Sound bars are a cheap and effective way to improve your television’s sound if you’re hard of hearing, want to add some extra oomph to your typical viewing experiences, or just need a product that lets you enhance your equipment in a variety of ways. They’re long, usually thin bars that you can place underneath your television or even mount them on the wall to stay out of the way. They’re exactly what they sound like: bars that deliver fantastic sound no matter where you put them. Here are some great choices you can opt for if you’re looking to dip your toes into the sound bar waters and make that big purchase sometime soon. You’ll be glad that you did!
This Vizio option features wireless Bluetooth streaming and a wireless subwoofer with powerful bass. It’s also streamlined, so it works well just about anywhere you decide to mount it or place it. Setup is quick and easy, and it’s perfect for those looking to improve their TV audio on a budget. It even comes with a remote control and wall mount brackets so you can get started straight out of the box.
This pricier Vizio ups the ante and features wireless Bluetooth, a wireless subwoofer, and up to 100 dB of crystal-clear sound with less than 1% of total harmonic distortion. It supports Dolby Digital, DTS Studio Sound, DTS TruSurround and DTS TruVolume. It’s more minimalistic than the other Vizio option on our list, but it can truly jam.
Samsung’s sound bar model features the ability to pair with a wireless speaker kit. It also includes, like most modern sound bars, the ability to connect via Bluetooth and other wireless devices. You can even control it from your smartphone if you prefer. Its wireless 6.5-inch 130-watt wireless subwoofer will ensure you get the vibrations you deserve in your living room, too. You can also forgo wireless connectivity and sync your sound bar to your TV with Bluetooth, too. You can also purchase this model via eBay.
Yamaha’s sound bar is an interesting-looking riff on the typical angular sound bar, and is the world’s first sound bar with DTS Virtual 3D surround sound as of August 2017. It also features all the typical niceties in the form of Bluetooth pairing, streaming, and simple setup with HDMI, optical, or analog connections. You can also control the sound bar via app instead of the included remote.
TV Speaker Soundbar Bluetooth Wireless Home Theater Sound Bar Coaxial Optical, $59.99, eBay
When it comes to sound bars, you don’t necessarily have to buy name brand to get a decent one for your home. This cheaper budget option from eBay includes many of the same bells and whistles you can get from a well-known brand, but you won’t be getting the same type of warranty you would with Yamaha, Samsung, or Vizio. However, it does include a remote, Bluetooth support and surround sound.
Powerful TV Sound Bar Home Theater Subwoofer Soundbar with Bluetooth Wireless, $52.99, eBay
This budget sound bar comes with a two-piece set, a remote control and the option to set it up wired or wirelessly. It also features a 3.5mm aux input, 3.5mm to RCA cable, or Bluetooth connectivity – that makes it a good option for those even with older TVs. It’s a svelte-looking bargain buy that should do the trick, especially if you’re pinching pennies.
