Enhanced sound is one of the most important aspects for watching TV shows and movies on your TV. It creates the effect of presence in the events taking place on the screen.
Often, to improve sound quality, they use speakers or buy a home theater. In fact, you can get by with a simpler device - a soundbar. Read more about it below.
Read: Which is better: soundbar, stereo or speaker system - review of 3 options
Why do you need a soundbar?
A soundbar is an acoustic device designed to be connected to a TV or home theater. The device usually looks like a speaker or compact panel, on the back of which there are connectors for connecting to main and additional equipment.
The purpose of a soundbar is to improve the sound of a TV or inexpensive home theater. Modern TVs can boast excellent image quality and good color reproduction, but the sound most often leaves much to be desired. In ultra-thin cases there is simply no room for full-fledged powerful acoustics.
When connected to a TV, the soundbar processes the incoming sound and improves its quality. The device is mainly used in conjunction with regular TVs, but a premium device can benefit even a home theater.
Soundbar designed to improve TV sound quality
System Features
A soundbar is a soundbar that is a compact audio system that allows you to enjoy music without massive speakers and subwoofers. The soundbar does not have a large number of speakers, since all the necessary functions are collected in one case. What is a soundbar, an inexperienced user may ask? This is an ideal home theater alternative that takes up little space and allows you to enjoy excellent sound at optimal volume.
How does a soundbar work?
The main element of the soundbar is the sound panel hidden inside the case. It consists of a motherboard and a processor, a decoder and an amplifier, an equalizer and a stereo sound balance control.
When connected to a TV, the device receives sound and converts it into a multi-channel stream using a built-in decoder. The device processes the signal frequency and number of bands, making the sound more voluminous and deep. The user can independently adjust the parameters using the stereo balance control and thereby achieve the clearest and most pleasant sound.
Important! You can also find soundbars with an FM tuner and a built-in CD player on sale; such devices can become a full-fledged home audio system, but are more expensive.
Yamaha
Yamaha is one of the leaders in the production of soundbars. The YSP-1400 model costs about 17,500 rubles, yet it looks non-standard, and this alone attracts attention. The front panel houses 8 speakers that generate sound beams. They are reflected from the furniture and thereby create a real surround sound. Users note the user-friendly interface and the ability to customize the device independently and to suit their requirements. The downside is that the kit does not include a subwoofer; instead, two low-frequency speakers are built into the panel stands.
Types of soundbars
Soundbars are generally divided into 2 categories - passive and active. The latter are connected directly to the TV, and the former are connected to the TV using a built-in receiver through which the audio signal passes.
There is also a more detailed classification of soundbars:
- Mono column. This soundbar is the most budget-friendly; the device includes a built-in subwoofer, has limited functionality and is only needed to improve the sound of a TV, computer or laptop.
- Sound projector. This soundbar is similar to a mono speaker, since it also has a built-in subwoofer, but the peculiarity of the device is that its low-frequency diffuser is directed downwards - this improves the quality of the bass.
- Passive soundbar with free-standing subwoofer. The sound of such a device is multi-channel, which dramatically increases the sound quality. You can place the subwoofer in a convenient place, the device itself takes up little space, and is connected to a TV or PC via cable or Bluetooth.
- Soundbase. This device is compact and is usually placed under the TV, but its capabilities are very wide. The device includes not only a multi-channel speaker system, but also functions for viewing Smart TV, an FM tuner, a DVD player, and sound bases are equipped with connectors for mobile gadgets.
- Multifunctional soundbar with separate subwoofer and multiple speakers. When properly installed speakers around the perimeter of the room, the device creates three-dimensional sound, not much inferior to the sound in a movie theater.
Soundbars with a separate subwoofer are almost always better than compact all-in-ones
Important! Devices made in the form of a TV stand seem quite fragile. However, in fact, they have a high margin of safety and can easily withstand the weight of any TV.
JBL
The JBL SB100 soundbar costs about 10,000 rubles. This manufacturer is not a household name, but has already created several noteworthy models for its customers. The JBL SB100 does not have a wireless subwoofer, the networks are fully integrated. At the same time, the cost of the models is also affordable. The system has full-fledged speakers that are mounted inside, so the sound level is decent. In addition, the SB100 has a stylish design solution, which is not typical for all budget models. And even the quality of the plastic in this model is noted by users as a good distinguishing feature.
How to choose a soundbar
When choosing a device, you need to pay attention to several of its main parameters:
- Speaker and subwoofer power. The higher the power rating, the louder and, most likely, cleaner the system will operate. It is recommended to choose a device with a speaker power of 80-100 W or more. Ideally, before buying, you need to listen to how the device sounds in the store, but if this is not possible, then you should focus on the numbers.
- Number of channels in the soundbar. The best sound quality is provided by devices with a configuration of 4.1 and higher, while the 2.0 configuration offers only regular stereo, which is not too different from the usual TV sound.
- Speakers. Different soundbars may have different numbers of speakers, as well as their frequency. It is better to choose broadband devices with sound from 80 to 12000 Hz and a large number of speakers.
- Type of subwoofer - built-in or external. The choice should be given to sound panels with an external subwoofer, since it is simply impossible to place a truly powerful low-frequency emitter inside a compact device.
The remaining parameters of the device should be assessed based on your preferences and convenience. The device can be made in the form of a hinged panel or stand; the sound bar can be controlled not only using the remote control, but also from a smartphone.
Advice! It is recommended to evaluate the number and variety of connectors on the rear panel; among them there must be audio connectors and a USB port, preferably HDMI and an optical input.
The device can be made in the form of a hinged panel or stand
Philips
The company offers a truly affordable device - for only 8,200 rubles you can get a high-quality system. Of course, it does not have advanced functionality, but still it is quite enough for home use. Bluetooth connects to smartphones so you can listen to music. The sound quality, according to users, corresponds to the price, so you should not expect excellent performance from this equipment.
Which soundbar is better to choose?
The best sound capabilities, of course, are provided by more expensive soundbar models. Budget devices don't change the sound quality much, although they do make the sound bigger and clearer than what the TV itself can provide.
Not everyone can buy an expensive device. But in any case, when choosing, it is recommended to give preference to the following devices:
- with an external subwoofer - a built-in sub always sounds worse than a free-standing one;
- with a configuration of 2.0 and higher, the greater the number of channels, the better the sound quality.
It is better that the sound bar has more connectors for connecting devices, even if the sound bar is purchased for a TV, in the future the owner will be able to connect other devices to it.
LG
An interesting and inexpensive model is the LG HLT55W 5.1 soundbar. It has separate rear speakers, so it cannot be said that this is a compact system. In general, the audio system is of good sound quality and has advanced capabilities in the form of an FM receiver and karaoke. The cost of the model is about 9,500 rubles.
A more modern and stylish soundbar is the LG BB5530A. It reproduces sound in 4.1 format, without the need for additional speakers. The device itself converts any video to excellent resolution. There is a Wi-Fi Direct function, thanks to which you can transfer any multimedia content. The LG soundbar is characterized by excellent sound, which will delight connoisseurs of high quality.
Soundbar rating
There are a wide variety of soundbars on the electronic market. Both expensive models with top-end capabilities and budget panels, which nevertheless have good functionality, are popular.
Xiaomi MiTV
The device belongs to the budget category, but reviews of the Xiaomi soundbar are very good. The device has a power of only 30 W and a 2.0 configuration, but it provides fairly high-quality sound. Customers confirm that the soundbar sounds much better than the TV's built-in speakers and enhances their movie-watching experience.
The device belongs to the category of wall panels and supports wired and wireless connection options with devices, not only with a TV, but also with laptops and smartphones. One of the disadvantages is the lack of a remote control; you will have to control the soundbar using the buttons on the case.
XiaomiMi TV has an attractive design
LGSJ3
In the budget category, the LG SJ3 soundbar also deserves attention - a device with a separate wireless subwoofer and a total power of 300 W. Although the device has a 2.1 configuration, the sound is powerful and spacious. The model also has a stylish design and looks harmonious in the interior.
Users note that the model's disadvantages include the fact that the kit does not include an optical cable for connecting to TV. Also, the device does not support an HDMI connector, which somewhat reduces its capabilities.
Model LGSJ3 comes with a separate subwoofer
Yamaha YAS-108
The Yamaha YAS-108 soundbar belongs to the category of devices with a built-in subwoofer, but at the same time it offers very wide capabilities. The system configuration type is 2.1, the sound power is 120 W, the system has several surround sound profiles built into it, allowing you to achieve surround 3D audio in a small room.
The advantage of the model is that, if desired, you can connect an additional external subwoofer to it and further improve the sound quality.
Yamaha YAS-108 allows you to connect an external subwoofer
Samsung HW-M450
The Samsung soundbar offers its users 320 W sound power and 2.1 configuration. It should be noted that with average characteristics, the device has very powerful bass and the ability to connect additional speakers. This allows you to create your own soundbar with the highest quality 5.1 sound.
The system is controlled using a remote control or a smartphone application. The soundbar has the ability to connect devices wirelessly, including via Wi-Fi, and can play music from a flash drive.
Samsung HW-M450 can be equipped with additional speakers
Philips HTL5160B/12
The Philips soundbar has an external wireless subwoofer, 3.1 channel sound, and supports Virtual Surround Sound technology, which allows you to achieve 5.1 surround sound. You can connect mobile devices to the soundbar via Bluetooth, and when using an HDMI connection, you can control several devices at once using a remote control.
The power of the device is 40 W x 3 for the main part and 200 W separately for the subwoofer, the frequency range is 45-200 Hz. The device can be customized according to your wishes by adjusting the bass and treble frequencies.
Philips HTL5160B/12 allows you to achieve 5.1 sound using special technology
Sony HT-CT290
The average-priced 2.1-channel soundbar Sony HT-CT290 has a power of 300 W and is equipped with an external subwoofer. The device supports optical and analog connections, as well as HDMI and USB, and is controlled via a remote control or an application for mobile devices.
The stereo device has good reviews - users confirm that the soundbar creates surround sound for a small room. However, the disadvantages of the model include the fact that at low volumes the soundbar does not reproduce bass well.
Sony HT-CT290 - an inexpensive device with an external subwoofer
Attitude HLC-601
Reviews of the Attitude HLC-601 soundbar characterize the audio device as an inexpensive and high-quality solution to TV sound problems. The power of the soundbar is 60 W, the device has a separate subwoofer, which guarantees more surround sound. The device configuration is 2.1, connections are supported, including wireless.
The Attitude HLC-601 is suitable for wall mounting or floor mounting. Control is carried out via the remote control supplied in the kit.
Attitude HLC-601 is inexpensive but significantly improves TV sound quality
Mystery
Not only large brands strive to win the trust of customers, but also small companies that attract attention to their products through low prices. A striking example of this is the Mystery MSB-115W soundbar model. It has average playback quality, wireless technologies are not available, but the price is economical. User reviews note that the device creates significant interference with the operation of a home Wi-Fi network. Therefore, this model for 4,800 rubles can be purchased solely as a way to improve the sound for an inexpensive TV.
How to use the soundbar
Features of connecting a device to a TV may vary for different models. But there are several general recommendations for using the device:
- It is recommended to place the soundbar and subwoofer behind the TV, in front of the TV, or on the wall behind it; you can also use the device as a stand. In any case, the device should be located as close to the TV as possible - this will ensure high-quality sound.
- You should not place the soundbar on the side of the TV or move it too far away. Because of this, the sound will shift to the side, some frequencies will be almost inaudible, and the 3D audio effect will disappear.
It is best to connect your device to a TV via HDMI with ARC technology support. In this case, you can control the volume of the panel directly through the television remote control. In addition, the sound from all devices connected to the TV will be transmitted through the sound bar by default.
Installation Features
We figured out what a soundbar is. Now we just need to figure out where it’s best to put it. Some hang on the wall, but you should pay attention that the panel does not cover the bottom of the TV and its IR sensor. Some panels, by the way, sound better if they are removed from the TV body. Wall installation is simple. The only difficulty is to remove the wires so that the interior is aesthetically pleasing. An attractive option for many is hinged mounting. This allows you to move the panel to different positions and change its angle.
If you dream of loud sound, then make sure to complement the soundbar with a subwoofer. Some models come with it right away; it attaches to the system wirelessly, making installation simple and convenient. You can manipulate the location of the subwoofer to get clear and high-quality sound.
Soundbar reviews
Dmitriev Igor Vladimirovich, 29 years old, Moscow
After buying a TV for 50 thousand, I discovered that the sound left much to be desired. I researched information about soundbars on the Internet and purchased the SJ3 model from LG. I'm happy with the soundbar, the capabilities are exactly the same as indicated in the specifications, the sound has become noticeably larger and brighter.
Stepashin Yuri Danilovich, 38 years old, Ryazan
The excellent HW-M450 soundbar from Samsung allowed me to create almost a home theater in my room. The sound is spacious and very clear, both at low and high volumes - there is no interference or disappearance of frequencies. I connected 2 additional speakers to the device, placed them in the corners of the room, and the pleasure of watching movies became much greater.
