Review of budget (inexpensive) soundbars for TV: advantages and disadvantages

Fans of movies, TV series and music cannot do without speaker systems, because... The power of the TV speakers is often not enough for comfortable listening to content. Soundbars are sound panels that improve the audio capabilities of a TV, computer or smartphone. And advanced models even serve as home theaters, but unlike the latter, they take up less space in the apartment.

Read more about what criteria you should use to choose a soundbar, as well as which models are the best in 2020-2022.

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.

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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.

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JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass

This multifunctional soundbar consists of two elements - a soundbar and a subwoofer made of vibration-absorbing material. Despite its compact size, the equipment produces powerful sound. The soundbar connects to the TV via an optical or HDMI cable. Via Bluetooth wireless technology you can stream music directly from your smartphone. Country of origin: China.

Main characteristics of the model

Number of speakers: 6 pcs.
Total power: 300 W.
Frequency range: 40-20,000 Hz.

Panel/subwoofer dimensions (WxHxD): 965x58x85/240 x 240 x 379 mm.
Speaker/subwoofer weight, kg: 2.16/5.67 kg.

Advantages

+ deep bass;
+ Dolby Digital technology creates deep and spacious sound;
+ connection to the TV is carried out using both wired and wireless technologies;
+ easy setup;

+ high-quality assembly;
+ there are USB connectors that allow you to play audio files from removable storage devices;
+ six speakers ensure even sound distribution.
+ stylish design.

Flaws

— some users do not have enough overall volume when listening to music;
— inconvenient remote control — there are complaints about poor operation and the need to press the buttons twice;

- overcharge.

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Premium soundbars

LG SK9Y

Power: 500W

Price: 56 thousand rubles

LG SK9Y is a soundbar loaded to the brim with the latest technology. Unlike cheaper analogs that can only emulate surround sound, it supports Dolby Atmos technology, which is used in modern cinemas. The system sounds bright and clear, the bass is velvety, and the detail and scene of sound sources will surprise even the most demanding users.

There is support for Hi-Res audio 192/24 bits, which is almost never found in this class of audio equipment. The LG SK9Y has no drawbacks, but to unlock its full potential, it would still be a good idea to supplement it with SPL8-S rear speakers.

Bose Soundtouch 300

Power: 75 W

Price: 56 thousand rubles

The Soundtouch 300 is positioned as a premium product, and therefore special emphasis here, in addition to sound quality, is placed on the quality of workmanship - the soundbar made of metal and glass looks simply luxurious in person, and it also has a number of unique functions. For example, there is an NFC module, which allows you to instantly connect a smartphone or tablet to the acoustics.

And everything is fine with the sound here. The Soundtouch 300 includes a special microphone, which is used to calibrate sound - the system determines the position of the microphone in space and adjusts the propagation of sound waves in the room and taking into account the position of the listener. You can improve the SB300 by purchasing additional rear speakers and a subwoofer from the same manufacturer. The latter is called Bose Acoustimass 300 and costs almost 60 thousand rubles.

Polk Audio MagniFi MAX SR

Power: 400 W

Price: 75 thousand rubles

But when purchasing MagniFi MAX SR from the premium American manufacturer Polk Audio, no additional costs will be required - both the subwoofer and rear speakers are already included in the package. This system is perfect for rooms up to 25 square meters, which it can turn into a full-fledged cinema.

Not only movie buffs, but also electronic music connoisseurs have extremely positive reviews of the MagniFi MAX SR. The owners claim that such an immersive effect in the composition cannot be achieved even with the use of expensive stereo acoustics. The price, of course, is steep, but high-quality sound costs money, and not cheap.

YAMAHA MusicCast BAR 400

A high-quality soundbar with almost unlimited possibilities. A separate wireless subwoofer is responsible for the quality of low frequency reproduction. It allows you to bring sound quality to a high level. This is easy to notice in a movie or computer game. If desired, the subwoofer can be turned off.

The soundbar has 2 speakers, which are responsible for mid and high frequencies. There is DTS Virtual:X decoding and playback of various Dolby formats. If you connect the device to a Wi-Fi network, you can listen to music or watch movies directly through the soundbar. If the user wants to connect additional speakers, then this can be done as simply as possible.

It is worth noting that not only movies, but also music sound good in this soundbar.

Advantages:

the ability to fine-tune the sound;
high-quality assembly;
high sound quality;
decent spatial sound reproduction.

Flaws:

Sometimes user-set settings may be lost.

Denon DHT-S514

This soundbar produces high quality sound without any additional settings. This can be a big plus for those people who have little knowledge of technology. Synchronization with the TV occurs using HDMI or Bluetooth.

The last connection method is worth noting separately, as there are practically no connection breaks. The soundbar is easy to connect to a mobile device or PC.

Control occurs using a remote control. In this case, the user does not need to point it at the soundbar itself. Buyers noted that the sound quality did not change when the volume was increased or decreased. It remains at the same level, which is a big plus. In cheap models, when the volume changes, the sound quality begins to fluctuate.

Advantages:

a repeater for remote control is available;
very high quality sound;
Ease of Management.

Flaws:

Some buyers were upset that the soundbar did not have fine-tuning sound settings.

Yamaha YSP-5600

This soundbar is a true technical marvel; its technical characteristics can easily compete with full-fledged studio equipment. Yamaha specializes in audio equipment and is the most sought-after brand in the modern audio market.

If the user doubts which company is better to buy an audio system, the choice should be made on Japanese equipment. The YSP-5600 features 46 audio channels, delivering dense, tactile sound. And if you add a subwoofer to the system, the purity and power of sound will reach its apogee.

Despite its complex design, the soundbar is surprisingly easy to operate, and there will be no problems connecting the system. The only inconvenience that the device will cause is the possible rearrangement in the room to place all its components in certain places. But the many functions and excellent sound more than pay for both the price and the bulkiness of the product.

Yamaha YSP-5600

The average price is 130,000 rubles.

Advantages:

several connectors for connecting to a TV;
beautiful powerful sound;
3D sound;
ease of installation and use;
convenient interface.

Flaws:

dimensions and weight - almost 12 kg;
high price.

YAMAHA YSP-2700

A stylish modern 7.1 soundbar with a 75 W subwoofer power is equipped with a large number of decoders and interfaces. There is one front speaker, video/music transmission via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi is provided, AirPlay is available; Ethernet connector. The transmission of sound waves is true volumetric, but only within the range of the calibration microphone.

To listen to music, it is better to use stereo mode. It is possible to program an Internet radio and connect wireless headphones to it.

Thanks to the low body, the design does not block the TV screen (designed for installation on a shelf). This model is an ideal option for users who like to watch HD movies and do not like wires.

Build quality, sound almost like in a cinema, clear, spacious with the appropriate source, deep bass, the ability to intelligently adjust the sound through a microphone - these are the main advantages of the technology.

How much does it cost - 90,000 rubles.

Advantages:

stable work;
several color options;
design;
surround sound;
very convenient control;
multifunctional;
build quality;
low power consumption;
long service life.

Flaws:

no equalizer settings;
Expensive.

Samsung HW-K450

A stylish and compact soundbar with a free-standing wireless subwoofer allows you to create high-quality sound for your home theater. You can connect to your TV using TV SoundConnect technology and Bluetooth wireless technology. Dolby Digital technology provides surround sound and helps create a fully immersive experience when watching videos. Wall and floor installation possible. There are AUX and HDMI inputs. Made in South Korea.

Main characteristics of the model

Number of speakers: 4 pcs.
Speaker/subwoofer power: 160/140 W.
Frequency range: 40-20,000 Hz.

Dimensions panel/subwoofer (WxHxD): 909x54x71/179x361x300 mm.
Speakers/subwoofer weight: 2/4.6 kg.

Advantages

+ 3D support;
+ ability to customize sound;
+ excellent sound, deep, clear and loud;
+ wide selection of sound effects;
+ there is a 3.5 mm mini-jack headphone input;

+ control from a smartphone is possible;
+ supports all popular audio formats;
+ the absence of wires improves the overall appearance of the equipment, which harmoniously fits into the interior of modern interiors;
+ compactness;
+ high build quality.

Flaws

— limited capabilities of the remote control — it can only turn on/off the soundbar and control the volume;
— there are complaints about the lack of sound depth;

— the subwoofer, according to many users, does not have enough power;
— there are problems when connecting wirelessly, including with Samsung products.

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How to connect a soundbar

Connecting a soundbar is not a very complicated process; you just need to figure out what input system the TV and the soundbar itself are equipped with.

HDMI is a standard connector compatible with ARS technology. Any modern TV is equipped with at least one HDMI input, and connecting a soundbar through it will allow you to control the volume of the device via the TV remote control;
Digital audio input is a popular way to connect a soundbar to a TV, which does not allow you to control the sound volume from the TV remote. The Toslink type socket or coaxial input of the TV is connected to the same socket of the soundbar. It is important that the input and output must be of the same type, so if the type of digital audio output of the devices is different, you will have to stock up on an additional cord;
Analog stereo (RCA) – if the only possible option for connecting the soundbar to the TV is an RCA connector, you will have to say goodbye to multi-channel sound. To connect a soundbar in this way, you will need an additional adapter from RCA to mini-jack;
Bluetooth – almost all popular soundbar models allow you to transfer data from a smartphone wirelessly. For this function to work, you will need to establish a connection between the soundbar and your mobile device; the procedure will be easier if the soundbar is equipped with NFC technology - in this case, the whole process will boil down to the fact that you will need to bring the mobile phone to a certain place on the soundbar body;
DLNA is a specific technology for transmitting data between a TV and a soundbar via a home Wi-Fi network. This connection is highly efficient and reliable, but will only work with Smart TV. Setting up DLNA will require time and installation of special programs on your PC or laptop.

LG SK4D

This soundbar from a famous Korean manufacturer will be an excellent addition to your home theater or computer. The device is equipped with a bass-reflex 200-watt subwoofer. Thanks to the built-in Bluetooth module, you can play music from your smartphone/tablet wirelessly. Soundbar installation type: shelf. Material: plastic and MDF. Made in South Korea.

Main characteristics of the model

Number of speakers: 2 pcs.
Speaker/subwoofer power: 100/200 W.
Frequency range: 40-20,000 Hz.

Dimensions panel/subwoofer (WxHxD): 890x53x86/170x391x262 mm.
Speakers/subwoofer weight: 2.36/5.62 kg.

Advantages

+ creates high-quality surround sound, including at maximum volume;
+ reproduces low frequencies well;
+ no interference or extraneous sounds;
+ adaptive sound control and automatic tuning;

+ compatibility with remote controls of leading TV manufacturers;
+ Dolby Digital technology creates surround sound;
+ convenient remote control;
+ excellent value for money.

Flaws

— no toslink cable included;

— the sound quality over Bluetooth is worse than over a wired connection.

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Why do you need a subwoofer?

The minimum frequency of air vibrations perceived by the human ear is 20 Hz. Maximum – 20000 Hz. In order to understand whether this is a lot or a little, let’s consider the sensitivity of our hearing using the example of the sounds we most often encounter:

male voice – from 120 to 200 Hz;
woman’s voice – from 200 to 500 Hz;
street noise – from 20 to 300 Hz;
musical works (from afar) – from 50 to 3000 Hz;
mosquito squeak – 2000 -3000 Hz.

Analyzing these data, it becomes clear that the frequency of the most important sounds for humans is located in the lower part of the audible range. Hence the increased attention to the most realistic sound of low frequencies during high-quality recording of soundtracks for films.

As for the high-frequency speakers (tweeters), their design is quite well designed and it is difficult to find fault with the purity of reproduction. Problems arise with the reproduction of low-frequency vibrations from 20 to 400 Hz. Here we need diffusers of large (compared to tweeters) dimensions and weight.

They are called subwoofers. They account for the lion's share of the power and cost of any audio equipment. To make it completely clear, discussing the sound quality of an audio system without a subwoofer makes no sense, since there can be no talk of any quality in this case.

Xiaomi Mi TV Soundbar

Soundbar providing high quality stereo sound. It is easy to connect to any TV model. The panel has a laconic design and is wall-mounted. Thanks to the light-colored fabric front panel, the horizontal speaker has a premium look. Mi TV Audio Speaker consists of 8 sound blocks. There are 2 tweeters, 2 subwoofers and 4 passive radiators. There is a Bluetooth module and all the necessary ports - you can connect a wide variety of equipment. Made in China.

Main characteristics of the model

Number of speakers: 4 pcs.
Power: 28 W.
Frequency range: 50-25,000 Hz.

Dimensions (WxHxD): 830x87x72 mm.
Weight: 1.9 kg.

Advantages

+ crystal clear sound, powerful bass and perfect frequency balance;
+ music can be output to the soundbar directly from a smartphone, tablet, laptop or PC;

+ stylish and versatile design;
+ price.

Flaws

— when connected via an optical cable, it is not possible to adjust the sound using the TV remote control;
— not suitable for listening to music — you need to buy an additional subwoofer;

- no USB input.

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JBL Bar Studio

A universal soundbar from the American company JBL, connected to the TV, complements the image with loud and high-quality sound. There is Bluetooth 4.2 wireless connectivity, which allows you to stream music from any gadget to the soundbar. Thanks to proprietary JBL Surround Sound technology, the movies you watch are accompanied by the most realistic sound without the use of additional wires and speakers.

Main characteristics of the model

Number of speakers: 4 pcs.
Power: 30 W.
Frequency range: 60-20,000 Hz.

Dimensions (WxHxD): 614x54x86 mm.
Weight: 1.4 kg.

Advantages

+ the sound, thanks to two phase inverters, is deep, with powerful bass;
+ clear sound, without buzzing or distortion;
+ control is possible via a television remote control;
+ there are all the connectors necessary to connect equipment (line-in, USB Type A, digital optical input, HDMI);

+ compactness;
+ high-quality assembly;
+ stylish design.

Flaws

— the built-in MP3 player has limited capabilities;
— there are complaints about lags when playing audio via Bluetooth (the sound disappears);

— there is no possibility to connect a subwoofer.

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What to look for when choosing a soundbar for your TV

When choosing a soundbar, a number of parameters are taken into account:

Acoustics type. Soundbars are either passive or active. The first ones are connected to the receiver to work. And active soundbars are independent devices that connect directly to the TV. They have their own processor, power supply and set of interfaces. Therefore, if the user needs a modern and compact device, an active soundbar is suitable. It is recommended to choose passive models if you have a receiver at home.
Subwoofer type. The soundbar is equipped with an external or built-in subwoofer. External subs produce powerful bass because they have large speakers. Therefore, if the space of the room allows, it is recommended to take a soundbar with an external subwoofer. At the same time, models with built-in speakers are compact, so they will save space in the apartment.
Selection of interfaces. Active soundbars are equipped with a variety of connectors that turn them from ordinary acoustics into a functional device. Simple models have a USB connector and an optical input. More expensive soundbars have HDMI. The more HDMI ports in the soundbar, the more devices you can connect to it (set-top box, Blu-Ray player, laptop, etc.).
Wireless technologies. Bluetooth support allows you to play music from your phone on the soundbar and control it remotely. And access to Wi-Fi will make the soundbar part of the multiroom.
Total speaker power. This parameter affects the volume of the played sound. When choosing power, you need to take into account the size of the room. For example, if its area is 50 m2 or more, you will need a model with a power of 200 W. At the same time, a soundbar with a power of 70-80 W is enough for medium-sized rooms, and 30 W for small bedrooms.
Device functionality. If previously soundbars were used only to improve sound, now these devices have become much more functional. They read information from memory cards and disks, and also connect to gadgets via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. And advanced models replace home theaters.
Installation method. Depending on the size, soundbars are mounted on the wall, placed on a shelf or on a bedside table. Therefore, if the installation method is chosen in advance, it is important to take this parameter into account before choosing acoustics.
Number of channels. The more channels, the more spacious the speakers sound. To reproduce stereo sound, 2.1 and 3.1 standards are used. And to play surround sound you need versions 5.0 and higher.

Sony HT-SF150

Soundbar from a Japanese manufacturer. The stylish black panel is made of plastic and metal. It has two powerful 60-watt speakers that provide loud sound. The speaker connects to the signal source using a wire via HDMI (ARC) ports or Bluetooth 4.2 wireless communication. There is also an optical audio input and USB. The kit includes a remote control with batteries and two cables - optical and AC. Assembly made in China.

Main characteristics of the model

Number of speakers: 2 pcs.
Power: 120 W.
Frequency range: 20-20,000 Hz.

Dimensions (WxHxD): 900x64x88 mm.
Weight: 2.4 kg.

Advantages

+ high sound quality, including at high volume;
+ high build quality;
+ the remote has 5 equalizer modes;

+ laconic and stylish design;
+ compactness.

Flaws

— there are complaints about the lack of bass (but they are amplified when mounted on a wall, since the bass reflex is located at the rear);
— no subwoofer;

- overpriced.

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JBL Bar 2.0 All-in-One

Powerful, compact and easy-to-use soundbar from the American brand JBL. Produces professional sound when connected to a signal source via an optical cable or HDMI ARC. Music can also be streamed via Bluetooth. The soundbar is equipped with Dolby Digital technology, providing surround and deep sound. The immersive experience is supported by JBL Surround Sound technology, which makes the sound more realistic.

Main characteristics of the model

Number of speakers: 2 pcs.
Power: 40 W.
Frequency range: 70-20,000 Hz.

Dimensions (WxHxD): 614x58x90 mm.
Weight: 1.61 kg.

Advantages

+ high-quality, loud, deep and realistic stereo sound;
+ transfer music from gadgets;
+ rich low frequencies;

+ compact design;
+ convenient remote control included.

Flaws

— there is no operation indicator (many users, on the contrary, like this - their glowing/blinking LEDs are annoying);
— only one device is remembered via Bluetooth;

- dark gray color - less universal than black;
— price.

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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.

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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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Do you need a subwoofer?

Soundbars can produce mid- and high-frequency sound, but they usually aren't as good at low frequencies. Due to the method of low-frequency sound propagation, the speaker itself must be large in size to produce powerful bass. Wide and thin soundbars are not capable of this. This is why many soundbars include separate subwoofers.

A subwoofer is a speaker designed specifically to produce low-frequency sound, bass. Usually these are weighty devices with a large diffuser of about 15 centimeters. This allows you to push a lot of air to produce low frequency sound. You can get good sound with just a soundbar, but if you want to make the walls shake and feel the music or movies, a subwoofer comes in handy.

Bass is significantly less directional than high frequency sound. Because of this, you don't have to carefully choose the location of the subwoofer, unlike a soundbar. You can put it under the sofa or in the corner of the room.

There is no need to worry about cables between the subwoofer and the soundbar since most subwoofers use a wireless connection. You just need to plug them into a power outlet.