Soundbars are essentially a series of speakers arranged in a linear way: thus making a “bar.” Many soundbars come with additional subwoofers to have a more enriching experience, but standalone subwoofers can always be purchased. Essentially, a soundbar’s function is not to provide sound, or to simply amplify it. A soundbar enriches the whole sound part of the TV-watching experience (or media streaming, as most soundbars come with Bluetooth connectivity that can be used to connect smartphones, tablets, and other audio devices).
Basically, a soundbar is not an option, it’s a necessity if you want a great experience from your TV set. It takes the whole game to the next level. You not only get better quality sound and more powerful sound at the same time, but you also get a cool-looking little device that comes with additional perks more often than not, like an amazing Bluetooth connectivity or an additional subwoofer.
Top 6 Soundbars
1. Insignia NS-SB515
The Insignia NS-SB515 is one of the best choices on the market right now. Why? Let’s see. Good price point. Amazing improvement in your TV sound experience. You get the usual Bluetooth connectivity. And you get an additional perk: a subwoofer to place anywhere in the room (as long as there’s an outlet).
2. Sony HT CT80
The Sony HT-CT80 is going to be a huge addition to your TV set. It comes with a powerful subwoofer that, along with the virtual surround technology that Sony soundbars are so famous for, makes this soundbar one of the best if you need a true cinematic experience.
3. Bose SoundTouch 130
The Bose SoundTouch 130 is a premium home theater. It’s not for those who want a minor upgrade from their typical TV sound. It’s for people really passionate about good sound output from their movies and other media. If you are one of those and can shell the bucks, the SoundTouch 130 is going to blow your mind.
4. Klipsch R20B
Just one word: mind-blowing. The Klipsch R-20B beats all competitors right out of the water thanks to its amazing sound output and above average sound quality. Close to perfect lossless reproduction and amazingly effective highs — what else can you ask for? But seems like there’s still plenty to win over your heart.
5. Nakamichi Shockwafe Pro 7.1Ch
Nakamichi Shockwafe Pro gathers together some of the best features from its competition and puts everything into a reliable sound system. Not only it provides top-notch clarity, but it can easily blend into any décor as well. It makes a suitable option for home theater designs, but it can also take a party to the next level.
6. iLive ITB296B
The iLive ITB296B is one of the best soundbars in this price range and somewhat beyond. It can be wall-mounted, it comes with amazing sound quality and a perfect Bluetooth functioning. There are certain problems, and you will find them in our review, along with other qualities you need to know of.
Soundbar or a Surround System?
So, now you know what is a soundbar. If you are stuck between a soundbar and surround system, this information here will help you out. A surround system is more geared towards delivering a whole ecosystem of sound. Filling the room with good quality music is basically the purpose of a surround system. Surround systems, however, by their very nature, don’t have other priorities. Now, let’s see what a soundbar does. A soundbar is a more whole package. Soundbars deliver powerful music, even if they are 2.1. Further, soundbars complete the lack of surround by virtual technologies as well as an additional subwoofer.
Now, the physical part. Soundbars are smaller, cheaper, consume much less space than a surround system. By this very nature, it also means that they are easier to set up and configure. If your room has a special configuration, surround systems will be harder to place. With soundbars, you have things very simple.
And it’s not just that. As many big brands make soundbars, the sound quality is very high. The additional perks also make them a worthy investment. All in all, there is no reason why you should prefer a surround system over a soundbar if you don’t absolutely need a 5.1 setup and only a 5.1 setup.
Should You Invest in a High Quality Soundbar?
A high quality soundbar means multiple things. First of all, you get a powerful boost to your sound. Second, the sound quality improves. In general, the higher you go, the better the sound quality. You also get a surround feel with the virtual surround technologies as well as additional subwoofers that might be included. Now, the fourth and one of the most important things is the Bluetooth connectivity. You can easily play music, videos, and shows from your smartphone and tablet and listen to the music in a much better way.
What having a high quality soundbar basically means is a cinematic experience. Whether you are enjoying media on your smartphone or watching a movie on your TV set, a soundbar will add a dimension on top of what is already there.
The soundbars these days are not only high quality, but advanced enough to connect to a lot of devices.They also have many inputs that you can make use of. Setting them up is easy. So basically, for cheap you are getting an easy to setup device that will produce amazing improvements in the sound that comes out of your media. A high quality soundbar is a must if you need a full experience, but if you are on a tight budget, you can check out our review for the best soundbar under 100 by clicking on this link.
Conclusion
Now, you know what are soundbars, in a nutshell. You also know how a soundbar is actually a better option than a surround system even if they are cheaper. You also understand now the importance of buying a high quality soundbar and the impact it will have on the overall experience of watching movies and videos. Besides the basic sound improvement, there’s more. You get the surround feel and Bluetooth connectivity that can be used to play media from your devices and audio gear.
Related article: Best Soundbar Under 100
In short, there is no reason why you should not go for a soundbar when you can. Once you have a TV setup, a soundbar is the next thing you should have your eyes on. Soundbars won’t only affect the quality of music, but will make it more powerful too. The full experience awaits. So, without further ado, read our reviews and decide on a soundbar that fits your bill and preferences.
