Frankly speaking, soundbars are great. When you pack as much technology under the hood as these devices do, they have to be. Not only do many soundbars house multiple speaker arrays in an all-in-one design, but they also incorporate various audio-processing technologies, and wide device connectivity. Some can even serve as a pedestal stand for your flat panel TV. If your TV is mounted on a wall and you would like to have your soundbar mounted above or below it, many soundbars also offer simple mounting solutions for easy placement.
Like other audio components, not all soundbars are created equal. When deciding which speaker is right for you, there are a number of things you should consider. First among those things should be the size of your listening environment. The size of your room can help you determine which soundbar configuration will give you optimal audio performance. As an example, if you have a large room you may want to choose a soundbar system with an external subwoofer, or even dedicated rear speakers to cover more real estate. You should also look at your source components and how they connect to your system. If you’re like me, and you have a vast music collection stored on your smartphone, tablet, or PC, choosing a soundbar with Bluetooth or Internet connectivity will allow you to wirelessly access your favorite tunes.
In this overview, we are going to take a look at a number of soundbars from various manufacturers. These speakers deliver some of the best audio technology available, and some even rival the sound production that is typically associated with separate amplifier and speaker systems. While the options are many, you’ll soon discover that when it comes to audio, choices are a good thing.
Double Duty
To start things off, let’s take a look at some soundbars that can also be used as pedestal stands for your flat panel television. This is a great option if you want your speaker to be as close to your TV as possible without mounting it on a wall. Placing your soundbar directly under the television keeps distractions to a minimum as your audio and video reproduction will come from a centralized location.
ZVOX is a soundbar legend with a long history of making stellar audio products. The company’s SoundBase speaker systems have been long heralded as top-notch upgrades to paltry TV speakers. The SoundBase 670 is a worthy addition to ZVOX’s speaker family. While typical TVs deliver about 10- to 20 watts of audio power—if you’re lucky—and are equipped with miniature speakers, the ZVOX 670 produces an impressive 105W of power and incorporates three 5.25-inch subwoofers for dynamic bass impact.
This speaker is compatible with TVs up to 70 inches and features ZVOX PhaseCue II Virtual Surround Sound Technology. This proprietary audio processing technology adds dynamic three-dimensional sound to movie and music soundtracks. Built-in Bluetooth allows you to stream music wirelessly from your similarly equipped audio sources. Connectivity doesn’t stop there: dual stereo RCA, dual digital optical, and a digital coaxial port are also available. These interfaces are a welcome companion for your wired source connections.
When it comes to audio heritage, Bose has an impressive history of its own. If you take a look at its audio lineup, you will see a wide selection of audio products that are geared to deliver high-quality audio and easy setup. The Bose Solo 15 TV Sound System is no different in that regard. Like the aforementioned ZVOX, this soundbar supports the placement of flat panel TVs. At 24.75 inches wide, the Solo 15 has a smaller frame than the ZVOX’s 36-inch cabinet and can thus support displays up to 50 inches. A smaller frame doesn’t mean smaller sound, however. This soundbar features speaker arrays at each end of its cabinet and incorporates Bose’s TrueSpace Technology for clear and spacious sound quality.
A bass adjustment knob is located on the rear of the speaker, which allows you to fine-tune bass tones for a customized listening experience. Stereo RCA, digital coaxial, and digital optical ports are onboard for your component connections, and a universal remote is included for streamlined control of the soundbar and your connected devices, such as TVs and DVD players.
JBL is another consumer electronics company with deep seeded audio roots, whose Cinema Base supports the placement of flat panel TVs and produces up to 240W of power—an impressive output for a soundbar that’s merely 4 inches high and 23.6 inches wide. Furthermore, this speaker features a 2.2-channel configuration with dual subwoofers, which create the soundbar’s low-frequency character. To help the speaker deliver lifelike, room-filling sound, the Cinema Base features Harman Display Virtual Surround Sound technology.
Integrated Bluetooth connectivity allows you to enjoy wireless music streaming in addition to the speaker’s wired 3.5mm and digital optical inputs. The Cinema Base also features a USB port, which allows you to conveniently charge USB-powered devices, such as smartphones and MP3 players. An HDMI output is also available on the soundbar, which supports Audio Return Channel, otherwise known as ARC. ARC allows you to connect one cable between the soundbar and your TV for high-quality audio.
Soundbar and Subwoofer Combinations
Yamaha is well known in audio and video circles and is pretty synonymous with high-quality audio. The Yamaha YAS-203 produces up to 200W of power and sports a 2.1-channel configuration. This system’s external front-firing subwoofer incorporates a linear port for deep and smooth bass reproduction. Along with wireless subwoofer connectivity, the soundbar includes a template for wall mounting.
Yamaha’s internal AIR SURROUND XTREME technology is designed to a deliver a virtual 7.1-channel audio experience. With integrated Bluetooth connectivity and digital optical, digital coaxial, and stereo RCA inputs, this soundbar is well equipped for external device connections. A free app is also available for controlling the YAS-203 from an Android or iOS device.
VIZIO may be well known for its TVs, but the company also makes some impressive audio products that shouldn’t be ignored. The 38" 5.1-Channel Soundbar Speaker System is such a product. The main soundbar houses three full-range drivers, while the system also includes two dedicated rear satellite speakers and a 6" external wireless subwoofer to handle your low-frequency sounds. This VIZIO soundbar is wall mountable and is also ready to connect to your audio sources via Bluetooth, digital coaxial, digital optical, USB, stereo RCA, and 3.5mm interfaces.
Sony is a manufacturer that needs no introduction. The company’s product catalog pretty much covers the consumer-electronics spectrum. The Sony HT-CT260H may look like a simple soundbar and subwoofer combination, but it is capable of delivering powerful sound at up to 300W from its 2.1-channel array. Like the previously mentioned Yamaha and VIZIO systems, this soundbar’s subwoofer connects wirelessly for flexible placement. It is also equipped with Bluetooth, digital optical, and digital coaxial connectivity, and adds an HDMI input and output for connecting to high-definition televisions.
Premium Soundbar Solutions
The Focal Dimension 5.1-Channel System isn’t your typical soundbar system. This powerhouse produces 450 watts and has five identical 3.9" drivers built into the soundbar and another two 7.9 x 3.1" drivers in the external passive subwoofer. This system doesn’t just rely on brute force, however; it incorporates Optimum Acoustic Integration technology. Using settings on the rear of the soundbar, you can tailor the sound of this soundbar to your room’s characteristics.
For intuitive control, the Focal Dimension features a touchscreen user interface and a proximity sensor that automatically awakens the soundbar when you’re nearby or when you use the system’s remote control. As expected with a premium soundbar, this system is loaded with HDMI, digital optical, and a 3.5mm audio interface. The Focal Dimension is built for durability with a rigid aluminum chassis.
The Yamaha YSP-2500 is a soundbar juggernaut. This 7.1-channel system houses a whopping sixteen 1.1" beam drivers and dual 4-inch woofers to handle its bass responsibilities. While delivering 162 watts of power, the YSP-2500 features Yamaha Digital Sound Projector technology. This technology handles the timing of the soundbar’s amplifiers and drivers precisely to deliver powerful and in-sync audio. This soundbar’s internal beams can also be aimed to your listening position or outer walls to create an expansive audio effect. To help this system sound its best in your listening environment, it is equipped with Yamaha’s IntelliBeam auto-calibration system.
This system is also ready for your high-quality video connections with its three 4K- and 3D-capable HDMI inputs and one HDMI output. Like the Focal system, this Yamaha system is endowed with Bluetooth and wired digital and analog connections. It also features smartphone and tablet control with the free Yamaha app for Android and iOS. If you have high-resolution audio sources you’re in-luck, as the YSP-2500 can decode audio formats such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio.
Choosing the Right Soundbar System
At B&H we offer a wide variety of soundbar systems that are designed to accommodate almost any listening environment. Whether you’re looking for a single-box solution, additional external speakers, or even Bluetooth connectivity, the advancements in soundbar technology make these sought-after features easily accessible. It’s amazing how far soundbar systems have come from their simple and humble beginnings. We’re excited by what’s currently available and what’s yet to come. It appears that the present and future of soundbar systems shine mighty bright, and we couldn’t be happier.
55 Comments
Given that I now have to pay Wink a monthly fee for a service that used to be free, I do not want to rely on any company and their App. Can you recommend a sound bar system that does not require an App?
Hi John -
None of the companies have any fees relating to the use of their hardware or associated mobile control apps. Typically the app is used during set-up for room calibration. But on a day-to-day basis you will only need the included remote control. A list of our current soundbar offerings: https://bhpho.to/37Imz4P
I know this is a bit late for you but others may find this helpful... JBL soundbars don't have app support but instead rely on the included remote to change all the settings. A lot of people like that they can buy these speakers without worrying about their speaker going out of date due to the company no longer offer software updates.
Hi Joshua -
Thank you for this valuable input Joshua. Much appreciated!
I have a question. Do tweeters as well as woofers in a soundbar system really add that much to sound quality? Most of what I see are sound bars with full speakers (incorporating low, medium and high pitch sounds).
Hi Neal -
Separate driver components absolutely enhance the audio quality and the overall listening experience, just as they would with free-standing bookshelf or floor-standing speaker pairs.
your article is very good i like your article. this article is very helpful for who looking a subwoofer. a good quality subwoofer is giving a mind freshing feeling. are you looking for a car subwoofer for your car audio music system.that subwoofer give you a unique feeling listening to song with deep bass.
I have a large open concept living room (18 x 21ft) and is open to the second floor. The ceiling is ~20ft. The living room also opens up to the dining room and kitchen, which are under 9 ft ceilings for what it's worth. I'm thinking about using a wireless sound bar and adding wireless rear speakers at some point to get a better surround sound effect. Do you have any recommendations for this area? Do you think Dolby Atmos would still be effective in this large of a space, or would it be a waste of money?
Hi Josh -
Dolby ATMOS would be very difficult to manage in this type of space (using an 11.2 channel AV receiver) and certainly not via a soundbar. You might forgo the Dolby ATMOS and opt for a SONOS system:
The Sonos PLAYBAR Wireless Soundbar features a 9-speaker design with angled left and right tweeters. Plus, each speaker is driven by a Class-D amplifier. The soundbar supports wireless connectivity with your home network, but there is also an Ethernet jack for making a wired connection. The PLAYBAR supports connection to your TV using a digital optical cable. However, if you just want to stream music, the soundbar comes pre-loaded with thousands of free Internet radio stations that you can listen to without even turning on your computer.
You can also stream audio from a variety of other sources including your iPhone, iPod, iPad or compatible mobile device. And, you can download the free Sonos Controller App and turn your iOS or Android mobile device into a convenient remote. The app will work with your PC or Mac computer as well. Other features include automatic firmware updates, an easy setup process and a Night Mode that boosts clarity at lower volumes. The PLAYBAR is also compatible with other Sonos devices including the Sonos Control, PLAYBAR SUB and more.
Add more bass to your existing Sonos setup with the gloss black Sonos SUB Wireless Subwoofer. It connects to your system via Wi-Fi or Ethernet and has a built-in extender for SONOSNet 2.0 connectivity. The SUB works will all Sonos amplified components and features two Class-D digital amplifiers that power two force-cancelling face-to-face-mounted drivers that are designed to reduce unwanted cabinet resonance.
Set up a stereo pair or a multi-room system with this B&H Kit of a pair of black Sonos PLAY:1 Compact Wireless Speakers. They will connect to your home network via Ethernet or built-in Wi-Fi to stream music from thousands of free Internet Radio stations or from virtually any online music service including Pandora, Spotify, Rhapsody, and more. You can also stream music from your personal music libraries, such as iTunes, or from other network connected devices like your iPad or iPhone.
I have been researching my poor little heart out but am still a little lost in the fog. I am looking for a smaller sound bar to visually fit with my 40" TV (about 34 inches wide) that will have strong performance for music but is also going to give a fun experience with TV/Movies. The TV and sound bar will be placed in the corner of a room with popcorn ceilings. Do you have any recommendations? I am struggling with the size constraints and am worried about paying extra for some beam speakers that will not be very well put to use in our room set-up.
Hi Calvin -
None better than this for the overall size performance, and price:
Enhance your display's audio, interact with Amazon Alexa or Siri, and expand your Sonos ecosystem with the black Sonos Beam Soundbar (Sonos Beam Soundbar (Black) B&H # SOBEAMB ).
It features a five-driver design powered by five discrete Class-D amplifiers, plus five far-field microphones that enable Amazon Alexa voice control and Siri compatibility when paired with compatible devices. The Beam connects to the Internet over Wi-Fi or through the Ethernet jack.
The soundbar comes pre-loaded with thousands of free Internet radio stations that you can listen to without even turning on your computer. You can also stream audio from a variety of other sources including your smartphone, tablet, or other compatible mobile device. And, you can download the free Sonos Controller App and turn your iOS or Android mobile device into a convenient remote. The app will work with your computer as well.
Hello, My living room has 20 foot high ceilings, which soundbar do you recommend for the best Surround Sound experience?
Thanks!
Hi John -
You'll need a system with some power for an immersive experience.
Enjoy enhanced audio from your favorite movies and music with this B&H Kit of the Sonos PLAYBAR Wireless Soundbar (B&H # SOPBAR1US1BP (B&H Kit)), a black PLAY:1 Speaker Pair, and the black SUB Wireless Subwoofer. They all connect wirelessly to create a 5.1-channel experience. The subwoofer features flexible placement options, in that it can be stood upright or laid flat under a piece of furniture. As part of the Sonos ecosystem, you can connect additional speakers to place in different rooms to create a wireless multi-room system. https://bhpho.to/2LZLJV7
In 2021 the best soundbar system you can currently buy would be the Sonos ARC, Sonos Sub and 2x Fives. The other way you could go would be to put ceiling speakers in behind you and run them off a Sonos AMP. This way you get an even better sense of the sound coming from above you.
We’re thinking about an LG OLED C7 TV. We’ve got a Pioneer SP-SB23W 218W 2.1 on back order, but we’re wondering whether that’s the best match for the TV. We’ve heard good things about the Yamaha YAS-207 and the JBL Bar 3.1 as well. We’d like to keep the budget for the s’bar in the $300 range; we’re more interested in crisp, intelligible dialogue (hence the appeal of the JBL) than in music or boombastic movie sound FX. Your thoughts would be much appreciated!
Hi Mark -
The JBL Bar 3.1(B&H # JBBAR31BLKAM) product is the overall winner among the three soundbar systems you are considering. It is the most powerful and it offers a dedicated center channel speaker array and processing. The JBL may be just outside your stated budget range, however. The Yamaha YAS-207 (B&H # YAYAS207BL) would be the best choice at $300 as it features a special Clear Voice mode that brings dialogue and narration to the forefront, making voices more intelligible.
I just purchased a sony 65X93E and am wondering which soundbar would best suit this tv?
Hi Tristan -
Can i assume you are referring to the Sony XBR-X930E-Series 65"-Class HDR UHD Smart LED TV? If so, then this would be an ideal choice for most average sized spaces:
Enhance your TV's audio with the Sony HT-NT5 400W 2.1-Channel Soundbar System (B&H # SOHTNT5). Along with the included wireless subwoofer, its ability to decode Dolby Digital and DTS is designed to enhance the quality of your sound compared to your TV speakers alone.
The soundbar features Bluetooth with NFC for pairing with your compatible smart device and wirelessly streaming your audio content. Its wired connections include three HDMI inputs, an optical input, and a USB port for media playback from suitable drives. The HDMI output is ARC-compatible, so you can hear TV-based audio from built-in apps like Netflix and YouTube. The soundbar includes a wall mount bracket and an IR remote control.
What soundbars would you recommend for a smaller living room - in our case a NYC apartment. We are looking for a clear and enhanced audio solution without shaking the walls or waking the neighbors. We would want to mount the soundbar and 4k passthrough would be a big plus.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 and JBL 5.0 are both solid options for a small apartment.
What would you recommend at the low end of the price range? Our main concern is enhancing the sound of dialogue when streaming tv shows or movies. Is the Yamaha YAS-107 a good choice? Thanks!
Hi Susan -
The new Yamaha YAS-107 will do a terrific job of enhancing the dialog andwill certainly bring a whole new dimension to your TV watching.
Enjoy enhanced dialogue clarity with the Yamaha YAS-107 120W 2-Channel Soundbar. It is equipped with two 1" tweeters, two 2.125" mid-woofers, and two 3" woofers, and features a subwoofer output to connect your favorite subwoofer for added bass impact. It outputs up to 120W of audio power for an augmented listening experience. Built-in Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity allows you to wirelessly stream music from other Bluetooth-enabled devices such as smartphones or tablets.
The YAS-107 features HDMI and optical inputs for interfacing high-quality audio sources, and an optical cable is included for instant connectivity. An 1/8" input is also onboard, which allows you to interface legacy audio sources. You can control the unit with the included remote control or with the Home Theater Controller app for your iOS or Android device.
Designed for Clear Dialogue and Details
With six speaker drivers and an acoustically engineered cabinet, the YAS-107 is designed to deliver dynamic, clear sound that lets you hear all of the details you've been missing compared to your TV speakers alone. It also features a special Clear Voice mode that brings dialogue and narration to the forefront, making voices more intelligible.
Is it true, ZVOX enhanced audio sound bars do not work with Samsung TVs?
Hi,
I have a Yamaha RX-A660 receiver on the way. I currently have some wired surrond speakers installed on our walls but I am also looking to purchase wirless soundbar system.
My question is can i both hook up my wired speakers and wireless to the receiver simultaneously? Will both work at the same time?
Also, can you recommend what soundbar system is good? I would like one that all the speakers are wireless if possible and I was hoping for a 5.1.
Thanks.
Hi Jay -
Most folks use a soundbar sytem because they do not want use a receiver at all. This particular Yamaha receiver allows wireless connection to MusicCast wreless devices.
Yamaha MusicCast Wireless Speakers
Please e-mail us for possible configurations and component suggestions: : [email protected]
Good day,
We just purchased Samsung KS9000 65" SUHD TV BH# SAUN65KS9000 and are considering adding a sound bar.
We currently have Harmon Kardon receiver/amplifier and Klipsch 5.2 speakers (all purchased a number of years ago), because we listen primarily to classical music.
We never listen to TV programs or movies at a high volume, but would appreciate the dialog being very clear and the music not tinny. We've noticed with our current LG 55-inch 3D TV that dialog is not always clear from the V speakers.
I have been looking at Klipsch, Samsung, and Harmon Kardon soundbars for use with the new TV on a daily basis when we don't use the full receiver/amplifier and speaker system.
Could you please share your thoughts?
Thanks.
Hi Kay -
This is one of the best I've heard (and seen - simply elegant) with or without the optional sub woofer/bassmodule:
Enhance your TV's audio with the Bose SoundTouch 300 Soundbar. Its ability to decode Dolby Digital and DTS signals is designed to provide enhanced sound quality compared to that of your TV's speakers. Its ADAPTiQ setup process will tailor the audio output to your specific listening area. The soundbar has Bluetooth with NFC for pairing with your smart device and wirelessly streaming your audio content; similarly, it has Wi-Fi built-in so you can stream music from your smart device, computer, or NAS.
The SoundTouch 300 features an HDMI input and an ARC-compatible HDMI output to enable one-cable connection to your TV. Its HDMI ports also support 4K pass-through so you can wire it between your Blu-ray player and TV without sacrificing any resolution. It also has an optical input onboard for legacy equipment. The soundbar includes an HDMI cable, an optical cable, and a universal remote control.
Less Effort, More Music
With the SoundTouch 300 soundbar, you can listen whichever way you want, without worrying about which technology is best. This speaker lets you play music directly from a phone or tablet using Bluetooth, or connect the speaker to your Wi-Fi network for instant in-home listening, without the need for your phone.
SoundTouch App
Once you have one SoundTouch speaker, you can add more at any time. They all work together, so as you go from room to room, your music goes along with you. The free SoundTouch app gives you greater control of any SoundTouch product, even your SoundTouch 300 soundbar, from a smartphone or tablet. Use it to browse and control music throughout your home. Start streaming instantly or use the app to personalize the presets to your favorite music and stations.
Expand Your SoundTouch System
If you're looking for more low-end sound, add the Acoustimass 300 wireless bass module; if you want a true surround system, add the Virtually Invisible 300 wireless surround speakers.
Additional Features
Hi,
I am thinking about purchasing the Samsung UE65SK9000 and an accompanying sound bar. Do I need a 4K pass through sound bar? Thank-you
I should have mentioned My input comes from a cable box
Hi -
If you are not going to connect another component that requires a 4K video signal after the soundbar, then you will not need a pass through.
I am looking to buy a sound bar for Xmas for our Samsung 65" TV that is mounted on a full motion wall mount in a built in cabinet. There is 4" between the unit and the TV. Any suggestions
Hi Linda -
Enjoy wireless audio streaming with the black Samsung HW-K550 340W 3.1-Channel Soundbar System. This 3.1-channel system delivers up to 340W of total power and includes an external wireless subwoofer. Bluetooth connectivity is built into the soundbar for wireless audio streaming from devices like MP3 players, smartphones, and tablets. Additionally, this soundbar allows you to enjoy Dolby Digital 5.1- and DTS 2-channel audio.
The HW-K550 soundbar system is ready for external device connections with HDMI, USB, stereo RCA, and optical inputs. The HDMI input supports ARC and Anynet+ CEC connections to an external display. An optical cable is included for streamlined connectivity to your TV. In addition to tabletop placement, this soundbar features a wall-mountable design and includes mounting hardware.
Hello, Would you recommend the Bose Soundtouch 300 over the Sonos bar? or Vice Versa? I'm talking about the complete setup SOundbar + Sub + two rare speakers AKA 5.1 :)
Hi Alex -
I just had the opportunity to thoroughly audition the new BOSE SOUNDTOUCH 300 series family of components. They look spectacular and the audio? You must hear them for yourself, of course, but to my ears they sound and perform better than SONOS. And the set-up is very easy as well. Get to a store and have a listen. You will not be disappointed!
Would you recommend the Bose soundtouch 300 over the focal dimension ? Which one is better?
Hi Hasan -
The Focal Dimension 5.1-Channel System is no longer available. At less than 1/2 the cost, the Bose SoundTouch 300 Soundbar is an incredible bargain:
Enhance your TV's audio with the Bose SoundTouch 300 Soundbar. Its ability to decode Dolby Digital and DTS signals is designed to provide enhanced sound quality compared to that of your TV's speakers. Its ADAPTiQ setup process will tailor the audio output to your specific listening area. The soundbar has Bluetooth with NFC for pairing with your smart device and wirelessly streaming your audio content; similarly, it has Wi-Fi built-in so you can stream music from your smart device, computer, or NAS.
The SoundTouch 300 features an HDMI input and an ARC-compatible HDMI output to enable one-cable connection to your TV. Its HDMI ports also support 4K pass-through so you can wire it between your Blu-ray player and TV without sacrificing any resolution. It also has an optical input onboard for legacy equipment. The soundbar includes an HDMI cable, an optical cable, and a universal remote control.
would you recomenc the Yamaha YSP 2500 for its price range or am I better of with something else?
Hi Maarten -
Love this product! It has been recentlydiscontinued and replaced the new and improved:
Yamaha MusicCast YSP-2700 107W 7.1-Channel Soundbar System. The soundbar is equipped with 16 1.125" beam drivers and includes an external wireless subwoofer with a 5.5" driver, providing up to 107W of total power. It is able to decode high-resolution audio formats such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio.
The Yamaha YSP-2700 is well-equipped for connecting high-quality sources with three 4K-ready HDMI inputs and an ARC- and CEC-enabled HDMI output. Stereo RCA, digital coaxial, and optical inputs are also onboard for interfacing other high-quality audio sources, and an optical cable is included.
MusicCast
MusicCast is designed to make it easy to bring music to every room in your home wirelessly with playback controlled by an app. Start with a MusicCast soundbar, then add separately sold MusicCast wireless speakers or other MusicCast products in other rooms.
Virtual 7.1-Channel Surround Sound
The YSP-2700 is equipped with a 16-speaker array and Yamaha's Digital Sound Projector technology to deliver virtual 7.1-channel surround sound.
Digital Sound Projector Technology
The YSP-2700 employs a processor to control the timing of 16 digital amplifiers and 16 speakers, creating controlled "beams" of sound. The sound beams are then aimed - either directly or by reflection off your walls - to arrive at your ears from discrete, channel-appropriate directions.
Easy Sound Calibration for Your Room
Yamaha's IntelliBeam auto-calibration system makes setting up your sound bar easy. Using the supplied microphone to measure room acoustics, IntelliBeam automatically sets the best beam angles while optimizing the level and frequency response of each beam.
Reproduce the Ambience of a Concert Hall or Movie Theater in Your Living Room
Yamaha's CINEMA DSP Digital programs are based on actual sound field data, measured in famous concert halls, jazz clubs, live performance venues, and theaters. The result is an enhanced sound field experience for enjoying music and viewing movies in your living room. The YSP-2700 features 10 different surround programs.
Slim Design
At only 2" tall, the soundbar is designed to fit in front of a display without blocking the picture. It can also be placed on the shelf of TV furniture or mounted on a wall using an optional wall bracket.
Wireless Subwoofer for Flexible Placement
The wireless subwoofer eliminates the need to connect audio cables, so setup and placement are faster and easier.
Control at Your Fingertips
Use the MusicCast Controller app to operate the sound bar and change settings, select your source, and control music playback.
Access All Your Content
MusicCast allows you to access your digital music library, streaming music services, and Internet radio, as well as Bluetooth sources and external sources attached to your MusicCast soundbar, such as a Blu-ray Disc player or CD player.
Stream via Bluetooth or AirPlay
Listen to the music sources from your smartphone via a Bluetooth or AirPlay connection. Play music from music apps, radio apps, or video hosting services.
Bluetooth Output for Music Streaming
The YSP-2700 is equipped with a Bluetooth output, allowing you to stream music from the YSP-2700 to headphones for private listening or to other speakers.
Compressed Music Enhancer
The Compressed Music Enhancer is designed to restore frequency response lost during digital compression to help your music sound the way it should. It is optimized for any compressed content, for enhanced sound quality during wireless playback. The function can be switched on and off via the remote control.
HD Audio Decoding
The YSP-2700 decodes HD Audio signals to ensure that you hear the best possible sound from Blu-ray Disc players as well as from other digital sources.
HDMI Terminals with 4K Ultra HD Support
The YSP-2700 has three HDMI input terminals and one HDMI output terminal, supports 4K/60p video signal pass-through, and is compatible with HDCP 2.2 digital copy protection.
which sound bar/wireless sub combination would you recommend if i have built in surround sound in my ceiling... looking more for a center speaker and base
Hi Jacob -
A sound bar and companion wireless subwoofer cannot be used as you have described. Please consider a separate center-channel speaker and wired subwoofer connected to your receiver. Please contact us via e-mail if you have additional questions: [email protected]
70 inch TV....recommended 5.1 sound bar size.....40", 54"....?
Hi Bruce -
Enjoy an immersive audio experience with the Samsung HW-K950 500W 5.1.4-Channel Dolby Atmos Soundbar System. It features two up-firing Atmos speakers built into the soundbar and two more built into the rear wireless speakers for object-based audio, allowing for a more 3-dimensional feel to your media. It delivers up to 500W of total power and includes a wireless subwoofer for convenient placement.
The HW-K950 soundbar system has two HDMI, an optical, and an 1/8" Aux input for connecting your external devices. The HDMI output features ARC-compatibility for the reproduction of TV-based audio such as that from built-in apps. For wireless connectivity with your compatible smart devices, it also has Bluetooth built-in. The system includes an HDMI cable for instant connectivity and a wall mount bracket for the soundbar.
Sound from All Around
Get cinema-style sound without leaving home. 15 built-in drivers, including four upward-firing drivers, rear wireless speakers, and a wireless subwoofer deliver sound that feels like it comes from all around, including above, like in the theater.
Feel Every Dimension
Dolby Atmos transports you into the story with moving audio that flows all around you with enhanced realism. Rather than being constrained to channels, sounds exist as individual entities that are precisely placed and moved in three-dimensional space – including from above – putting you in the center of the action.
A Seamless 4K Experience
With 4K pass-through, a simple HDMI connection delivers your audio and video signals. Connect any 4K video source, like a UHD Blu-ray player, through the Samsung HW-K950 to your TV for enhanced sound and 4K picture quality.
Connect Wirelessly and Seamlessly
The soundbar and subwoofer connect to each other wirelessly for seamless sound. Connect the HW-K950 with the optional Samsung Radiant360 wireless speakers for an even more immersive 5.1.4-channel surround sound experience.
Stream Music Your Way
Play your favorite streaming services from your mobile device. Connect the HW-K950 to the Samsung Multiroom App and optional Samsung Radiant360 speakers via Wi-Fi and stream music throughout the house. Built-in Bluetooth connectivity allows you to stream and play music wirelessly from Bluetooth-compatible devices.
Sweet Anywhere You Sit
With a wide-range tweeter engineered by Samsung's audio lab in California, you'll get consistent sound no matter where you sit.
Your article is very good. I think it would be good for everyone who owns a car and who is looking for a good subwoofer for their car.
Is it better to have a sound bar that has HDMI inputs or an optical audio input?
Hi Richard -
Many have both so that connectivity is flexible. Most televisions offer optical audio outputs only.
i want a sound bar that will level the sound difference Chanels and show and comercials.
Hi -
The feature you are looking for is called DTS TruVolume
DTS TruVolume is designed to provide a consistent volume level for your audio sources. Simply set the volume once.
The VIZIO SB3821-C6 38" 2.1-Channel Soundbar Speaker System offers powerful bass performance and virtual surround sound. This 2.1-channel speaker system features two 2.75" full-range drivers, along with a 5.25" wireless subwoofer for low bass impact. Bluetooth is built into the soundbar, which allows you to easily stream wireless audio from compatible devices such as smartphones and MP3 players.
The VIZIO SB3821-C6 soundbar system is well equipped for external device connections with USB, 3.5mm, stereo RCA, digital optical and coaxial inputs. Additionally, the USB port supports the playback of .WAV audio files. For connectivity, stereo RCA-to-3.5mm, digital coaxial, and digital optical cables are included. A remote control is also included with the soundbar for simple operation and control. In addition to tabletop placement, the soundbar features a wall-mountable design and includes mounting hardware.
Wireless Subwoofer
The included wireless subwoofer provides placement flexibility and is designed to deliver deep bass tones for music and movies.
DTS TruSurround
DTS TruSurround is engineered to deliver immersive and detailed virtual surround sound without the need for rear speakers.
DTS TruVolume
DTS TruVolume is designed to provide a consistent volume level for your audio sources. Simply set the volume once.
Dolby Digital
Dolby Digital is an audio standard for cinema, broadcast, DVD, Blu-ray, and streaming content. Dolby Digital surround sound provides spatial dimension to soundtracks and enhanced audio definition for an engaging listening experience.
Additional Features
Please contact us via e-mail if you have additional questions: [email protected]
I like your website and your article this very helpful and i hope this is inspired me
I am thinking of getting a Sony HT ST 9. It is offered with an included Blue Ray player. I am hoping I can connect the Blue Ray player directly to the sound bar or directly to the sony XBR 49x850b (perhaps mounting it to the back of the tv). My hope is to create an "all in one" that can be operated easily by those less tech savy. (I will have a separate system for audio, to keep it all simple) Thoughts?
Hi Allen -
The Sony HT-ST 9 will connect to your TV via the digital optical audio inputs and outputs, with a TOSLINK cable (included). The bluray player will connect to the TV via an HDMI cable (not included). The soundbar is also wall mountable, ideally just below the TV.
Please contact us via e-mail if you have additional questions: [email protected]