10 Best TV Soundbars

The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus is designed to enhance your TV audio experience with its 3.1 channel setup, which includes a built-in subwoofer for added bass. This all-in-one soundbar provides a powerful sound with an easy setup, utilizing an HDMI eARC/ARC connection for quick integration with your TV. With Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, it offers immersive 3D sound that can elevate your viewing experience by delivering audio that moves around you, creating a more lifelike and engaging atmosphere.

One of the standout features is its crystal-clear dialogue, thanks to a dedicated center channel that improves speech clarity, making it easier to follow your favorite shows and movies. The soundbar also includes various EQ modes such as Film, Music, Sport, and Night, allowing you to tailor the audio according to the content you're watching.

In terms of connectivity, the soundbar supports Bluetooth, which enables you to stream music from your phone or tablet seamlessly. It also comes with multiple port options including HDMI, optical, AC, and USB-A, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices, including smart TVs and streaming media players.

However, the all-in-one design means that the subwoofer is built-in, which might not deliver the same depth of bass as a separate unit might. For those looking for a more powerful bass experience, this could be a consideration. The soundbar's size is relatively compact, but at 4.0 kg, it might require a sturdy setup if wall-mounted.

The Fire TV Soundbar Plus is a stylish and convenient option for anyone seeking an upgrade from basic TV speakers, particularly if you value ease of use, clear dialogue, and immersive sound. Its smart features, like integration with Fire TV for remote control and sound customization, make it a modern choice for enhancing home entertainment systems.

The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar is a compact audio enhancement solution for your television, boasting a 2.0 speaker configuration that includes DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio support. This suggests it can deliver a surround sound experience with clearer dialogue and deeper bass, even in its compact form. Its design, just over 60 cm in length, makes it a suitable fit for most entertainment setups without taking up much space.

Connectivity is simplified with an HDMI eARC/ARC port, ensuring easy synchronization with your TV audio, and Bluetooth capability allows for music streaming directly from your phone or tablet. This soundbar is designed to work seamlessly with Fire TV, allowing control over audio and television through a single remote, which could be a big convenience for users heavily invested in the Amazon ecosystem. Additionally, it supports compatibility with other smart TVs and media players beyond Fire TV, making it a versatile choice for various setups.

However, the absence of a dedicated subwoofer might affect its ability to deliver truly deep bass for those who prioritize powerful low frequencies in their audio experience. Its 2 x 20 W power output is adequate, but might not satisfy users looking for a more robust sound output typical of soundbars with higher wattage and additional audio channels. Also, while the soundbar supports various EQ modes for Films, Music, and Dialogue, the effectiveness of these presets in enhancing audio experience could vary based on personal preferences.

Moreover, while it's commendable that the device incorporates sustainable materials, this feature might not be a primary consideration for all potential buyers. The combination of features makes the Amazon Fire TV Soundbar a suitable choice for users seeking a simple and integrated audio improvement compatible with modern smart systems, though audiophiles seeking more advanced sound customization and power might look elsewhere.

The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a smart soundbar with a compact design, ideal for upgrading TV audio. It features Dolby Atmos, delivering a 3D surround sound effect that enhances dialogue clarity and adds depth, making it perfect for movie enthusiasts and music lovers who appreciate vibrant bass and a panoramic soundstage.

Connectivity is simple with Wi-Fi and HDMI, allowing easy integration with devices. The soundbar supports Apple AirPlay 2 and voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant, providing flexible control. These features enhance user convenience for streaming music, radio, or podcasts when the TV is off.

Setting up the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is user-friendly, requiring only two cables and guided assistance from the Sonos app. The Trueplay tuning feature optimizes sound for room acoustics, appealing to those who prefer quick and hassle-free setup. Although the soundbar's power output of 80 Watts may not suit those seeking powerful sound in larger rooms, the option to expand with additional Sonos speakers offers benefits, albeit with potential extra costs.

The compact design and wall-mounting option allow versatile placement, although the plastic material might not feel as premium as expected. Therefore, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is suited for users seeking a smart audio solution without extensive power needs or immediate expansion to multiple speakers.