The Best Soundbars for Your TV in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide
As TVs get sleeker and screens become sharper, one thing often sacrificed is sound quality. Built-in TV speakers simply can’t deliver the immersive audio experience that modern movies, shows, and music demand. A high-quality soundbar can fill that gap and turn your living room into a theater-like experience without the need for a complicated surround sound system. In 2024, the market is brimming with options, from budget-friendly choices to top-tier models with cutting-edge features. Here’s a detailed guide to the best soundbars of the year, helping you find the perfect one for your setup.
1. Sonos Arc – Best Overall Soundbar
Price: Around $900
Features: Dolby Atmos, voice control, multi-room audio
Pros: Immersive audio, excellent integration with Sonos ecosystem, smart voice control
Cons: Premium price, no HDMI inputs
The Sonos Arc has consistently been rated among the top soundbars thanks to its powerful sound and sleek design. Built for those who want an immersive Dolby Atmos experience, the Arc’s upward-firing drivers fill a room with multidimensional sound that adjusts based on your space. This soundbar also integrates seamlessly with the rest of the Sonos ecosystem, allowing multi-room audio and control through the Sonos app or via Alexa and Google Assistant.
For those who love movies and want a premium cinematic experience at home, the Arc offers the best combination of features, quality, and style.
2. Sony HT-A7000 – Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar
Price: Around $1,300
Features: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, 8K and 4K HDR passthrough
Pros: High-quality audio, compatibility with a range of Sony speakers, multiple connectivity options
Cons: High price, bulky design
Sony’s HT-A7000 is a powerhouse when it comes to Dolby Atmos sound. With 11 built-in speakers, including up-firing and side-firing units, this soundbar provides an impressively immersive soundstage. It also features Sony’s Vertical Surround Engine, creating a surround sound experience without additional rear speakers.
The HT-A7000 supports 8K and 4K HDR passthrough, making it a future-proof option for those with high-end TVs. If you want to further elevate your setup, you can add optional subwoofers and rear speakers.
3. Bose Smart Soundbar 900 – Best for Smart Features
Price: Around $899
Features: Dolby Atmos, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Alexa and Google Assistant built-in
Pros: Voice assistant integration, compact design, easy setup
Cons: Bass could be stronger, slightly premium price
Bose has a solid reputation for quality audio products, and the Smart Soundbar 900 continues this legacy. Compact yet powerful, this soundbar offers Dolby Atmos support and has Alexa and Google Assistant built-in, making it an ideal option for smart homes. You can control it with voice commands or through the Bose Music app, which allows for a fully wireless experience.
While the bass might not satisfy hardcore audio enthusiasts, the Smart Soundbar 900 is perfect for those who prioritize smart functionality alongside sound quality.
4. JBL Bar 9.1 – Best for Wireless Surround Sound
Price: Around $1,000
Features: Dolby Atmos, detachable wireless rear speakers, built-in subwoofer
Pros: True surround sound, detachable speakers, powerful bass
Cons: Limited EQ adjustments, higher price
The JBL Bar 9.1 stands out with its truly wireless surround sound setup. This soundbar features detachable speakers that you can place around the room for an immersive experience without worrying about messy wires. With Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, it brings a cinematic soundstage to your home.
This soundbar is also great for bass lovers, as it includes a powerful subwoofer. If you want a full surround sound setup with minimal hassle, the JBL Bar 9.1 is one of the best options in 2024.
5. Vizio M-Series M512a-H6 – Best Value for Money
Price: Around $400
Features: 5.1.2 channels, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, wireless subwoofer
Pros: Affordable, full surround sound, good bass
Cons: Limited smart features, basic design
Vizio has always been known for offering excellent performance at a reasonable price, and the M-Series M512a-H6 soundbar is no exception. This 5.1.2 channel system comes with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, delivering an impressive audio experience at a fraction of the price of high-end models.
With a wireless subwoofer and rear speakers included, the Vizio M-Series provides real surround sound for an unbeatable price. While it lacks smart features like voice control, it’s a solid choice for those on a budget.
6. Samsung HW-Q990C – Best for Samsung TVs
Price: Around $1,500
Features: Dolby Atmos, Q-Symphony, 11.1.4 channel setup
Pros: Exceptional audio quality, syncs with Samsung TVs, wide soundstage
Cons: Expensive, may be overkill for smaller rooms
The Samsung HW-Q990C is a flagship soundbar that pairs exceptionally well with Samsung TVs, thanks to the Q-Symphony feature that allows it to work in harmony with the TV speakers for an expanded audio experience. The 11.1.4 channel configuration provides one of the most immersive soundstages available, perfect for those who love action movies or gaming.
While it comes with a high price tag, the HW-Q990C is well worth it for anyone heavily invested in the Samsung ecosystem and looking for the best audio experience possible.
7. LG S95QR – Best for High-End Audio and Streaming
Price: Around $1,800
Features: 9.1.5 channels, Dolby Atmos, HDMI eARC
Pros: Impressive audio clarity, advanced streaming support, powerful bass
Cons: High cost, large footprint
The LG S95QR is a premium option that includes a whopping 9.1.5 channel setup, complete with rear speakers and a subwoofer. With multiple up-firing drivers, it’s designed to fully immerse you in the action and create a rich Dolby Atmos experience. The soundbar also supports HDMI eARC, making it a good choice for high-end setups that involve multiple devices.
LG’s S95QR is particularly suited for those who don’t mind spending more for unmatched sound clarity, whether for movies, music, or streaming.
8. Sonos Beam (Gen 2) – Best Compact Soundbar
Price: Around $500
Features: Dolby Atmos, compact design, voice control
Pros: Compact and stylish, easy integration with Sonos ecosystem, affordable for its class
Cons: Limited bass, not ideal for large rooms
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a compact, versatile soundbar ideal for small to medium rooms. Despite its size, it still offers Dolby Atmos support and high-quality sound. The Beam integrates seamlessly with other Sonos speakers, allowing you to expand your sound system over time. It also supports both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, making it easy to control with voice commands.
If you’re looking for a compact, budget-friendly soundbar that doesn’t compromise on quality, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a standout choice.
9. Polk Audio Signa S4 – Best Budget Soundbar with Dolby Atmos
Price: Around $330
Features: 3.1.2 channels, Dolby Atmos, wireless subwoofer
Pros: Great value, easy setup, powerful bass
Cons: Limited high-end features, simpler design
The Polk Audio Signa S4 is an excellent choice for anyone wanting a budget-friendly soundbar with Dolby Atmos. The 3.1.2 setup offers clear dialogue, immersive sound, and a rich bass experience, making it ideal for TV shows, movies, and music. Despite the affordable price, it delivers quality sound that competes with more expensive options.
For those who want to enhance their TV’s audio without breaking the bank, the Signa S4 offers an impressive experience at an unbeatable price.
The best soundbar for you will depend on your specific needs, room size, and budget. If you want the best overall experience, the Sonos Arc or Sony HT-A7000 are outstanding choices with immersive Dolby Atmos sound. For those who need a budget option without sacrificing too much on audio quality, the Vizio M-Series M512a-H6 and Polk Audio Signa S4 offer great value.
Investing in a high-quality soundbar can completely transform your TV viewing experience, bringing movies, shows, and music to life in a way that standard TV speakers simply can’t. Whether you’re creating a full home theater setup or just want better sound in your living room, 2024 has a soundbar to suit every need and budget.
