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6 Best Soundbars [Tested and Reviewed]
The speakers that come built into TVs aren’t known for their quality. Fortunately, a soundbar that you can place right in front of your TV is an easy way to upgrade the quality of your home theater. Some of the top names in audio make soundbars, including Sony, Yamaha, and BOSE, and they come in a variety of price ranges and sizes. But how much does a soundbar actually improve sound quality and what is the best option for your setup?
Our audio experts and testers have done the work for you. We gathered six popular soundbars—the latest versions and top sellers from each manufacturer—and thoroughly vetted them on seven quality measures. Then we ranked them to show how they performed in comparison to each other.
At mybest, we think the best soundbar is one that allows you to enjoy excellent sound quality and power at home and is also easy to use. We’ll explain how soundbars provide better audio, outline the important features to look for when choosing one, and explain the results of our testing, so you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed purchase.
Dave Taylor has been involved in the consumer electronics business for many years, both as an entrepreneur and as a journalist and marketing consultant. A frequent CES Innovations judge, he has also reviewed over a thousand popular audio and electronic devices on his AskDaveTaylor YouTube channel. He also teaches marketing and communication at the University of Denver, where he's been honored as a Leader in Teaching Excellence. Visitors often comment that his office looks like a miniature BestBuy, with dozens of headphones, earbuds, laptops, display screens, and much, much more.
Goshi was a sales representative at an audio specialty store for three years. He has demoed more than 500 types of earphones and headphones, including custom-made and high-end models. He also has an extraordinary passion for sound, utilizing 11 different types of earphones and headphones depending on the music and environment. He joined mybest in 2023, where he is in charge of audio equipment, using his extensive knowledge. With the motto of "recommending audio equipment with user needs in mind," he produces articles daily putting users first.
How We Tested the Products
- Dialogue Clarity1
The standard we established to gauge dialogue clarity is substantial sound with emphasized consonants in words, making movie and drama dialogue easy to understand.
- Bass Intensity2
The standard we defined for great bass intensity in a soundbar is one that delivers powerful and deep bass, and provides the richness and impact of sound that you can experience in a movie theater.
- Immersiveness3
The standard we defined for an exceptionally immersive soundbar is one that allows the sound to engulf the room, and immerses the user in the world of the movie.
- Connectivity Options4
The standard we defined for ranking available connectivity options in a soundbar is that in addition to HDMI, it is also compatible with many connection methods, so it can accommodate any situation.
- Ease of Use5
The standard we defined to determine whether a soundbar is easy to use is that the operating status can be quickly checked and the connection to the TV can be easily switched via remote control or app.
- Ease of Customization6
The standard we defined to determine whether a soundbar is highly customizable when it comes to sound is that it has features that can change the quality of and enhance the realism of its sound.
- Ease of Installation7
The standard we defined to determine whether a soundbar is easy to install is that it supports wall mounting, is compact, and is relatively easy to move.
All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.
Can a Soundbar Really Improve Sound Quality?
You’ve already invested in a TV that comes with built-in speakers, so you may wonder why you need a soundbar. Does a soundbar really improve sound quality? And how does a soundbar compare to built-in speakers?
Using a Soundbar Can Make Home Entertainment an Immersive Experience
At mybest, we used calibration software to measure the audio quality of each soundbar. Our testing revealed significant differences in the richness and power of the sound when using the built-in speakers of the TV and a soundbar.
So why do built-in speakers fall short? As the design of TVs has gotten thinner, the space for installing speakers has gotten smaller. The resulting sound has less depth and is lighter on the bass. And because built-in speakers are typically installed on the bottom or the back of a TV, it’s challenging for them to provide immersive sound.
Soundbars, on the other hand, are designed with larger speakers that provide powerful bass and rich sound, similar to the experience of watching a film in a movie theater. On the other end of the audio spectrum, soundbars also help you hear delicate sounds that might not have been audible from a TV’s built-in speakers.
Watching movies and live footage while using the highest-rated soundbar felt like watching a movie in a theater. The power and presence that you simply can't get from built-in TV speakers were incredible, and it's tough to go back to using the TV speakers once you've used a soundbar. If you're unsure, I highly recommend giving it a try.
Measure Your Space Before Selecting a Soundbar
At first glance, soundbars may look the same, but they vary in width from about 25 inches to over 50 inches. Generally, a soundbar should have a smaller width than the TV. To pick the best option for your space, measure the area where you want to install the soundbar before making a purchase.
Check the Width, Length, and Height of Your TV and Stand
First, measure the width and height of your TV stand to make sure the soundbar fits. Sure, you can use a soundbar that’s too big for your TV stand, but it will look awkward, and you risk people bumping into it and knocking it off the stand.
It’s also important to measure the height from the bottom of the TV to the surface of your TV stand. Televisions operated by infrared remote controls typically have sensors located under the screen. You don’t want the soundbar to block the sensor, or the remote control may not work. So be sure to measure the distance from the TV stand to the TV's sensor and look for a soundbar that won’t block the sensor.
People who want to hang a soundbar on the wall must check if it is compatible with wall mounting. In the following rankings, we indicate whether it's compatible with wall mounting, so please check before making a purchase.
How to Choose Soundbars
Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best Soundbars.
Finding the Best Type of Soundbar for Your Needs
Soundbars can be broadly divided into two types, which we’ll discuss below. Broadly speaking, the quality of sound, the space-occupancy ratio, and the level of noise can vary depending on the type, so we recommend that you choose a soundbar that suits your preferences.
The Benefits of Single-Unit Speakers and Multi-Speakers
There are two types of soundbars: single unit, which works on its own, and multi-speaker, which involves installing multiple speakers, such as a subwoofer for low tones and rear speakers for high tones.
The benefit of the single-unit type is that you can typically place it in front of the TV. While it lacks the power and three-dimensional sound of a multi-speaker soundbar, the audio is less likely to reverberate off the floor or walls. So you can use one without disturbing the neighbors.
A multi-speaker soundbar, meanwhile, comes with a subwoofer and rear speakers, which create three-dimensional sound. Compared to the standalone type, which can only simulate surround sound using the wall's echo, a multi-speaker soundbar creates an immersive experience. That said, you don’t want a multi-speaker model if your home has poor soundproofing, as the sound from the subwoofer can reverberate through the floor and walls.
Some companies that make single-unit soundbars sell subwoofers and rear speakers as optional extras. If you’re particular about sound, we recommend you purchase a single-unit soundbar that allows you to connect a subwoofer and rear speakers. If you don’t annoy your neighbors, consider keeping the expanded functionality.
Sound Quality Is a Given
If you've decided to invest in a soundbar, you want one with high-quality sound, right? For this review, mybest used calibration software to measure the audio power of each product and check their sound quality to help you find the best soundbar for your needs.
Gauge Soundbar Quality Through Bass Intensity, Dialogue Clarity, and Immersiveness
For this guide, we used specialized software to test the three essential elements of sound for enjoying movies, live action, and music with a soundbar. First, if the voice is clear, you can easily hear dialogue and vocal performances. Second, if the bass is powerful, you can feel the rhythm of the music and the explosive sound in action movies. Finally, if there’s a sense of depth, you feel immersed in the viewing experience.
Here are the criteria we used to test each element:
Dialogue Quality (the amplitude of 100-1000 Hz and 1-2 kHz): The sound’s depth and clarity is more pronounced at 70 dB and over.
Bass Intensity (22.5-200 Hz size, 40 Hz size): At 80 dB and up, you can feel the powerful impact of the music and movies resonating in your body.
Immersiveness (the volume difference in each of the cardinal directions, and above and below): If there is a difference of 2 dB or more, you can easily feel the movie’s special effects sounds, such as the movement of flying objects or lasers firing, making you feel as if you were there.
A Quality Soundbar Can Greatly Heighten the Experience of Music
You can’t judge sound quality solely based on the specs published by the manufacturer. Before making a purchase, we encourage you to explore the results of our testing so you can choose a soundbar with top-notch sound quality.
JBL and Samsung Top the List of Multi-Speaker Soundbars
Out of the multi-speaker soundbars we tested, JBL's BAR 1000 and Samsung's HW-Q990C provided the best sound quality.
The JBL - BAR 1000 comes with a massive subwoofer, and its power is off the charts. It provides vibrant and robust sound, perfect for watching action movies or live events. Its quality allows you to enjoy cinematic experiences right in your home.
The Samsung - HW-Q990C, meanwhile, provides a more delicate sound and excels in its dimensional expression. The spatial relationships and movement of the sounds are realistically conveyed, allowing for easy immersion into the experience. We recommend the Samsung soundbar if you prefer a more nuanced and realistic sound over a vigorous and loud one.
Sonos Arc Is Our Top Choice for a Single-Unit Soundbar
Out of the all-in-one soundbars we tested, we recommend the Sonos - Arc for its superior sound quality.
This soundbar emits clear and beautiful sound, making it easy to hear actors’ lines. While this soundbar doesn’t pack the same power as a multi-speaker type, it produces good bass for an all-in-one and delivers a well-balanced sound. Its large-scale sound is also a plus, as it fills an entire room.
With its high-quality sound, the Sonos Arc can provide a top-notch listening experience at home.
Choose a Soundbar with a Display for Easy Operation
Since you’ll be using a soundbar every day, it’s important that the model is simple to use. We’ll explore below what features to look for in the display for easy operability.
You Can Operate Soundbars with Display While Sitting on the Couch
Soundbars are made with two different types of display. Some show text on the screen when you operate them and others use a status lamp that lights up.
The disadvantage of the status lamp display is that it can be hard to tell from a distance if the soundbar is responding correctly. You may end up pressing the button multiple times because you're not sure if it's working, or you may need to get closer to the soundbar to verify.
On the other hand, with soundbars that display text on the main unit or on the remote control's display, it's easier to confirm the operating status. These models are no trouble to operate when you’re sitting on the couch, allowing for easy switches between connection methods or sound quality modes.
Wi-Fi Compatibility Makes It Easy to Stream Music From Your Smartphone
Many soundbars can perform double duty as wireless speakers. If the model supports Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection, you can stream music from your smartphone. That said, we recommend you look for a soundbar that supports Wi-Fi connection since we found it easier to use.
It’s Easier to Connect a Soundbar to Wi-Fi Than Bluetooth
When you want to stream music from your smartphone via Bluetooth, you have to switch to Bluetooth mode on the soundbar.
On the other hand, if you use Wi-Fi, you won't usually have to go through this process. Once you initially connect to the same Wi-Fi, you can easily stream music from your smartphone without having to configure the soundbar every time.
If you're an iPhone user, we recommend using AirPlay even when connected to Wi-Fi. While some soundbars require a separate dedicated app to use, with AirPlay, you can easily connect from your preferred music application or control center.
6 Best Soundbars Ranking
Products | Image | mybest Score | Click to purchase | Key features | Main Score | Details | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dialogue Clarity | Bass Intensity | Immersiveness | Connectivity Options | Ease of Use | Ease of Customization | Ease of Installation | Type | Dolby Atmos Compatible | Number of Channels | Wireless Configuration | Sound Field Optimization | HDMI Standard | Audio Inputs | Airplay Compatible | Chromecast Compatible | Width | Depth | Height | Weight | Equalizer | With Remote | Wall Mountable | With App | With Subwoofer | ||||||
1 | JBL BAR 1000 | | 4.59 | mybest's Top Choice: Vibrant, Dynamic Sound With a Range of Settings | 4.64 | 4.74 | 4.75 | 4.75 | 5.00 | 4.50 | 3.00 | 4 speakers | 7.1.4 ch | 2.4Hz, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | eARC | HDMI | 34.8 in. | 2.2 in. | 4.9 in. | 41.5 lb. | ||||||||||
2 | Samsung HW-Q990C | | 4.54 | Produces Delicate Sound With Impressive 3D Quality and Calibration | 4.60 | 4.47 | 5.00 | 4.50 | 5.00 | 4.88 | 3.00 | 3 speakers | 11.1.4 | Bluetooth , Wi-Fi | eARC | HDMI | 48.5 in. | 5.5 in. | 2.7 in. | 17 lb. | ||||||||||
3 | Vizio Elevate｜P514a-H6 | | 4.52 | Provides Distinct and Realistic Sound, But Wiring Can Be a Hassle | 4.82 | 4.48 | 4.64 | 4.75 | 5.00 | 4.25 | 3.00 | 4 speakers | 5.1.4 ch | Bluetooth , Wi-Fi | ARC , eARC | HDMI , Digital Optical , Analog | 48 in. | 6.5 in. | 2.64 in. | 12.39 lb | ||||||||||
4 | Sony HT-A7000 | | 4.38 | Single-Body Soundbar That Produces a Rich Sound and Has Plentiful Features | 4.49 | 4.36 | 3.91 | 5.00 | 5.00 | 4.75 | 3.25 | All-in-one | 7.1.2.ch | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | ARC, eARC | HDMI | 53.5 in. | 7.75 in. | 8.81 in. | 19.18 lb. | ||||||||||
5 | Sonos Arc | | 4.32 | Vivid and Beautiful Sound but Requires a Smartphone for Usage | 4.83 | 4.34 | 4.32 | 3.88 | 4.40 | 4.63 | 4.00 | All-in-one | 5.1 ch | 2.4 Hz | ARC , eARC | HDMI | 25 in. | 6 in. | 3 in. | 26.5 lb. | ||||||||||
6 | PolkAudio Signa S4 | | 4.03 | Fits Around the TV, But Lacks Power and the Bass Is Weak | 3.85 | 3.99 | 4.27 | 4.25 | 4.20 | 3.88 | 3.25 | All-in-one | 3.1.2 ch | Bluetooth | ARC , eARC | HDMI | 41.2 in. | 2.4 in. | 3.7 in. | 19 lb. | ||||||||||
JBLBAR 1000
| Type | 4 speakers |
|---|---|
| Width | 34.8 in. |
| Depth | 2.2 in. |
| Height | 4.9 in. |
| With Subwoofer |
- Wireless Configuration
- 2.4Hz, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
- Airplay Compatible
- Chromecast Compatible
- Wall Mountable
mybest's Top Choice: Vibrant, Dynamic Sound With a Range of Settings
What we loved
- ・Powerful bass
- ・Voices come through clearly
- ・Excellent 3D audio quality
What we didn't love
- ・Subwoofer is large
- ・Speakers needs regular charging
JBL's BAR 1000 soundbar is a multi-speaker model that features detachable rear speakers.
Our testing showed that when watching movies or live performances, dialogue and singing sounded crisp and full. The bass is quite powerful, but the voices stand out. Its strength and richness is partly due to the large subwoofer, which resonates deeply. With this soundbar, the explosions in action movies have a ground-shaking impact and the beats of the bass and bass drum in live performances come through distinctly.
Its three-dimensional audio quality is excellent as well, with the sound filling the room. The visuals combine with the sound create a sense of movement and provide an immersive viewing experience. The overall sound is lively, with clear highs and lows, ideal for those who want to enjoy movies and live performances in all their glory.
<Measurement results>
Dialogue Clarity: 76.4 dB (relative to the reference value of +6.4 dB)
Bass Intensity: 82.4 dB (relative to the reference value of +2.4 dB)
Immersiveness: 2.5 dB (relative to the reference value of +0.5 dB)
This soundbar supports HDMI eARC, allowing you to connect it to your television with a single HDMI cable for increased bandwidth and speed. It is also compatible with Wi-Fi connections like AirPlay and Chromecast, so you can also use it as a wireless speaker. The display shows the operating status when you change the connection method, which is particularly convenient when you’re operating the device from your couch.
For films with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround-sound technology, you can enjoy more three-dimensional sound. You can also adjust the volume of individual speakers, including the subwoofer and rear speakers. This soundbar also features calibration that lets you adjust the sound to the size of the room and the arrangement of furniture, so you can tailor the sound to your environment and the type of video you are watching.
| Dolby Atmos Compatible | |
|---|---|
| Number of Channels | 7.1.4 ch |
| Sound Field Optimization | |
| HDMI Standard | eARC |
| Audio Inputs | HDMI |
| Weight | 41.5 lb. |
| Equalizer | |
| With Remote | |
| With App |
SamsungHW-Q990C
| Type | 3 speakers |
|---|---|
| Width | 48.5 in. |
| Depth | 5.5 in. |
| Height | 2.7 in. |
| With Subwoofer |
- Wireless Configuration
- Bluetooth , Wi-Fi
- Airplay Compatible
- Chromecast Compatible
- Wall Mountable
Produces Delicate Sound With Impressive 3D Quality and Calibration
What we loved
- ・Emits high-quality, delicate sound
- ・Supplies strong three-dimensional effect
- ・Operating display shows text
What we didn't love
- ・Not as good for loud action movies
Samsung's HW-Q990C is a multi-speaker soundbar that comes with one subwoofer and two rear speakers.
Among the multi-speaker types, this soundbar is excellent in terms of three-dimensionality, as the sense of sound movement from left to right, front to back, and top to bottom is well-conveyed. You feel enveloped in the sound and immersed in the world of the work. Also, this soundbar emits a delicate sound that is not too assertive, achieving an overall balanced sound. We recommend this soundbar for those who like realistic movies and live performances.
<Measurement Results>
Clarity of voice: 76.0 dB (+6.0 dB compared to the reference value)
Bass volume: 79.4 dB (0.6 dB lower than the standard value)
Presence: 3.1 dB (2.1 dB above the reference value)
You can connect this soundbar to the TV with a single HDMI cable as it supports eARC HDMI. It's also possible to connect via Wi-Fi using AirPlay and Chromecast, so it’s simple to stream music from your smartphone. When you change the connection method, the operating status is displayed in text on the screen, so you can easily operate it the device while relaxing on the couch.
If the movie or performance you’re watching is compatible with Dolby Atmos or DTSX, you can enjoy more three-dimensional sound. Plus, the ability to switch between four sound modes—including surround sound and gaming—and adjust the volume for each speaker makes it easy to customize the sound to your liking. The system also supports calibration functions, so you can adjust the sound according to the size of the room and the position of the furniture, allowing you to customize the sound quality according to your viewing environment.
| Dolby Atmos Compatible | |
|---|---|
| Number of Channels | 11.1.4 |
| Sound Field Optimization | |
| HDMI Standard | eARC |
| Audio Inputs | HDMI |
| Weight | 17 lb. |
| Equalizer | |
| With Remote | |
| With App |
VizioElevate ｜ P514a-H6
| Type | 4 speakers |
|---|---|
| Width | 48 in. |
| Depth | 6.5 in. |
| Height | 2.64 in. |
| With Subwoofer |
- Wireless Configuration
- Bluetooth , Wi-Fi
- Airplay Compatible
- Chromecast Compatible
- Wall Mountable
Provides Distinct and Realistic Sound, But Wiring Can Be a Hassle
What we loved
- ・Distinct sound
- ・Powerful bass
- ・Display allows you to operate from the couch
- ・Comes with four sound-quality modes
What we didn't love
- ・Wi-Fi only works with AirPlay
- ・Takes up a lot of space
- ・Wiring can be cumbersome
The Elevate by Vizio is a multi-speaker system that comes with a subwoofer and rear speakers.
In comparison to other multi-speaker types we tested, this soundbar somewhat lacked three-dimensionality and expansiveness, and didn’t envelop the room. However, this device transmitted even the finest sounds, creating a realistic experience. Overall, the sound is sharp, with an emphasis on bass and treble, so we recommend this soundbar if you prefer audio with distinct features.
<Measurement Results>
Clarity of voice: 78.1 dB (8.1 dB higher than the reference value)
Bass Level: 79.6 dB (0.4 dB below the reference value)
Presence: 2.3 dB (0.3 dB higher than the reference value)
Since this soundbar supports eARC HDMI, all you need to do is connect a single HDMI cable when hooking it up to your TV. That said, this model only supports Wi-Fi connections via AirPlay, so you should install the Google Home app if you want to stream music from your iPhone. When you change connection methods or audio quality modes, you’ll see it on the top display of the remote, so it’s easy to operate this soundbar from your couch.
If you watch videos that support Dolby Atmos and DTSX, you can enjoy sound that is more three-dimensional and realistic with this soundbar. Additionally, you can choose from four sound quality modes for music and games, adjust the volume for each speaker, and change to your preferred sound. However, this device was not compatible with calibration that automatically adjusts the sound according to the room size and furniture position.
Another downside is that the number of speakers, coupled with the giant subwoofer, can take up a lot of space in your living room. You’ll need to connect the rear speakers to the subwoofer with cables, and plug the power cord into an outlet. With so many cables to account for, the wiring was quite cumbersome.
| Dolby Atmos Compatible | |
|---|---|
| Number of Channels | 5.1.4 ch |
| Sound Field Optimization | |
| HDMI Standard | ARC , eARC |
| Audio Inputs | HDMI , Digital Optical , Analog |
| Weight | 12.39 lb |
| Equalizer | |
| With Remote | |
| With App |
SonyHT-A7000
| Type | All-in-one |
|---|---|
| Width | 53.5 in. |
| Depth | 7.75 in. |
| Height | 8.81 in. |
| With Subwoofer |
- Wireless Configuration
- Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
- Airplay Compatible
- Chromecast Compatible
- Wall Mountable
Single-Body Soundbar That Produces a Rich Sound and Has Plentiful Features
What we loved
- ・Clearly discernible dialogue
- ・Doesn’t clutter up space
- ・Works with Dolby Atmos and DTSX
What we didn't love
- ・Lacks immersive sound
- ・Lacks powerful bass
The HT-A7000 from SONY is a single-body soundbar is the high-end model in the series, with the most built-in speakers.
When watching movies or live footage, our testers observed that although the consonants aren’t strongly emphasized, the singing voice and dialogue are clearly discernible, so it should be easy to hear even while watching movies with a lot of dialogue. On the other hand, the bass is somewhat modest and you won’t feel powerful vibrations. Compared to products with subwoofers, the bass feels weak and unsatisfactory.
This soundbar doesn’t provide an immersive experience, and sound only emanates near the device. That said, among the one-body types we tested, there is a depth in the mid-low tones and a satisfying sound. It’s a step up in sound quality from the built-in speakers of the TV.
<Measurement Results>
Clarity of Voice: 74.9 dB (4.9 dB above the reference value)
Bass volume: 77.1 dB (2.9 dB below the reference value)
Presence: 1.4 dB (0.6 dB lower than the standard value)
This soundbar supports eARC HDMI, so you only need one HDMI cable to connect it to your TV. It also supports Wi-Fi connections such as AirPlay and Chromecast, making it easy to stream music from your smartphone. When you change the connection mode or sound quality mode, it's displayed on the device, so you can control it from the couch.
It is compatible with Dolby Atmos and DTSX, allowing you to enjoy more three-dimensional sound with videos that support these audio formats. In addition, you can change the sound-quality mode according to the video you are watching, to provide the best audio experience for music or movies. Rear speakers and subwoofers are also sold separately, so if you find the sound lacking, you can expand it the setup after purchase.
The advantage of the one-body type is that you need less equipment in front of the TV. And since it only requires one HDMI cable for wiring, this soundbar is a great option if you want to declutter your living room.
| Dolby Atmos Compatible | |
|---|---|
| Number of Channels | 7.1.2.ch |
| Sound Field Optimization | |
| HDMI Standard | ARC, eARC |
| Audio Inputs | HDMI |
| Weight | 19.18 lb. |
| Equalizer | |
| With Remote | |
| With App |
SonosArc
| Type | All-in-one |
|---|---|
| Width | 25 in. |
| Depth | 6 in. |
| Height | 3 in. |
| With Subwoofer |
- Wireless Configuration
- 2.4 Hz
- Airplay Compatible
- Chromecast Compatible
- Wall Mountable
Vivid and Beautiful Sound but Requires a Smartphone for Usage
What we loved
- ・Voices are bright and crisp
- ・Additional woofer and speakers sold separately
- ・Smaller footprint
What we didn't love
- ・Modest bass power
- ・Need a smartphone to operate it
Sonos, famous for their smart speakers, has released Arc a single-body model that has 11 speakers built into the main unit.
When watching movies or live footage, our testers heard the consonants emphasized to top-notch effect. The voices sound bright and crisp, so lines in movies and lyrics in pop songs are easy to hear. On the other hand, the bass is modest, maintaining the bare minimum volume. This soundbar lacks power compared to models with subwoofers, so you might feel unsatisfied when watching action movies or live footage.
<Measurement Results>
Clarity of voice: 78.3 dB (8.3 dB higher than the reference value)
Bass volume: 76.7 dB (3.3 dB below the reference value)
Atmosphere: 1.8 dB (0.2 dB below the reference value)
It is compatible with eARC HDMI, so all you need is one HDMI cable when connecting to the TV. The Wi-Fi connection only supports AirPlay, so if you're an Android user, you'll need to install a separate app. Also, it using this soundbar was somewhat inconvenient because it doesn't come with a remote and doesn't have a display on the main unit, making it only operable via a smartphone.
If the video you’re watching supports the Dolby Atmos playback format, you can enjoy more three-dimensional sound. In addition, you can adjust the bass, midrange, and treble strengths from your smartphone. Speakers and subwoofers are also sold as optional items, so if you find the sound quality insufficient after listening to it, you can expand it later.
It's a single-body type, so it's okay to just set it up in front of your TV. Although it's somewhat large for a single-body type, you only need a single HDMI cable, so you can keep the area around your TV tidy.
| Dolby Atmos Compatible | |
|---|---|
| Number of Channels | 5.1 ch |
| Sound Field Optimization | |
| HDMI Standard | ARC , eARC |
| Audio Inputs | HDMI |
| Weight | 26.5 lb. |
| Equalizer | |
| With Remote | |
| With App |
PolkAudioSigna S4
| Type | All-in-one |
|---|---|
| Width | 41.2 in. |
| Depth | 2.4 in. |
| Height | 3.7 in. |
| With Subwoofer |
- Wireless Configuration
- Bluetooth
- Airplay Compatible
- Chromecast Compatible
- Wall Mountable
Fits Around the TV, But Lacks Power and the Bass Is Weak
What we loved
- ・Works well in limited space
- ・Provides solid audio quality
What we didn't love
- ・Quieter bass
- ・Doesn’t provide a three-dimensional experience
- ・Won’t automatically adjust sound to the size of room
PolkAudio offers the Signa S4, it combines a soundbar and subwoofer into a multi-speaker-type set.
After watching movies and live footage, our testers were able to distinguish the actors’ voices, but the sounds were not as clear as they could have been. Also, perhaps due to the small size of the subwoofer, the bass is rather muted. It's more powerful than the TV's built-in speakers, but you won’t feel the intensity in action movies and live footage.
The sound is missing some depth, and while its movement from left to right is easily heard, its reach doesn’t spread to the back of the room or up to the ceiling. Overall, the sound lacks richness and power, leaving something to be desired when you're trying to enjoy an action-packed or evocative movie or live footage.
<Measurement Results>
Clarity of voice: 66.9 dB (3.1 dB lower than the reference value)
Bass level: 69.8 dB (10.2 dB less than the reference value)
Realism: 1.8 dB (0.2 dB less than the reference value)
It's compatible with HDMI eARC, and connecting to the TV is simple with just one HDMI cable. However, it doesn't support Wi-Fi, so if you want to play music from your smartphone, you need to switch the device to Bluetooth mode. Also, it doesn't come with a display, so it was inconvenient to have to check the operation through the status lamp.
If the video you’re watching supports the Dolby Atmos playback format, you can enjoy a more three-dimensional and realistic sound. Additionally, you can switch sound quality modes according to the video you're watching, and adjust the volume of the subwoofer. However, this soundbar does not support the feature of automatically adjusting sound quality according to the size of the room or furniture arrangement. You will need to optimize the sound quality by experimenting on your own.
Although it is a multi-speaker type, the advantage is that you don’t need to install rear speakers. And the subwoofer is not big at 7.9×12.9×11.0 in., so it's less likely to get in the way.
| Dolby Atmos Compatible | |
|---|---|
| Number of Channels | 3.1.2 ch |
| Sound Field Optimization | |
| HDMI Standard | ARC , eARC |
| Audio Inputs | HDMI |
| Weight | 19 lb. |
| Equalizer | |
| With Remote | |
| With App |
How We Tested The Soundbars
At mybest, we define the best soundbar as a device that allows you to enjoy superior sound quality and power at home, and is also easy to use.
In the pursuit of finding the best soundbar, we collected six popular products from top manufacturers and best-sellers from Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, etc., and thoroughly vetted
them based on the following seven points:
Dialogue Clarity
Bass Intensity
Immersiveness
Connectivity Options
Ease of Use
Ease of Customization
Ease of Installation
Products we tested
- JBL｜BAR 1000
- PolkAudio｜Signa S4
- Samsung｜HW-Q990C
- Sonos｜Arc
- Sony｜HT-A7000
- Vizio｜Elevate｜P514a-H6
Dialogue Clarity
The standard we established to gauge dialogue clarity is substantial sound with emphasized consonants in words, making movie and drama dialogue easy to understand.
Scoring Method
Connect the TV and soundbar, and play the sound source of the calibration software. Set up a microphone two meters in front of the soundbar and measure the sound. We recommend soundbars where core sound frequency 100Hz is present and the range of sound when pronouncing consonants, 1 to 2 kHz, is emphasized, making voices easier to hear. The recommendation level is then converted into a number rating.
Test Conditions
<Equipment Used>
Noise Meter: Rion Noise Meter NL-27
Microphone: Dayton Audio's 'EMM-6 Condenser Mic'
PC: ASUS 'UX534F'
Measurement Software: DSSF 'RA'
Sound Source: Spears & Munsil 'Ultra HD Benchmark'
<Other Conditions>
The volume of each product was adjusted to 70 dB using a noise meter when played from a distance of two meters
- For soundbars with a subwoofer, we set the bass volume to maximum during testing.
- If the soundbar features a theater mode or surround mode, we set it to ON during testing.
Bass Intensity
The standard we defined for great bass intensity in a soundbar is one that delivers powerful and deep bass, and provides the richness and impact of sound that you can experience in a movie theater.
Scoring Method
Connected the soundbar to the TV and played the sound source of the calibration software. The sound emitted from the soundbar was measured with a microphone placed two meters away. The louder the volume in the low frequency range of 15~200 Hz, the higher the rating it earned.
Test Conditions
<Equipment Used>
Noise Meter: Rion Noise Meter NL-27
Microphone: Dayton Audio "EMM-6 Condenser Mic"
PC: ASUS "UX534F"
Measurement Software: DSSF "RA"
Sound Source: Spears & Munsil "Ultra HD Benchmark"
<Other Conditions>
Using a noise meter, we adjusted the volume of each soundbar to 70 dB when sound is emitted from two meters away.
- For soundbars with subwoofers, we set the volume of the low-frequency range to the maximum for review.
- If features such as theater mode or surround mode are available, we switched them ON for review.
Immersiveness
The standard we defined for an exceptionally immersive soundbar is one that allows the sound to engulf the room, and immerses the user in the world of the movie.
Scoring Method
Connected the soundbar to the TV and played the source of the calibration software. Using a microphone located two meters away, we measured the sound from the soundbar. If the sound moved left, right, forward, backward, up, or down and if there was a significant difference in volume, which signified a sense of sound movement, the higher the rating it earned.
Test Conditions
<Equipment Used>
Noise Meter: Rion Noise Meter NL-27
Microphone: Southern Acoustics 'SAMAR Type4500HR'
PC: ASUS 'UX534F'
Measurement Software: DSSF 'RA'
Sound Source: Spears & Munsil 'Ultra HD Benchmark'
<Other Conditions>
- For each product, we used a noise meter to adjust the volume to 70 dB when the sound is played from two meters away.
- For soundbars with subwoofers, we set the volume of the bass range to its maximum setting during testing.
- Products with theater mode or surround mode were tested with those settings turned on.
Connectivity Options
The standard we defined for ranking available connectivity options in a soundbar is that in addition to HDMI, it is also compatible with many connection methods, so it can accommodate any situation.
Scoring Method
Testers checked each soundbar and scored their satisfaction on each of the following points, and we converted that satisfaction level into a number rating for each soundbar.
What We Checked
Does it support the following connections?
HDMI
Digital Optical
Bluetooth
Wi-Fi
Analog
USB
Ease of Use
The standard we defined to determine whether a soundbar is easy to use is that the operating status can be quickly checked and the connection to the TV can be easily switched via remote control or app.
Scoring Method
Testers checked each soundbar and scored their satisfaction on each of the following points, and we converted that satisfaction level into a number rating for each soundbar.
What We Checked
Methods for Confirming Operational Status
Switching Connection Modes
Ease of Customization
The standard we defined to determine whether a soundbar is highly customizable when it comes to sound is that it has features that can change the quality of and enhance the realism of its sound.
Scoring Method
Testers checked each soundbar and scored their satisfaction on each of the following points, and we converted that satisfaction level into a number rating for each soundbar.
What We Checked
- Does it support higher-level playback formats?
Does it have an automatic sound field correction function (such as a room-calibration function)?
Does it support the DRC function (a function that narrows the dynamic range between dialogue and sound effects, making it easier to hear sound even at low volumes)?
Can you change the sound-quality mode (equalizer function)?
Does it support a function for upscaling compressed audio sources (such as DSEE Extreme)?
Ease of Installation
The standard we defined to determine whether a soundbar is easy to install is that it supports wall mounting, is compact, and is relatively easy to move.
Scoring Method
Testers checked each soundbar and scored their satisfaction on each of the following points, and we converted that satisfaction level into a number rating for each soundbar.
What We Checked
Total weight (including the subwoofer, if available)
Width of the unit (including the size of the subwoofer, if available)
Are the rear speakers wireless?
Top 5 Soundbars
No. 1: JBL｜BAR 1000
No. 2: Samsung｜HW-Q990C
No. 3: Vizio｜Elevate｜P514a-H6
No. 4: Sony｜HT-A7000
No. 5: Sonos｜Arc
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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