a table or wall mounting.

Specifications:

total power - 800 W;
front panel - 400 W, 1180? 80? 145 mm, 8.2 kg;
subwoofer - 400 W, 248? 403? 426 mm, 14.1 kg;
interfaces / connectors - Chromecast, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, LAN, USB-A, mini-Jack, optical input, HDMI;
features - display, remote control, Google Assistant.

Advantages

powerful and clear sound;
robust aluminum body;
compact dimensions;
ease of setup and use.

Flaws

limited number of audio decoders;
inconvenient location of HDMI connectors;
limited surround calibration options;
high price.

Reviews

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Conclusion

A soundbar is a relatively inexpensive and compact solution for getting high-quality TV sound.
When choosing soundbar should pay attention to its functionality, power, availability of interfaces compatible with the TV.
Systems 2.0, 2.1, 3.1, even with high sound quality, will not give a surround effect, for a full-fledged home theater, it is better to choose a soundbar with a 5.1, 7.1 configuration.

Useful video

From this video you will learn more about the CT290 soundbar and how to connect it to your TV:

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