The Best Budget Atmos Soundbar For 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
SAMSUNG HW-Q950A 11.1.4ch Soundbar
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: SAMSUNG HW-Q950A 11.1.4ch Soundbar

With the latest acoustic technologies, experience realistic 3D audio with sound precisely projected from above, in front, behind, and to the side of you. SAMSUNG HWQ950A allows you to flood your room with sound from all directions for an immersive audio entertainment experience. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Sony HTX8500 2.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar

Vertical Surround Engine is the latest surround technology from Sony. It allows you to enjoy Dolby Atmos, and DTSX, all from one slim unit. Advanced DSP technology allows only two front speakers to reproduce cinematic sound from any room, no matter how big or small. Read Review

3. Best Sound Quality: JBL Bar 9.1 - Channel Soundbar System

With two detachable surround speakers and Dolby Atmos® and DTS:XTM 3D sound, the JBL Bar 9.1 soundbar brings the audio experience of a movie theater into your home. With a total system power of 820 watts, you'll be able to enjoy every Oscar-worthy performance with powerful, crystal-clear audio. Read Review

4. Best Powerful: Bose Smart Soundbar 900 Dolby Atmos

Sound is powerful. Bose Smart Soundbar 900 w/ Dolby Atmos gives you the cinema-like experience in your own home. Bose technology is combined with custom-engineered, up-firing dipole speaker systems that make the room feel flooded with sound. Read Review

Do you own a home theater or just a simple television? If not, then it is time to upgrade and invest in the best soundbar for your TV set. The market for soundbars has grown exponentially in the past few years. There are many affordable options available for anyone looking to upgrade their audio quality.

Unfortunately, most of them aren’t worth your money. With so many brands flooding the market with budget-friendly speakers, it’s hard to know which one stands out from the rest. Thankfully, we have compiled a list of the top 12 best budget atmos soundbar on the market today.

Even if you are on a tight budget, you can still get an amazing piece of technology that will transform the way you experience entertainment at home.

After nearly 19 hours of research, we were able to come up with many top products from prominent brands like Samsung, Sony, Jbl, Bose, Vizio, Lg, Polk audio, Pheanoo audio, Byl, Yamaha, Vmai, Zvox, Nakamichi. Among them, SAMSUNG HW-Q950A 11.1.4ch Soundbar seems to be the first product you can rely on. Alternatively, if you're simply looking for a good-looking option, you may go with Sony HTX8500 2.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar.

Our article today focuses mainly on giving you guidelines and tips to be able to buy the right product that best suits your needs. Explore with us right here.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 SAMSUNG HW-Q950A 11.1.4ch Soundbar
Our Score:
9.9
SAMSUNG
  • Package Weight: 27.216 kilograms
  • Country of Origin : VietNam
  • Package Dimensions: 129.54 H x 27.94 L x 60.96 W (centimeters)
  • Package Quantity: 1
TOP Choice #2 Sony HTX8500 2.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar
Our Score:
9.8
Sony
  • 4K HDR passthrough-enabled to ensure a high-quality entertainment experience
  • Voice enhancement for greater clarity
  • All sound upscaled close to 7.1.2ch audio
  • Dual built-in subwoofers for deep bass
  • Easily integrates with your AV system with HDMI and optical inputs
  • One-cable HDMI eARC for simple, high-quality connection to your TV
  • 7.1.2ch Dolby Atmos/DTS X with Vertical Sound Engine
  • Slim, low-profile design complements your TV
  • Seven different sound modes to enhance your entertainment experience
  • In the box: Remote Control, Batteries for remote, HDMI Cable, AC Adaptor, AC Cord, Quick Setup Guide, Instruction Manual
TOP Choice #3 JBL Bar 9.1 - Channel Soundbar System
Our Score:
9.6
JBL
  • Wireless Communication Technology: Wi-Fi
  • With detachable, battery powered surround speakers you can enjoy real surround sound without the wires
  • Connector Type: Optical
  • Included Components: Main Soundbar, Detachable Wireless Surround Speakers (2), Wireless Subwoofer Remote Control, Power Cords, Hdmi Cable, (2)L-Shape Wall-Mount Bracket (Main Bar), (2) U-Shape Wall-Mount Bracket (For Surround Speakers), Kit With Screws
  • Ultra HD 4K Pass-through with Dolby Vision
  • Built-in Dolby Atmos and DTS: X decoding
  • Power Source Type: Corded Electric
  • 820W Output power
  • Experience deep bass with a 300W, 10" powered subwoofer
  • Voice control soundbar — Exclusive Bose Voice4Video technology expands your voice capabilities like no other smart soundbar can. In addition to controlling your Dolby Atmos soundbar, you can control your TV, cable and more with just your voice
  • Latest Bose soundbar — It’s the most immersive Bose voice control soundbar yet. Two custom-engineered upfiring dipole speakers work with Bose technologies to make it feel as if sound is coming from every direction — even overhead
  • Sleek design — From material quality to construction and finishes to controls, Bose obsessed over every detail to produce a Bluetooth soundbar speaker that looks as astonishing as it sounds
  • Easy smart soundbar setup — The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 uses a single connection to any TV. Choose from the HDMI eARC connection or optical audio connection (both cables provided), connect the soundbar to a TV, hook it up to power, and turn it on
  • Bose Music app — Download the Bose Music app to set up your Bluetooth soundbar speaker, set up Voice4Video, and browse your music in one place. It’s another simple way to control and group together compatible Bose products
  • Wireless soundbar streaming, your way — With Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect, you can wirelessly stream whatever you want, however you want
  • Built-in voice assistants (Alexa and Google Assistant) — Noise-rejecting microphones work together to listen in every direction for your commands, even when the music’s playing loudly. For times when you want privacy, just disable the microphones with the mic-off button
  • Dolby Atmos soundbar — This wireless Bluetooth soundbar lends an extra dimension of height to your sound. Proprietary Bose TrueSpace spatial processing analyzes and upmixes sounds for an enveloping listening experience in Dolby, stereo, and more
  • 3.1ch Dolby Atmos DTS: X and Vertical Surround Engine
  • Multiple easy connections so you can enjoy all your media
  • Sound modes to customize listening to movies and music
  • Connect to your TV wirelessly via Bluetooth
  • EARC enabled to easily enjoy immersive Dolby Atmos audio from your favorite streaming providers
  • Immersive AE (Audio Enhancer) upscale audio closes to 7.1.2 each sound
  • Wireless subwoofer delivers powerful bass sound
  • Utilize a simple, clean connection with one-cable HDMI ARC
  • Enjoy high quality movies with 4K HDR pass through
  • SAMSUNG AUDIO LAB: Expert-tested, scientifically tuned; Samsung’s perfectly balanced, room-filling sound is developed by top audio engineers at our California Audio Lab
  • Q-SYMPHONY: Audio that tracks with each scene with perfectly synchronized audio from your compatible Samsung TV* and soundbar for a harmonious, cinematic experience
  • BUILT-IN CENTER SPEAKER: Never miss a word with enhanced dialogue delivered by a dedicated center channel speaker to project voices clearly
  • MULTI-CONNECTION: Easily connect your Soundbar to your TV with either Bluetooth or HDMI**
  • ADAPTIVE SOUND LITE: Enjoy optimized sound for your favorite video content, including sports, games, movies and more - with technology that enhances whatever you are watching
  • ELEVATE YOUR SOUND EXPERIENCE: Sound you can feel; Sound that moves you; Hear the difference a soundbar can make when paired with a Samsung TV
  • DOLBY DIGITAL 5.1 / DTS VIRTUAL:X: Captivating virtual 3D sound moves all around you, including above with DTS Virtual:X technology; Dolby Digital 5.1 enables surround sound capability
  • 9 High-Performance Speakers Featuring Separate Tweeters & Woofers Provide pristine clarity and rich sound
  • Immersive Performance Experience immersive, cinematic 3D surround sound powered by Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
  • 5.1-Channel Sound Experience a powerful room-filling, surround sound experience.
  • Low-Profile Modern Design Seamlessly blends into any environment and ingeniously attaches to select VIZIO M-Series TV stands for quick, clean tabletop or wall-mount installation.
  • Advanced Connectivity & Control The latest HDMI eARC connectivity enables state-of-the-art 4K Dolby Vision pass-through to the TV and lets you control the sound bar using your TV remote.
8 LG SP8YA Sound Bar w/Subwoofer
Our Score:
8.8
LG
  • High Resolution Audio 24bit/96kHz with 4K Passthrough (HDCP 2.3)
  • 4K Passthrough (HDCP 2.3)
  • Meridian Audio Technology
  • Dolby Atmos & DTS:X
  • 3.1.2ch with 440W Total Output Power
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Bluetooth TV speaker: Pair your device to this Bluetooth soundbar to wirelessly stream your favorite music and podcasts.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Wide, natural sound: 2 angled full-range drivers deliver a more realistic, spatial audio experience for overall better TV sound from a small soundbar.
  • Enhanced dialogue: This TV speaker is designed to specifically focus on clarifying and elevating vocals and pronunciation.
  • 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
  • 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
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best budget atmos soundbar?

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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

Its features, not its name, are what define best budget atmos soundbar in 2024. This may seem self-evident, but it's easy to become fixated on a specific company or brand due to its reputation. We strongly advise you to consider your needs and determine which products will assist you in meeting them. With our options above, if you can't choose any suitable one, let's check VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar with Dolby Audio. Wish you a nice shopping day!


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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.