TOP 17 best soundbars: 2021-2022 rating by price/quality and which one to choose for a TV or speaker system

TV manufacturers often invest in picture quality, completely forgetting that sound is equally important. In this case, the auxiliary device is a sound panel called a soundbar.

A soundbar is a popular and very convenient gadget that will not only complement the interior of any room and make it more modern, but will also significantly improve the sound quality when connected to a TV.

The functionality of many models allows you to control it from a smartphone, play music from different media and get the most out of watching multimedia.

We tell you what criteria to consider when purchasing a product in terms of price/quality ratio.

Rating of the TOP 17 best soundbars of 2021-2022

Place	Name	Price
TOP 5 best soundbars for TV by price/quality for 2021-2022
1	Samsung HW-T650	Find out the price
2	Sony HT-S700RF	Find out the price
3	JBL Bar 5.1 Surround	Find out the price
4	JBL Cinema SB160	Find out the price
5	JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass	Find out the price
TOP 4 best inexpensive soundbars
1	Xiaomi Redmi TV Soundbar	Find out the price
2	Xiaomi Mi TV Soundbar	Find out the price
3	JBL Bar 2.0 All-in-One	Find out the price
4	LG SJ3	Find out the price
TOP 4 best 2.1 soundbars
1	Denon DHT-S316	Find out the price
2	LG SL5Y	Find out the price
3	Sony HT-S350	Find out the price
4	YAMAHA MusicCast BAR 400	Find out the price
TOP 4 best 5.1 soundbars
1	Samsung HW-Q6CT	Find out the price
2	LG SL10Y	Find out the price
3	Polk Audio MagniFi MAX SR	Find out the price
4	Samsung HW-Q60T	Find out the price

Comparison table of the presented models

We suggest taking a look at the comparative table of the above-described models from the rating. Based on this table, it will be easier for you to make a choice in favor of one model or another.

Name	Power, W	Weight, kg	Formats	Decoders	price, rub.
Sony HT-CT390	300	8,7	MP3/WMA/AAC	Dolby Digital	from 18290 to 24 990
Samsung HW-M550	340	9,8	MP3/ FLAC/ WMA/ AAC/ WAV	Dolby Digital, DTS	from 19,980 to 22,340
Yamaha YAS-207	200	10,7	MP3/WMA/AAC	DD, DTS and DPL II	from 26,690 to 28,130
LG SJ3	300	6,7	MP3/WMA	DD and DTS	from 11,650 to 12,990
Magnat SBW 250	360	9,2	MP3/WMA/AAC	Dolby Digital	from 42,320 to 45,780
Philips HTL1190	40	1,8	MP3/WMA	Dolby Digital	from 7 820 to 9 120
Polk Audio Signa S1	100	6,8	MP3, MPEG4 HD, WAV, WMA, WMV	Dolby Digital	from 17,990 to 18,550

How to choose a soundbar for your TV?

The soundbar is a small soundbar, lightweight and compact.

When purchasing, you should first consider the size of the device and its color so that it looks harmonious with the TV. You also need to understand how to install the speaker: next to the TV, under it, or on the wall.

Technical parameters are also taken into account:

subwoofer (external, built-in, without);
type of speaker system (active, passive);
outputs and interfaces;
sound formats;
power;
additional functions (for example, Dolby Atmos, control from a smartphone, etc.).

What to look for when choosing

To choose the right soundbar, you should pay attention to the following things:

Decoders . You should definitely know how many decoders are present in the device, because the sound quality directly depends on this.
The presence of a subwoofer . High-quality sound must have a subwoofer, otherwise this speaker system will only be capable of reproducing stereo sound.
Device power. Everyone knows that the higher the power, the louder, better and deeper the sound. This is especially true for bass and voices. It is best to choose a medium power level, because in the case of low-power sound at the maximum level, wheezing and poor-quality playback may occur. And with high power, there is a chance that you will not use half of it.
Control. Here you should already think about your comfort. There are three types of control: using the display on the device itself, using the remote control and controlling the application on the smartphone.

Thank you for reading the material, we hope it was useful to you.

TOP 5 best soundbars for TV by price/quality for 2021-2022

These models have received the best user reviews and good ratings for sound capabilities. The devices from this selection boast good volume and sound clarity, high power and bright, surround sound.

Samsung HW-T650

The 3.1 standard acoustic system with the ability to upgrade to 5.1 is equipped with a wireless subwoofer and a soundbar with shelf mount.

On the left side of the panel there is a small display that shows the volume and the current input.

The device has good performance and power, and thanks to the presence of a central channel, it produces clear and crisp sound without extraneous noise.

There is support for Dolby Digital and DTS channels, but no support for Dolby Atmos.

There are 2 NDMI connectors and a digital optical input for connecting to a TV and other devices.

There is also Bluetooth support, which allows you to connect the subwoofer to a smartphone.

The audio system is controlled using the remote control.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: standard, active;
power: 340 W;
wireless connection: subwoofer;
control: remote control.

pros

laconic design;
ease of installation;
Ease of Management;
high sound quality;
wide range of interfaces;
wireless subwoofer.

Minuses

no Dolby Atmos.

Sony HT-S700RF

The acoustic system consists of a subwoofer, a sound panel and a pair of speakers, which, in general, turns it into a full-fledged home theater.

Complementing the 1000W power is the simple and elegant design, build quality and ease of operation.

The device is controlled by a remote control or control buttons, each of which is located on the top of the subwoofer.

On the front there is a USB input for playing music from digital media. You can also connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth.

The soundbar has many personal settings, as well as 5 preset sound modes, including night.

The high price is due to the fact that the model demonstrates not only clear sound, but also excellent volume, good balance and powerful bass.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: standard, active;
power: 1000 W;
wireless connection: subwoofer;
control: remote control.

pros

easy to set up;
long wires;
there is Bluetooth;
there is a night mode;
clear sound.

Minuses

high price;
There is no rear speaker balance adjustment.

JBL Bar 5.1 Surround

5.1-channel audio panel with a miniature subwoofer on stable legs and convenient controls.

The model has built-in JBL MultiBeam technology, which makes the sound even richer, clearer and fuller.

Provides wireless subwoofer connection, multimedia playback via Bluetooth, 2 HDMI outputs, digital optical and linear stereo input.

Wall bracket with screws included.

The model supports Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Pro Logic II standards . These technologies provide the best sound even when watching 4K video: soft bass, high volume and clear, natural speech.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 550 W;
wireless connection: subwoofer;
control: remote control.

pros

wall bracket included;
soft bass;
ease of installation and management;
good sound;
attractive design.

Minuses

bad display;
no built-in equalizer.

JBL Cinema SB160

A device with a powerful wireless subwoofer with deep bass, built-in Dolby Digital technology, the ability to connect to a smartphone or computer via Bluetooth, an optical cable and HDMI Arc support.

This allows you to connect your soundbar with just one cord.

The budget soundbar has a simple and stylish design, making it fit well into any interior.

When watching any multimedia, the sound is rich, voluminous, loud, with good bass.

Control is carried out both using the remote control and regular buttons. 3 sound programs are preinstalled (movies, music and news). You can also perform manual calibration.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 220 W;
wireless connection: subwoofer;
control: remote control.

pros

affordable price;
lightness and compactness;
easy to connect;
rich and spacious sound.

Minuses

few preset modes;
no bass adjustment.

JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass

A mid-price segment model with excellent sound, no extraneous noise and no distortion of voices.

The device supports Dolby Digital technology, connects to a PC or smartphone via Bluetooth, and has 2 HDMI outputs.

The name of the speaker speaks for itself: Deep Bass amazes with bass - loud, rich and very soft.

Full-range speakers deliver live music and clear, intelligible speech. When adjusting the volume, the bass level increases proportionally, so you don't have to spend a lot of time adjusting.

The soundbar has 6 speakers to produce powerful and spacious sound, the volume of which will be sufficient even at levels up to 25%.

At the same time, the volume and tonality are equally good in any corner of the room.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 300 W;
wireless connection: subwoofer;
control: remote control.

pros

excellent sound;
affordable price;
nice design;
build quality;
Possibility of connecting via Bluetooth.

Minuses

Does not support all codecs.

TOP 4 best inexpensive soundbars

Budget models may have slightly worse sound characteristics and functionality than more expensive options, but multimedia audio will in any case be better than from conventional TV speakers.

Xiaomi Redmi TV Soundbar

A plastic model from a promising Chinese manufacturer at a low price with an attractive design and the ability to mount on a wall.

This is the simplest device with a classic wired connection and mechanical control, which significantly increases the volume of multimedia and improves sound quality.

The gadget has a 2.1 standard, a low power of 30 W, a linear stereo input and connectors for connecting AUX, S/PDIF.

You can also connect the soundbar to your computer or smartphone via Bluetooth.

The manufacturer focused on the build quality and durability of the device, as well as its compactness and lightness - the model weighs only 1.5 kg.

The sound when watching movies and video files will be much better than without a soundbar, but you shouldn’t expect super effects and complete immersion from the model.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 30 W;
wireless connection: no;
control: mechanical.

pros

affordable price;
spectacular design;
Ease of Management;
there is Bluetooth.

Minuses

no control panel;
The body is susceptible to scratches.

Xiaomi Mi TV Soundbar

A stylish device in a plastic case in silver or black is well worth its cost.

It improves sound quality significantly when connected to a small and relatively old TV, but when connected to a modern 4K set, many of which have Dolby Atmos technology, there will be no significant changes.

The only wireless connections are Bluetooth . Otherwise, the soundbar is connected using S/PDIF wires, stereo RCA, and also has a 3.5 mm headphone jack.

Power, volume and other parameters will have to be adjusted manually after installing the device, since there is no remote control included.

However, the manufacturer added special screws and plugs for mounting to the wall.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 28 W;
wireless connection: no;
control: mechanical.

pros

2 color options;
spectacular design;
Bluetooth connection;

Minuses

Chinese style socket;
no remote control.

JBL Bar 2.0 All-in-One

Compact, affordable 2-channel mono speaker with JBL Surround Sound technology for powerful, high-quality, surround sound with clear dialogue and good bass.

Dolby Digital technology delivers uniform sound throughout the room, creating a realistic cinema experience.

The audio system is compact and miniature, with a minimalist design.

It is small, has an internal power supply and a control panel, as well as an indication. You can connect to a smartphone or computer via Bluetooth, but there is a significant drawback: after 10 minutes of inactivity, Bluetooth will turn off, so it is better to use a standard wired connection to listen to music or watch movies.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 80 W;
wireless connection: no;
control: remote control.

pros

remote control possible;
Dolby Digital support;
there is Bluetooth;
deep stereo sound.

Minuses

no Aux input.

LG SJ3

A system of 2 elements - a soundbar and a separate subwoofer, which are connected to each other via Bluetooth.

The same interface allows you to connect the speaker to a smartphone or computer.

The soundbar automatically turns on with the TV, which allows you to avoid constantly setting up the device and save the selected settings.

High-quality sound with smooth bass and clear speech is due to high power, the presence of 6 speakers and Dolby Digital and DTS decoders.

You can control the device using the included remote control, or manually using the buttons located on the top of the device. All the necessary connectors are located there, including USB and digital optical input.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 300 W;
wireless connection: subwoofer;
control: TV remote control.

pros

remote control;
high power;
rich bass;
build quality;
wireless subwoofer connection.

Minuses

no HDMI connector;
There are no preset equalizer modes.

Xiaomi Redmi TV Soundbar

This soundbar allows you to watch videos with excellent sound. It has a Bluetooth 5.0 module, thanks to which sound is output to the soundbar wirelessly from any gadget - laptop, smartphone, tablet. The range is 10 m. This soundbar is installed on the floor or hung from the wall - any option is possible. A digital SPDIF interface is provided for connecting TVs. The case material is high-quality black plastic. Country of origin: China.

Main characteristics of the model

Number of speakers: 4 pcs.
Sound power: 28 W.
Frequency range: 50-25000 Hz.

Dimensions (WxHxD): 830x87x72 mm.
Weight: 1.93 kg.

Advantages

+ excellent sound, spacious and deep;
+ competent adjustment of all frequencies: from low to high;
+ vibrating bass;
+ connects to any type of TV;
+ there is an Aux port - for connecting mobile gadgets;

+ wireless connection;
+ can be hung on the wall - the device fits perfectly into the interior;
+ compactness;
+ high-quality assembly;
+ good value for money.

Flaws

— Users did not find any disadvantages with this model.

The only comment made by music lovers is that they would like the sound quality to be better when listening to music.

Best deals

TOP 4 best 2.1 soundbars

Mono speakers with a 2.1 configuration are the most common. They provide high-quality sound with deep low frequencies, are suitable for most users and TVs, and are inexpensive.

Denon DHT-S316

A compact and lightweight device from a Japanese manufacturer with good sound and the ability to connect to various sources: TV, computer, smartphone.

Despite its low power and cost, the soundbar produces excellent, clear sound, soft bass and clear dialogue. The column has several preset modes with optimal settings.

The device is equipped with Dolby Digital and DTS technologies, Bluetooth, HDMI interfaces, linear stereo input and digital optical input.

The package includes a remote control and mounting hardware for wall mounting.

The model will fit perfectly into any interior thanks to its laconic design, smooth shapes and small size.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 40 W;
wireless connection: subwoofer;
control: remote control.

pros

attractive design;
wireless subwoofer connection;
good sound;
there are several sound modes;
remote control included.

Minuses

sound indication;
Bluetooth automatically turns off after 15 minutes.

LG SL5Y

A budget soundbar suitable for most consumers . The system consists of

soundbar with 2 main channels, wireless subwoofer, and remote control.

The compact device has HDMI connectors and a digital optical input, as well as a Bluetooth interface.

Dolby Digital decoder provides clear bass tones and superior sound at any frequency . In addition, the model supports multimedia playback from USB drives, including rare FLAC and WAV formats.

Users report smooth and uninterrupted Bluetooth connectivity, even distribution of sound throughout the room, and support for wireless rear speakers that enhance the sound experience even more.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 400 W;
wireless connection: subwoofer;
control: remote control.

pros

there are 2 HDMI connectors;
ability to control from a smartphone;
DTS Virtual X technology;
high power;
clear rich sound.

Minuses

no AUX.

Sony HT-S350

A soundbar with a high-quality case, stylish design, convenient controls and excellent functionality for its price.

Despite its compact size, the soundbar is heavy, so you need to choose a flat surface for stable placement.

The power of the device is enough to make the flat and mediocre sound of a TV powerful and spacious, almost like in a movie theater.

You can also listen to music or watch movies and videos from other devices that connect via Bluetooth.

The main advantage of the soundbar is Dolby Digital support. The system consists of a soundbar and a wireless subwoofer, the kit also includes a remote control, and the device has light indicators for easy calibration.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 320 W;
wireless connection: subwoofer;
control: remote control.

pros

uniform sound distribution;
continuous Bluetooth connection;
affordable price;
build quality;
good bass.

Minuses

no equalizer settings.

YAMAHA MusicCast BAR 400

A mid-price segment model with a neat design, simple controls and high build quality.

The soundbar provides not only high-quality and spacious sound with soft bass, which is evenly distributed throughout the room, but also realistic special effects.

This applies not only to films, but also to music.

Loud enough for immersive video viewing and even throwing parties.

The Bluetooth connection is not interrupted, the volume does not jump. The device can even handle 4K video.

The soundbar is light and compact, easily mounted on the wall using the fasteners included in the package.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 200 W;
wireless connection: subwoofer;
control: remote control.

pros

excellent sound;
build quality;
control via application;
support Dolby, DTS, DTS Virtual:X;
soft bass.

Minuses

no custom equalizer;
no USB.

LG SJ3

The LG SJ3 soundbar, stylish and compact, allows you to get high-quality sound output. There is a free-standing 200-watt subwoofer (an acoustic system that reproduces sounds of the lowest frequencies). The device is equipped with AUX, USB, S/PDIF inputs. It is possible to transmit data via Bluetooth wireless communication. Manufacturing materials: black plastic and MDF. Country of origin: South Korea.

Main characteristics of the model

Number of speakers: 6 pcs.
Speaker/subwoofer power: 100/200 W.
Frequency range: 40-20,000 Hz.

Dimensions (WxHxD): 950x71x47 mm.
Speakers/subwoofer weight: 2.47/4.2 kg.

Advantages

+ supports USB media;
+ wireless subwoofer connection;
+ there is a night mode;

+ compatible with any TV remote control;
+ provides for synchronization of sound with the TV via an optical cable.

Flaws

— no disc player;
- no 3D support;
— no FM tuner;

- no DLNA support;
- no memory card reader.

Best deals

TOP 4 best 5.1 soundbars

The 5.1 configuration works with any content, including music. They are superior in quality to two-channel models, but slightly inferior to options with Dolby Atmos technology.

Samsung HW-Q6CT

Stylish soundbar with excellent build quality and functionality, created using advanced technologies.

In addition to the main element, the system also includes a wireless subwoofer with excellent power, which ensures sound quality.

The sound is excellent at any volume: the device copes with music, conversations and special effects of any frequency.

The device is equipped with a Bluetooth interface for connecting to other devices, three HDMI connectors and a digital optical input.

Uniform distribution of clear, loud, detailed sound occurs thanks to DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby TrueHD decoders, which also provide soft bass.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 330 W;
wireless connection: subwoofer;
control: remote control.

pros

DTS Virtual:X technology;
many playback modes;
stylish appearance;
powerful bass;
simple controls.

Minuses

Bass calibration is required when watching videos, movies, or listening to music.

LG SL10Y

An excellent device for its price that supports many decoders, including DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby TrueHD.

All necessary settings are carried out using the remote control that comes with the kit.

The model consists of 2 elements - a subwoofer and a soundbar.

The first is connected wirelessly, and the second has HDMI connectors and a digital optical input . There is Bluetooth for connecting to a computer or smartphone.

A special feature of the device is support for Dolby Atmos, if this function is provided in the TV to which it is connected.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 570 W;
wireless connection: subwoofer;
control: remote control.

pros

excellent sound;
many options for connecting to other devices;
can be used as a music center;
compactness.

Minuses

heavy;
Dust is very visible.

Polk Audio MagniFi MAX SR

The model is not cheap, but it fully justifies its cost . She supports

wide frequency range - 35-20000 Hz - and in all cases provides excellent sound quality.

The system consists of a soundbar, subwoofer and 2 rear speakers for even more even distribution of sound throughout the room.

The kit also includes a remote control and all the necessary accessories for mounting the device on the wall.

The model supports Dolby Digital and DTS decoders, has a Bleutooth interface and all the necessary connectors: 4 HDMI outputs, a linear stereo input and a digital optical input.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 400 W;
wireless connection: subwoofer, rear speakers;
control: remote control.

pros

sound quality;
equipment;
neat appearance;
presence of rear speakers;
Wall mounting hardware included.

Minuses

calibration is required, which takes a lot of time.

Samsung HW-Q60T

An excellent mid-price model that provides even distribution of clear, high-quality sound.

For lovers of complete immersion, the option of connecting additional speakers may be suitable.

The small display, judging by user reviews, is poorly located, but it displays all the necessary settings, volume level and connection type.

Stereo frequency response is good, but at high volumes the bass may seem rather weak. Although the need for maximum volume may only arise in a private home at a party.

The soundbar is equipped with HDMI connectors and a digital optical input . The kit includes a remote control for convenient control of the device.

Specifications:

type of speaker system: soundbar, active;
power: 360 W;
wireless connection: no;
control: remote control.

pros

high-quality sound;
uniform sound distribution;
Remote control included;
there are HDMI connectors;
reasonable price for this frequency range.

Minuses

inconvenient display location.

Yamaha YAS-108

A powerful speaker with built-in woofers and bass reflexes from a Japanese manufacturer. There are all the necessary interfaces for connecting to sound sources - wired and wireless. The soundbar can be placed in front of the TV or hung on the wall using built-in mounts. The soundbar creates three-dimensional surround sound. It is created by powerful speakers and two built-in subwoofers - sources of powerful bass. This model can connect two devices simultaneously via Bluetooth.

Main characteristics of the model

Number of speakers: 4 pcs.
Power: 60 W.
Frequency range: 60-23,000 Hz.

Dimensions (WxHxD): 890x54x130 mm.
Weight: 3.2 kg.

Advantages

+ high-quality three-dimensional sound;
+ supports HDMI ARC pass-through;
+ can be controlled via a mobile application;

+ it is possible to connect an external subwoofer;
+ stylish design;
+ good value for money.

Flaws

— there are complaints about mediocre sound, despite the declared surround 3D sound;
— inconvenient location of connectors;

— no external subwoofer, bass is blurry.

Best deals

All presented soundbar models, despite differences in design and power, allow you to watch videos on TV with the most realistic sound. Each user can choose equipment according to their taste and budget - the range includes both low-power panels without subwoofers and super-powerful 200-300 W models. Audio equipment manufacturers, having noted the growing popularity of the soundbar, decided not to stop there and continue to improve the capabilities of the soundbar.

Tags: SONY SAMSUNG XIAOMI

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Which is better – a soundbar or a home theater/music center?

Until recently, home theater was the only acoustic device for home use.

It, unlike a soundbar, is a complex system of elements: player, receiver, subwoofer, speakers that need to be placed in the room.

This is the main difference between a soundbar and a home theater. The latter is better to choose for large living rooms, spacious rooms and private houses, and in small rooms it makes more sense to place a soundbar.

In terms of functionality and sound quality, the miniature gadget is in no way inferior to its older and larger brother.