Soundbar Rating 2022: Top Of The Best Premium And Budget Soundbars. How To Choose The Best Sound Quality?

2024 Author: Beatrice Philips | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-18 12:09

Everyone wants to create a personal cinema in their home. A high-quality TV gives a pleasant picture, but this is only half the battle. Maximum immersion in what is happening on the screen requires another important point. High-quality sound can make a real home theater out of an ordinary plasma TV. For maximum effect, you should choose the right soundbar.

Top popular brands

The soundbar is a compact speaker system. This column is usually horizontally oriented. The device was originally designed to improve the audio capabilities of LCD TVs . The system can be passive, which is connected only to equipment, and active. The latter additionally needs a 220V network. Active soundbars are more advanced. Thomson is considered the best manufacturer. The models of this company are distinguished by their power and durability, combined with an acceptable cost.

Phillips is also popular with consumers . Models of this brand are considered literally exemplary in terms of value for money. It is worth noting that there are companies that make universal devices. For example, soundbars from JBL and Canton can be used with any TV. At the same time, it is recommended to supplement the equipment from Lg with a speaker from the same company. Samsung soundbars for such a TV would be too expensive, but not powerful enough.

However, before buying a specific speaker model for a specific technique, you should pay attention to the overview and characteristics.

Rating of the best models

Comparative tests are carried out to compile a soundbar rating. They allow you to identify favorites among representatives of different price categories. The comparison is based on sound quality and build quality, power and durability . New items come out quite often, but consumers have their own favorites. It is worth noting that a high-quality soundbar for TV can be chosen both in the budget segment and in the premium class.

Budget

Quite cheap speakers can be of good quality. Of course, you can't compare them with the premium segment. However, there are some pretty powerful models available at an affordable price.

JBL Bar Studio

The total acoustics power in this model is 30 W. This is enough to improve the sound quality of a TV in a room with an area of 15-20 square meters. m. The two-channel soundbar gives a rather rich sound when connected not only to a TV, but also to a laptop, smartphone, tablet . There are USB and HDMI ports for connection, a stereo input. The manufacturer has improved this model in comparison with the previous ones. There is a possibility of wireless connection via Bluetooth, in which the sound and picture are synchronized. JBL Bar Studio users find it best for small spaces.

It is worth noting that the clarity of the sound largely depends on the cable that will be used for connection. The model is compact and reliable, with a nice design. You can control the speaker with a TV remote control.

The main advantages are considered to be high-quality assembly, wide interface and acceptable sound. For a large room, such a model will not be enough.

Samsung HW-M360

The model has long been known in the world, but it does not lose popularity. 200W speakers allow you to enjoy high quality sound in a large room. The soundbar received a bass-reflex enclosure, which significantly enhances the mid and high frequencies . The device is two-channel, a low-frequency radiator can be installed separately. This will add volume to even quiet sounds. Low frequencies are soft but sharp. The speaker is not suitable for listening to rock music, but for classics and films, it is practically ideal. The model has a display that shows the volume and port for connection.

The HW-M360 from Samsung has a remote control, which significantly differs from its counterparts in this price segment . The soundbar turns on automatically with the TV. The interface has all the necessary ports. Coaxial cable included with the device.

It's worth noting that the soundbar works well when paired with a 40-inch TV. For larger equipment, the power of the column is not enough.

Sony HT-SF150

The two-channel model has powerful bass reflex speakers. This allows you to enjoy the enhanced sound of movies and broadcasts to the fullest. The plastic body has stiffening ribs. An HDMI ARC cable is used for connection, and a TV remote control is used for control . The technology used in this model provides audio reproduction without noise and interference.

The total power reaches 120W, which is pretty good for a budget soundbar. The model is well suited for a small room, because there is no subwoofer, and the low frequencies do not sound very good . There is a Bluetooth model for wireless connectivity. The design is neat and unobtrusive.

Polk Audio Signa Solo

One of the most technologically advanced models in this price segment. American engineers worked on the development, so the characteristics are pretty good. High-quality assembly is combined with a stylish and unusual design. Even without an additional subwoofer, you can get high quality sound. The SDA processor guarantees spaciousness of frequencies . A special proprietary technology allows you to customize speech reproduction, make it clearer. Equalizer works in three modes for different content. It is possible to change the volume and intensity of the bass.

It is noteworthy that the soundbar has its own remote control … To set up, just connect the speaker to the TV and the mains. The soundbar has an affordable price tag. The power of the column is enough for a room of 20 sq. m. Even with a wireless connection, the sound remains clear, which favorably distinguishes the model against the background of budget counterparts. Among the shortcomings, we can only note that the device is rather large.

LG SJ3

This mono speaker has a pretty attractive design. The model is flat, slightly elongated, but not high. The speakers are protected by a metal grille through which the backlit display can be seen . The model has rubberized feet, which allows it to be placed even on slippery surfaces. In addition, this detail ensures that there is no degradation in the sound quality of low frequencies at high volumes. The soundbar body itself is made of plastic. The assembly is well thought out, all elements are well fitted. It should be noted that the monocolumn does not withstand the fall well.

The connection ports are on the back . To control the model, physical buttons on the body are used. The device received 4 speakers with a total power of 100 W and a bass reflex subwoofer for 200 W. Low frequencies sound pretty good. High power combined with an affordable price. Stylish design adorns any interior. At the same time, the model takes up quite a bit of space.

Middle price segment

Higher priced soundbars improve the sound of TVs more noticeably. The middle price segment is famous for the perfect balance between quality and value.

Samsung HW-M550

The soundbar looks strict and laconic, there are no decorative elements. The case is metal with a matte finish. This is quite practical, because the device is practically invisible to various dirt, fingerprints. There is a metal mesh in front that protects the speakers. The model is distinguished by its reliability and durability, high-quality assembly . There is a display that shows data about the used connection input. Screw points on the bottom of the cabinet allow you to fix the soundbar to the wall. The total power is 340 watts. The system itself consists of a bass reflex subwoofer and three speakers. The device allows you to enjoy balanced sound in virtually any part of the room. The center column is responsible for the clarity of speech reproduction.

It should be noted that the model connects to the TV wirelessly. The high power allows you to enjoy even listening to music. One of the proprietary options provides a fairly wide audible area. Samsung Audio Remote App lets you control your soundbar even from your tablet or smartphone . The main advantage can be considered a reliable metal case. The model works well with TVs of any production. The sound is clear, there is no extraneous noise.

It is worth noting that the bass line requires additional tuning.

Canton DM 55

The model attracts users with its balanced and surround sound. The sound is evenly distributed throughout the room. The bass line is deep, but does not degrade the quality of other frequencies. The soundbar reproduces speech perfectly. It should be noted that the model did not receive an HDMI connector, there are only coaxial and optical inputs . Connection via Bluetooth model is also possible. The manufacturer has taken care of an informative display and a convenient remote control. The signal through the optical input passes well, because the channel itself is quite wide.

The body of the model itself is made at a high level . The main panel of tempered glass looks attractive and is practically resistant to mechanical stress. The metal legs are covered with a thin layer of rubber to prevent slipping. The main advantages of the model can be considered wide functionality and high sound quality. All frequencies are balanced.

YAMAHA MusicCast BAR 400

This soundbar belongs to a new generation. The model has a main unit and a free-standing subwoofer. The design is rather restrained, there is a curved mesh in front, and the body itself is metal, decorated with a matte finish. The small form factor allows you to install the device in any convenient place. The soundbar received 50 W speakers, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi models . The subwoofer is separate and has the same design as the main part. Inside is a 6.5-inch speaker and a 100-watt amplifier. Touch controls are located directly on the body.

Additionally, you can use the remote control from the soundbar or from the TV, the program for the smartphone in Russian. IN the application has the ability to fine-tune the sound. An atypical input for this technique - 3.5 mm - allows you to connect additional speakers or a full-fledged audio system. It is possible to use a Bluetooth module. The soundbar can work with any audio format.

Additionally, it is possible to listen to Internet radio and any music services.

Bose Soundbar 500

Quite a powerful soundbar has a built-in voice assistant, which is extremely unusual. Wi-Fi support is provided. You can control the system with a remote control, voice or through the Bose Music program . The device is quite high quality both in sound and in assembly. There is no subwoofer in this model, but the sound is still quite high-quality and voluminous.

Even when connected wirelessly and at high volume, bass sounds deep . The American manufacturer has taken care of the attractive design. Setting up the model is pretty easy, as well as setting it up. It is possible to add a subwoofer to the system. It's worth noting that there is no support for Atmos.

Premium

With Hi-End acoustics, any TV turns into a full-fledged home theater. Expensive soundbars provide clear, spacious and high-quality sound. Premium mono speakers feature high build quality and high reliability.

Sonos playbar

The soundbar received nine speakers, six of which are responsible for the midrange, and three for the high. Two sound sources are located on the sides of the cabinet for maximum sound volume. Each speaker has an amplifier. The metal case is decorated with plastic inserts, which looks very impressive . The manufacturer has made sure that you can use the Internet and Smart-TV. The optical input allows you to combine the soundbar with your TV. You can use the model yourself as a music center. There is more than enough power for these purposes.

The soundbar receives and distributes the signal from the TV automatically. There is a Sonos Controller program for control, which can be installed on a gadget with any operating system . High quality and reliable mono speaker provides clear sound. Installing and configuring the model is as easy as possible.

Sony HT-ZF9

The soundbar has a pretty interesting design. Part of the case is matte, the other part is glossy. There is an attractive grille that is magnetised. The whole design is rather small and laconic. The system can be supplemented with wireless rear speakers. The end result is a 5.1 system with ZF9 audio processing. If a DTS: X or Dolby Atmos stream comes in, the system will automatically activate the corresponding module . The soundbar will also recognize any other sound on its own. The Dolby Speaker Virtualiser option allows you to improve the format of the audio scene in both width and height.

We recommend that you place the model at ear level to enjoy the full functionality of the system. The subwoofer is responsible for high-quality low frequencies. There are modules for wireless connection. The body provides inputs HDMI, USB and connectors for speakers, headphones . It should be noted that the model received a special speech amplification mode at two levels. High power and maximum volume allow the soundbar to be installed in a large room. A high quality high speed HDMI cable is included.

Dali KATCH ONE

The soundbar operates at 200 watts. The set includes a remote control. Nine speakers are hidden in the body. The device is large and stylish and can be wall-mounted or stand-mounted. The interface is diverse, the manufacturer has taken care of a large number of different inputs for connection . Additionally, a Bluetooth module is built-in. It is recommended to install the soundbar near the rear wall for better audio reproduction.

It should be noted that the model does not connect to Wi-Fi. Dolby Atmos audio files and the like are not supported.

Yamaha YSP-2700

The system has a total speaker power of 107 W and a 7.1 standard. You can control the model using the remote control. It is noteworthy that the device is low and has removable legs. The design is laconic and austere. A calibration microphone is used to set up surround sound . It is enough to place it in the right place, and the system itself activates all the necessary options. The microphone is included. In the process of watching films, you get the feeling that sound appears literally from all sides.

There is a Musiccast program for control through the gadget . The application interface is as simple and intuitive as possible. It is possible to use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and AirPlay. The instruction in Russian is available only in electronic form.

It should be noted that wall mounts will have to be purchased separately, they are not included in the set.

Criterias of choice

Before buying a soundbar for an apartment, there are many criteria to evaluate. It is important to consider the power, mono speaker type, number of channels, bass and speech quality. So for music and movies, you need a different set of characteristics. Criteria for choosing a soundbar for the home, which are important.

• Power . This characteristic is one of the most significant. The system will produce surround, high quality and loud sound at a high power rating. For an apartment with small rooms, you can choose a soundbar for 80-100 watts. The maximum value reaches 800 watts. Additionally, you need to consider the level of distortion. For example, if this figure reaches 10%, then listening to movies and music will not bring pleasure. The distortion level should be low.
• View . Soundbars are active and passive. In the first case, it is an independent system with a built-in amplifier. For surround and high-quality sound, you just need to connect the mono speaker to the TV and the power supply. A passive soundbar requires an additional amplifier. An active system is more relevant to the home. Passive is used only in cases where it is not possible to install the previous option due to the small area of the room.
• Subwoofer . The saturation and spaciousness of the sound depends on the width of the frequency range. For the best bass sound, manufacturers install a subwoofer in the soundbar. Moreover, this part can be in a case with speakers or be free-standing. There are models where the subwoofer is located separately and combined with several wireless speakers. Select the latter option for movies with complex sound effects and rock music.
• Number of channels . This characteristic significantly affects the cost of the device. Soundbars can have from 2 to 15 acoustic channels. For a simple improvement in the sound quality of the TV, the standard 2.0 or 2.1 is sufficient. Models with three channels better reproduce human speech. Monocolumns of 5.1 standard are optimal. They are capable of high quality reproduction of all audio formats. More multichannel devices are expensive and are designed to play Dolby Atmos and DTS: X.
• Dimensions and mounting methods . Sizes directly depend on preferences and the number of built-in nodes. The soundbar can be mounted on a wall or horizontally. Most devices allow you to choose the installation method yourself.
• Additional functions . Options depend on the destination and price segment. Among the interesting are the possibilities to connect flash drives and disks. There are soundbars that support karaoke, Smart-TV and have a built-in player.

Additionally, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay or DTS Play-Fi may be present.