(Image credit: Future)
A soundbar is a slim, elongated speaker designed to sit beneath or in front of your television, significantly enhancing the audio quality beyond what the TV itself can achieve. Today’s sleek, flat-screen TVs often lack space for robust speakers, resulting in sound that can be thin and unsatisfying. Adding a soundbar can clarify dialogue and create a cinematic home theater atmosphere.
Soundbars vary in size and features to accommodate different budgets and TV sizes. Compact models enhance sound for smaller TVs, starting from basic amplification to models with virtual surround sound capabilities. Medium-sized options range from affordable simplicity to advanced features. Larger soundbars, suitable for TVs 55 inches and above, provide substantial audio upgrades, often including Dolby Atmos for immersive 3D sound.
Most soundbars connect to your TV via HDMI ARC or optical digital connections. HDMI ARC allows seamless control with your TV’s remote and is essential for Dolby Atmos support. Some soundbars include subwoofers for deeper bass, while others offer rear speakers to achieve true surround sound.