The best soundbars by sound quality: ranking of the TOP 12 models of 2021

Modern TVs due to their thin design have a significant drawback - the sound of the speakers built into them leaves much to be desired.

One solution to this problem is to purchase a soundbar .

Let's figure out what it is, what nuances to pay attention to when choosing, which models are the best today from the point of view of experts. Let's learn about the main characteristics, advantages and disadvantages, and also turn to consumer reviews.

Rating of the TOP 12 best sound bars by sound quality

Place	Model	Price
The best soundbars for 2.1 sound quality
#1	Polk Audio Signa S2
#2	Denon DHT-S316
#3	JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass
#4	LG SJ3
Models with 3.1 configuration
#1	Samsung HW-T650
#2	Sony HT-ZF9
#3	Samsung HW-Q800T
Soundbars with 4.1 configuration
#1	LG SN5R
#2	LG SNH5
The best soundbars for 5.1 sound
#1	JBL Bar 5.1 Surround
#2	LG SL10Y
#3	Sony HT-S700RF

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Soundbar selection criteria

For your information! The acoustics in question are made in a form factor that allows you to install it in front of the TV on a shelf or hang it on the wall under it.

Some models have a floor-standing design. In addition, should be considered :

Receiver. An amplifier, sound processor, power supply, interfaces and other electronic components can be built into the soundbar - such acoustics are active. In the case of the passive option, the receiver will need to be purchased separately. Active soundbars are more compact and convenient - all the models discussed in the review are just that.
Subwoofer . The device responsible for the low-frequency component in the soundbar can be either built-in or external. If compactness is required (at the expense of bass depth and power), you should opt for the first option. Remote active subwoofers are much more convincing in terms of transmitting low frequencies, but they take up additional space in the room.
Configuration. The quality and character of its sound as a whole depends on how many channels are implemented in the speaker system. Theoretically, the more channels, the more interesting and voluminous the sound. There are devices on sale with different configurations - 2.0, 2.1, 3.1, 4.1, 5.1, 7.1 and even 9.1 (plus variations 7.1.2, 5.2, etc.). The first number means the number of main channels (front + center + rear), the second – the presence and number of subwoofers.
Connectors. The multitude of interfaces in active soundbars turns such speaker systems into multifunctional devices. Simple models are usually equipped only with standard audio jacks and USB ports, to which you can connect external media with music. More advanced devices additionally have an optical input and HDMI connectors on board. This provides the listener with high-quality sound and the ability to broadcast multi-channel audio.
Wireless technologies. Provide additional ease of use. Bluetooth allows you to play tracks on the soundbar from a mobile device, or use a tablet or smartphone (using special applications) as a means of controlling the speaker system. Wi-Fi makes it possible to organize a network and broadcast content in high quality wirelessly. NFC enables over-the-air audio streaming.
Power. The most important criterion when choosing a soundbar. The higher the total power of the speakers, the louder (and in many cases clearer) the sound bar will sound. A 100–200 W acoustic system is suitable for sounding a medium-sized room. It is recommended to choose a device with a power reserve.

How to choose a soundbar?

These devices are either active or passive. The first option is more popular - such sound panels are considered completely independent devices, since they have a power supply, an audio processor, an amplifier, and a large number of connectors. That is, the active sound bar is connected to the TV, after which it begins to be used. A passive soundbar actually contains only an acoustic system. Its purchase is necessary only for owners of AV receivers, which the online magazine Expertology will definitely talk about someday.
Subwoofer. Its location can be completely different. Expensive soundbars most often have a built-in subwoofer. But this is not always a good solution, because the soundbar must be compact, and therefore the low-frequency drivers are small. That is why a large number of soundbars are now sold, the subwoofer of which is a separate part - usually it is placed on the floor not far from the TV. Only this option will provide the room with the most noticeable bass.
Number of channels. For example, 7.1 technology means that the user can expect seven high-frequency channels (there may be even more speakers) and at least one subwoofer. Don’t forget to make sure that the device can be calibrated, because it can only provide surround sound by reflecting it off the walls. Another selection criterion is the number of interfaces. If you have a lot of equipment and no AV receiver, then you will need a lot of connectors.
Power. If you plan to install the soundbar in a relatively small room, then a total power of 100 W (excluding the subwoofer) will be enough for you. Of course, to use a TV with a soundbar somewhere in a bar, you will need a much more powerful option. And don't forget that a weak subwoofer can sound loud, but it will distort the sound. Therefore, take a closer look at its parameters.

Also read: TOP 20 best LG TVs: 2021 rating by price/quality and which 43-inch model to choose

The best soundbars for 2.1 sound quality

2.1 soundbars are a set of front stereo speakers and a subwoofer.

Note! Acoustics with this configuration do not allow you to get a real spatial sound effect (only emulation).

The best sound bars in terms of sound quality in 2-1 format according to customer reviews and ratings.

Polk Audio Signa S2

The Polk Audio Signa S2 TV soundbar will provide its owner with incredibly surround sound, comparable to the level of a home theater, and far superior to the capabilities of the built-in TV speakers.

The package includes an HDMI cable, with which the user can quickly and effortlessly connect the device.

Polk's proprietary Voice Adjust technology ensures clear speech reproduction, while Dolby Digital decoding system makes high-definition sound more spacious and even immersive.

The wireless subwoofer unit will provide the listener with deep bass.

Main characteristics:

output power (total) - 200 W;
front emitter - 120 W, 900 × 55 × 82 mm, 1.7 kg;
subwoofer - 80 W, 171 × 340 × 310 mm, 5.2 kg;
connection - linear stereo input, optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
Features: Dolby Digital support, remote control.

Advantages

detailed and surround sound;
convenient night mode;
acoustic fabric trim;
HDMI and SPDIF cables included;
Auto shutdown when there is no signal.

Flaws

lack of display;
easily soiled body;
high price.

Denon DHT-S316

Featuring a remote 80-watt subwoofer and a wall-mounted soundbar with similar output, the Denon DHT-S316 is an ideal speaker system for home use.

The equipment supports wireless communication via Bluetooth with the ability to play audio content from any mobile device.

The device, thanks to its high total output power, provides loud and high-quality sound reproduction when watching videos.

The soundbar is connected to the TV via HDMI.

The presented acoustics support surround sound formats; the functionality is controlled by the remote control.

Main characteristics:

output power (total) - 160 W;
front emitter - 80 W, 900 × 55 × 82 mm, 1.8 kg;
subwoofer - 80 W, 170 × 312 × 340 mm, 5.2 kg;
connection - linear stereo input, optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
Features: Dolby Digital/DTS support, remote control.

Advantages

stylish design;
compact dimensions;
high quality of assembly and materials;
there is a possibility of mounting on the wall;
powerful, high-quality sound.

Flaws

lack of WI-FI;
auto shutdown when there is no command via Bluetooth;
Not the most convenient remote control.

JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass

The JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass model, with its high output power and multi-channel sound playback, is an ideal solution for organizing a home theater.

The set of the front panel and remote subwoofer is made in accordance with the 2.1 configuration.

High-quality materials of the speaker housings prevent the occurrence of vibrations and acoustic resonance phenomena.

The device is connected to the TV with an HDMI cable, and it is also possible to synchronize the speakers with other devices via Bluetooth.

The system can be mounted both on the wall and on a shelf.

Main characteristics:

output power (total) - 300 W;
front emitter - 100 W, 965 × 58 × 85 mm, 2.16 kg;
subwoofer - 200 W, 240 × 379 × 240 mm, 5.67 kg;
connection - linear stereo input, optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
Features: Dolby Digital support, remote control.

Advantages

ease of installation;
fast synchronization with TV;
powerful sound of the system as a whole;
convenient wireless connection interface.

Flaws

does not “connect” with all Bluetooth adapters;
insignificant blockage at mid frequencies;
heavy subwoofer.

LG SJ3

Equipped with a pair of powerful speakers and supporting Auto Sound Engine technology, the LG SJ3 Soundbar stands out among competitive models with high-quality music playback with clear and distortion-free sound.

The automatic signal correction module also guarantees high-quality speech transmission.

Using the Bluetooth module, the user can stream audio content from a tablet or smartphone to the soundbar.

The speaker system is controlled by the TV remote control.

The functionality allows you to start playback from your mobile device without delays, even if the soundbar was in standby mode.

Main characteristics:

output power (total) - 300 W;
front emitter - 100 W, 950 × 71 × 47 mm, 2.47 kg;
subwoofer - 200 W, 171 × 320 × 252 mm, 4.2 kg;
connection - linear stereo input, optical input, Bluetooth;
features - support for Dolby Digital/DTS, control from the TV remote control.

Advantages

relatively low price;
compact dimensions;
high output power;
high-quality sound;
surround sound in Cinema mode.

Flaws

subjectively a lot of high frequencies;
lack of equalizer;
no display.

The best soundbars price/quality

In the middle price segment (10-20 thousand) the range is already much more interesting; here you can choose a still inexpensive, but good soundbar for your TV with a minimum of compromises.

Useful: a detailed guide to choosing a soundbar for your budget and tasks

No. 3 - Yamaha YAS-108

Type: 2.1
Power: 120W
Price: 16 thousand rubles

The Yamaha YAS-108 is a soundbar with a built-in subwoofer that looks and sounds great. The model is one of the most successful in the company’s assortment; it differs from the popular YAS-107 by the presence of two low-frequency bass reflexes, but if this is not enough for you, then you can connect an additional external subwoofer to the 108th. The system is able to synchronize with two Bluetooth devices at once, and the smartphone application allows you to customize the sound to your taste. The manufacturer provides several surround sound profiles for various viewing scenarios, which allow you to achieve decent 3D sound.

The YAS-108 has no serious drawbacks; the only thing we can complain about is the not-so-informative LED volume indicators, which are difficult to make out even at a distance of several meters.

$2 – Samsung HW-M450

Type: 2.1
Power: 320 W
Price: 16 thousand rubles

The HW-M450 soundbar has incredibly powerful bass for its size. The functionality of the system allows you to connect additional speakers to it (for example, SWA-8500s), thereby forming a full-fledged home theater with real, not virtual, 5.1 sound. But even the basic capabilities of this model will be enough for the vast majority of users. The HW-M450 comes with a convenient remote control, and you can also control the system via an app on your smartphone, which has an equalizer for fine-tuning the sound.

The HW-M450 supports all current connection interfaces (including Wi-Fi) and has a built-in player for playing music from a flash drive, although you will need to use a USB OTG adapter for this. In direct comparison with most competitors in its price category, the Samsung sound bar wins, and therefore we confidently recommend it for purchase.

No. 1 - JBL Bar 2.1

Type: 2.1
Power: 300W
Price: 17 thousand rubles

In terms of functionality, build quality, materials used, and, of course, sound, JBL Bar 2.1 is one of the best under 20 thousand rubles. The front part of the soundbar's sound panel is covered with a metal mesh, which, unlike the rag one on cheaper analogues, is resistant to damage and extremely easy to clean. Hidden underneath is an informative and easy-to-read LED display. Due to excellent detail and balanced presentation, the JBL Bar performs well when listening to music, and the deep bass will impress even people accustomed to good acoustics. In addition to the main interfaces, the bar supports HDMI Arc; the package includes all the necessary cables for connection. Pairing with the subwoofer is wireless, carried out with one press of a button on the latter’s body.

The main drawback here is the same as in other JBL soundbars - the auto-shutdown function does not always work correctly and sometimes works during quiet scenes in a movie, after which there is a 2-3 second delay before the sound returns. Reviews from owners indicate that this can happen 5-10 times during one film.

Models with 3.1 configuration

Important! Four-channel acoustics consisting of a pair of front and one central (usually built into the main panel) emitters is complemented by a subwoofer.

A number of models support DTS, Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos formats, but, as a rule, this is done, as in previous models, at the emulation level.

Rating and review of the best configuration models 3-1.

Samsung HW-T650

The Samsung HW-T650 soundbar allows you to organize a real home theater with powerful, loud and clear sound across the entire audible frequency range.

The presented model is equipped with a wireless active subwoofer with Bluetooth connection and a front panel with a built-in center channel.

The latter is equipped with a USB port for playing music from compatible devices.

Additionally, the soundbar is equipped with a special gaming mode with sound presets to create the appropriate atmosphere.

Main characteristics:

output power (total) - 340 W;
front emitter - 180 W, 980 × 58 × 90 mm, 2.4 kg;
subwoofer - 160 W, 205 × 353 × 303 mm, 6.2 kg;
connection - optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
Features: remote control control.

Advantages

modern appearance;
ease of connection and use;
high-quality sound over the entire frequency range;
subwoofer with wireless connection.

Flaws

lack of sound stage volume;
not the best solution for listening to music;
high price.

Sony HT-ZF9

The Sony HT-ZF9 model will be an excellent addition to your TV, allowing you to enjoy high-quality and lively sound of multi-channel audio content.

The presented acoustics include a sound panel with built-in rear and front speakers, and an external subwoofer with wireless connection.

The equipment has support for DLNA and surround sound decoders.

The main panel is equipped with audio/video connectors, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies. The acoustic pressure of the system is 72 dB maximum.

Main characteristics:

output power (total) - 400 W;
front emitter - 300 W, 1000 × 64 × 99 mm, 3.1 kg;
subwoofer - 100 W, 190 × 382 × 386 mm, 8.1 kg;
connection – linear stereo input, optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth, USB-A;
features - support for DTS/Neo 6/Dolby Digital/True HD, remote control.

Advantages

excellent sound quality;
impressive volume reserve;
completely switchable display;
the presence of a two-level speech amplification mode;
support for all modern formats.

Flaws

poor ergonomics of the remote control;
poor placement of HDMI ports (too close to each other);
high price.

Samsung HW-Q800T

With a total output power of 330W and Bluetooth wireless connectivity, the Samsung HW-Q800T is equipped with the latest technologies for perfectly clear and balanced sound.

Thanks to Dolby Atmos and DTS X decoders, the user can access the finest nuances of sound with an immersive effect as in real life.

Immersive sound (the soundbar's speakers work together with the TV's speakers) enhances the effect described above.

The presented acoustics can analyze the sound signal and automatically optimize the sound, improving the audibility of speech.

Main characteristics:

output power (total) - 330 W;
front emitter - 170 W, 980 × 60 × 115 mm, 3.6 kg;
subwoofer - 160 W, 205 × 403 × 403 mm, 9.8 kg;
connection - optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
features - support for Dolby Atmos/DTS X/HDR 10+, Tap Sound option, control from the remote control.

Advantages

excellent transmission of the nuances of the sound picture;
powerful addition in the form of bass;
convenient connection to TV;
intuitive control from the remote control.

Flaws

slurred Adaptive Sound mode;
average work with sound at low frequencies;
heavy weight of the subwoofer.

Soundbars: characteristics, types, types

- AirPlay. Wireless technology for connecting an external signal source to the projector. Developed by Apple, it is mainly used to connect to its devices (for example, iPad tablets or MacBook laptops), although it is also used by other manufacturers. AirPlay allows you to transfer not only sound, but also text and graphic information, and even video, which can be useful when connecting the projector to a TV. This technology by definition means Wi-Fi support (see below), because... it is based on this interface. — AirPlay 2. The second generation of the AirPlay technology described above, introduced in 2021. Among the main innovations of this version is support for the multiroom format, that is, the simultaneous broadcast of several audio signals to different compatible devices installed in different places. In this way, you can, for example, turn on an online broadcast of a news program in the living room, relaxing music in the bedroom, etc. In addition, AirPlay 2 received a number of other improvements - improved buffering, the ability to stream to stereo speakers, and support for voice control via Siri.

- Chromecast. Original name: Google Cast. Technology for broadcasting content to external devices, developed by Google. Allows you to transmit an audio signal from a PC or mobile device to the soundbar; broadcasting is usually carried out via Wi-Fi, while the receiver and the signal source must be on the same Wi-Fi network (with the exception of Chromecast media players). Note that in signal sources (smartphones, tablets, PCs, etc.) Chromecast is implemented at the level of individual applications. For example, at the time of its creation, this feature was available, in particular, in the YouTube and Netflix applications for Android and iOS, as well as in the web versions of these applications for Chrome. Thanks to this format, this technology is extremely widespread these days, and the ability to connect a particular gadget to an audio system with Chromecast is usually limited to the ability to install appropriate applications on this gadget.

- Wi-Fi. Wireless technology with several applications. One of them is connecting to a computer network; in audio projectors it is used primarily to work with local resources (see DLNA below) or AirPlay technology (see above), as well as to control the projector over a network. Another option is to connect directly to other devices. The possibilities of such connection may also be different in different models; One of the most popular options is remote control of the projector from a smartphone, tablet, etc.

— Bluetooth. Wireless technology designed to directly connect different electronic devices to each other. In sound projectors, it is used primarily to broadcast an audio signal wirelessly from another Bluetooth device, such as a smartphone or laptop. However, there may be other options - for example, connecting wireless headphones to the projector itself or remote control from the same smartphone. It is worth noting here that the sound quality when transmitted via Bluetooth is slightly lower than with a wired connection; on the other hand, this is compensated by convenience, and some models of sound projectors may even have a “sound restoration” system.

— NFC chip. NFC is a wireless communication technology at short distances, up to 10 cm. In sound projectors, it is used primarily as an auxiliary one, to facilitate connection via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. It looks like this: instead of manually delving into the settings, you just need to bring the NFC-compatible device to be connected to the projector chip and confirm the connection.

- FM radio. The projector has a built-in FM tuner. This feature actually turns the device into a full-fledged radio receiver, allowing you to receive FM broadcasts (in which most music radio stations broadcast). Note that some models with a tuner may support other bands - for example, AM or digital DAB.

- LAN. A standard connector for a wired connection to a computer network, also known as Ethernet or RJ-45. Like Wi-Fi (see above), sound projectors are used primarily for working on a local network; in this case, LAN capabilities can include both playback of network content via DLNA (see below) and control of projector settings via the network from a computer. A wired connection is not as convenient as Wi-Fi due to the need to lay a cable, but it is more reliable and can be useful when the air is “loaded” (an abundance of Wi-Fi devices nearby).

- DLNA. A technology used to connect various electronic devices into a single digital network with the ability to directly exchange content. Devices for which support for this standard is declared are able to communicate effectively regardless of the manufacturer. And the network itself operates on the basis of a regular computer “LAN”; connection to it is carried out via LAN or Wi-Fi (see above). In sound projectors, DLNA can be used, for example, to play music from a computer's hard drive.

— RS-232. A service interface used to connect an audio projector to a computer and control audio settings from a PC through a special program. On some models it can also be used to update the firmware.

— iPod connection. Special interface for connecting Apple iPod players. Most often it is based on a regular USB connector, to which the player is connected via an adapter cable; however, it may take the form of a dock - a stand with a proprietary connector where the gadget is directly placed. In any case, connecting in this way provides not only playing music from the player, but also other possibilities - for example, switching tracks from the projector's remote control, charging the battery, etc.

— Wireless connection to TV. Possibility to connect the sound projector to the TV wirelessly. The advantage of this option is obvious: it eliminates the fuss with additional cables. On the other hand, a wireless connection is usually based on a certain proprietary technology (LG Sound Sync, TV SoundConnect, etc.), and for it to work you need a TV that supports the corresponding technology. This limits the use of this feature. In addition, such a connection is more susceptible to interference than a wired one, and “wireless” projectors are more expensive than wired ones. Therefore, you should specifically look for a model with such a function if you have a TV that supports wireless technologies and the absence of unnecessary wires is fundamental.

Soundbars with 4.1 configuration

such devices have four main emitters - a pair of front ones and a pair of rear ones (external or built-in).

It is worth noting! The 4.1 format allows for three-dimensional sound, but due to the lack of a separate center channel, it may not be very suitable for film scoring.

TOP 2 best models of 4-1 configuration according to expert advice.

LG SN5R

With 4.1-channel DTS Virtual X high-definition surround sound and 520 W total output, the LG SN5R Soundbar is an essential part of a home theater system for even the most sophisticated user.

The presented acoustics will appeal not only to fans of films and TV series, but also to music lovers.

The stated sampling rate of 96 kHz and 24-bit depth mean clear, expressive and detailed sound with excellent resolution of the smallest nuances.

An external subwoofer will complement the picture with the depth and power of low-frequency components.

The built-in AI Sound Pro system will automatically detect the type of content and adjust playback settings.

Main characteristics:

output power (total) - 520 W;
front emitter - 180 W, 890 × 57 × 85 mm, 2.35 kg;
rear speakers - 120 W, 97 × 140 × 80 mm, 0.89 kg;
subwoofer - 220 W, 180 × 394 × 290 mm, 5.8 kg;
connection - optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
Features: AI Sound Pro system.

Advantages

high-quality sound of the system as a whole;
ease of connection and configuration;
two HDMI ports;
nice design.

Flaws

relatively weak rear speakers;
inconvenient location of the optical input.

LG SNH5

The LG SNH5 TV soundbar with support for surround sound technology provides expressive sound with maximum immersion in audio content.

The best soundbars for 5.1 sound

Perhaps the most common surround sound format is equipped with a central speaker (usually built into the main panel), front radiators and rear speakers (depending on the model, built-in or external), as well as a powerful subwoofer unit.

Stay up to date! The system fully reproduces surround sound, just like in a movie theater.

JBL Bar 5.1 Surround

The JBL Bar 5.1 Surround model can be considered as an option for setting up a home theater yourself or as a device for organizing parties.

In both cases, users are guaranteed crystal clear sound and high output power across the full spectrum of audible frequencies.

The front panel, equipped with the main speakers, is connected to the TV via optical, analog or HDMI.

The remote subwoofer connects to the system via a Bluetooth interface. The system is equipped with the latest surround sound decoders.

Main characteristics:

output power (total) - 550 W;
front emitter - 250 W, 1018 × 58 × 100 mm, 2.85 kg;
subwoofer - 300 W, 305 × 440 × 305 mm, 10.62 kg;
connection - linear stereo input, optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
Features: Dolby Digital support, remote control.

Advantages

excellent sound transmission with powerful and soft bass;
intelligible speech in films and TV programs;
easy installation and configuration;
interesting design overall.

Flaws

no built-in equalizer;
there are no basic presets (“Music”, “Movie”, “Sports”, etc.);
difficult to read display.

LG SL10Y

The LG SL10Y soundbar boasts a stylish design of the main and subwoofer speakers, as well as original sound comparable to the monitor sound of studio systems.

The front panel, equipped with a special mount, is installed on a wall or shelf.

The remote design of the subwoofer unit makes it possible to place it in any suitable place.

The soundbar is controlled from the remote control.

Built-in Bluetooth technology allows you to connect the speakers to any mobile device. Movie buffs will be interested in the “Night” and “Film” modes.

Main characteristics:

output power (total) - 570 W;
front emitter - 350 W, 1443 × 63 × 146 mm, 7.5 kg;
subwoofer - 220 W, 221 × 390 × 313 mm, 7.8 kg;
connection - optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth;
features - support for DTS-HD/Master Audio/Dolby Digital/True HD, Google Cast, remote control.

Advantages

excellent sound quality content;
compatibility with other devices;
several connection options;
Convenient control of soundbar settings.

Flaws

no cables included;
poor sounding mp3;
heavy subwoofer.

Sony HT-S700RF

The Sony HT-S700RF model with a 240 W subwoofer, a 456 W main sound panel and two rear speakers of 152 W each, allows you to create a full-fledged stereo system for high-quality scoring of films and listening to music.

The device is equipped with five audio channels, it supports USB storage devices and wireless connection via Bluetooth.

The soundbar provides the ability to play songs from mobile gadgets.

The front panel housing is made of aluminum alloy, and the remote subwoofer is made of wood.

Those who like to watch movies at night will like the corresponding operating mode. You can control the device either from the remote control or from a smartphone.

Main characteristics:

output power (total) - 1000 W;
front emitter - 456 W, 900 × 64 × 90 mm, 3 kg;
rear speakers - 304 W 78 × 1200 × 78 mm, 3.6 kg;
subwoofer - 240 W, 231 × 438 × 378 mm, 10.2 kg;
connection - optical input, HDMI, Bluetooth, USB-A;
Features: Dolby Digital/DTS support.

Advantages

ease of setup;
nice design;
high sound quality;
fast and stable Bluetooth operation.

Flaws

no infrared control channel;
there is no rear balance adjustment;
high price tag.

TOP 5 LG soundbars

LG SN11R

The top soundbar in LG's line of soundbars: modern, powerful and damn expensive. The wireless soundbar combined with an external subwoofer has a total power of 770 watts - a record for this selection and enough to tear apart a small cottage. All necessary methods of wired and wireless connection are provided, synchronization through a proprietary application, support for DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Digital, Dolby TrueHD and 7.1.4-channel audio technologies.

It is worth considering that the soundbar is quite thin, but at the same time long - almost one and a half meters, which still need to be found where to place it. Despite this drawback, today it is perhaps one of the best ways to get surround sound in a relatively compact package. Albeit at a price of 100,000 rubles.

Price: RUB 99,990

LG SL10Y

This device, of course, is cheaper than the previous model, but at a price of 70,000 rubles, it’s still hard to call it inexpensive. The soundbar consists of a soundbar for mid and high frequencies and a remote subwoofer. The total power of 570 watts is enough not only for a large room, but for an entire house. Of course, to say that the system sounds good is to say nothing.

The device supports surround sound in Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus and DTS:X formats. There is also support for Google Cast technology, and the ability to connect wirelessly via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. A true multimedia entertainment center in a compact design.

Price: RUB 71,399

LG SL5Y

A very stylish, albeit not too expensive, LG soundbar, for which you will have to pay a little less than 19,000 rubles. Both inside and out, it's a typical LG soundbar: thin, cute and advanced. Remote subwoofer, total power 300 watts, work with universal remote controls and proprietary mobile application via Bluetooth

The device is equipped with a full set of necessary interfaces, but for some reason it does not have a banal AUX, so be sure to take this into account when purchasing. And, despite the fact that the official package includes an optical cable, you will have to purchase it separately. But against the backdrop of numerous advantages, these are all trifles.

Price: RUB 18,790

LG SN4

Inexpensive, but very worthy LG soundbar. For 16,000 rubles they offer us a compact but good-sounding gadget, which may not replace a full-fledged home theater, but will certainly cost much less and at the same time raise the quality of TV sound to a new level. The device is made in 2.1 format, with an external wired subwoofer. The total power of the devices is 300 watts, of which 200 are for the sub: this is more than enough to pump up even a large living room. The device can be controlled using the TV remote control or through a proprietary smartphone application.

Not the best choice for a music lover, but a great solution for games and movies.

Price: RUB 15,990

LG SJ3

The most affordable (but no less interesting) LG soundbar in this selection. The gadget is made in a 2.1 form factor: the soundbar itself contains mid- and high-frequency speakers, and an external subwoofer is responsible for the bass. Despite the modest price of around 14,500, everything here is like in the best houses: a full set of interfaces, work with television remote controls, the ability to control from a smartphone (via a proprietary application via Bluetooth). Well, 300 watts of total power, of which 200 are from the subwoofer, is sufficient for a room of almost any size.

If your home theater budget is limited, but you still want good sound, then the LG SJ3 is what you need.

Price: RUB 14,990

Soundbar or home theater - which is better to choose?

Actually, a soundbar is a sound panel that allows you to output sound from your TV and make it higher quality, louder and more spacious.

Such acoustics are quite capable of replacing a home theater. The features of the soundbar include:

compact dimensions;
many configurations;
high sound quality;
recognition of different decoders;
availability of connectors for connecting storage devices;
Possibility of wireless communication with mobile devices.

Keep in mind! The soundbar will be convenient for owners of small apartments who do not want to clutter up the space with speakers and wires.

The device can be used as an addition to the TV, or as a full-fledged audio system with various functions.

A home theater allows you to get high-quality surround sound and play audio and video from various media.

Such acoustics
are the most complete solution for high-quality dubbing of video content.
Features of a home theater include:

not the most compact dimensions;
two main modifications on the market – 5.1 and 7.1;
Hi-Fi class compliance;
Availability of parameter settings depending on the type of room.

In general, a sound bar can be recommended for purchase if the TV does not have high-quality sound, but there is a desire to save money and not clutter the room with bulky speakers and wires.

Home theater is more expensive, but produces professional-level sound, often requiring complex setup.