How to choose a soundbar. Comparing the benefits of a soundbar and a home theater

Updated: 07/10/2018 15:02:28

Soundbars are becoming more and more popular every year. People like the relative compactness of such devices, as well as the ease of installation. If the position of the speakers needs to be measured correctly, then the soundbar is usually hung directly above the TV, after which you can start watching a movie. In this article, we will talk about the intricacies of choosing such a device, as well as offer you a selection of the best soundbars. In this case, we will talk not only about top monsters, but also about budget models available to the average buyer.

What else to look for before buying a soundbar, in addition to reviews and reviews? Of course, on the shape of the device. The fact is that not all soundbars are hung on the wall above or below the TV. There are also models that act as a stand. This is ideal for those who do not have a cabinet, but at the same time do not want to drill holes for the TV in the wall. In a word, it all depends on how exactly you are going to place the equipment.

1. Not everyone suspects this, but soundbars are divided not only by price category. These devices are active and passive. The first option is more popular - such sound panels are considered completely independent devices, since they have a power supply, an audio processor, an amplifier, and a large number of connectors. That is, the active soundbar is connected to the TV, after which its use begins. A passive soundbar actually incorporates only an acoustic system. Its purchase is necessary only for owners of AV receivers, which the Expertology online magazine will definitely tell about someday.
2. No soundbar is complete without subwoofer. However, its location can be completely different. Expensive soundbars most often have a built-in woofer. But this is not always a good solution, because the soundbar must be compact, and therefore the low-frequency radiators are small. That is why a large number of soundbars are now being sold, the subwoofer of which is a separate part - usually it is placed on the floor near the TV. Only this option will provide the room with the most tangible bass.
3. As mentioned above, soundbars are different from each other. number of channels. For example, 7.1 technology says that the user is waiting for seven high-frequency channels (there may be even more speakers) and at least one subwoofer. Do not forget to make sure that the device can be calibrated, because it can only provide surround sound by reflecting it off the walls. Another selection criterion is the number of interfaces. If you have a lot of equipment and do not have an AV receiver, then you will need a lot of connectors. The built-in Wi-Fi module will not interfere, which will allow you to control the soundbar using your smartphone. By the way, a soundbar can also be wireless - it only needs a cable to get power. But you can refuse a CD drive - only owners of a large collection of films on DVD and Blu-ray discs will need it.
4. Finally, it is impossible not to remember power. If the soundbar is supposed to be installed in a relatively small room, then a total power of 100 W will be enough for your eyes (excluding the subwoofer). Of course, to use a TV with a soundbar somewhere in a bar, you will need a much more powerful option. And do not forget that a weak subwoofer can sound loud, but it will distort the sound. Therefore, look closely at its parameters.

Rating of the best soundbars

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
The best budget soundbars (price under 15,000 rubles)	1		12 945 ₽
	2		11 490 ₽
	3		11 357 ₽
The best soundbars in terms of price-quality ratio (price up to 40,000 rubles)	1		36 990 ₽
	2		37 990 ₽
	3		22 990 ₽
	4		34 990 ₽
	5		27 990 ₽
	6		31 340 ₽
The best premium soundbars	1		71 900 ₽
	2		84 990 ₽
	3		29 990 ₽
	4		78 709 ₽
	5		34 700 ₽
	6		129 000 ₽

The best budget soundbars (price under 15,000 rubles)

Sony HT-CT290/HT-CT291

It must be the simplest soundbar in existence at the time of writing. It got into our rating due to the presence of two color variants of the device on sale at once - white and black. Also, the price tag cannot but attract the buyer - they ask for no more than 15 thousand rubles for a soundbar. You should not expect multi-channel sound for this money, a 2.1 speaker system is used here. That is, there are two speakers in the device itself, and a separate subwoofer provides low frequencies. This design ensured the low weight of the soundbar - you can safely hang it even on drywall. As for the "subwoofer", it belongs to the phase inverter type, and its weight is 6.3 kg.

The total power of the kit is 300 watts. This seems to be enough for any buyer. It is unlikely that anyone will complain about the number of connectors. Among them, you can find a USB port, thanks to which the playback of movies and music is implemented here (the picture output to the TV is provided by the HDMI socket). Reception of a sound from external sources is realized on an optical input. The subwoofer is connected wirelessly; for this purpose, both devices are equipped with Bluetooth modules. But Wi-Fi or anything like that is not here - it is proposed to control the soundbar using the remote control.

Advantages

The weight of the soundbar itself does not exceed 2.3 kg;

Two color options (two models differ only in this);

Easy installation;

The price tag cannot be called too high;

Sufficiently high power;

Playback of content from a USB flash drive is available;

The subwoofer is wireless;

disadvantages

When connected via optics, it may happen out of sync with the sound on the TV;

At a low volume level, the subwoofer practically does not work;

No equalizer;

Inconvenient setting;

Volumetric sound is not felt;

Another soundbar belonging to the 2.1 system. There is no longer a mark-up for the brand, therefore, with the same total power of 300 W, the kit costs only 12 thousand rubles. For this money, the buyer will receive a sound bar and a separate subwoofer. The latter here is also synchronized via Bluetooth, the wire will only be pulled to the outlet. It is proposed to manage the set using the TV remote control. Unfortunately, the device is not in any way functional. The fact is that there is no USB input or slot for a memory card. That is, the product is only capable of reproducing sound received from the outside via an optical or line input. However, most users do not need anything else, because the TV itself can play content from a flash drive. Problems will arise only for those people who have too much technology - then you have to puzzle over how to best connect all this, because the set of connectors on the soundbar is not rich.

The soundbar itself has a power of 100 watts, the remaining 200 watts fall on the woofer. The soundbar weighs about 2.5 kg, it cannot be called heavy. Perhaps, at this cost, the capabilities of the device should suit many buyers, if not all. Please note that it is not recommended to connect the soundbar to the TV via Bluetooth - regular sound interruptions are possible. When using an optical cable, such problems do not arise.

Advantages

Quality assembly;

Affordable price tag;

Good sound when connected with an optical cable;

Sufficiently high power;

Possibility of wireless connection of the subwoofer;

The subwoofer is a separate device;

disadvantages

The soundbar consists of only two speakers;

Most often, the sound does not seem surround;

No equalizer;

Unable to play content from a flash drive;

The soundbar belonging to the 2.1 system was also released by Samsung. Do not think that this is the first experience for South Koreans - this manufacturer has been on the home theater market for more than a year, and now it has been decided to transfer many technologies from speakers to a sound bar. This model is budget, its cost does not exceed 13 thousand rubles. In this regard, you should not expect a very loud sound - the total power of the kit is only 200 watts. So, the product was created for a small room. You can even screw the soundbar to drywall, because the weight of the device does not exceed 1.5 kg - it is noticeable that most of the space under the case is occupied by emptiness.

The subwoofer, of course, is much heavier - its mass is 4.6 kg. Low frequencies are published by him with the help of a 165 mm speaker. This part of the kit is connected to the soundbar via Bluetooth. You can connect the entire set to the TV in the same way, but here it all depends on the model of the “box” you have. And if you want to enjoy high quality sound, it is better to use a digital optical input or at least a stereo line input.

The included remote control is used to control the soundbar. Also in the box with the product you can find a mounting bracket. The disadvantages of the device are typical. There is no equalizer here - it is available only in a special application from Samsung when receiving music from a smartphone, while when receiving sound via "optics" only presets are offered. It also lacks HDMI and Wi-Fi. The soundbar is generally not capable of playing content on its own, as it simply does not have a CD drive or USB connector.

Advantages

Cute design;

Understands signals from the TV remote control;

Auto-on and auto-off available (with optical connection);

There is a Bluetooth module;

Relatively low cost;

The soundbar has a minimal weight;

disadvantages

Not very high power;

Minimum number of connectors;

The volume of the sound is far from ideal;

The system consists of only two speakers and one subwoofer;

The best soundbars in terms of price-quality ratio (price up to 40,000 rubles)

The Japanese product is already on a completely different level. Like the devices discussed above in this rating, this kit consists of a sound bar and a subwoofer. But here the user is waiting for the 6.1 system, which implies a more pronounced surround sound. The total power of the kit already reaches a very decent 400 watts. Also sold for 45 thousand rubles. the soundbar boasts a three-way design. In a word, high and medium frequencies here definitely do not mix into one pile, not to mention the low ones, for which an 8-kilogram subwoofer is responsible.

As befits a high-quality soundbar, the woofer here has a wireless connection. Bluetooth can also be used to receive a signal, for example, from a smartphone. By the way, synchronization with a mobile device is carried out as quickly as possible if it has an NFC chip. The soundbar also includes a Wi-Fi module that allows, for example, to draw content from a hard drive connected to a router (this technology is called DLNA). However, no one forbids connecting an external drive to the soundbar itself using the USB port. The device plays almost any media files, and the number of decoders here is incredibly large.

Perhaps the Sony HT-NT5 will suit the vast majority of ordinary users. It's hard for the average person to imagine what else you can expect from a soundbar. You can only complain about the price tag. Many people are not ready to give that kind of money even for a TV, what can we say about acoustics ...

Advantages

There are a large number of connectors;

TV remote control available;

There is support for DLNA technology;

It is possible to read media data from a USB-drive;

Bluetooth is supplemented with an NFC chip;

The subwoofer connects wirelessly;

Extremely high power;

Belongs to standard 6.1;

disadvantages

The cost cannot be called low;

There is no equalizer, and indeed the settings are very poor;

In terms of sound quality, it is still inferior to a home theater with the same price tag;

You should not look for cheap equipment under the Denon brand. This manufacturer focuses on the creation of exceptionally high-quality products, budget components are not used in it. For example, for the Denon DHT-S514 they ask for about 40 thousand rubles, and this is far from the most expensive soundbar under this brand. In fact, this is a budget solution that belongs to the 2.1 standard. Nevertheless, the creators managed to achieve a relatively good surround sound. They also decided to make the system two-way - this means that the high and low frequencies are separated by different speakers, they definitely will not mix into a mess. The two tweeters here are 12mm in diameter, while the pair of bass-reflex woofers are substantially larger.

The soundbar is complemented by a separate subwoofer, inside of which there are two 133 mm speakers. In a word, the manufacturer has focused on the bass - they pour on the viewer from the front and from the side. All sorts of explosions and shots feel great! And this is despite the power of the kit, which is by no means a record one (although it cannot be called insufficient).

In terms of its functionality, the product turned out to be slightly limited. There is no USB connector, so you won't be able to play content from a flash drive. The device is designed to receive a signal from a TV, game console or some other equipment. To do this, there are HDMI-jacks, as well as optical, coaxial and line inputs. The device is controlled by the remote control.

Advantages

The total power is 400 W;

There are a large number of connectors;

The subwoofer is connected via Bluetooth;

The subwoofer consists of two woofers;

Panel weight does not exceed 2.3 kg;

Good sound quality (mainly due to the two-way implementation);

disadvantages

For such a cost, the number of channels is small;

Cannot play media files by itself.

Another 2.1 standard sound bar from a well-known manufacturer of acoustic equipment, but with a slightly more affordable price tag - for the Harman / Kardon HK SB20 in Russian retail they ask for about 23 thousand rubles. For this money, you can already forgive the minimum number of channels. By the way, the 2.1 standard does not say that an insufficient number of speakers are mounted here. The soundbar consists of two tweeters and four woofers! Of course, the latter do not have the largest diameter (55 mm), but it is enough for good bass reproduction. Yes, and you need to understand that a 5-kilogram subwoofer is mainly responsible for low frequencies. Its speaker diameter is 165 mm. It connects to the soundbar via Bluetooth, you don’t have to pull an extra wire.

The number of connectors present here cannot be called prohibitive. Line-in, optical cable jack and HDMI-out - that's almost all that awaits the buyer. The system is controlled by the remote control. It remains to add that the total power of the soundbar and subwoofer is 300 W - this is a typical parameter for a budget kit.

Advantages

Relatively good power;

The weight of the soundbar is 2.3 kg;

The price cannot be called very high;

Great subwoofer that connects wirelessly;

A large number of speakers, divided by frequency;

disadvantages

No Wi-Fi and no USB storage slot;

I want more sound volume.

One of the few representatives of our rating, devoid of a separate subwoofer. The creators of this device decided to bet on compactness. By the way, sold for 35 thousand rubles. The soundbar still has a subwoofer output. If the bass depth one day seems insufficient, then no one bothers to purchase a subwoofer separately, placing it somewhere in the corner of the room.

This model has not only a Bluetooth module, but also Wi-Fi support. This opens up a bunch of possibilities for connecting the soundbar to other devices wirelessly. For example, via Wi-Fi, you can use DLNA technology by playing music from a computer or a drive connected to a router. Also via Wi-Fi, the smartphone and the soundbar are synchronized - a special SoundTouch application will help you set up the soundbar. Well, not only smartphones and tablets are connected via Bluetooth, but also add-ons purchased later - a subwoofer and rear speakers.

It remains to be added that the product has a fairly large number of connectors, including an HDMI input and a similar output. In pass-through mode, the soundbar supports images up to 4K resolution.

Advantages

The set includes headphones of the audio calibration system;

You can control both the remote control and the smartphone;

The solution is quite compact;

Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless modules;

HDMI pass-through possible;

disadvantages

It is not possible to play content from a USB flash drive;

The glossy surface quickly collects dust and scratches;

The high cost of the soundbar and extensions for it;

One of the most low-powered soundbars in our ranking. The manufacturer claims a total power of 200 watts. And this is taking into account the supplied subwoofer, which accounts for 100 watts! But why did we then pay attention to this model? It all comes down to the power of the brand. Specialists from Yamaha rarely make mistakes. So their soundbar is able to please the buyer, even though it belongs to the 2.1 standard. High sound quality is achieved through the use of a two-way system here. That is, the sound is divided into high-frequency and low-frequency speakers. At the same time, the latter are built in in the amount of four pieces - they have a 46 mm diameter. Despite such a number of emitters, the panel itself weighs a little - about 2.7 kg.

As for the subwoofer, at least its weight, reaching 7.9 kg, speaks of its high quality. This product belongs to the bass-reflex type, and the sound is produced here using a 160 mm speaker. The subwoofer connects wirelessly to the soundbar. Of course, other devices can also be synchronized via Bluetooth with the soundbar - MP3 players, smartphones and tablets. In terms of wired connection, the soundbar also does not cause any complaints - there are HDMI connectors (input and output), as well as optical and line inputs. You can control the device either using the included remote control or through a mobile application.

Perhaps the YAMAHA YAS-207 is the best choice for those cases where the installation of the soundbar will take place in a small room.

Advantages

The subwoofer has a wireless connection method;

The volume of the sound is really felt;

A large number of connectors;

The weight of the panel cannot be called very large;

The soundbar consists of six speakers reproducing two types of frequencies;

Various types of control are possible;

disadvantages

Power can not be called high;

There is no Wi-Fi;

It is not possible to play a media file from a flash drive;

One of the few soundbars on our list that comes in multiple color options. The device is available to the buyer, the body of which is painted in white, gray and black. The product is supplied without a subwoofer - it is offered to buy it separately, then connecting it by wire or via Bluetooth. The power of the soundbar is 200 watts. And this does not look like an insufficient parameter - such power is enough even for owners of very large rooms.

Like several of the soundbars discussed above, the Canton DM 55 has a two-way design. This squeezes out of the 2.1 standard, so to speak, all the juices. In total, the soundbar includes six speakers - they display the frequencies of three different ranges (a pair of subwoofers has a 100 mm diameter). Unfortunately, the emitters are not light, and therefore the weight of the soundbar was 5.3 kg. However, a brick or panel wall must definitely withstand such a weight.

It remains to add that the device has a fairly large number of connectors, even if you cannot find a USB port for a flash drive among them. The sound bar costs about 33 thousand rubles.

Advantages

There are linear, optical and coaxial inputs;

There is Bluetooth;

Cute design;

High power;

Volumetric and high-quality sound;

Two-way design complemented by built-in subwoofers;

disadvantages

Missing HDMI and USB;

No Wi-Fi module;

The soundbar turned out to be quite heavy;

The best premium soundbars

The Japanese company Sony knows a lot about high-quality audio equipment, because it was with its production that the history of the brand began at one time. If you're looking for the perfect soundbar, the Sony HT-ST5000 is the one to check out. This device costs about 90 thousand rubles, but it belongs to the 7.1 standard. If you remove the protective grill, you can see 7 speakers - the Japanese manufacturer does not deceive. If the calibration process is carried out correctly, the user will enjoy perfect surround sound. And you need to remember to put a 14-kilogram subwoofer somewhere nearby, giving out excellent bass, creeping up to goosebumps at high volume.

By the way, the soundbar itself also weighs quite a lot - more than 8 kg. But if your wall can support an LCD TV, then the soundbar won't fall off either. This model also got into our rating due to the large number of connectors. One HDMI output is complemented by three HDMI inputs at once! And we haven't mentioned the audio jacks yet! In short, the soundbar is able to play the role of a simple AV receiver.

Wires are required only to connect external equipment. The subwoofer, as you might guess, receives a signal via Bluetooth. Of course, the "blue tooth" can also be used to receive music from a smartphone. Synchronization is accelerated if the device has an NFC chip. The Sony HT-ST5000 also includes a Wi-Fi module, thanks to which you can use online services.

Advantages

Great subwoofer that connects via Bluetooth;

It is possible to control in different ways;

The volume of the sound is felt very well;

The soundbar consists of seven speakers;

Wi-Fi, NFC and USB port available;

A very large number of connectors;

disadvantages

Astronomical price tag;

There are software errors;

Not the largest number of decoders;

Excellent 5.1 soundbar. Unlike most devices of this kind, it is a set of several devices. The soundbar itself is placed on the wall, while the computing unit and subwoofer can be placed elsewhere. Also included is a remote control. All devices are synchronized with each other wirelessly. But this does not mean that the main unit is completely devoid of connectors. On the contrary, you can be surprised by their number. There are four HDMI inputs, one HDMI output, as well as all the main types of audio connectors. There is only a USB port here, which is why you should not dream of independent playback of content. However, not everything is so bad. There is at least Wi-Fi, thanks to which some online services become available - for example, a list of 20 thousand Internet radio stations.

Advantages

There are Bluetooth and Wi-Fi;

The subwoofer is connected wirelessly;

The panel has minimum dimensions and weight;

Belongs to the 5.1 standard;

A large number of connectors;

disadvantages

There is no way to connect a USB drive;

Bass quality is not for everyone;

The cost reaches 85 thousand rubles;

One of the most powerful soundbars on our list. Its power reaches an incredible 450 watts. And this is without taking into account the subwoofer, which, unfortunately, is sold separately. This model costs 60 thousand rubles, which cannot be considered a record high price tag for a 5.0 standard sound bar. However, you need to understand that low frequencies are not reproduced here in the best way, so in the future you still have to get a subwoofer. With it, the product can act as a TV stand. That is, drilling holes in the wall is not necessary. The woofer costs about half the size of the soundbar.

This product includes five speakers. The diameter of each is 100 mm. If you do not make a mistake with the calibration, then the viewer will be waiting for a well-felt surround sound. Connection to other equipment is carried out via two HDMI sockets (input and output), as well as a linear and optical audio connector. Another product is endowed with a Bluetooth module, thanks to which you can receive music from your smartphone.

It is possible that it is Focal Dimension that provides the best sound quality. However, you need to buy it exclusively with a subwoofer, and this will already be an extremely expensive purchase - not every consumer is ready to be generous with 90 thousand rubles. There is no point in using a device without a subwoofer.

Advantages

Belongs to the 5.0 standard;

Excellent sound quality;

There is Bluetooth;

The number of connectors will suit many buyers;

Power reaches 450W;

High build quality;

disadvantages

Not everyone will like such large sizes;

No USB flash drive slot;

There is no Wi-Fi;

The subwoofer is purchased separately (with it, the kit may not be affordable);

This must be the most expensive 2.1 soundbar. For Canton DM 90 they ask about 90 thousand rubles. What is the need for such money? Firstly, for the ability to choose the color of the device - white and black options are available. Secondly, for the high total power, reaching 350 watts. Thirdly, for a high-quality two-way implementation, thanks to which high and medium frequencies are separated by different speakers (there are four of them in total).

As you can easily guess from the photo of the kit, the soundbar comes without a subwoofer. The fact is that the product has four built-in woofers with a 100 mm diameter. The weight of the soundbar, which is 17.5 kg, speaks about the quality of all the speakers.

Unfortunately, the device is somewhat limited. There is no USB flash drive or Wi-Fi. This means that this soundbar cannot play content on its own. Basically, the product is used to receive a signal from other sources through one or another audio connector.

Advantages

• High, mid and low frequencies are separated by different speakers;

The body is made of glass and wood;

There is a wireless Bluetooth module;

Two colors to choose from;

Excellent build quality;

Very high power;

Easy control;

No need to look for a place for a separate subwoofer;

disadvantages

Standard 2.1 will not suit every buyer;

Very high cost;

There are no HDMI interfaces;

No Wi-Fi and USB input;

One of the most atypical soundbars in this ranking. It differs from many competitors in that its set consists of three devices. The main unit is devoid of speakers, but it has a zoo of connectors, a display and a few controls. Such a device can be placed somewhere under the TV so that the connected wires do not distract attention. The soundbar itself receives a signal from the unit wirelessly, it is best to hang it above the TV. The kit also includes a subwoofer with a power of 50 W - its speaker has a 160 mm diameter.

This device belongs to the 3.1 standard. The soundbar consists of eight speakers of different diameters. Unfortunately, the soundbar is not capable of playing content on its own. However, it can receive a signal from other equipment in many different ways. For example, you can transfer music from your smartphone via Bluetooth. There are also four HDMI inputs that serve to receive a signal from a game console and other devices. Not forgotten by the creators and audio connectors. There is also Wi-Fi, thanks to which support for various online services and AirPlay technology, familiar to owners of Apple equipment, is implemented.

Advantages

There is a radio tuner;

The weight of the soundbar itself does not exceed 2.3 kg.;

The soundbar belongs to the 3.1 standard;

Convenient design that hides the wires;

Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi;

Decent number of connectors;

A large number of speakers providing surround sound;

disadvantages

No USB port;

The sound quality is inferior to some models with a similar price tag;

The body was made of plastic;

The cost reaches 80 thousand rubles;

Our rating could not do without the unique soundbar from Bowers & Wilkins. This device differs not only in that the creators offer a choice of three colors. Most of all, the soundbar surprises with its metal casing, while competitors are usually made of plastic or, at best, wood. But 129 thousand rubles. they don't ask for it. In the end, refrigerators are also made of metal, and even more of it, while they are often much cheaper. Such a price tag is explained by the use of modern technologies, thanks to which surround sound is felt not only right in front of the TVs, but also on the sides of it. That is, this model almost does not differ in this regard from the best home theaters. Perhaps it does not surpass them only in volume - alas, the total power of the soundbar does not exceed 175 watts.

The product belongs to the 2.1 standard. However, when using the device, it seems that there are much more channels here. It is possible that the secret of this lies in the two-lane implementation. The device has at its disposal a very large number of speakers. A tweeter with a 25 mm diameter is responsible for high frequencies. As for the bass, they are given out by six woofers, and the diameter of each of them is 75 mm. There is also a built-in 50 W subwoofer, consisting of two 90 mm speakers, which is responsible for reproducing explosions, gunshots and other similar sounds. The technology is creepy. But if for some reason this is not enough, then you can connect a separate subwoofer - a special connector is used for this.

If we talk about nests, then there are not many of them. You can select only a trinity of HDMI inputs. Of course, the optical input is also not forgotten, although for some reason many sites that publish the technical characteristics of soundbars do not mention it. It's a shame that the product does not have some smart functionality. That is, it cannot reproduce content on its own - both from a flash drive and through online services.

An interesting feature of the device is its display. It turns on when the user brings their hand to it. In the future, the screen automatically turns off, without distracting a person from watching a movie. The sound panel weighs 14.1 kg - this can also be attributed to disadvantages, especially if a fragile girl was going to hang this device on the wall.

Advantages

Can be controlled by TV remote control;

Ideal sound volume;

Stylish appearance;

Good total power;

A large number of speakers;

It is possible to connect an external subwoofer;

There is a good built-in subwoofer;

There are three HDMI inputs;

disadvantages

Extremely high cost;

Missing Bluetooth;

The product cannot reproduce content on its own;

Conclusion

This is the list of the best soundbars among those sold in Russian retail. We recommend that you decide on the amount you are willing to spend as soon as possible and get the long-awaited soundbar. Such a device is sure to give you a new experience when watching movies or playing games on the PlayStation 4.

Attention! This rating is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

We all dream of doing something with the meager sound of built-in TV speakers, but not everyone is willing to spend a tidy sum on this. That is why budget soundbars are so in demand. Despite the advent of sound stands, the soundbar market continues to grow at a rapid pace. However, quantity does not always translate into quality, which is proved by today's test.

The King and the Pretenders

In my humble opinion, the Philips HTL5140 soundbar is one of the best in its class. In our test today, it will defend its crown against the newcomers LG NB4540, JBL SB 350, Pioneer SBX-N700, Polk N1 and Samsung HW-H550.

Aspiring contenders ranging from $250 to $430 boast such frills as aptX Bluetooth support, HDMI, and ultra-slim body design, and one of them can even connect to a TV wirelessly. Who deserves a place in front of the screen more than others? You will find the answer on the following pages.

LG NB4540

Exactly one year ago, we admired the representative of the LG brand in the budget segment of the market - NB4530A, awarded the title of "Best Buy of 2013 according to NeroHelp". Its younger brother, NB3530A, was also pretty good.

Since then, LG has somewhat lost shape. Already this year, the NB5540 received compliments for its stylish, ultra-thin design, but didn't impress too much in terms of sound. And its smaller cousin, the LG NB4540, isn't particularly different.

Confusion instead of volume

In addition to stereo speakers and a conventional subwoofer, the NB4540 is equipped with a pair of speakers designed to reproduce the "surround" component of the film soundtrack and create a surround sound effect.

Ender's Game on Blu-ray isn't very exciting; in the episode when the unmanned ships scurry around the hero while practicing on the space simulator, the sound is much less large and open than the Polk N1 or JBL SB350. However, it is quite deep, and the movements of the shuttle across the screen are clearly audible. It is also worth noting the high volume.

The NB4540 has decent detail, but lacks balance. The middle and top are too weak and loose, they are noticeably inferior to competitors in weightiness. Ender's voice, giving commands to subordinates, is clear and distinct, but not at all rich.

Bass dominates the sound; in Ender's last flight in the simulator, the roar of flames engulfing the planet is quite convincing and deep. But even if you lower the bass level, the sound remains not neutral enough, the gaps between the low and mid frequencies are too noticeable.

Walk around the bass

Standard and Bypass modes provide the most balanced sound. If you listen to music via Bluetooth (without aptX) on the NB4540, its detailed and musical character is blurred due to tonal imbalance. The opening acoustic guitar riffs on Save Me (Underdog) by the Turin Brakes sound too weak and lightweight.

The thin plastic body with brushed metal finish looks very impressive. The wireless subwoofer with a soundbar design is equipped with a 160-watt amplifier and a speaker on the side.

The list of connections did not let us down: the NB4540 has an HDMI input (a rarity for this price category) and an HDMI output with an audio return channel, a USB port, optical and 3.5 mm inputs, as well as Bluetooth.

The remote has the same silver finish as the soundbar; he is good at work

Like its big brother, the NB4540 only gets three stars. It is inferior to competitors in balance, dynamics and integration quality - and even a stylish appearance is not able to compensate for this.

Pros:
+ Slender and practical;
+ connections;
+ clean, fairly detailed sound.

Minuses:
- Weak midrange;
- lacks density and balance.

Verdict

Not without advantages, but sound is not one of them; inferior to equal competitors.

Price: $250

Final score: 6.5 points out of 10!

JBL SB 350

JBL has already had wonderful soundbars - SB 200 and SB 400, and SB 350 has become a worthy addition to the family. Semi-cylindrical black body with silver trim looks very stylish. The workmanship is superb and if we were to judge by looks, it would have earned five stars outright.

The 8 cm high soundbar on two round legs fits almost completely under the screen of our TV. Due to the small thickness of the case, it does not require much space in front of the TV; it can also be hung on the wall - a switch on the rear panel allows you to optimize the sound for desktop or wall placement.

Lots of connections

In addition, there is an optical input, a 3.5mm mini-jack socket and an HDMI output with audio return channel support on the back. Don't be fooled by the USB port - it only serves to update the firmware. Built-in Bluetooth lets you use your JBL soundbar as a wireless speaker.

The subwoofer does not stand out in any way, but it is worth noting its practical compact dimensions. It is equipped with a downward-facing 16 cm speaker.

Great advantage

One of the main draws of the SB 350 is its massive dynamics, which is great for blockbusters like G.I. Joe: Cobra Throw 2. In the episode when the G.I. The Joes battle their nemesis Cobra, the sound immersing the viewer into the very center of the film. Volumetric and detailed acoustic field fills the entire room. The accuracy of the sound allows you to trace the flight of each piece of slowly breaking glass.

The lengthy ninja-style fight scene is very difficult to reproduce; sharp impacts of metal blades break the sound field, but the SB 350 completely retains its composure, not allowing the slightest hint of harshness. During the entire battle, you will never have to wince.

The subwoofer is also good with its powerful bass (they should even be turned down a little to even out the tonal balance). Expressive dynamics make the action-packed film even more exciting.

The clean mid range of the SB 350 loses intelligibility when the virtual surround mode is turned on. Voices are less clear and detailed than the Philips HTL5140 ($250); and if you drastically add $350 and purchase our "Product of the Year" (according to us) Q ​​Acoustics Media 4 for $625, you will get tighter and more expressive mids. Nevertheless, the SB 350 has a pleasant enough sound both in films and when playing music.

Due to the quality of competitors, the JBL soundbar only gets a B, but its spectacular design and reasonably high-quality sound will surely find a lot of fans; films with his participation truly capture the viewer.

Given the cost of the SB 350, the credit card form factor doesn't seem like the best idea for a remote control. With all the thoughtfulness of the buttons, it looks too undignified, plus everything has an unpleasant feature of constantly getting lost

Pros:
+ Large-scale, detailed and dynamic sound;
+ accuracy of the acoustic picture;
+ elegant and practical design.

Minuses:
- The midrange lacks precision and clarity.

Verdict

Dynamic and exciting sound; yields to class leaders in openness.

Price: $275

Final score: 7.5 points out of 10!

Philips HTL5140

This stylish soundbar beat all the competition for the top step on the Award podium. However, the champion is not destined to rest on his laurels; only a month has passed, and the brand new crown already has to be defended from the surging hordes of competitors.

Was there among them equal to HTL5140 in strength? This time - no; the new match only strengthened his position as the strongest in the class.

We love the LG NB4540's ultra-slim body, but the HTL5140 isn't too plump either: it's only 5cm tall and won't cover your TV screen; without attracting undue attention to himself, he modestly hides under it.

think for three

After connecting the three components of the soundbar, and to do this, two end blocks with four speakers and two tweeters need to be screwed to the central unit, the length of the HTL5140 is approximately the width of a 42-inch TV.

Philips is a pleasure to use. Bright and clear text display is convenient when switching inputs or seven sound modes; The buttons on the remote control are very responsive.

Connections include HDMI, optical, 3.5mm and USB inputs. With aptX Bluetooth with NFC support, you can broadcast wirelessly. An HDMI output with audio return channel allows you to connect your DC components directly to the soundbar, so there is only one HDMI cable going to your TV.

Wealth of choice

This thin soundbar has an incredibly large-scale sound. The rich, dynamic and detailed sound of the HTL5140 is very pleasing to the ear. It is so energetic and detailed that even the creepy samurai action movie "47 Company" can be watched with pleasure.

The ringing of swords during battles is transmitted cleanly, without signs of harshness. On the other hand, the basses are quite energetic. The subwoofer and soundbar form a harmonious sound field. It may not be called the most voluminous, but for a normal-sized room it is quite enough, and the volume goes far beyond the comfortable. The middle range is equally inherent in weight and transparency, voices are dense and clear.

The final battle between Prince Kira and the ronin is full of sound effects, but the HTL5140 handles a lot of the details with ease.

Philips ends testing on a high note: the music performed by him is very good. In Eminem's Rap God via Bluetooth, he has full control over the live beats of the song.

HTL5140 remains the best budget soundbar; its stylish slim body and detailed, balanced sound are simply irresistible. If you've been good this year, you can put it under your tree.

Round remote with rubber buttons is almost identical to standard Philips TV remotes; it fits comfortably in the hand and does not cause problems during operation

Pros:
+ Well-designed and balanced sound;
+ enviable dynamics; excellent integration;
+ compact design;
+ clear text display.

Minuses:
No.

Verdict

Impeccable quality, stylish design and great price.

Price: $250

Final score: 10 points out of 10!

Pioneer SBX-N700

Some companies have already released a dozen soundbar models, but Pioneer remains true to the magic number 3. The flagship model of the line, the SBX-N700, got a four from us this year; it has now been reduced in price and is back in our testing labs.

This time, Pioneer has another main competitor, namely the Award winner, Philips HTL5140 ($250). Pioneer is inferior to Philips in quality, but manages to throw him a serious challenge.

There is something to remember

Pioneer has a very rich, detailed, tight and balanced sound.

True, to achieve maximum quality, you will have to work a little: at first, the mids in the movie "Total Recall" on Blu-ray-disc seem a little distant. However, pressing the "Dialogues" button on the remote control makes the sound much clearer, and the elaboration of details is thinner. Voices are rich in detail and clearly distinguishable. We also recommend lowering the bass level with the remote control - in this case, the explosions will sound just as powerful and deep, but more expressive. In our first review, we criticized the N700 for some sluggish bass; but at this price point it is more competitive. It is worth noting the sharpness of the treble and the saturation of the dynamics.

musical character

You can only change the equalizer mode using on-screen menus, which are transmitted via an HDMI cable from the soundbar to the TV; so you won't be able to make changes while watching the movie.

This soundbar also loves music; The Lord Team composition, when broadcast via Bluetooth, delights with the accuracy and energy of claps and blows, as well as good rhythm. The vocal parts are full of nuances, the space between the two voices gives volume to the sound field.

The high equipment of Pioneer allows you to stream music using Wi-Fi Direct and access your home network files via DLNA, and the Miracast function allows you to transfer a picture from a smartphone to a TV.

There are also a lot of physical connectors: two optical inputs, a LAN port for Internet access and an HDMI output for connecting to a TV. The lack of an HDMI input is rather disappointing, but at least there is a 3.5mm input and a USB port.

The N700 has one of the strongest cases in its segment. It is very deep for a soundbar - as much as 12 cm; make sure there is enough space on the TV stand.

The high and narrow profile of the subwoofer is ideal for installation on the floor in front of a TV. You don't have to mess around with it: the wireless channel to the soundbar is set up automatically. Lowering the price does not always lead to an increase in the rating, but Pioneer did just that.

We believe that most people will use the bundled remote control with a logical layout of buttons. Pioneer also offers a free and user-friendly app for iOs and Android devices.

Pros:
+ High detail;
+ convincing dynamics;
+ energetic bass;
+ durable case;
+ equipment.

Minuses:
- The variability of dynamics is inferior to Philips HTL5140;
- impractical depth.

Verdict

The N700 is able to compete with the mighty Philips HTL5140.

Price: $250

Final rating: 9 points out of 10!

Polk N1

It can be said that the Polk N1 soundbar is designed specifically for gaming; game designers took part in its creation, it is optimized for Microsoft Xbox consoles and equipped with a special game equalizer - but don't discount it if you only like movies.

This all-in-one soundbar (or "SurroundBar" as Polk calls it) is suitable for all kinds of entertainment: movies, music and, of course, games. Any source that can be connected to an optical, coaxial, or 3.5mm input, as well as Bluetooth wireless, will work with the N1 - and work great.

Learn on the go

The design of the soundbar (see sidebar) is rather unusual; it has a louver-like plastic grille and top-panel keys that light up with LEDs when pressed. In addition to power, volume and source controls, there is a Learn button that lets you teach the N1 how to respond to commands from your TV remote control. It makes sense - own remote isn't that great.

Connectors point downwards; this is convenient to connect, but be aware that cables with thick plugs can bend too much from pressure on the TV stand.

drown in the sound

The overall appearance of the N1 is accompanied by the same large-scale sound - open, voluminous and loud. It completely captures the listener, even if you do not include special "absorbing" modes - "Forza Racer", "Halo FPS", "Cinema" and "Music". The fantastic game Destiny from the Sony PS4 console delights with the realism of the post-apocalyptic world and the power of the orchestral soundtrack.

The infinity of space in the film "Gravity" on Blu-ray-disc is conveyed very authentically. The sounds of the collision echo throughout the room. Voices are distinguished by purity and weight, as well as high detail. However, the middle range sometimes seems too "flashy"; A little more subtlety would have been nice. The dynamics of the N1 are pretty decent, although not too finely crafted either. Despite the lack of a subwoofer, the sound is quite weighty; and George Clooney hitting the station building and the explosions are quite convincing.

The depth and elaboration of low frequencies are inferior to sets with separate subwoofers (in fact, they are needed for this); if you can't do without them, the N1 has an output for connecting an external subwoofer.

The starting price of the Polk N1 was quite high; after her decline, he became much more attractive. If it can fit into your system, consider purchasing it.

The credit card-style remote isn't all that impressive; it is quite responsive, but cheap looking and artsy

Pros:
+ Powerful, energetic sound;
+ high volume;
+ detail;
+ dynamic range;
+ price.

Minuses:
- Dimensions are completely impractical;
- not the most sophisticated mids.

Verdict

Not everyone will like the size, but everyone will like the sound; Polk will breathe new life into your films.

Price: $430

Samsung HW-H550

The last Samsung soundbar we saw didn't impress us much; The HWF750 had certain playback flaws. Will the less expensive HW-H550 make up for it?

It will look great in front of a TV screen without being too conspicuous. The thin long case is completely covered with a metal grid of black or silvery color.

Apparently-invisibly

Turn on the soundbar and the bright text display in the center will help you quickly perform all the necessary operations. After a few seconds, it will turn off and will not interfere with watching movies.

The slim soundbar comes with a hefty wireless subwoofer; it is easy to find a place for it, not limited by the length of the cables, and the pleasant matte finish and glossy top are pleasing to the eye.

The convenience of wireless connectivity extends beyond the subwoofer: the soundbar itself can also receive sound from your TV via Bluetooth, eliminating the need for cables altogether. True, it must be a Samsung brand TV with support for the “SoundConnect” function.

The list of connections corresponds to the price category: HDMI, optical and 3.5 mm inputs, a USB port for playing music from a hard drive or flash drive, and an HDMI output with an audio return channel for connecting to a TV.

The HW-H550, unlike the HW-F750, doesn't lose face when it comes to sound quality. Its clarity, detail and balance make the psychological thriller "Only God Forgives" even more captivating.

In the brutal fight scene between Julian and Lieutenant Chang, each blow shakes the acoustic field with its force. The sound is saturated with many small details - from the booming echo of steps to the noise of friction on the floor of the hero's wriggling body; the film's synth soundtrack demonstrates Samsung's meticulousness and rhythm.

The subwoofer lives up to its hefty size: it has deep and well-integrated bass; HF is also very disciplined.

However, the dynamics here are not the most expressive; a larger and more open sound would immerse the viewer more into the action of the film.

Loud and clean

Voices in terrestrial TV broadcasts are transmitted with weight, but the sound picture as a whole lacks transparency a bit.

But, although the HW-H550 is less dynamic and expressive than the strongest competitors, its confident sound and thoughtful design partly save the day; he is definitely worth getting to know.

As with all Samsung models, the remote control is nice and high quality. Properly selected dimensions and shape are convenient, but the buttons are small and there are a lot of them

Pros:
+ Detailed, balanced, weighty sound;
+ LF quality;
+ subwoofer integration;
+ design.

Minuses:
- Competitors have more dynamism and openness.

Verdict

Stylish design and high overall sound quality.

Price: $250

Final score: 8.5 points out of 10!

Summing up

In the next test of soundbars, we again observe a huge spread in quality. It is very difficult to find a model that combines excellent sound, spectacular design and excellent value for money; that's why we're so excited about the Philips HTL5140. We've written so much about him in the past few months that we've almost exhausted our year's supply of compliments. It has the best sound - energetic, dynamic and expressive - and will easily fit into almost any environment. After today's test, Philips' leadership in the budget soundbar category has become even more unshakable.

His closest rival is already familiar to us. There are times when the success of a product depends on the price. In Pioneer's case, her decline from the first meeting allowed him to increase his rating, and now he has a full set of stars to his credit; it is one of the most equipped soundbars in the category up to S400 and one of the most meticulous and dynamic in the budget segment of the market.

We move on to the group with four stars. Another soundbar from JBL is just as good looking as its predecessors. But the SB 350 receives compliments not only for its looks (which we can say about many models), but also for its large-scale and exciting sound, which can greatly enhance the impression of watching any blockbuster. And only a slightly higher price than we would like, as well as a more pronounced meticulousness of the Philips and Pioneer models, do not allow us to put JBL in the top five.

No subwoofer needed

The one-piece Polk also holds up well. It proves that a separate subwoofer is not necessary to create rich bass, and attracts both cinephiles and gamers with the presence of special "game" sound modes. Like JBL, the Polk's oversized chassis delivers big, thick sound that lets you enjoy your favorite movies (and games) over and over again.

Samsung also gets four stars. Its price is the same as that of Philips, and it is inferior to the latter in expressive dynamics, but it also has many advantages: weight, meticulousness, balance and functional design.

The game of catch-up

Closes the test with the motto "the main thing is not victory, but participation" LG, which received three stars. Its thin body immediately attracts attention, but otherwise it is noticeably inferior to its competitors - it lacks density, detail and expressiveness of dynamics.

There are enough models in today's list that deserve to be a welcome gift for the New Year, but only one occupies the top line - and you know it.

So, you've decided to make watching movies at home more enjoyable. If quite recently, in order to enjoy a new movie, you had to go to the cinema and pay money for a ticket, but today many users can afford home theaters. Until recently, the only solution was to purchase a set of speakers, but in recent years, the soundbar is gaining popularity. We will talk about them today.

What is a soundbar?

Soundbar (eng. SurrOUND BAR) is a speaker system in the form of a single unit. Such a system has a set of sound channels, is equipped with 4-12 speakers, depending on the model. In addition, the soundbar in its design may have additional systems and devices to provide the user with even more functions.

As a rule, the soundbar looks like an elongated column, most of which is occupied by the speaker grille. The manufacturer is trying to make it not only loud and multifunctional, but also compact, so that the buyer does not have problems with its placement - compact soundbars for thin plasmas.

Soundbars for home use began to be actively distributed around 2010. Many users who are not averse to listening to music in the evening or watching a movie in a not very positive light spoke about these audio systems. They were joined by quite a few professional sound engineers who did not see the future in these all-in-one devices at that time. At that time, everyone believed that it would not be possible for manufacturers to fit an entire system into a small box.

However, despite the skepticism, the soundbars took root in the market, moreover, they were densely identified in the halls of many movie lovers. Over time, the cost fell on them, the functionality grew, which only pushed users to buy.

And somehow imperceptibly, quietly, soundbars began to replace the usual home theater systems, which cannot boast of the same compactness.

Maybe home theaters could give odds to soundbars (still, more powerful and clearer sound can be realized in separate speakers), but many users pay attention primarily to dimensions - not everyone is given half a room to watch new products in the film industry. In addition, you must admit, not always in a small room you need a dozen speakers - and one will cope with the sound output.

What can?

Looking at the soundbar for the first time, one involuntarily asks the question: “What can this speaker do, except how to reproduce sound?”. In fact, these devices often have enough opportunities, sometimes even they seem redundant.

Let's start with the fact that the soundbar not only has a set of speakers, but also has a full-fledged audio chip. That is, the system also processes the sound before output, bringing it to the ideal. Thanks to this, the soundbar differs little in the quality of the output sound from the home theater. Let's continue with the fact that the system receives a set of speakers (usually 4-12 pieces) built into the structure.

To provide a clearer and richer sound, the manufacturer can install the speakers in different directions and at different angles. Often, the speakers are complemented by a separate speaker responsible for bass.

Already from the foregoing, we understand that a soundbar is not just a speaker for outputting sound from a TV. This soundbar is a versatile device that can:

• work in tandem with a TV;
• work independently or with other devices (smartphone, player);

Most soundbars have one or more ports for connecting external drives or memory cards. Modern models even boast wireless interfaces that allow you to remotely output sound from various sources to them. A number of solutions receive optical drives, which makes it possible to play music (or movies) from CDs.

• convert video files;
• have additional functions (, built-in browser for accessing the Web, Miracast, and so on).

Dimensions and connectors

With all the functionality and the ability to output high-quality sound, the essential difference between soundbars and sound systems for home theaters (in combination, this is an advantage) is the dimensions. Even fairly large representatives can boast of compact dimensions in the area - 200x400x300 mm (WxHxD).

This allows you to easily place the soundbar directly under the TV, on a small cabinet (optional, you can purchase a solution that can be mounted on the wall). At the same time, the device will not seem superfluous for your modern plasma - manufacturers are trying to take into account the wishes of users, bringing to life the most unusual design.

We can assure you that you won't have to hire workers to drag the soundbar home - the light weight allows even girls to carry these devices. The average weight of the model is around 5 kilograms.

Many models also have an additional subwoofer, so you should provide a place for it in advance.

As for connectors, buying a new model, you will get the most popular and necessary today.

Connector list:

• HDMI. Universal digital connector, which is responsible for the transmission of image and sound. Installed in almost every soundbar, it allows you to connect a bunch of devices, from TVs to players. In addition, the HDMI of most soundbars supports the ARC (Audio Return Channel) function, which makes this device part of the TV - there is no need to turn it on or off with a separate remote control.

Make sure that a high-quality HDMI cable is included in the kit, if it is not, buy it separately. The wire is not the last thing affects the sound quality.

• Analog ports (RCA). They allow you to connect various devices with connectors, which are popularly called "tulip". They are slowly fading into the past, but are still found in technology. Yes, and they can be useful for many users who still have the technique of their past or the decade before last.

Please note that when using the analog ports to connect, you will not be able to use the ARK function, which allows you to control the soundbar using the TV remote control. In addition, analog ports transmit only sound - video from the built-in player (if it is present, of course) will not be transmitted.

• Digital connector. Digital outputs in terms of the quality of the transmitted sound are significantly superior to both analog and HDMI connectors. In soundbars, they can be presented in different ways: a Toslink jack or a coaxial input. You should choose based on the set of connectors on your TV.

The ARC function does not work when audio is transmitted via a digital jack.

• 3.5mm jack. Identical connectors are present in most modern mobile phones and other devices. Actually, it was created to connect them. So, with it, you can connect a good MP 3 player and enjoy your favorite music.
• USB (microUSB AndT. d). Some manufacturers often forget about such familiar ports. They are needed to connect external drives and other devices. So, with the help of a USB port, you can easily connect a USB flash drive and enjoy a freshly downloaded action movie.
• Wireless interfaces. Almost every soundbar has at least Bluetooth, more advanced models boast Wi-Fi and even NFC. What are they for? For convenient connection of various devices to the soundbar without fuss with wires. Agree, it is convenient, being in the kitchen, to output your favorite song from your smartphone to the soundbar using Bluetooth.

Models with wireless interfaces are somewhat more expensive than their simpler counterparts, but we recommend giving preference to them.

Types of soundbars

Initially, as we have described, the soundbar was positioned as nothing more than an acoustic system, the main task of which was to output sound. Nobody demanded more from her. But technology, as they say, does not stand still, and each manufacturer tries to attract more and more new customers with new developments. The market was quickly flooded with soundbar models, which can now be divided into fairly large classes according to their design.

• Sound projector with integrated subwoofer. This type of soundbar requires installation on a hard, flat surface. The fact is that such models receive low-frequency speakers, the cone of which is directed downwards. The hard surface just transmits frequency vibrations, providing an even and high-quality sound. As the name implies, a subwoofer is already installed in them, however, its quality often leaves much to be desired.

The main advantage of this type of soundbar is its compactness, but the sound balance often leaves much to be desired.

• Soundbar with separate subwoofer. In fact, the same soundbar, but a subwoofer is placed separately so that the viewer or listener can fully experience the quality of individual sounds: drums, shots, thunder, and so on. The soundbar at the same time, which is not surprising, becomes a little more compact. The subwoofer is installed nearby, connected using wires or wireless interfaces.
• Soundbase. Very often, those who want to equip a home theater are faced with the problem of a catastrophic lack of space. Soundbases are ready to solve it, which allow you to integrate a TV receiver, smart set-top box, player and other devices into your case.

The soundbase will undoubtedly save space, but its sound quality, as a rule, is much worse than that of a full-fledged soundbar.

• Panel with removable speakers. Phillips was the first to think of such a concept, presenting a soundbar in which the speakers located at the edges are removed with a flick of the wrist. The user can install them anywhere in the apartment, making the sound more voluminous. At the same time, they work through a wireless connection, they are powered by several batteries.

Advantages and disadvantages of soundbars, compared with home theaters

Soundbars were destined to become the antagonists of home theater speakers, which they do quite successfully. Their advantages lie on the surface:

• high sound quality with relatively small dimensions;
• dimensions that allow you to install soundbars even in small rooms;
• a set of necessary ports and connectors;
• a bunch of additional features (connecting other devices, wireless interfaces, and so on).

And yet, despite all the advantages, soundbars at some points give in to full-fledged acoustic systems:

no matter how good the sound from an expensive soundbar is, a quality home theater system performs better. This is especially noticeable to professionals who work with sound every day.

Whatever one may say, but home theaters (we mean expensive ones) with all the speakers and with different channels give the best sound, providing, as they say, complete immersion. But:

• for a full-fledged system, you will have to pay a tidy sum that exceeds what the manufacturer requires for a soundbar;
• installing a home theater speaker system is not an easy task; most likely, you will have to call a specialist;
• be prepared for the fact that your entire room will be lined with speakers, and wires will decompose on the floor like snakes.

So, we conclude:

• you need excellent sound, don’t give a damn about the size of the system, the room is really big - we are considering building a home theater;
• you have a small apartment, there is no desire to spend a lot of money on devices, you are not so categorical about sound - a home soundbar.

The best soundabras

We figured out what soundbars are. You now also know about their advantages and disadvantages. It's time to talk about the best soundbars. We have selected several models from different manufacturers so that each of our readers can find a system to their liking.

Samsung HW-J450 Home Soundbar

The company from South Korea tries to be the best in everything. It regularly features flagship smartphones, tablets, and is one of the pioneers in the TV market. Apparently, so that TVs would not be left without good sound, the company took up soundbars. The Samsung HW-J450 model is difficult to attribute to the premium class, given the competition, so it is customary to include it in the budget segment. At a cost of about 18,000 rubles, the soundbar is really good, and it fully works out its money.

Let's start with the fact that this device has a nice, neat appearance, which is emphasized by small dimensions. The soundbar is presented by the 2.1 standard, has an elongated shape, and the weight is only 1.6 kilograms.

The subwoofer, however, is separate and rather large, which should be considered before buying.

The power of the Samsung home soundbar is 160W, the subwoofer is 140W. The HW-J450 is ready to shine with its powerful and clear sound. Particularly high quality is achieved with optical connectors. In addition, we have AUX, HDMI, USB ports, as well as Bluetooth for wireless devices. You can control the soundbar both using the remote control and via a smartphone by installing a special application in advance.

The Samsung HW-J450 is capable of impressing even the most biased critic with its quality. He received several sound modes, well assembled, has the necessary interfaces. What can be frustrating is managing the subwoofer separately from the rest of the system.

Home Soundbar Sony HT-CT380

Sony, in order not to be left behind, also took up the production of soundbars, which, to the delight of the buyer, ended up in a budget niche. Relatively recently, they introduced the HT-CT380 model - inexpensive, but functional and very elegant. Despite the compactness (the height of the system is about 5 centimeters), the manufacturer managed to hide 300W acoustics inside the soundbar. The system is compatible with 4K content, capable of shaping and amplifying surround sound.

The subwoofer is separate, wireless. The power is 100W, which is enough to provide a chic bass. You can place it anywhere in the room.

In addition to the standard set of connectors (AUX, HDMI, USB), the device is equipped with Bluetooth and NFC. Sony HT-CT380 supports a set of popular Dolby TrueHD, DTS HD decoders, delivers good clear sound. The disadvantages, judging by the reviews of many users, include the volume margin. The model is really good for its price (about 20,000 rubles) and will fit perfectly into the interior of any room.

Home Soundbar LG LAS455H

Another giant company from South Korea did not stand aside and presented a soundbar in a very unusual form - LAS455H. This device looks more like some kind of device from the future than a speaker system. It is devoid of wires, looks monolithic and expensive. For its size, it is powerful - 210 watts. In addition, the model is crammed with a variety of advanced "chips".

1. A feature, apart from the design, is the manufacturer's refusal to use wires. Now you do not have to drag a bunch of wires from the TV and other devices to the soundbar - they will be replaced by Bluetooth.
2. You can connect up to 3 devices at the same time.
3. The LG LAS455H produces a loud, clear sound, but the mids are noticeably lacking.
4. He also lacks a more elaborate equalizer.

The rest of the soundbar from LG is good. It looks unusual, uses a lot of technological gadgets to look solid and produce high-quality sound. The cost of the model is about 19,000 rubles.

Philips B5 home soundbar

Philips decided to pay more attention to the premium class, presenting an expensive and high-quality solution for lovers of deep and clear sound. B5 is exactly the model that can give odds to many home theater systems. The manufacturer not only worked on the sound quality, but also paid attention to the design, which only benefited.

The soundbar is represented by the 4.1 standard. The side speakers are very easy to detach from the main structure, support wireless connection, and are equipped with batteries that provide more than 10 hours of battery life.

Philips B5 received a minimum of connectors - the manufacturer focused on wireless technology. Very high quality assembly - you can't expect anything else at this price. Harmonious lines accentuate the premium quality of the soundbar, making it a special device on TV.

One cannot but rejoice at the approach of the manufacturer, who paid attention to even the smallest details. So, for example, speakers can work separately from the system, and be recharged even when it is turned off. And a set of add-ons allows you to make the sound as clear and high-quality as possible.

Philips B5 is not a cheap soundbar. The cost of the model is about 55,000 rubles, so some will not be able to afford it. For lovers of good sound, we certainly recommend it.

5

The soundbar is a compact and self-sufficient sound element designed to replace an entire home theater set on its own. Until recently, the purchase of a large screen TV was invariably accompanied by the purchase of an overall acoustic set, since such a measure was the only best solution offered by manufacturing companies.

The appearance of soundbars has made its own adjustments to the distribution of forces in the open spaces of the market segment - consumers got a chance to choose and naturally tended to buy compact acoustics. Despite the fact that the sound quality and maximum power did not reach the level of home theaters, users received an inexpensive (relative to full-size analogues) unobtrusively stylish addition to the TV, which did not clutter up extra space and perfectly performed its main function.

To date, the market segment of television acoustics is experiencing a period of glut - consumers are provided with a huge number of soundbars from masters in the production of sound technology. To choose one thing from such a variety seems to be a very difficult task, since frankly bad and unbalanced specimens often come across. As a practical recommendation for future purchases, we have selected for you 15 of the best soundbars, divided into three price categories. All places in the ranking were distributed according to the following criteria:

• distribution of goods in Russia;
• consumer reviews and the opinion of experts in the field of acoustic systems;
• balance of the main characteristics, the value of power indicators;
• combination of price and quality of goods;
• the degree of reliability of the assembly and components.

The best inexpensive soundbars: budget up to 15,000 rubles.

5 JBL Bar Studio

Lots of connection ports. 5 preset settings
The country: USA (made in China)
Average price: 7,100 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.3

The rating is opened by a budget audio panel with a total power of 30 W, the potential of which is enough to improve standard TV acoustics in a room of 15–20 sq. m. m. This is not a 5.1 system, the floor does not shake from its bass, but the sound becomes much richer, regardless of the type of player, whether it is a TV, smartphone or laptop. You can connect the soundbar in any convenient way - via "optics", stereo input, USB (type A), HDMI (ARC) or bluetooth. In early reviews, there are complaints about the backlog of the picture from the voice acting when connecting devices wirelessly. Now the bug is no longer mentioned, so the manufacturer, most likely, has already eliminated it.

In general, users call the device the best option where there is no way to put an overall subwoofer, and they believe that out of 5 presets, everyone can find one that suits their style. In addition, they advise experimenting with the location of the panel - it can be installed on the wall, at the top of the TV, under it, or next to it. Another nuance is that you cannot save on AUX and HDMI cables, the quality of which largely determines the purity of the sound signal. By fulfilling all these conditions, you can achieve exceptional audio detail and enjoy your favorite tracks.

4 Samsung HW-M360

Harmonious combination of high and low frequencies. Expandable to 5.1 standard
The country:
Average price: 12,400 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

Ideas about what compact audio projectors are capable of have been turned upside down thanks to this model. It appeared in 2017 and still, judging by the reviews and availability in all stores, remains very popular. An impressive 200 watts in an apartment environment, a bass-reflex cabinet and a 2.1 configuration with a free-standing woofer work wonders, turning a quiet and flat sound into a rich variation. A separate wireless sub provides a pleasant bass response - it may not seem enough for a demanding connoisseur of rock, but listening to pop music or a movie with special effects with it is a pleasure.

For those who want more powerful and more spacious sound, the developers have provided for setting up a multi-channel audio system using the optional Wireless Surround SWA-8500S rear speaker kit. Its speakers further amplify and enrich the sound, thus, the buyer receives a 5.1 system in the future. Other features of the soundbar are no less well thought out: a hidden display, the presence of a USB and Bluetooth module, an automatic shutdown function along with the TV, as well as dimensions ideal for a 40" TV.

3 Sony HT-SF150

The best solution for a small space. Sony's most budget model
The country:
Average price: 9 600 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

There is no soundbar cheaper than this in the Sony lineup, however, it got into our TOP due to the deep and clear sound, the quality of which is the responsibility of the S-Force Front Surround system. As a successor to the older HT-CT80 model, the 2-channel unit has a total output power of 120W rather than 80W - 30W for each of the 4 speakers: 2 woofers and 2 tweeters. Its compactness (90 cm long, 3.5 kg weight) and the absence of a subwoofer make it an excellent solution for a small (up to 25 sq.m.) living room or bedroom, where there is no need to install more powerful floorstanding audio systems.

As befits the brainchild of a famous brand, its design in the spirit of minimalism is worthy of the highest praise. The soundbar, although entry-level, but with such an appearance and with the inscription Sony inspires the thought of a premium. As for the interface, it is built on omnivorous Bluetooth, a standard optical audio input and one HDMI with ARC technology. It allows you to have just one connection between your TV and multiple audio output devices, however this feature requires your TV to also support ARC.

2 Polk Audio Signa Solo

The most technologically advanced soundbar. Simple settings. Good equipment
The country: USA (made in China)
Average price: 15,000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

A company focused exclusively on audio products, with 55 audio technology patents, has a duty to create a unique product. And she did it - in the case of the Signa Solo model, several branded chips are hidden at once, thanks to which it is able to sound convincingly even without an additional subwoofer. The patented SDA audio processor delivers expressiveness, surround, and extended low-frequency range, while Voice Adjust technology delivers clearer, more natural speech.

For streaming various audio materials, there are 3 modes - "Film", "Game" and "Music". Flexible sound settings can be made from the remote control by adjusting the master volume and bass level separately. And in order not to get confused in remotes, it is better to teach how to work with a regular soundbar, from a TV - it’s good that the Smartbar system allows you to do this in a matter of seconds. Overall, the Signa Solo is very easy to set up, in fact it's ready to go right after you connect it to your TV via Bluetooth, analog or optical input (cable included).

The appearance of soundbars on the market provoked a lot of controversy regarding the appropriateness of their use in the presence of an alternative in the form of bulky home theaters. In order to weigh all the advantages and disadvantages of the devices, as well as note their key features, let's turn to a detailed comparison table:

Type of acoustics	pros	Minuses
Soundbar (soundbar)	Smaller than a full-size home theater Good sound quality in a small package Comparatively lower purchase price Great solution for small spaces Support for all popular sound formats The presence of built-in players for independent music playback	– Switching with additional acoustic elements is difficult or impossible at all - Somewhat inferior in sound quality compared to full-fledged acoustic systems
home theater	The ability to fine-tune the system to the characteristics of the environment and your own preferences High sound quality Ease of switching with additional elements	– High cost for a complete set – Abundance of connecting wires – Bulky due to the abundance of components – Painstaking setup process

1 LG SJ3

The country:
Average price: 11,550 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

The first line of the rating is occupied by a representative of LG - a powerful and "evil" sound bar SJ3 2.1 standard. Two speakers with a total power of 100 watts are responsible for the sound quality of medium and high frequencies. It seems to be not bad, but when you play songs on your own, you feel a complete disregard for bass, in connection with which a 200 W subwoofer was attached to the model. This, of course, is not the limit, but for "annoying the neighbors" or "shaking the curtains" it is more than enough.

Only one thing can be said about the shortcomings of the LG SJ3: they are not critical, and if the panel were a couple of positions lower in the rating, they would have gone unnoticed. Firstly, users are confused by the lack of a standard HDMI connector, the lack of which is fully compensated by a stable wireless connection. Secondly, some owners were not happy with the lack of a hardware equalizer, but to the credit of the model, it can be noted that some more expensive soundbars do not differ in such a “trick”. Otherwise, LG SJ3 compares favorably with competitors, gives a purely pleasant experience and takes a leading position with every right to do so.

The best mid-range soundbars: budget up to 40,000 rubles.

5 Denon DHT-S316

The best sound when watching any content. Ultra slim body
The country: Japan (made in China)
Average price: 19,100 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.3

The design of the soundbar from a well-known Japanese company specializing in the production of Hi-End audio equipment is designed for one simple, but not at all commonplace goal - to provide the best sound in any environment with a compact device. The soundbar is only 5 cm high (miniature dimensions are often a decisive factor due to limited space), but at the same time it can accommodate 2 midrange speakers and 2 tweeters. The included wireless subwoofer can be hidden anywhere in the room without stopping it from delivering crisp, musical bass.

In user reviews and reviews, there are many life hacks about the correct location and settings of the device. For example, the front panel of the audio system is recommended to be placed flush with the edge of the TV cabinet, but not further to the wall, otherwise the horn effect will appear. And in order to get a realistic illusion of multi-dimensional sound, it is better to place the soundbar closer to the listener. After all the manipulations to find the optimal point, you can enjoy the result in the form of a dynamic and, according to users, “adult” sound.

4 LG SK6F

Equalizer Bass Blast. Adaptive sound mode selection
The country: South Korea (made in China)
Average price: 24,400 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

LG engineers have gone to great lengths to make the small, elegant SK6F soundbar with 1 front speaker sound almost as solid as a 5.1 or even higher sound system. No miracles and violation of the laws of physics - the absence of bulky speakers in it is compensated by the presence of special amplifiers and cunning sound processing algorithms. We don’t know what the secret of the Bass Blast preset is, but the sound speaker produces bass on it, as they say, killer, and when watching movies with dynamic scenes, the effect of being in a cinema is guaranteed.

Do I need to be a technically savvy tuner or a subtle music lover to perfectly adjust the playback of a track? Absolutely not - the adaptive control system is able to automatically detect the type of content and select the appropriate mode for flawless sound. Equally convenient to stream audio and video content from popular applications over a wireless network using the built-in media player Chromecast. And although some do not like that adjustment is possible only from a smartphone, and someone lacks a separate woofer, we believe that the gadget is very successful and deserves a place in our TOP.

3 Samsung HW-M550

Optimal price
The country: South Korea (made in China)
Average price: 17,390 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

Samsung's policy regarding the creation of low-budget acoustics causes twofold sensations: on the one hand, the company strives to prepare devices of a high level of reliability and visibility, and on the other hand, it is ready to give up proper sound quality. The HW-M550 is a typical member of a line of powerful mid-range soundbars that was created in the hope of fixing the "family jambs" ... and inherited almost all of them.

Among the indisputable advantages of the panel is a high level of rated power - 340 W from three speakers and one bass-reflex subwoofer. The paradox lies in the fact that, having as many as three two-way HF / MF sources, the Samsung HW-M550 cannot boast of impeccable sound quality. Users note the presence of extraneous noise and some inaccuracies in reproduction, which are characteristic of high-frequency sounds. But as far as the subwoofer is concerned, everything is much better: rich low frequencies create a kind of voluminous bass, the power of which is enough for rooms of a decent scale. It is very difficult to talk about the ratio of quality and cost parameters in such a situation: the soundbar is good-looking, but only until an analogue of cheaper or higher quality appears.

2 Canton DM 55

Good operational potential. The presence of surround sound
Country: Germany
Average price: 32,990 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

The powerful monoblock soundbar Canton DM 55 is a bright representative of the middle segment and has one notable positive feature. It's no secret that soundbars are not capable of providing the proper volume of sound, against their competitors from the home theater segment. In such a situation, manufacturers go to various tricks in the hope of launching the only unique product on the market and somehow improving the overall playback quality.

The German developers from Canton acted in a very original and unpretentious way: the DM 55 panel is made in the form of a TV stand, which adds a couple of extra centimeters to the internal volume. This was enough to accommodate the side tweeters and subwoofer woofers in the monolithic case, mounted in the center of the assembly.

It is also noteworthy that the panel is devoid of the HDMI connection interface familiar to many, offering consumers only analog and optical ports, supplemented by the ability to connect a device via Bluetooth. There is little bad here, but users stubbornly include this feature in the list of shortcomings, complaining about the decent cost and poor technical equipment.

1 YAMAHA YAS-306

Virtual configuration 7.1. Network audio transmission
The country: Japan (made in Indonesia)
Average price: 28,500 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

Yamaha is one of the few companies that allows you to appreciate the benefits of a multi-room system gradually, starting with a small cost for a regular YAS-306 soundbar and any portable speaker, for example, WX-010. The multi-dimensional sound effect is achieved with a built-in bass machine with up-firing drivers, thoughtful speaker layout and Air Surround Xtreme technology that simulates a 7.1 system. In the reviews about the sound, the opinions are unambiguous - it is fantastically pleasant.

But the most important opportunities are opened by the branded application MusicCast Controller. With it, the user receives all the necessary information about the status and control over the control of the sound bar, dispenses with buttons on the case and even without a regular remote control. Moreover, in the application, you can collect all devices that are compatible with MusicCast via Wi-Fi or “blue tooth” to assign them to certain rooms and enter the required settings for each. By expanding your own MusicCast system over time, you can create a home multi-room like the one that is optionally integrated into smart home systems.

The best premium soundbars

5 Klipsch Reference RSB-8

Brand of professional acoustics for cinemas. Wide range of features
The country: USA (made in China)
Average price: 55,000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.4

The name of Paul Klipsch, the founder of a large American company for the manufacture of Hi-Fi acoustics, is listed in the US Science Hall of Fame along with Thomas Edison and the Wright brothers. His success is due to technological innovations that he personally developed and implemented in most products, including the RSB-8 soundbar. Its retail price belongs to the same segment as other strong TOP models, however, the device successfully resists competitors due to many factors: stylish finish, high-quality assembly, special, “clip-like” assertive sound.

The initial setup is done with the push of a button. There is both a blue tooth and Wi-Fi with support for Klipsch Stream technology. The latter is actually a feature common in premium acoustics, also called Play-Fi. Through a special application for Android and iOS, the device is able to broadcast music from a smartphone, network drive or streaming service. In addition, with the help of Klipsch Stream, it is easy to connect compatible equipment, for example, RW-1 speakers, or even form a multi-room system into which you can integrate Play-Fi-enabled AV equipment of any brands and manufacturers.

4 Bose SoundTouch 300

The best design. Adjustment device included. Multiroom system
Country: USA
Average price: 53,200 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

By upgrading the home multimedia system with the SoundTouch 300 model, the user receives a gadget in the highest degree elegant, in black glass and with a metal grill. It comes with an interesting contraption in the form of on-ear headphones - a system for audio tuning in specific conditions ADAPTiQ. They are put on the head, after which the sound calibration of the device takes place - a complete analogue of the equalizer settings, but in automatic mode and very efficiently.

The fact that the device belongs to the SoundTouch line indicates that it can be controlled from an application on your gadget, if necessary, by connecting other components from the same family into a 5.1 system: the Acoustimass 300 bass module and the Virtually Invisible 300 rear speakers. Needless to say, after all manipulations, the sound of any movie scene becomes large-scale, what is happening on the screen surrounds the listener from all sides, and a small soundbar actually turns out to be a real entertainment machine.

3 Focal Dimension

The most balanced model
Country: France
Average price: 59,990 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

Focal Dimension is that rare case of a soundbar when low frequencies are reproduced normally and without the help of a complete subwoofer. Indeed, the standard of this model does not imply the presence of a bass source in the standard kit: all work is done by five full-range speakers with a diameter of 100 millimeters. However, to ensure a more intelligible sound, the panel can be equipped with a subwoofer additionally, since for these purposes there is a special output for connecting it.

The set of performance characteristics is also very impressive: the Focal Dimension power is 450 W, and the reproducible frequency range varies from 50 to 25,000 Hz (without additional equipment). There is a convenient remote control and as many as two connectors for HDMI connection, and line and optical inputs are provided as an alternative.

For all its purely positive features, the sound bar is not very popular - either the brand is embarrassing the domestic consumer, or it is a matter of pure chance, but Focal Dimension is bought mainly by people close to musical topics. And, it is worth noting, they do not regret the choice at all.

2 Sonos Playbar

The most comfortable soundbar
The country: USA (made in China)
Average price: 75,000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

The next place in the ranking of the best premium soundbars of 2019 is the Sonos Playbar. This is one of the most functional systems - thanks to the combination with satellites, it can be rebuilt from 3.1 to 5.1 and vice versa. Two connectors for connecting an Ethernet cable allow you to connect the device to an external network to play tracks from the Internet. The front speaker is mounted to the ceiling, where it can be optimally positioned to improve sound quality.

Among the strengths of this soundbar, buyers name an affordable price, good sound quality at all frequencies and a convenient control system. The optical input allows you to transmit a digital signal to external devices. Thanks to Wi-Fi support, it is possible to pair the system with media to play music directly from them. The weaknesses of this soundbar are narrow equalizer settings and not very high-quality assembly.

1 Sony HT-ZF9

Standard 3.1. Premium design. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
The country: Japan (manufactured in Malaysia)
Average price: 46,700 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

In the past, getting a home audio system that supports Dolby Atmos multi-channel audio required investing in a serious home theater in terms of price and dimensions. Today, everything is much simpler - the Sony HT-ZF9 soundbar broadcasts three-dimensional sound that creates the effect of presence no worse than a theater system. Unlike other soundbars, there are no height speakers and the design consists of 2 front drivers and a wireless woofer.

The vertical audio signal is particularly impressive when digitally processed with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X (today used in the world's most advanced cinemas). The sound processor performs another important task - scaling the virtual audio scene, making movies feel both wide and high. In general, as a media support system, this soundbar can be called impeccable. But music connoisseurs are not all happy - there is no equalizer, they say, and the sound is too embellished. But true audiophiles still found an uncompromising solution in the form of a set of "native" Sony SA-Z9R speakers. With them, watching movies and listening to music is a pleasure.

How to choose a good soundbar

As is the case with any other type of equipment, soundbars have a number of key characteristics and features that you should pay priority attention to when buying. What is below the line of importance, and what can be completely excluded from the list of priority parameters - we will clarify in the list of recommendations for purchase.

System type. This setting determines the number of accessories required to connect the soundbar (and any other acoustic element) to a sound source. Opt for purely active soundbars, as they are self-sufficient systems and are capable of reproducing sound without the inclusion of amplifiers or receivers from other audio devices in the chain.

Standard. A parameter indicating the ratio of the number of speakers and subwoofers in the current acoustic set layout. The most popular standard in soundbars is the 5.1 ratio, which “migrated” to compact panels from the design of the eternal rival in the face of the home theater. There are also standards 2.1 and 7.1, but the latter is used mainly by Yamaha. If the issue of sound detail is in the first place, then models of a standard not lower than 5.1 are subject to selection.

playback power. Regarding this characteristic, everything is extremely simple: the higher the power of the soundbar, the louder the sound can be obtained at the output of the device. The optimal value of this parameter lies in the range of 100-200 W, therefore, when choosing, it is better to build on the given values.

connection interfaces. Since modern TVs are equipped with a whole set of standard interfaces (here are USB, and HDMI, and a connection via a wireless connection), the possibility of miscalculating those on soundbars is close to zero. However, to comply with the “in reserve” principle, we recommend that you select an acoustic device, the connection ports of which will match those on the TV as much as possible.

The level of reproduced frequencies. Although soundbars are very strong at reproducing high and mid frequencies, low bass remains out of reach for them. To avoid the “empty” sound of low-frequency ranges, choose soundbars that come with a standard subwoofer.

The presence of a sound projector. Since the sound quality of soundbars is obviously lower than that of full-fledged home theaters, developers are looking for ways to solve this problem. One of these is the introduction of a sound projector into the design, thanks to which (and with a certain configuration of speakers in the case) the effect of 3D sound is achieved. This element in the soundbar is optional, but plays a key role for true music lovers ... and significantly increases the cost of acoustics.

It is a type of technology that people acquire for the purpose of long-term use. It is for this reason that special attention must be paid to the right choice, so as not to be disappointed in the future with the purchase.

Which firm to choose?

At the moment, soundbars are put on sale by many manufacturers, so it can be difficult to decide on a specific model even for those people who are well versed in technology. The most popular brands that produce only quality products are:
1. .
2. Sonos.
3. Yamaha.
4.Canton.
5. Sony.
6. Humax.
7 Philips.
8 Focal.
9 Samsung.
All these firms are widely represented on the Russian market. Their catalogs contain many models of soundbars, which differ from each other in terms of parameters and, of course, cost.

Soundbar Selection Criteria

Since the range of soundbars is really wide, there are models with different characteristics. Some of them cannot be called durable, but others will definitely serve their owners for a long time. Certain criteria will help you choose exactly the option that will work without breakdowns for several decades. They must be taken into account when purchasing a product:
1. Functionality.

Models with basic equipment are entry-level and have rather small capabilities. More expensive options are distinguished by the presence of additional functions (karaoke, media player, etc.). middle and high-end soundbars have Bluetooth and AirPlay wireless protocols and allow you to listen to music from a computer device or using a network drive.

2. Size and design.

Soundbars vary in size, shape, and installation method. Some models are installed near the TV, others are mounted on the wall, and others have an ideal design, suggesting the possibility of mounting on any surface. Of course, you can find a model that fully fits the width of the TV, but this is not necessary. Before purchasing a soundbar, you should only make sure that it will not interfere with your TV viewing.

3. Channels.

Today, models are on sale that offer users from 2 to 15 different channels. The simplest are two-channel options that improve the sound quality of acoustics. Soundbars with 3.0 and 3.1 configurations differ in the main channel emitter, which makes TV shows and movies much better. Devices with a 5.1 configuration work great with all available content.

4. Power.

When purchasing a soundbar, you should be extremely careful not to fall for the famous marketing ploy. Often, the characteristics indicate the total power of all the speakers present that are installed in the device. Often, manufacturers deliberately give fake data, while citing results that were obtained with a terrible level of distortion - from 10%. Because of this, it is impossible to listen to music in normal mode.

5. Sound quality.

This parameter varies greatly among different models. As a rule, a person receives exactly as much as he pays. High-end soundbars sound great, but low-end models fall short of a pair of bookshelf speakers, although they do improve the sound of the TV.

Rating of the best soundbars 2018/2019

1. LG SH4

A fairly budget model is included in the list of the best devices, as it has a number of features and positive reviews. It is a simple but active panel and has a 2.1 configuration. The power of all its speakers in total is 300 watts.
This option attracts the attention of buyers due to the absence of all kinds of wires, the highest quality assembly, as well as the presence of Bluetooth. All this is most often noted by users in their reviews. At the same time, no shortcomings were found in the soundbar, since all its capabilities and quality are fully consistent with the cost.

Video review Reviews

2. JBL SB100

No less popular is the model, the cost of which does not exceed 10 thousand rubles. Despite the fact that it is somewhat cheaper than its competitors, it is absolutely not inferior to them in terms of capabilities. The device has a 2.1 configuration, which allows you to replace even a good home theater with 5.1 format.
Most of the good reviews from people are related to the high level of sound quality, the presence of a separate subwoofer output and a rather pleasant design.
Among the shortcomings, the owners of the model often note the lack of Wi-Fi. In the rest, they are absolutely satisfied with everything.

Useful video Reviews

3. SAMSUNG HW-M450

The model for 16,500 rubles belongs to the category of active ones. It is capable of launching any musical compositions without the help of an amplifier. The total power of the speakers is 320 W, which corresponds to the 2.1 standard. The system includes a front speaker, the power of which is 160 watts. It can be attached to the ceiling.
Customers like the model for excellent sound quality, a good wireless subwoofer and a convenient menu. In addition, the linear stereo output, most often used to connect the system to a TV, cannot but rejoice.
Along with the advantages, people talk about the disadvantages of the device. Among them, they note only a slight noise at maximum volume.

Useful video Reviews

4. SAMSUNG HW-K550

Another model belonging to the middle price segment will cost customers only 16,600 rubles. It features a 3.1 configuration as well as a total speaker output of 340W.
Among the advantages of a soundbar, owners quite often highlight low cost, the presence of as many as three speakers and good low-frequency reproduction.

Useful video Reviews

5. SONY HT-NT3

A convenient soundbar worth 80 thousand rubles belongs to the premium class. Buyers did not find any shortcomings in it, since only advantages appear when working with it. Most often, people point to an affordable price, excellent sound quality, regardless of frequency, and a fairly comfortable control system.

Useful video