How to choose and set up a soundbar

Recently, image quality standards for watching TV have increased sharply, and today all modern models of LCD, plasma and OLED TVs are able to recreate an excellent, crystal clear picture, but they are not able to provide adequate sound.

Their tiny built-in speakers can't reproduce dialogue clearly, much less convincingly immerse us in the realistic explosions, car crashes and other mayhem we see in our favorite movies. If you want to truly feel surrounded by a movie soundtrack, hear powerful, immersive sound, or simply get a clearer broadcast, then it's best to add additional TV speakers.

Our detailed guide will clearly outline all of your options for getting the best sound from your TV.

What is a soundbar

The soundbar is a speaker system in the form of a single unit.
Such a system has a set of sound channels and is equipped with 4-12 speakers, depending on the model. In addition, the soundbar in its design may have additional systems and devices to provide the user with an even greater number of functions. Many users pay attention first of all to the difference from home theaters - the dimensions - not everyone can dedicate half a room to a corner for watching new films in the film industry. In addition, you must admit that a small room does not always need a dozen speakers - and one will cope with sound output. After all, as a rule, a soundbar looks like an elongated speaker, most of which is occupied by the speaker grille. The manufacturer is trying to make it not just loud and multifunctional, but also compact so that the buyer does not have problems with its placement. The soundbar not only has a set of speakers, but also has a full-fledged audio chip.
That is, the system also processes the sound before output, bringing it to perfection. Thanks to this, the soundbar differs little in the quality of the output sound from a home theater. To provide clearer and richer sound, the manufacturer can install the speakers in different directions and at different angles. Often the speakers are supplemented with a separate column responsible for low frequencies.

The first sound projectors

In the late nineties, many home audio makers—particularly Pioneer and Yamaha in particular—were looking to achieve more impressive spatial effects.

Pioneer PDS-1 is one of the pioneers in the field of sound projectors, released in 2002

It was then that the first sound projectors appeared - for example, the Pioneer PDSP-1. The idea behind such a soundbar (the term itself, however, did not yet exist) was to place more speakers in it, each of which was controlled by a computer system.

All together, using the phenomena of interference and reflection of sound from flat surfaces of walls, with varying degrees of success they emulated spatial sound, surround sound, creating virtual sources around the listener.

Yamaha YSP-1 Sound Projector

Around the same time, the Yamaha YSP-1 sound projector was released, which was much more similar to a modern soundbar, and then its successor, the Yamaha YSP-4000BL.

Yamaha YSP-4000BL

As for real success in the market, the price tag of these systems was a hefty five-figure sum, and manufacturing companies soon realized that they could not count on serious prospects. The moment came when they even began to forget about sound projectors.

Where is the best place to install a soundbar?

If the TV is on a cabinet, counter, rack, table or chest of drawers, then the soundbar can simply be placed directly in front of it. However, you need to measure the distance from the surface of the stand to the screen and check whether the soundbar will fit in this gap and whether it will block the image. But this arrangement is ideal - the sound will come almost “from the picture”. If you want to install the soundbar inside a rack, then it should be pushed forward as much as possible so that the sound does not interfere with the side walls of the rack. It is also necessary to take into account that sound bars that support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X should not be placed inside racks - since they work with sound reflected from the ceiling to create vertical audio effects. There are also special, small-sized soundbars for PCs that act as an alternative to standard multimedia acoustics.

If the TV is hanging on the wall, then the soundbar can be screwed underneath it - many models are equipped with wall mounts. You can place it either under the TV or above it, but below is still better, since the height of the sound source is approximately the same as that of the listeners. Soundbars often come with mounts and/or paper templates that make it easy to mark the wall for holes for screws.

LG SJ3

This model is equipped with adaptive sound control. This is a unique LG technology that significantly improves the quality of voice reproduction. The device performs loudness level analysis, and ASC technology reduces the bass power so that the voice becomes crystal clear.

Main characteristics of the model

standard: 2.1;
dimensions of the main module (WxHxD): 950x71x47 mm;
subwoofer dimensions (WxHxD): 171x320x252 mm;
main module weight: 2.47 kg;

subwoofer weight: 4.2 kg;
total power: 300 W;
number of columns: 1 pc.

Advantages

+ crystal clear sound, rich bass;
+ you can control the LG TV remote control;
+ there are many interesting settings, you can do everything yourself;
+ beautiful appearance, fits well into any interior;

+ wireless connection works great;
+ the body is made of high quality materials;
+ compact size with good power;

Flaws

— there is no optical cable included, you need to buy it separately;
— there is no display at all, so you can’t see what volume level is being set;

— additional tuning is necessary, since high frequencies greatly harm the hearing;
— there is no HDMI connector and equalizer.

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What connection methods are there?

When it is already clear exactly how to position the soundbar, it is worth thinking about how to connect the TV and other devices to it. In the case of a wall mount, you should first connect everything, and then hang the audio device.

The digital coaxial input can be used to connect Blu-ray, DVD players and other digital sources that have this output. If they don't have a coaxial output, they most likely have optical or equivalent. Another connection option is a 3.5 mm minijack . It either replaces the analog stereo inputs or is adjacent to them. The minijack is convenient for connecting portable digital audio devices. But they can also be connected using an RCA-minijack adapter, which is sold separately.

Using the HDMI input, you can transfer video signals from DVD/BD players and set-top boxes to your TV via the soundbar. The soundbar passes the video signal through itself without changing it in any way, but pulls out the sound from the broadcast and decodes/processes it independently. This solution reduces the mess of wires: there is no need to connect the TV with a separate cable to both the video source and the soundbar. Moreover, the soundbar is capable of supporting HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) - then the TV sends an audio signal using the same HDMI cable that the speakers use to transmit video to the TV (for versions older than 1.4a). This again reduces the number of cables required.

Many soundbars have a subwoofer output . If the soundbar you're customizing has one, you can physically connect an external subwoofer to it. Very often, subwoofers are needed as low-frequency support for a fuller sound. And although soundbars often come with a subwoofer, some are not burdened with it.

Many soundbars that come with a subwoofer connect to the subwoofer wirelessly to reduce the number of cables needed, even if they have the required connector. Another connection option is an Ethernet port . Soundbars with this connector can be connected to your home network, and through it to streaming services. Or even implement it into a multi-room system. Often, soundbars with an Ethernet port are equipped with Wi-Fi, which, again, does not require cables.

If your soundbar comes with a subwoofer, you need to find a suitable location for it. It must be located, firstly, conveniently (that is, next to the outlet), and secondly, so that it sounds. A properly installed subwoofer should sound at the same volume level as the soundbar.

Denon DNT-S316

This model allows you to turn a simple TV into a full-fledged home entertainment center. The soundbar is equipped with the proprietary Denon Dialogue Enhancer program. It significantly improves sound reproduction and allows you to clearly hear all dialogues against any background.

Main characteristics of the model

standard: 2.1;
dimensions of the main module (WxHxD): 900x55x82 mm;
subwoofer dimensions (WxHxD): 170x312x340 mm;
main module weight: 1.8 kg;

subwoofer weight: 5.2 kg;
total power: 100 W;
number of columns: 1 pc.

Advantages

+ beautiful, high-quality and balanced sound;
+ rich and soft bass;
+ in the “cinema” mode, volumetric effects appear;
+ there are all the necessary settings;
+ there are different modes that you can choose yourself - cinema, music, night mode, voice highlighting;

+ attractive appearance;
+ wireless system;
+ simple controls, even without a remote control;
+ very light and compact system;
+ affordable price.

Flaws

— if there is no Bluetooth signal for 15 minutes, the soundbar automatically turns off;

— inconvenient location of inputs/outputs.

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What is the difference between soundbars with surround sound systems?

There are also sound bars that come with both a subwoofer and satellites for surround sound. In these systems, the subwoofers are wireless, but the satellites are attached to the subwoofer with cables. The soundbar handles the front channels - left, center and right, but sends the bass and rear channels to the subwoofer. The subwoofer redirects the signal to the satellites, and itself “buzzes” with bass. In this situation, there are no wires that run from the TV to the rear channels, but the satellites still need to be connected to the subwoofer, and for this reason the subwoofer should be located in the back of the room .

Samsung HW-R550

A soundbar allows you to raise the sound quality of a simple TV to a higher level. Thanks to the bass boost function, the low frequencies are enhanced.

Main characteristics of the model

standard: 2.1;
dimensions of the main module (WxHxD): 904x55x80 mm;
subwoofer dimensions (WxHxD): 201x353x290 mm;
main module weight: 2.2 kg;

subwoofer weight: 5 kg;
total power: 320 W;
number of columns: 1 pc.

Advantages

+ stylish design;
+ wireless connection supported;
+ the kit includes a convenient remote control with a minimalistic design;
+ you can control the soundbar using the Samsung TV remote control;

+ simple and clear controls, there are no complex functions;
+ crystal strong and powerful sound, no wheezing or other interference;
+ it is possible to add rear wireless speakers;
+ affordable price.

Flaws

- no NFC;
— the display is purely functional;
— when connected via HDMI, the sound is quiet;

— no Wi-Fi;
— there is a second delay when switching modes and inputs.

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What to choose: soundbar or TV audio stand

Another version of the soundbar is a TV stand. Its speakers and connection options are classic, but its size (depth and width) allows it to be installed directly under the TV panel. These stands work well with TVs that have one central leg. That is, for example, it is not a fact that TVs with legs located at the edges can be placed on such a stand: the legs may be spaced too wide, and the stand may be too narrow.

In addition, the height of such a stand may be greater than the distance from the shelf on which the TV is placed to its frame. These factors need to be taken into account if you like TV stands over classic sound bars. Depending on the brand, such devices are called differently: audio console, sound platform, sound stand, and so on.

LG SL10Y

This model has compact dimensions and stylish design. The soundbar creates surround and high-quality sound without distortion. Now you can create a real cinema in your own home. Thanks to high sampling rates, as well as greater bit depth, digital music becomes more vibrant.

Main characteristics of the model

standard: 5.1;
dimensions of the main module (WxHxD): 1443x63x146 mm;
subwoofer dimensions (WxHxD): 221x390x313 mm;
main module weight: 7.5 kg;

subwoofer weight: 7.8 kg;
total power: 570 W;
number of columns: 1 pc.

Advantages

+ high-quality sound, very loud, no noise or other interference;
+ it is possible to use it with different devices;
+ different connection options;
+ Wi-Fi supported;

+ can be controlled using either a TV remote control or a smartphone;
+ there is support for the Google Assistant voice assistant;
+ if the content is of high quality, it can be used as a music center;
+ when the volume of the soundbar is reduced, special effects are preserved.

Flaws

— quite large in size, so it looks good only with large-screen TVs;
— the kit does not include any wires;

— the surface attracts dust very strongly;
- high price.

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11.

Soundbars with Bluetooth and wireless multiroom

Bluetooth is a feature that is often found even in budget sound bars. In most cases, Bluetooth allows speakers to receive audio signals from smartphones and other mobile devices. However, some soundbars can send audio to wireless headphones and speakers. The latest innovation in such gadgets is wireless multiroom. With this functionality, you can use a soundbar connected to a mobile application to work in a multi-room system - listen to music from connected sources or streaming services and send melodies to other speakers on the same network. Multiroom systems are closed or semi-closed: the manufacturer himself decides which speakers the sound bar can interact with.

Soundbars are popular for one simple reason: they're easy to set up and start using. Despite the fact that they do not belong to the class of full-fledged home theater systems, soundbars can suit many people - both in dubbing films and playing music. Those who already have a full-fledged home theater can, for example, use a sound panel to sound another room. When choosing a soundbar, you need to look not only at the price, but also at the features of installation, settings, as well as the technologies that are used in such devices to improve sound quality.

JBL Bar 5.1 Surround

The soundbar will give you incredible emotions - in action scenes you can feel all the pulsating low frequencies. All the beauty of nature documentaries is conveyed.

Main characteristics of the model

standard: 5.1;
dimensions of the main module (WxHxD): 1018x58x100 mm;
subwoofer dimensions (WxHxD): 305x440x305 mm;
main module weight: 2.85 kg;

subwoofer weight: 10.62 kg;
total power: 550 W;
number of columns: 1 pc.

Advantages

+ excellent sound of maximum quality, especially the bass - magnificent and soft;
+ built-in Chromecast and Airplay 2 technologies allow you to stream and manage content;
+ transmission via Bluetooth is perfect - no glitches or deterioration in sound;
+ beautiful appearance, can be mounted on the wall;

+ clear speech in films and TV programs;
+ easy setup and installation;
+ not a high price for such a high-quality device.

Flaws

— the display is located behind the grille, making it difficult to see;
— no built-in equalizer;
— when the device is connected, a very loud signal is emitted;

— the response to volume adjustment slows down a little;
— not very clear intelligent mode.

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Bose SoundTouch 300

An interesting model, one of the premium ones. This is a functional and beautiful device that produces high-quality sound. This is made possible thanks to various improvements - for example, you can additionally use a wireless subwoofer.

Main characteristics of the model

standard: 2.0;
dimensions of the main module (WxHxD): 978x58x108 mm;

main module weight: 4.7 kg.
number of columns: 1 pc.

Advantages

+ sound system is compact and mobile;
+ can be connected to a TV, computer, smartphone, tablet;
+ stable and fast operation, does not slow down;
+ thanks to a special device, the room is calculated, and the system plays only in it (in the neighboring rooms the sound is completely inaudible);

+ you can switch the bass from the remote control, convenient control system;
+ supports wireless communication, works stably, does not fall off;
+ you can easily connect Internet radio, playback from a network drive works well (you need to use a special application).

Flaws

- no Airplay;
— there is no menu;

- glossy surface - fingerprints, dust and traces of pets remain;
- high price.

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Classification

Now there is a wide variety of different models, modifications and manufacturers of soundbars. Before you dive into the process of choosing the right option, you need to clearly define for yourself what it is needed for. The answer received will become the starting point for further searches. Another important point when choosing a sound platform is the need to become familiar with the existing types and types of devices, that is, with their classification.

By installation method

The design of the soundbar body can be made in the form of a stand (shelf, platform) or in the form of a panel (mono speakers). In the first case, you can install the TV itself on it, and then the equipment will act as two items in one: an audio system and a stand. In the second option, the mono speaker must be mounted on a wall or installed on furniture and other flat surfaces near the TV receiver.

By availability of amplifier

Soundbars can be connected to the TV directly or through an AV receiver to play sound. In the first case, the soundbar will be active, and in the second - passive . An AV receiver is a special amplifier with digital stream decoders that can convert audio and video formats. Thus, a soundbar that connects directly to a TV is equipped with a built-in amplifier.

Based on drive availability

Some soundbar models have a drive that allows you to play discs. This option may be of interest to true music lovers who have their own collection of favorite albums. This feature will also come in handy if there is no Internet or signal interruptions. But most users prefer to listen to music directly via the Internet or from a computer; for them, the drive is an unnecessary additional feature for which there is no point in overpaying.

By subwoofer location

Bass in audio systems is provided by a subwoofer, which can be built into the housing or connected separately. In the latter case, it can be connected using a cable or wirelessly.

Advice! For lovers of audio effects with an abundance of low frequencies, it is better to have a separate subwoofer, then the sound will be as rich as possible. Because its built-in version will not be able to fully convey the full depth of sound and bass.

A soundbar with a built-in subwoofer is suitable for watching your favorite movies and channels, as well as for those who value minimalism above all else and do not want to clutter up their free space.

By number of channels

The more channels are used to transmit sound, the better, better and more interesting it is. The simplest option is 2.0, which is comparable to two regular speakers without a built-in subwoofer. The most popular soundbar among audiophiles today is 7.1 (7 channels and 1 sub). A larger number of speakers and, accordingly, frequencies allows you to get the most realistic and rich sound signal.

On a note! Today, the latest soundbar models can include up to 16 different speakers.

By other parameters

When choosing the right type of sauna bar, the brand is of no small importance. The quality of materials and workmanship, the availability of warranty and service, and, of course, the sound depend on this . It is worth buying sound panels from well-known and popular manufacturers, the best of which are: Samsung, Lg, Xiaomi and others. To avoid being deceived by unscrupulous sellers, it would be a good idea to look on the Internet for ratings of the most popular mono speakers and reviews of real buyers for the model you like.

So, a soundbar is an excellent addition to a large and modern TV. Unlike other speaker systems, it does not take up much space and costs an order of magnitude cheaper, while providing an elegant, capacious and powerful sound image (especially multi-channel models).

Tips for choosing a speaker system

Decide on the power range of the speaker system. There are complex formulas for calculating it, but it’s worth remembering one thing: if the speakers are too loud, you can always make them quieter, but vice versa, not. For a room measuring about 20 square meters. m. It is worth taking a closer look at models with a power of 35-50 W;
Decide on the system format; if you will mainly watch clips and listen to music on the TV, then a 2.0 or 2.1 system will be perfect, but for watching movies or games, 5.1 or more will be better.
You shouldn’t chase a brand; now there are products of good quality from little-known manufacturers on sale, you can listen to them in real stores and compare.

Video on how to choose a speaker system for your home

Xiaomi Redmi TV Soundbar

The soundbar has an interesting and stylish design, as well as small dimensions and great functionality. This model will definitely appeal to those who do not want to carry out long and tedious sound adjustments themselves. Almost all settings are performed automatically.

Main characteristics of the model

standard: 2.1;
dimensions of the main module (WxHxD): 780x63x64 mm;
main module weight: 1.5 kg;

total power: 30 W;
number of columns: 1 pc.

Advantages

+ excellent sound, good power;
+ good build quality and case materials;
+ convenient and fast connection via Bluetooth;
+ beautiful design, fits well into any interior;

+ light weight, compact dimensions;
+ convenient wall mounting;
+ low cost.

Flaws

— there is no HDMI port and remote control;
— for a Chinese power plug you need to additionally buy an adapter, since it is not included in the kit;

— in the absence of sound, some strange whistle is constantly heard;
- low frequencies are very weak.

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YAMAHA MusicCast BAR 400

The soundbar supports MusicCast Surround and comes with a wireless subwoofer. This model is characterized by support for Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Sound formats. It is possible to create a full-fledged surround and powerful sound system if you additionally purchase speakers that support MusicCast wireless technology.

Main characteristics of the model

standard: 2.1;
dimensions of the main module (WxHxD): 980x60x111 mm;
subwoofer dimensions (WxHxD): 180x417x405 mm;
main module weight: 2.7 kg;

subwoofer weight: 9.4 kg;
total power: 200 W;
number of columns: 1 pc.

Advantages

+ balanced sound for both movies and music;
+ conveniently manage through a proprietary application;
+ design without unnecessary elements;

+ there are Dolby, DTS, DTS Virtual:X decoders;
+ playing lossless audio files;
+ high quality workmanship.

Flaws

- inconvenient remote control - not all functions are displayed;

— no sound saving for different sources.

YAMAHA YAS-108

This compact device allows you to get high-quality television sound. The soundbar can be placed under the TV or mounted on the wall. You only need one cable to connect. The model has support for Bluetooth wireless communication. Therefore, you can easily play your favorite music from mobile gadgets and devices belonging to the Amazon Alexa family.

Main characteristics of the model

standard: 2.1;
dimensions of the main module (WxHxD): 889x54x130 mm;
main module weight: 3.2 kg;

total power: 120 W;
number of columns: 1 pc.

Advantages

+ surround and loud sound, pleasant bass;
+ built-in subwoofer;
+ excellent appearance, ideally complements TV;
+ good functionality;
+ can be controlled by remote control or via an application on a smartphone;

+ turns on with the TV;
+ no need to buy a subwoofer separately;
+ easy to connect, stable operation;
+ high build quality.

Flaws

— after turning off/on the volume is automatically reset;
— inconvenient location of connectors;
— there are not enough sound settings;

— connectors get very hot during prolonged use;
— Dust quickly collects on the body.

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Top premium models

SONY HT-ST5000 - Good soundbar, good money, for 70-90 thousand rubles. Its 7 speakers will give you surround sound that will give you goosebumps.

The panel weighs more than 8 kg, an excellent 14 kg subwoofer with Bluetooth.

A large number of connectors cannot but please the buyer, such as a USB port, NFC, HDMI outputs, input, Wi-Fi and an audio jack.

Canton DM90 - First of all, it is distinguished by its massive, solid body.

High total power of 350 W, 4 speakers responsible for high-quality two-way implementation that separate high and low frequencies.

Very large-scale sound in stereo and cinema modes.

The subwoofer is not included in the kit, since low-frequency drivers with a diameter of 100 mm are already built-in.

All connectors are on the back side; a TV, CD-BD players, an external subwoofer, an FM autotuner antenna, and even a vinyl disc player can be easily connected to the soundbar.

Only a USB port and Wi-Fi are missing. The flexible system is easily controlled from the remote control.

A well-assembled panel weighs an impressive 17.5 kg. The device will cost 60-80 thousand rubles.

Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 2 - Almost superior model for 130 thousand rubles.

The sleek design and build quality of this version are impeccable. The fit and finish is excellent, the high level of functionality and focused sound are definitely worth the money.

Since 14 kg is quite a weighty unit, the kit includes a heavy-duty bracket to facilitate installation.

New bass drivers provide improved extension and dynamics, ideal volume of sound.

Three HDMI inputs, excellent integration with other devices.

This soundbar surpasses many of its competitors in its sound capabilities.

The only disadvantages include the lack of Bluetooth connection and significant weight.

Functional Features

Manufacturers equip the best modern soundbar models with an integrated Blu-ray player and FM radio. Additionally, it is possible to use the device as a docking station for an iPod. Most models are capable of playing streaming audio files from the Internet. Some models allow you to separately adjust the high and low frequencies.

It is possible to use various audio interfaces by type:

optical input (connecting a PC/set-top box/BluRay player);
HDM I port (connecting TV/PC/set-top box/BluRay player);
Stereo RCA input;
TRS connector (connecting TV/portable player/vinyl player);
coaxial S/PDIF input (connecting a PC/DVD/BluRay player).

Optical input on the soundbar
To connect the soundbar to the equipment, you can use any of the interfaces listed above.