The 10 Best Active Soundbar Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Bose TV Speaker - Soundbar for TV
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Bose TV Speaker - Soundbar for TV

The Bose TV Speaker is designed with simplicity in mind. It's a small soundbar that clarifies speech and is a simple fix for better TV sound. With 2 angled full-range drivers, it delivers wide, natural sound for overall better TV sound from a small soundbar. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar

Delivers beautiful, rich sound with deep bass. Polk's exclusive Voice Adjust Technology & Dolby Digital Decoding maximizes sound clarity and reduces voice delays. Excellent sound and value on par with any mid- to high-range sound bars available in the market. Read Review

3. Best Realiable: Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Sound System

Experience the world’s most advanced TV sound system. With a single sound bar that delivers better sound quality compared to your TV, and advanced technologies like dialogue mode to make every word and detail stand out, the Bose Solo 5 TV Sound System is an easy solution for anyone looking for clearer audio. Read Review

4. Best Energy Efficient: YAMAHA SR-B20A Sound Bar with Built-in Subwoofers and Bluetooth

The YAMAHA SR-B20A sound bar lets you enjoy clear dialogue, powerful bass and immersive virtual surround sound. It features built-in subwoofers for deep bass in one slim sound bar, Clear Voice for enhanced dialogue clarity, and DTS Virtual: X virtual 3D surround sound. Read Review

Are you looking for the best active soundbar that will easily blend in with your décor and at the same time provide you an immersive audio experience? If yes, then read on. There is no denying the fact that soundbars are a perfect fit for most living spaces. With an active soundbar, you get to enjoy surround-sound audio system at a much smaller footprint.

They are compact, easy to setup, and offer a more affordable alternative to bulky home theater systems. When it comes to choosing the best active soundbar for your home or apartment, there are various things that you need to keep in mind. Let’s take a look:

You can count on our team of experts who have spent over 14 hours conducting surveys through 4,310 real customer reviews. Because of this, we came to the conclusion that the best-reviewed product is Bose TV Speaker - Soundbar for TV. And Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Bose TV Speaker - Soundbar for TV
Our Score:
9.9
Bose
  • Bluetooth TV speaker: Pair your device to this Bluetooth soundbar to wirelessly stream your favorite music and podcasts.
  • Remote control: Compact TV speaker comes with a remote control that enables a dialogue mode to further enhance speech or add a bass boost for more depth.
  • Hear your TV better: Designed with simplicity in mind, the Bose TV Speaker is a small soundbar that clarifies speech and is a simple fix for better TV sound.
  • Enhanced dialogue: This TV speaker is designed to specifically focus on clarifying and elevating vocals and pronunciation.
  • Simple setup: A single connection from this compact soundbar to the TV via an optical audio cable (included) or an HDMI cable (sold separately) has you up and running in minutes.
  • Compact soundbar: This small soundbar is just over 2" tall for easy placement in front of your TV or mounted to a wall (wall brackets sold separately). Overall TV speaker dimensions are 2.21" H x 23.38" W x 4.02" D.
  • Wide, natural sound: 2 angled full-range drivers deliver a more realistic, spatial audio experience for overall better TV sound from a small soundbar.
  • Build and expand: The Bose TV Speaker is compatible with the Bose Bass Module 500 or 700 and requires the Bose Bass Module Connection Cable or a standard 3.5 millimeter audio cable, sold separately.
TOP Choice #2 Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar
Our Score:
9.8
Polk Audio
  • A PREMIUM ULTRA-SLIM SOUND BAR WITH INCLUDED WIRELESS SUBWOOFER – 5 powerful full-range drivers deliver BEAUTFUL RICH SOUND WITH DEEP BASS. POLK’S EXCLUSIVE VOICE ADJUST TECHNOLOGY & Dolby Digital Decoding maximizes sound clarity & reduces voice delays
  • SET UP YOUR SOUND BAR IN MINUTES — With the included subwoofer, HDMI and optical cables quickly connect your TV to the sound bar. Get set up and listening in minutes
  • UPGRADE YOUR HOME THEATER EXPERIENCE – Watch your favorite shows on your 4K HD Smart TV with exceptional picture quality & crystal clear sound. With numerous connection possibilities, plug in any audio source via HDMI ARC, optical input & AUX
  • WIRELESSLY STREAM MUSIC from your favorite streaming apps like Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, and others directly from your smartphone, tablet or other compatible device through the built-in Bluetooth technology
  • EXCELLENT SOUND AND VALUE on par with any mid- to high-range sound bars available in the market. At just over 2" tall, it fits most spaces — easily wall-mount it or place in front of your TV. It won’t block your TV’s bottom edge or IR remote sensor
TOP Choice #3 Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Sound System
Our Score:
9.7
Bose
  • One connection to your TV. Optical audio input (digital); Coaxial audio input (digital); 3.5 mm aux input (analog)
  • Bluetooth connectivity to wirelessly stream music from any of your devices
  • Universal remote controls TV, bass, Bluetooth connections and more
  • Speaker:2.6 H x 21.6 W x 3.4 D (3.73 lbs), Remote control:4.1 H x 1.6 W x 0.4 D (5 oz)
  • Single sound bar provides better sound quality compared to your TV.The Solo 5 TV sound system is an easy solution, with advanced technologies that deliver the clear audio your TV can’t.
  • Dialogue mode to make every word and detail stand out
  • Bluetooth streaming that allows easy switching between two devices
  • Clear Voice for enhanced dialogue clarity
  • Included components: Remote control
  • DTS Virtual: X virtual 3D surround sound
  • Built-in subwoofers for deep bass in one slim sound bar
  • Simple setup with HDMI or optical
  • 【Memory Function and Bass Control】: The update remote's reset button could be memorized to the factory settings. And you can control the treble and bass settings of the sound bar.
  • 【POWERFUL LOUD SOUND SOUNDBAR】: Fantastic Room-filling Sound- two 3”drivers and two 2”tweeter deliver 80-watt powerful wallop to fill the whole room, and create a 3D stereo surrounded and immersive theater environment.
  • 【100% Satisfaction Service】: we offer one year maintan service, 45 days money back assurance, lifetime technical support, please feel free to contact us via Amazon message or support mail on the service card.
  • 【Advanced 5.1 Bluetooth Technology】- Works well with Echo Dot with wireless bluetooth 5.0 connectivity , or wired 3.5mm stereo cable . Also for TV can also use the optical , RCA cable included . No fussing or limitation to move it to more rooms.
  • 【VARIOUS SOUND EFFECTS】: Three sound effects allow you to optimize the audio so that it is best suited to what you are listening to; whether you need clear dialogue for news, treble and bass rhythm for music, 3D surround sound effects for movies or create a sense of authenticity and excitement for sport events. The bass and treble levels can also be adjusted as you wish
  • Tv sound always takes priority when the TV is turned on, even when the whole house Audio is on, greatly simplifying user operation
  • Easily connect wireless subwoofer utilizing Nile SW-T transmitter and SW-R wireless receiver.
  • Niles CSF55A 55" Active sound bar system
  • Simply connect a Distributed audio system and it is automatically selected when the TV is powered off
  • 3 different equalizer modes: Fine tune your sound bar with 3 distinct equalizer modes (dialogue mode, music mode, movie mode) via the remote control to match your favorite sound
  • Touch Buttons Or Remote Control: Dual operation modes to press the touch buttons or remote control to adjust settings conveniently. LED shines in different colors to match specific functions
  • Integrated 2.1 Channel Soundbar : Sound bar is equipped with 2 full ranger speakers and 2 built-in subwoofers to deliver an immersive cinema experience and replace your TV's built-in speakers with deeper bass and crystal clear whispers.
  • Hassle-Free Guarantee: Value for money guaranteed. We promise worry-free 1-year warranty and 60 days no-questions-asked returns, sign up and become our member to get an extended 6-month warranty, total 18-month warranty! We provide free lifetime technical support. No worries, 100% risk-free purchase,Note: Our soundbar need to setup the PCM for tv when use the Optical Mode , also turn off the Dolby/DTS for using the Amazon Prime Video or Netflix.
  • Connection Made easy: play music directly from your device using Bluetooth 5.0 or connect to your TV via wired connections, including AUX , optical and coaxial input, Aux out for extra Aux out for extra active subwoofer connection for enhance more bass
  • Control your home entertainment system from your phone or mobile device with the Samsung Audio Remote App
  • Connect wirelessly for one-touch control of your Sound bar from Bluetooth-compatible devices
  • Enjoy a clutter-free home entertainment system. TV Sound Connect lets you instantly enjoy movies, music, and TV shows with more impactful sound
  • Simply connect a Distributed audio system and it is automatically selected when the TV is powered off.
  • Easily connect wireless subwoofer utilizing Nile SW-T transmitter and SW-R wireless receiver.
  • Mounting system allows for ideal placement of LCR speakers in any existing stud configuration
  • Niles CSF48A CSF48A" Active sound bar system
  • Tv sound always takes priority when the TV is turned on, even when the whole house Audio is on, greatly simplifying user operation.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best active soundbar?

Number Of Channels And Speakers

A soundbar with just 2.1 channels may be enough to enhance the audio quality of your TV. A 5.1 and 7.1 models might offer better sound quality when you watch TV/movies or listen to audio. Dolby Atmos is available on 5.1.2 and 7.1.2 models. This technology allows for a richer experience. It involves placing speakers higher than the roof, to create sound from above.

Connectivity

Soundbars typically only require one cable to connect with your TV. HDMI is the best choice. Make sure that your soundbar is equipped with all necessary ports for connecting to Blu-ray players and USB storage. You should check if your soundbar has a pass-through function that transmits 4K HDR video from your 4K HDR TV.

Subwoofer

In large rooms, a soundbar with an external subwoofer (or dedicated soundbar) can be more effective than one without it. A subwoofer that is well made will enhance low-end sound quality and add a cinematic vibe to your system. A sub that is poorly designed can cause a drop in sound quality. A soundbase is a great option if you need bass, but aren't able to fit an external sub. They include an integrated subwoofer.

Size

To ensure that the unit will not block the screen, or interfere with the remote control or display of your TV's remote, check its dimensions. You should also check that the design of the unit matches your TV.

Additional Features

You might also want these features in your soundbar:
There are special sound modes for various audio types, such as watching movies, listening to music, or gaming. You can adjust the treble and bass settings depending on what you are watching/listening too.
Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa for voice-controlled music.
Front-panel displays that display important information, such as volume levels. Make sure to check if this display is able to be switched off when it's not in use so that it does not become distracting.

Wired/wireless Speakers

Some soundbars allow for wired and wireless connection to other speakers. Some soundbars only support a subwoofer. However, a few models offer "surround sound" connectivity, which allows you to connect other speakers to the rear of the room to replicate 5.1. You can purchase these speakers separately or as a bundle at an extra cost.

Wi-Fi And Bluetooth

Bluetooth is an important soundbar feature that allows you stream music from compatible phones, tablets and computers to your soundbar. Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to stream music from your Spotify account or access cloud music libraries.

Ease Of Set-up And Use

It is easy to hook up the soundbar with your TV or other device and get started using it immediately. This can be gauged by looking at the manual or reading some user reviews.

FAQs

Can You Add Speakers To A Sound Bar?

There are both yes and no. Some sound bars have additional speakers that can be added to the system, which brings you closer to home theatre sound. If the soundbar is multi-room compatible, then wireless rear speakers can be added. This is a good option for those who have or want to install a multi-room sound system in their home.

Can You Use Any Soundbar With Any TV?

There are very few exceptions to this rule. However, you can still use your soundbar with any TV. It is helpful sometimes to match soundbar and TV brands. New soundbars often use HDMI ARC to transmit the audio from the TV's speakers through the soundbar. If both of your devices have this port, you are good. An optical connection is available on some older soundbars, and almost all TVs have them.

Can A Sound Bar Be Used As A Center Speaker?

There are some that can and others that can't, but it's not something we recommend. Although a passive soundbar could technically be used to provide center channel speakers, this is not what it was designed for. This is like asking a pitcher to play both catch and second base instead of the only position that he excels at.

Can You Add A Subwoofer To A Sound Bar?

Wireless sound bars often come with a subwoofer. You can also add your own wireless subwoofer to the sound bars that do not have one. If you desire an immersive experience, you'll want it.

Can You Use A Soundbar To Play Music?

A soundbar can make music play through your TV much more enjoyable. Bluetooth is a feature that many soundbars offer, so you won't have to turn on the TV to hear your music. A soundbar that has a wireless subwoofer will work best to reproduce deep bass and dynamics.

Are Soundbars Really Worth It?

They are well worth the investment when compared to how loud your TV sounds. A soundbar costs only $100 and can make your TV viewing experience 10x better. A soundbar can make it easier to understand speech by allowing TV speakers to face down.

Will A Soundbar Improve Sound Quality?

Modern TVs have very tiny speakers which bounce sound off of your TV. As a result, they can be distant and harsh. A soundbar can be added to most TVs to improve their sound quality, particularly when it comes down to reproducing spoken words. It will also allow you to listen to music.

Where Do I Place My Soundbar?

The soundbars can be placed directly in front of your TV using a stand, or any other type of furniture. They are usually less than 2 inches high so they won't interfere with the infrared remote port of your TV or block it. Some soundbars are also wall-mountable and include brackets. There are third-party kits that can be used to mount soundbars on the wall.

Conclusion

Choosing the best active soundbar for your purposes might be a difficult challenge. It is critical to remember what you want to achieve with the purchase as well as any factors that may influence your selection. 
Whether it's as basic as reading reviews before purchasing or inspecting images of best active soundbar on the market from numerous perspectives. When you wish to locate another one, you may also look at the SAMSUNG Bluetooth Smart Sound Soundbar. Now, let’s pick one for you!


0 ratings

About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.