The 9 best soundbars in 2023 for clear and crisp TV audio

Pros: Easy setup, Alexa support, room-filling sound, sleek appearance, smartphone app makes fine-tuning a breeze

Cons: No onboard display, doesn't support Dolby Vision passthrough

The YAS-209 may be getting long in the tooth, but its perfect blend of solid audio quality, ease of use, sleek design, and affordable pricing make it a perennial favorite. This is the type of space-saving audio option that most people think of when shopping for a soundbar, and it makes for a great upgrade to built-in TV speakers.

The system includes a 36-inch soundbar unit and a wireless subwoofer for dedicated bass. The 2.1-channel hardware delivers a stereo playback experience, but it has DTS Virtual:X processing for a simulated surround sound effect. It's not as convincing as pricier virtual surround systems, but it does a decent job of creating an expansive soundstage. With or without virtual surround, the system provides clear and balanced sound for a wide array of audio content.

The YAS-209 connects to your TV using its HDMI ARC port, and the soundbar has a handy HDMI-in port that supports 4K HDR video passthrough (but not Dolby Vision) from a connected device, like a gaming console or Blu-ray player. An optical audio port is also featured for older TVs without HDMI ARC, and you can wirelessly stream music from a mobile device via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

The YAS-209 even includes integrated support for Amazon Alexa thanks to built-in microphones, enabling digital assistant features and hands-free control for functions like volume. All of this at such a low price is what keeps the YAS-209 at the top of the list for so many soundbar buyers and reviewers alike, making it one of the best soundbars you can buy.

The Vizio V-Series V21d-J8 is a simple 2.1-channel soundbar built for buyers on a budget. Its audio performance can't match more expensive models, but it delivers a decent upgrade over the built-in speakers you'll find on most entry-level and midrange TVs. 

The soundbar has built-in woofers, meaning you'll get two main channels for pure stereo sound and a little extra bass even though the system doesn't come with a separate subwoofer. Vizio also uses DTS Virtual:X processing to create a bigger sound field from the device's 2.1 channels, resulting in simulated surround and height effects. The tech employed here is nowhere near as advanced as what you'd get on a high-end soundbar like the Ambeo Max, but it can still help expand the device's soundstage.

Standing out from the typical boxy design we see on most soundbars, the V-Series has angled sides that slope down to create a hexagonal profile. Buttons for various controls rest on the side of the bar, including volume, source, Bluetooth audio, and the all-important power button.

The soundbar has an HDMI ARC port for easy connection to modern smart TVs, and you also get an Optical audio port if your TV doesn't have an HDMI connection. There's no HDMI video passthrough, but you can hook up older audio sources to the bar's 3.5mm auxiliary port.

For wireless playback, the soundbar supports Bluetooth, making it easy to stream music from your smartphone, but you can't stream via Wi-Fi. An included remote handles all your needs for adjusting volume, accessing basic equalizer options, and toggling various modes.

Pros: Best-in-class virtual surround sound with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, excellent music performance, premium build quality, simplified music streaming

Cons: Large for a soundbar, no HDMI 2.1 support, virtual surround sound still can't match a real multi-speaker system

If you want an absolutely killer listening experience without the hassle of setting up multiple speakers, look no further than the Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Max. This high-end soundbar is loaded with premium components and innovative software to create an unparalleled virtual surround sound experience from a single audio component.

The Ambeo Max is a beast of a soundbar, coming in at 50 inches wide and 40 pounds which can make it tricky to fit in some living room setups. But its hefty design enables Sennheiser to pack in five tweeters, six four-inch drivers at the front and sides, and a pair of 3.5-inch upfiring drivers. The upfiring and side-firing drivers bounce audio off your ceiling and walls to make it sound like effects are coming from all around you in a full 5.1.4-channel configuration.

The effect is particularly impressive for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content, but Sennheiser's Ambeo software lets you virtualize everything you play, from music to sitcoms. By reflecting audio in different directions, the bar creates a truly engaging and immersive soundscape with the most realistic sense of surround sound we've heard from a single soundbar. While not as convincing as having actual rear and overhead speakers, it's much more compact than multi-speaker systems.

As you'd expect from Sennheiser, the Ambeo Max is also excellent for music streaming, providing rich and detailed sound across genres.  And though the soundbar doesn't include a dedicated subwoofer, mid-bass performance is deep and impactful. You can also add a separate subwoofer from your brand of choice if you crave more low-frequency oomph. 

When it comes to connectivity, you get lots of options with HDMI, Optical, and RCA audio ports, as well as three HDMI inputs for 4K HDR video passthrough from other devices. Like most of the best soundbars, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are also supported for wireless music streaming directly from the Sennheiser app or from some of the best music streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music.

Pros: Built-in Alexa support, clear dialogue, compact design, Dolby Atmos support with upfiring drivers 

Cons: Minimal inputs, lacks separate subwoofer, doesn't support DTS

As its name implies, the Bose Smart Soundbar 600 is designed to be a soundbar and smart speaker in one. It has built-in microphones with Amazon Alexa voice control, and it also supports Google Assistant when paired with a separate device.

The soundbar makes use of the Bose Music App for easy setup, intuitive control, and access to popular streaming services like Spotify and Amazon Music. You can also stream additional services like Apple Music using AirPlay 2, Chromecast, or Bluetooth. The Bose Smart Soundbar 600 can also be paired with other Bose speakers to create a multi-room audio system throughout your house or as satellite speakers for a true surround sound setup.

Despite its compact size, the Smart Soundbar 600 delivers impressive audio performance, with surprisingly full and clear sound from such a small profile. We were especially pleased by how well dialogue comes through, even when watching big action scenes. And unlike other smart soundbars in this price range, like the Sonos Beam, this Bose model has true upfiring drivers to deliver more convincing Dolby Atmos overhead audio effects. When matched with its side- and front-firing drivers, the bar creates a strikingly immersive audio experience.

On the downside, the Soundbar 600 doesn't support DTS audio formats and it lacks some kick in its lower bass registers. You can pair it with a Bose subwoofer, like the Bose Bass Module 500, but that almost doubles the price.

Still, even without a separate subwoofer, the Bose Smart Soundbar 600 is easily one of the best soundbars you can get for $500, especially if you want Dolby Atmos, clear dialogue, and Alexa smarts all in one compact device.

Pros: Full 5.1.4 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X capabilities, unique rotating speakers, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

Cons: No voice assistant built-in, separate satellites and larger subwoofer take up more space than typical soundbar systems

When it comes to Atmos-capable soundbar systems, few options are as immersive as Vizio's Elevate soundbar. It's pricier than standard soundbar packages, but it's still one of the most affordable ways to enjoy a full 5.1.4 Dolby Atmos experience.

Prized for its object-based mixing and height effects, Dolby Atmos adds an extra layer of immersion to movies and TV shows from supported services. For instance, when rain falls from the sky or a helicopter flies overhead, you can actually hear the sound coming from above.

The Elevate offers left, center, and right channels in the soundbar itself, along with two upward firing channels that bounce sound off your ceiling to create overhead effects. Two separate rear speakers with their own upward-firing drivers are also included, along with an 8-inch wireless subwoofer.

In an intriguing design twist, the Elevate's front height speakers also feature a rotating mechanism that allows them to automatically tilt up or forward depending on what you're listening to. When fed a 3D audio mix like Dolby Atmos, they move up to produce overhead effects. For other mixes, they face forward, helping to create a wider and more powerful front soundstage. 

The Elevate also includes support for DTS:X. Like Atmos, DTS:X provides height effects on certain Blu-ray discs. DTS:X titles are less common than Dolby Atmos, but it's still a nice option to have.

The Elevate's relatively large size and wired rear speakers make it more onerous and less space-saving than many soundbar options, but the system provides audio performance that's nearly on par with some home theater packages at a relatively low price.

Pros: Class-leading Dolby Atmos and DTS:X performance, clear music and dialogue, automatically adjusts to content, stylish and simple remote, loads of features and formats

Cons: Pricey and bulky, no HDMI 2.1 support

Samsung's flagship soundbar is the last word in immersive Dolby Atmos performance. This has been a progressive process for Samsung over several years, resulting in a massive multi-piece system with 22 speakers working in tandem to utterly submerge you in seamless sound. 

Armed with four upfiring drivers, four side-firing drivers (including two in the rear surrounds), a brawny subwoofer, and a ton of other speakers, the HW-Q990B is a monstrous machine that drops you directly into the action. But this system isn't just about muscle — it also provides excellent balance and fluid transition between speakers, helping it excel at enhancing everything from sitcoms and action flicks to jazz and hip-hop.

The system is loaded with features, from built-in Alexa control to support for major audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and high-resolution audio files. You'll get streaming over Wi-Fi with Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, and Chromecast, as well as Bluetooth. Inputs include HDMI eARC for simplified high-bandwidth connection to supported TVs, as well as Optical connection and a pair of HDMI inputs with 4K HDR passthrough (though they stop short of HDMI 2.1 support).

Accessories include a stylish and intuitive remote, or you can use the Samsung SmartThings app for fine-tuning settings like EQ and individual channel volume. The system is also designed to work with select Samsung TVs via Q-symphony, using the TV speakers as part of a combined audio system. 

Frankly, the HW-Q990B's only real drawback is the price. But because the system has been around a while, you can often find it on sale for well below its original $1,800 MSRP. You could also opt to spring for the newer HW-Q990C, but it offers relatively minimal upgrades, bearing the same 11.1.4-channel configuration. If you're looking for the best Dolby Atmos soundbar, this is the system for you.

Pros: Smooth and detailed sound, Dolby Atmos and multi-room audio support, simplified setup, slick aesthetic, ability to add speakers later

Cons: Tall and stout design, no spare HDMI inputs, no DTS:X support

In many ways, Sonos' Arc is the quintessential all-in-one soundbar. It offers a slick and stylish design, rich and immersive audio performance, and simplified setup to get you up and running in minutes. And that's just for starters.

Because this is a Sonos soundbar, it's as much about what's inside this system as what you see and hear. Sonos' S2 app and software make it easy to stream music from a variety of services, tune the sound to your liking, and even connect other Sonos speakers like the new Sonos Era 100 and Era 300 in a multi-room audio system or as part of a multi-speaker surround system.

As the first Dolby Atmos bar from Sonos, the Arc offers both side-firing and upfiring drivers to surround you in the immersive, hemispheric dome for which the format is prized. With Sonos going all in on Dolby Atmos Music, you can also stream new Dolby Atmos mixes and remixes from your favorite artists directly to the bar from supported services like Apple Music.

There are some downsides to Sonos' minimalist design, including a lack of inputs. The Arc does not include a spare HDMI input or even an Optical input without a separate adapter. And though Sonos has added DTS 5.1 audio support, the Arc does not support DTS' competing 3D surround sound format, DTS:X.

The Arc's current $899 price point can also be tough to swallow for some, especially since it doesn't come with a separate subwoofer. It still offers relatively punchy bass performance, though, and its lack of extra trappings is part of what makes this concise package so appealing for many. With excellent sound and tons of modern features, the Arc is one of the best soundbars we've tested and a strikingly easy way to upgrade your audio setup.

Pros: Fantastic virtual surround sound, impressive bass for a single bar, stylish design, HDMI 2.1 support, on-screen interface for settings adjustment

Cons: Pricey for a single bar, no VRR or ALLM support, limited app

Sony's HT-A7000 is one of the most magically immersive soundbars you can buy, second only to Sennheiser's much pricier Ambeo Max. With excellent musicality and punchy bass, this monster-sized bar delivers expressive and powerful performance across content, from Dolby Atmos and DTS:X films to jazz and acoustic music.

But it's the hefty suite of A/V and gaming features that really kicks things up a notch for Sony's flagship soundbar. The system supports a laundry list of high-resolution audio formats, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, multiple high-resolution audio files, and Sony's own 360 Reality Audio format for streaming 3D music from supported apps.

Streaming over Wi-Fi is available from the usual suspects, including Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Bluetooth. There's also support for Alexa and Google Assistant, but only with a separate device.

On the gaming front, the HT-A7000 is one of the few soundbars that offers HDMI inputs with full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth support, including 4K HDR passthrough at up to 120Hz so you can unlock high frame rate support on a PS5 or Xbox Series X/S when paired with a compatible TV. One drawback there is that Sony has yet to support other advanced gaming features like VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) or ALLM (Auto low latency mode). Still, this is one of the rare systems we've encountered with HDMI 2.1 bandwidth support at any price. For PS5 users, it also supports advanced features like Auto Tone HDR Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode.

At up to $1,400, price is an obvious barrier here, especially since the system doesn't include a separate subwoofer. If you don't need a single bar, you might be better off adding a sub to something cheaper or buying a multi-piece system. Still, the HT-A7000 is a powerful performer with impressive gaming chops, especially for PS5 fans.

Pros: Affordable, solid stereo playback, compact design, 4K HDR video streaming, includes a voice remote

Cons: Audio performance isn't as good as bigger soundbars, navigation isn't as snappy dedicated streaming devices, no Dolby Vision support

If you happen to be in the market for both a soundbar and a new streaming media player, then the Roku Streambar could be the convenient all-in-one device you're looking for. Not only is the Streambar smaller than any other soundbar on our list, but it also includes integrated video playback support for all of the best streaming services.

When it comes to audio performance, the 2.0-channel soundbar features four 1.9-inch full range drivers for basic stereo playback. There are no fancy virtualization options for simulated surround sound, and there's no included subwoofer for extra bass — but the Streambar sounds surprisingly engaging for a device its size.

To be clear, you won't get the range, accuracy, or separation you'd get on a bigger soundbar, but the Streambar still offers a nice upgrade over most built-in TV speakers. Its compact design also makes it an ideal fit for apartments, dorms, and bedrooms.

As a media player, the Streambar provides access to Roku's extensive library of channels, including popular services like Netflix, Disney Plus, Prime Video, Hulu, and more. You also get support for up to 4K playback with high dynamic range using the standard HDR10 format. But while navigation speed is decent, the Streambar isn't as snappy as the best streaming devices, like the Roku Ultra.

Roku's handy voice remote is included as well, enabling you to easily search for content. Though digital assistant functionality isn't built-in, the bar is compatible with separate Alexa and Google Assistant devices.

There are other soundbars on the market with built-in video playback, but the Streambar's compact size, affordable price tag, and reliable Roku interface make it our favorite of the bunch.

Are soundbars really worth it?

A soundbar is a worthwhile purchase if you're someone who doesn't have the space or budget for traditional speakers. Soundbars can't match the experience that the best home theater systems deliver, but they're a convenient and often cheaper alternative that will still give your TV a solid audio upgrade. 

Many premium soundbars go further, offering multiple channels including surround speakers and upfiring drivers to bounce sound around you and convincingly recreate a surround sound experience in a self-contained package. Even for picky listeners, the best soundbars can be a major audio upgrade that takes a mediocre movie or gaming experience to new heights.

Are soundbars better than TV speakers?

Generally, even cheap soundbars deliver better audio quality than the speakers you'll find built into most TVs. To keep costs down and ensure that the speakers fit within a flat-screen design, TVs usually include small divers and poor placement that can result in thin, muddy sound. The best soundbars can add more dimension, clarity, and bass to your TV-watching experience. 

For those with hearing issues, soundbars can also improve the definition of dialogue and other effects. That's especially true for soundbars with a dedicated center channel, where most dialogue and other important movie and TV sound effects are directed.

How many speaker channels should a soundbar have?

The best soundbars can support multiple audio channels. These channels refer to how many directions sound can be sent through the device. Entry-level soundbars support two channels for basic left and right stereo playback, but high-end models can support five or more channels for center-channel audio that can enhance dialogue, as well as surround channels via extra audio drivers, satellite speakers, or advanced virtualization techniques. 

Channel specifications are listed as a string of up to three numbers separated by decimal points. The first number represents how many standard ear-level channels are included (left, right, center, surrounds). The second number indicates if the device includes a dedicated low-frequency channel or separate subwoofer for extra bass. The final number indicates how many height channels are included for Dolby Atmos support.

Buyers who just want a simple upgrade from their TV's integrated audio will likely be satisfied with a compact 2.0 or 2.1 soundbar system. But if you're looking for a more complete home theater experience you'll want to opt for a 5.1 system or above.

What is Dolby Atmos?

Dolby Atmos is an immersive surround sound format that uses object-based audio mixing. In practice, this means that sounds can be more precisely positioned around your room, with effects placed in all directions, including above your head. 

Dolby Atmos is supported by a lot of the best streaming services, including Netflix, Disney Plus, and Prime Video. Though not every movie or TV show on these services features an Atmos mix, many big new releases and original series do. Atmos is also supported on many Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray discs.

In order to hear a Dolby Atmos mix, you need an Atmos-compatible sound system. Many soundbars now include Dolby Atmos support, but their actual performance capabilities can vary a lot depending on how many channels they support. The more audio channels they offer, the more directions you'll be able to hear sound from. 

In order to create overhead sound effects, Dolby Atmos soundbars can use one of two methods. The first involves using audio processing to try and create a simulated sense of height from regular ear-level speakers. The second method involves using upfiring drivers that are angled up instead of forward in order to bounce sound effects off your ceiling. In general, good upward firing drivers provide a much more convincing sense of overhead sound than audio processing can produce alone.

Dolby Atmos Music is a newer addition to the format, in which the same principles applied to film and TV shows are used for music mixes. Dolby Atmos Music is being championed by audio brands like Sonos as a new way to experience the music you love in a more immersive form, allowing you to stream new songs and remixed classics from services like Apple Music and Amazon Music Unlimited to supported speakers and soundbars. 

Dolby Atmos has competition from other audio formats, including DTS:X and Sony's 360 Reality Audio. DTS:X essentially offers the same performance on the film side but it's not supported on as many streaming services, Blu-ray discs, or soundbars. DTS:X is a nice bonus to have when shopping for a soundbar, but we don't think it's as important as Dolby Atmos support. Similarly, Sony 360 Reality Audio is a Dolby Atmos competitor for music. 

Do I need a subwoofer?

A subwoofer can be an integral part of your cinematic and musical experience. Due to basic physics, soundbars alone can't offer the same power and authority that you'd get in dedicated bass frequencies from even a moderately sized subwoofer. If you're looking for earth-rattling thunder, the deep boom of explosions, and hefty bass beats, you'll want to highly consider a soundbar that either includes a subwoofer, or at the very least, allows you to add one later.

That said, today's best standalone soundbars, like the Sonos Arc, Sony HT-A7000, and Sennheiser Ambeo Max, do a good job of reproducing low-frequency effects and music without the need for a separate subwoofer. These bars not only provide a dedicated channel for low-frequency effects but also incorporate speakers large enough to reproduce convincing bass on their own. Again, it won't beat a separate subwoofer, but the top performers get close. Most premium options also allow for adding a subwoofer later, albeit at a relatively high cost.

However, if your budget demands something smaller and cheaper and you still crave deep bass, we recommend you consider a system that either includes a subwoofer in the package or, at the very least, allows you to add one later.

How do I connect a soundbar?

The vast majority of soundbars we test connect to your TV via HDMI ARC or eARC. This is not only the most convenient connection type, but it's also the only way to source high-quality formats like Dolby Atmos from your TV directly. In most cases, HDMI ARC connection also allows you to use a TV remote to control a soundbar's volume and power, reducing clutter.

Even if you're using a TV that's several years old and doesn't offer 4K HDR resolution, there's a good chance it supports HDMI ARC. You can find out by checking your TV's input section and looking for an HDMI port labeled as "HDMI ARC" or "HDMI eARC."

If your TV does not allow for HDMI ARC or eARC connection, you'll need to use an alternative connection like an optical digital port. This still allows for good sound quality, but it doesn't support 3D audio formats like Dolby Atmos. In that case, you may also want to consider upgrading your TV. A budget 4K HDR TV can now be purchased at a starting price of around $200 or less, and even some of the best 4K TVs hover around $500, depending on size.

When testing models to determine the best soundbars we examine a variety of key factors, including audio quality, format support, connectivity options, smart features, and overall value. 

We also evaluate factors like perceived build quality and aesthetics, as well as how easy a soundbar is to set up and use on a daily basis. After all, convenience is a big advantage of using a soundbar over more traditional speaker systems. A good soundbar should be simple to use and easy to integrate into your entertainment setup.

Using a mix of test movies and shows across different genres we evaluate low, mid, and high-frequency performance. We also take into account how easy it is to hear dialogue using multiple settings, and whether the soundbar can get loud without losing quality. We also listen to an assortment of music tracks to determine if the soundbar sounds tinny or distorted, and if it maintains good sonic detail and instrumental definition for a variety of styles like rock, pop, acoustic music, and hip-hop.

At the very least, most soundbars support basic stereo PCM and Dolby Digital audio formats, but we also look for models that step things up with simulated surround sound tech like DTS Virtual:X, and true immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which can provide a more enveloping listening experience. High-res music support is also a nice bonus to have, especially with a growing number of the best music streaming services offering high-resolution streaming, such as Tidal, Apple Music, Amazon Music Unlimited, and others.

Most modern soundbars use HDMI ARC or eARC ports to connect to your TV, but it's also nice when models include additional wired options like Optical and 3.5mm to connect to older TVs or additional audio components. Extra HDMI ports to pass through video from connected devices like a Blu-ray player or gaming console are also great to have, but shouldn't be expected on entry-level models.

Bluetooth music streaming support is common on a lot of the best soundbars, but we give extra marks to bars that also include Wi-Fi for better-quality playback with features like Spotify Connect streaming. We also look for integrated AirPlay 2 and Chromecast support since these features make it easier to stream from Apple and Android devices. Integrated digital assistant support isn't a requirement, but soundbars that have built-in Alexa or Google Assistant offer the added convenience of doubling as a smart speaker.