You probably already shelled out good money for a nice big TV and maybe a streaming device for your Netflix. But no matter how big your screen is or how much it costs, your TV speakers probably sound terrible.
You’ll be surprised how much more you enjoy these shows with a decent soundbar or surround sound system hooked up to your primo bar. Explosions are heard, dialogue is much clearer, and you may even notice audio details in your favorite movies that you’ve never noticed before.
Need advice on how to find the perfect bar? Check out our full article on how to buy a soundbar before choosing one below.
February 2023 Update: We’ve added information about Sonos Ray, added Vizio M-Series Elevate, and updated links and pricing.
Why do you need a soundbar
We have yet to test a new TV that wouldn’t sound crappy without some sort of audio accessory. This is mainly due to the way TVs are arranged. Great-sounding speakers are bulky, and as TVs get thinner, with smaller bezels and sleeker designs, it’s getting harder for manufacturers to build good speakers into them.
You can spend as little as $150 on a new soundbar with subwoofer, and it’s essential to get the most out of your viewing experience. To help, we’ve put together this list of the best soundbars we’ve tested, including soundbars sold separately as well as models that come with a subwoofer. We’ve also put together some tips on how to get the most out of your purchase.
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