Soundbars transform your home viewing experience with crisp, dynamic audio, offering a significant upgrade from your TV’s lackluster speakers. Imagine immersing yourself in a 3D cinematic world in your living room, with every scene’s sound enveloping you in clarity and depth. This isn’t just a fantasy; it’s a reality with a perfect soundbar.
In today’s streaming-dominated world, where Netflix binges often replace traditional TV, the importance of great audio cannot be overstated. A soundbar can elevate your casual viewing into an experience that rivals the best theaters. And the best part? You don’t need to break the bank to achieve this.
Even if your TV is small, the right soundbar can create an expansive sound field, making every corner of your room come alive with high-quality audio. Many TVs have speakers that are adequate at best, often failing to deliver sound that fills the room. But with a soundbar, even the softest dialogue becomes crystal clear, and the loudest action scenes are more thrilling than ever.
Finding the best soundbar under $200 can be challenging, with so many options flooding the market. But fear not, as we have sifted through the choices to bring you the best. Our selection will help you make an informed decision without feeling overwhelmed.
So, get ready to dive into our top picks for soundbars under $200, where quality meets affordability. Our comprehensive guide will navigate the essentials, ensuring your next soundbar elevates your audio experience without straining your wallet.
Service | Main Features | Score | |
---|---|---|---|
1 hhhh | SAMSUNG HW-R550 | Check Price | |
2 | Samsung HW-A450/ZA 2.1ch Soundbar | Check Price | |
3 | VIZIO M213ad-K8 SoundBar | Check Price | |
4 | TCL Alto 6+ 2.1 Channel Dolby Audio Sound Bar | Check Price | |
5 | Vizio V Series V21-H8R | Check Price | |
6 | SAMSUNG HW-T550 2.1ch Soundbar | Check Price | |
7 | Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Sound System | Check Price | |
8 | VIZIO V-Series 5.1 V51x-J6 | Check Price | |
9 | Samsung HW-B550/ZA | Check Price | |
10 | LG S65Q | Check Price |
- 1. SAMSUNG HW-R550
- 2. Samsung HW-A450/ZA 2.1ch Soundbar
- 3. Vizio M-Series M213ad-K8
- 4. TCL Alto 6+ 2.1 Channel Dolby Audio Sound Bar
- 5. Vizio V Series V21-H8R
- 6. SAMSUNG HW-T550 2.1ch Soundbar
- 7. Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Sound System
- 8. VIZIO V-Series 5.1 V51x-J6
- 9. Samsung HW-B550/ZA
- 10. LG S65Q
- What to consider when buying a soundbar under $200? Buying Guide!
1. SAMSUNG HW-R550
- Number of channels: 2.1
- Total power output: 320 watts
- Subwoofer type: Wireless active
- Frequency range: 42Hz-20kHz
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI, optical audio, USB
I checked out the SAMSUNG 2.1 Soundbar HW-R550 with its wireless subwoofer, and I found it’s a solid choice for most homes. It’s loud clear, and has a neat trick of making bass sounds stand out. But, it doesn’t quite hit those super low bass notes some might want for big action scenes in movies or heavy bass in music.
What’s cool is its wireless subwoofer. There are no messy cables; you can put it anywhere in the room. This makes your space look neat and still adds punch to your audio. But don’t expect it to rumble like some more expensive soundbars.
I loved how easy it was to play music from my phone with Bluetooth. It’s perfect for anyone who likes to stream their tunes without fuss. While it doesn’t have fancy features like some high-priced competitors, it’s a great pick if you don’t want to spend a lot.
This soundbar is great for anyone who enjoys various sounds, like music or podcasts, and doesn’t need all the latest tech. It’s a good mix of quality and price. My favorite part is how simple and effective it is. You get better sound without complication or a big price tag. The only downside? It might not satisfy those looking for the deepest bass.
In short, the SAMSUNG HW-R550 is a great option if you want to boost your sound experience without spending a fortune. It’s easy, effective, and worth checking out if you’re after a straightforward sound upgrade.
Pros
- Loud and clear audio output.
- Pronounced bass presence.
- Wireless subwoofer reduces cable clutter.
- Easy Bluetooth streaming for music and podcasts.
- Affordable compared to high-end models.
Cons
- Doesn’t reach very low bass notes.
- Lacks high-end features like Dolby Atmos.
2. Samsung HW-A450/ZA 2.1ch Soundbar
- Type: 2.1 channel soundbar
- Audio Technology: Dolby Audio
- Wireless Subwoofer: Yes
- Total Power Output: 270W
- Connectivity: HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth
- Dimensions (Soundbar): 980 x 55 x 85 mm
- Dimensions (Subwoofer): 219 x 221 x 330 mm
Samsung HW-A450/ZA 2.1ch Soundbar is a straightforward yet capable device for anyone seeking quality audio without the hefty price tag. It’s designed with stereo content in mind, making it an excellent pick for everyday TV watching and music listening.
One thing to note right off the bat: this model lacks HDMI inputs. It means you can’t control it using your TV’s remote – a feature present in the HW-A550. However, the HW-A450 makes up for this with its graphic EQ, allowing for personalized sound adjustments. It is a boon for those who love tailoring their audio experience to different types of content.
Performance-wise, the HW-A450 shines with stereo content. It delivers clear dialogue and music, perfect for TV shows, podcasts, and your favorite tunes. The Soundbar’s neutral profile adapts well to various audio and gets pretty loud, filling up a room easily without losing clarity.
Comparing it to higher-end models like the HW-Q700A, the absence of features like Dolby Atmos and surround sound capabilities is noticeable. You won’t get the immersive, cinematic audio experience that more expensive soundbars offer. Also missing, advanced features like Q-Symphony and Acoustic Beam technology enhance the overall sound experience.
HW-A450 holds its ground as an entry-level soundbar. It’s ideal for those who want a no-fuss, quality soundbar for daily use. Its simplicity and the option to tweak audio settings make it an attractive choice for the average user.
Samsung HW-A450/ZA offers a solid balance between price and performance. It’s excellent for enhancing TV audio and enjoying music, especially if you’re not chasing the high-end features of pricier models.
Samsung HW-A450/ZA 2.1ch Soundbar is a strong contender in the budget-friendly audio market. It’s a straightforward, effective upgrade over standard TV speakers, with enough customization to satisfy most users. A soundbar such as the HW-A450 is worth considering if you’re looking for an affordable one under $200.
Pros
- Great for cost-conscious buyers.
- Graphic EQ feature allows for sound customization.
- Clear and decent sound profile suitable for various audio types.
- Adequate volume to fill a room without losing clarity.
Cons
- No support for Dolby Atmos or advanced surround sound.
- Lacks HDMI inputs, limiting TV remote control compatibility.
3. Vizio M-Series M213ad-K8
- Dolby Atmos: Yes
- DTS:X: Yes
- DTS Virtual:X: Yes
- Total Number of Speakers: 6
- Speaker Channels: 2.1
- Frequency Response: 50Hz – 20kHz
- Listening Modes: Movie, Music, Game, Direct, Dialogue
The VIZIO M-Series All-in-One 2.1 M213ad-K8 Sound Bar, 2023 model, stands out in the budget soundbar under $200, especially with Dolby Atmos support. As a standalone bar, it closely resembles the Vizio M Series M21d-H8R but takes a step forward with integrated subwoofers and advanced audio features.
One of the key aspects of the M213ad-K8 is its sleek, unobtrusive design. It fits seamlessly into most living spaces, making it a great choice for those with limited room or who prefer minimalist setups. The addition of Dolby Atmos is a significant draw, particularly at this price point. While it downmixes Atmos content into stereo, this feature still enhances the overall audio experience, adding a sense of depth that’s rare in budget soundbars.
The sound quality of M213ad-K8 is impressive; whether it’s for watching TV shows, listening to music, or enjoying podcasts, it delivers clear and balanced audio. The dual subwoofers add a nice touch to the bass, enriching the lower frequencies without overwhelming the mids and highs.
VIZIO M-Series holds up well compared to its competitors, like the TCL Alto 8i. Both are budget-friendly and offer Dolby Atmos support, but the VIZIO’s audio quality and design edge it ahead. However, for those seeking a full-fledged Atmos experience, this soundbar may not suffice. It’s more suitable for casual listeners who want an upgrade from their TV’s built-in speakers and occasional dips into more advanced audio formats.
From my experience, the VIZIO M-Series All-in-One 2.1 M213ad-K8 stands out for its value-for-money proposition. The sound clarity and bass are commendable, making it a significant upgrade over standard TV speakers. It’s particularly appealing for those who want better sound without the complexity or expense of higher-end systems.
The soundbar’s main limitation, the lack of a truly immersive Atmos experience, is understandable given its affordable price. This compromise is acceptable for the target audience – those who want a straightforward, effective audio enhancement without delving deep into audiophile territory.
VIZIO M-Series All-in-One 2.1 M213ad-K8 offers a significant audio budget upgrade. Its blend of modern design, solid sound quality, and Dolby Atmos support makes it an attractive option for enhancing your home audio experience.
Pros
- Sleek, space-saving design.
- Built-in subwoofers enhance bass.
- Clear and balanced sound quality.
- Dolby Atmos support in a budget model.
- Great value for money.
Cons
- Bass depth is not as strong as higher-end models.
- Dolby Atmos experience is limited.
4. TCL Alto 6+ 2.1 Channel Dolby Audio Sound Bar
- Power Consumption (W):
20W (Soundbar)
25W (Subwoofer) - Driver Dimensions: 1.75″ x 3.94″ driver
- Standby Power: <0.5W
- Wall Mount kit: Yes
- Remote Control: Yes
Testing out the TCL Alto 6+ soundbar immediately attracted me to its straightforward, user-friendly nature. This 2.1 setup targets consumers under $200 who want a simple yet effective audio upgrade for their TV setup, especially those with TCL Roku TVs.
What stands out with the Alto 6+ is its compatibility with TCL Roku TVs. This integration allows for seamless control using the TV’s remote, a feature that enhances user convenience significantly. The soundbar’s sound profile is decent, leaning towards a darker tone. This quality gives it a warm sound, which is great for dialogue and everyday TV viewing.
The three EQ presets are a nice touch, allowing some customization. You can tweak the sound to suit your listening preferences or the content you enjoy. The ‘TV’ preset, in particular, enhances dialogue, making it clearer, which is a boon for news or talk shows.
The Alto 6+ does a commendable job when filling a room with sound. It gets loud enough for large spaces or crowded rooms, ensuring everyone can enjoy the audio. The Bluetooth connectivity adds to its practicality, making streaming from mobile devices a breeze.
However, it could be better. The soundbar’s lack of a discrete center channel means that voices aren’t anchored to a specific spot on the soundstage. This limitation reduces the immersive quality of the audio, a feature that’s becoming increasingly important in soundbars at this price range.
Comparing the Alto 6+ to other soundbars in its class, such as the Vizio V Series V21-H8, the lack of advanced sound enhancement features is noticeable. For example, it doesn’t support Dolby Atmos content, a letdown for movie enthusiasts looking for a more cinematic audio experience.
TCL Alto 6+ shines in its simplicity and ease of use. It’s particularly appealing for those already owning a TCL Roku TV, as the integrated control system simplifies the user experience. Its straightforward setup and operation make it an excellent choice for non-tech-savvy users or those who prefer a no-fuss audio solution.
In terms of audience, the Alto 6+ is best suited for casual viewers and listeners. It’s ideal for enhancing the audio of regular TV shows, podcasts, and music played in a standard living room setting.
In my experience, the Alto 6+ is a reliable, budget-friendly soundbar. Its strengths lie in its simplicity, decent sound quality, and Roku TV integration. Even though it has some limitations, it is a great option for everyday use.
Pros
- Seamless integration with TCL Roku TVs.
- Simple, user-friendly design.
- It has decent sound quality and a warm tone.
- Three EQ presets for sound customization.
- Loud enough for large rooms.
Cons
- It lacks a discrete center channel.
- No support for Dolby Atmos content.
- Limited advanced sound enhancement features.
5. Vizio V Series V21-H8R
- Total Number of Speakers: 3.
- DTS Virtual:X: Yes.
- Sound Enhancement Technology: DTS TruVolume, DTS Virtual:X.
- Speaker Channels: 2.1.
- System Frequency Response: 50Hz – 20kHz.
- Remote Control Type With LCD Display.
- Listening Modes: Movie, Music, Game.
When I first got my hands on the Vizio V Series V21-H8 Soundbar, I was curious to see how this 2.1 setup from Vizio’s lineup would perform. V21-H8 is designed for those who love a bit of thump in their audio; it’s a solid pick for the bass enthusiasts out there.
The soundbar’s boomy sound profile shines with bass-heavy tracks and action-packed movies. It’s not just loud; it packs a punch. However, I did notice some distortion at the highest volume – something to keep in mind if you’re planning a house party.
Connectivity-wise, the V21-H8 is versatile. It has an HDMI ARC port, making connecting to the TV easier. Plus, the AUX port is a neat addition for linking voice assistant speakers, a small step towards smart home integration.
Now, for surround sound, the V21-H8 has its limits. It downmixes surround content to stereo, which is standard for a soundbar in this class. While it doesn’t support Atmos content – a feature gaining popularity for immersive sound – it does offer EQ presets and a virtual surround mode. These give you some flexibility in tweaking the sound to your liking.
I was comparing it with similar models, especially those supporting Dolby Atmos. The Vizio V21-H8 holds up well with its unique bass-heavy focus. People who prefer deep, resonant sounds over cinematic experiences will enjoy it.
The design is sleek and discreet, blending well with most home setups. You can easily use it even if you aren’t a particularly tech-savvy person.
Vizio V Series V21-H8 balances affordability and performance quite well. It’s great for enhancing TV audio and music, especially for bass lovers who don’t need the bells and whistles of higher-end models.
Vizio V21-H8 is a standout choice for those after a budget-friendly soundbar with a strong bass presence. It might not have all the advanced features of Dolby Atmos, but it delivers where it matters.
Pros
- Compact design, ideal for small to medium-sized rooms.
- Balanced sound profile suitable for various audio content.
- Includes a wireless subwoofer for enhanced bass.
- Multiple sound enhancement features, including a dialogue enhancement mode.
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio streaming.
Cons
- Lacks support for advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos.
- Suitable only for small rooms.
- Surround sound performance is limited.
6. SAMSUNG HW-T550 2.1ch Soundbar
- Number of Channels:2.1
- Total Power (W): 320W
- Audio Processing: Dolby Digital 2ch
- Sound Mode: Surround Sound Expansion, Game, Standard, Smart, DTS Virtual:X DTS:
- DTS: 2.0ch
- Wireless Surround Sound Ready
- Number of Speakers: 5
- Subwoofer Type: WirelessAV
- Decoding Format: WAV, MP3, WMA, OGG, FLAC, AAC, AIFF
- HDMI: In: 1 Out: 1
- Optical Inputs: Yes
- USB Music Playback: Yes
- Bluetooth®: Yes
- Rating Voltage: AC110-240V~ 50/60Hz
- Adaptor Power: 40W
- Remote Control: Yes
- Wall Mount Kit: Yes
- Battery for Remote Controller: Yes
- Cable Type: Optical
Samsung HW-T550 2.1ch Soundbar it’s a real gem for budget-conscious audiophiles. This entry-level model packs a punch with features typically seen in higher-end soundbars.
HW-T550 design is solid yet lacks the sleekness of Samsung’s premium models. However, where it really shines is in its sound delivery. The 2.1 speaker setup and a wireless subwoofer produce deep, powerful bass perfect for bass-heavy music and action movies.
The sound profile is impressively balanced with a bit of extra kick in the bass, making it ideal for a wide range of audio content. Including a 7-band EQ is a standout feature, offering rare customization at this price. It lets you tweak the sound to your liking, whether watching a movie or listening to your favorite playlist.
A downside for gamers and tech enthusiasts is the lack of 4k passthrough, which limits its use with the latest gaming consoles and PC setups. However, this is a minor setback for everyday TV and music use.
Comparatively, the HW-T550 holds up well against other models in its class. Its sound enhancement features, particularly the Dolby Virtual, create an immersive audio experience. This feature elevates movies and gaming, bringing a cinematic feel to your living room.
Bluetooth connectivity is a big plus, allowing easy streaming from various devices. It is a convenient choice for a modern, wireless setup. The gaming mode is another cool addition, offering enhanced audio for an immersive gaming experience.
Installation is straightforward, thanks to its wireless design and included wall mount brackets. Easy to integrate into any room without the hassle of complex setups.
In conclusion, the Samsung HW-T550 2.1ch Soundbar is a standout choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly soundbar that doesn’t skimp on quality. While it may not cater to the latest tech trends like 4k passthrough, it more than makes up for it with its sound quality and customization options. HW-T550 is definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for an affordable soundbar under $200.
Pros
- Dolby virtual technology.
- Five in-built speakers.
- 3D surround sound.
- Dialogue clarifying technology.
Cons
- No WiFi connectivity.
7. Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Sound System
- Input Voltage: 240 Volts
- Speakers Maximum Output: 36 Watts
- Universal remote control
- Power supply and cord
- Optical digital audio cable
Exploring the Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar, I found it a compact powerhouse, ideal for those who value space-saving design without sacrificing sound quality. Its small size is a major win, especially for tight spaces or minimalist setups.
Despite its compact frame, the Bose Solo 5 delivers a balanced and neutral sound profile. This clarity is especially noticeable in the mid-range, making dialogues and lead instruments stand out.
It’s perfect for TV shows and movies, ensuring you get all the words. However, the soundbar’s integrated subwoofer must deliver deep bass, which might be a letdown for bass enthusiasts.
A feature I particularly appreciated is the soundbar’s Bluetooth compatibility. Streaming audio from my phone was a breeze, adding a layer of convenience for those who love playing music or podcasts directly from their devices.
In terms of volume, the Bose Solo 5 isn’t the loudest. It’s more suited for smaller rooms, where its sound can fill the space without distortion. There might need to be more for those looking to host large gatherings or fill a big room with sound.
Its balanced audio stands out when comparing the Bose Solo 5 with other small soundbars. However, it might not meet the needs of users looking for a more robust bass response or higher volume capabilities.
The dialogue mode is a standout, enhancing clarity in spoken content – an excellent feature for movie buffs. While it offers various connectivity options like aux, optical, and HDMI, its performance in deep bass and high volume is modest.
Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar is a smart choice for those seeking a compact soundbar with clear, balanced audio. Its ease of use and well-constructed design reflect Bose’s commitment to quality. While it may not be the go-to for booming bass or room-filling volume, it delivers clear dialogue and a well-rounded sound in smaller spaces.
Pros
- Compact and space-efficient design.
- Balanced and neutral sound profile, excellent for mid-range frequencies.
- Bluetooth compatibility for easy audio streaming.
- Dialogue mode enhances clarity in spoken content.
- Multiple connectivity options, aux, optical, and HDMI.
Cons
- Limited low bass response
- Not ideal for filling large rooms with sound due to moderate volume output.
8. VIZIO V-Series 5.1 V51x-J6
- Total Number of Speakers: 6
- Speaker Channels: 5.1
- Total Number of Speakers: 6
- System Frequency Response: 50Hz-20kHz
- Sound Pressure Level: 96dB
- Number of Speakers in Sound Bar: 3
- Sound Bar Frequency Response (Left/Right): 100Hz-20kHz
- Sound Bar Frequency Response (Center): 100Hz-20kHz
- Subwoofer Size: 5″ (114.30mm)
- Subwoofer Frequency Response: 50Hz
Taking a closer look at the VIZIO V-Series 5.1 V51x-J6, I wanted to know how a budget-friendly soundbar would perform. Right off the bat, it’s clear that VIZIO aimed to pack high-end features into an affordable package. As a successor to the Vizio V Series V51-H6, this model brings much more to the table than its price tag suggests.
The standout feature of the V51x-J6 is undoubtedly its discrete satellite speakers. This inclusion sets it apart in its price range, offering a genuinely immersive surround sound experience. It’s a game-changer for those accustomed to flat audio from standard TV speakers and a delight for anyone wanting to bring a cinematic feel to their living space.
Though slightly downsized from its predecessor, the subwoofer still packs a punch. It effectively enhances bass-heavy music and impactful sound effects, adding richness and depth to the audio without overpowering it.
I was particularly impressed with the soundbar’s compatibility with voice assistant devices. The convenience of controlling your audio setup with your voice is a nod to modern functionality and a step towards seamless home integration.
In terms of sound quality, the V51x-J6 excels. Dialogue in TV shows and podcasts comes through clear and distinct, and music playback is well-balanced with a pleasant emphasis on bass. The soundbar handles standard 5.1 surround sound formats like Dolby Digital admirably, though the absence of Dolby Atmos support might be a drawback for those chasing the latest sound technology.
The lack of a Full HDMI In port is a minor limitation, particularly for connecting multiple devices. But, on a budget of under $200 soundbars, the V51x-J6’s immersive audio capabilities with discrete satellites give it a clear advantage over its peers.
VIZIO V-Series 5.1 V51x-J6 is an excellent choice for those seeking a significant audio upgrade without breaking the bank. It strikes an impressive balance between affordability and a rich, immersive audio experience. V51x-J6 brings cinematic sound to your home without a hefty price tag, so this device should be on your radar.
Pros
- Discrete satellite speakers provide immersive surround sound.
- Compact subwoofer delivers effective bass.
- Voice assistant compatibility adds modern convenience.
- Clear dialogue and well-balanced sound profile.
- Excellent value for money in its class.
Cons
- Lacks support for Dolby Atmos.
- No Full HDMI In port, limiting connectivity options.
- Reduced subwoofer size might reduce bass depth.
9. Samsung HW-B550/ZA
- Number of Channels: 2.1
- Number of Speakers: 5
- Total Power (W): 410W
- Compatible Rear Speaker: SWA-9200S, SWA-9100S
- Sound Mode: Surround Sound Expansion, Game, Standard, Smart, DTS Virtual:X DTS:
DTS: 2.0ch - Night Mode Yes
- Voice Enhance Yes
- Decoding Format: WAV, MP3, WMA, OGG, FLAC, AAC, AIFF
- HDMI: In: 1 Out: 1
- USB Music Playback: Yes
- Bluetooth®: Yes
Samsung HW-A550 is designed primarily for stereo content, including most music and TV shows. As a successor to the HW-A550, it promised to be a straightforward, no-nonsense audio solution.
As soon as you hear the HW-B550 play stereo content, you know it will be a worthy soundbar. Whether it’s dialogue in TV shows or the nuances in music, the Soundbar delivers with clarity. Its neutral sound profile ensures crisp and well-defined voices and instruments, making it great for everyday entertainment.
However, when it comes to bass, the HW-B550 could have hit better compared to more premium soundbars. While it does an adequate job, the lack of deep rumble in bass-heavy music and action movies is noticeable. A more robust bass experience would have been better, but this is a letdown.
A neat feature of the HW-B550 is its expandability. You can add a Wireless Rear Speaker Kit to enhance your surround sound experience, although this comes at an additional cost. The downside? There’s no support for Dolby Atmos. Therefore, you’ll miss out on the immersive audio experience that’s becoming a staple in modern home theaters.
Comparing it to its predecessor, the HW-A550, I found the HW-B550 to be quite similar in performance. You might wonder whether it’s worth upgrading if you already own the previous model. And when pitted against the more budget-friendly HW-B450, the B550’s additional features, like graphic EQ and HDMI connections, are nice but may not justify the extra cost for some.
My experience with the HW-B550 has been that it is a reliable soundbar for mixed usage. It handled standard 5.1 surround sound formats decently but lacked the immersive feel of higher-end systems.
Samsung HW-B550/ZA 2.1ch Soundbar is a solid pick for those looking for a simple, effective soundbar primarily for stereo content. It delivers clear dialogue and balanced audio for TV shows and music. However, it might fall short for audiophiles or those seeking a deep bass and advanced surround sound.
Pros
- Excellent for stereo content with clear dialogue and balanced audio.
- Neutral sound profile enhances voices and instruments.
- Option to expand with a Wireless Rear Speaker Kit.
Simple, user-friendly design. - Offers extra features like graphic EQ and HDMI connections.
Cons
- No support for Dolby Atmos.
- Bass performance lacks depth compared to premium models.
- Speaker kit is required for full surround sound.
10. LG S65Q
- Channels: 3.1 ch
- Number of Speaker Units: 6
- Maximum Output Power:420 Watts
- Speakers: Front (Left / Right) 90W (45W + 45W) x 2
Center: 40W
Subwoofer: 200W - High Resolution Audio Up to 24bit/96kHz
- DTS Virtual:X Yes
- Meridian Audio Technology: Yes
- USB Playback: Yes
- Sound Bar Mode Control: Yes
- TV Sound Mode Share: Yes
- Wireless Active Subwoofer Yes
- HDMI SUPPORT: Yes
- Bluetooth Streaming Yes (4.2)
LG S65Q Soundbar stands out for its focus on vocal clarity due to its discrete center channel, a feature often overlooked in soundbars.LG S65Q impressed me with its ability to handle dialogue.
Watching TV shows and movies, I noticed a significant improvement in how clear and present voices sounded. It’s a big plus for those who often struggle to catch every word from their TV speakers. The balanced mids and sparkling highs add to the overall sound quality, making it pleasant for general listening.
The soundbar also adds a slight punch in the high bass, which brings a bit of warmth to the sound. However, it’s not all perfect. The S65Q falls short in delivering deep, rumbling low-bass, something you’d miss in action-packed scenes or bass-heavy music.
Another aspect where the S65Q could do better is in surround sound performance. Without support for height content or Dolby Atmos, it doesn’t offer the immersive experience that’s becoming a staple in many homes.
Compared to its more advanced counterpart, the LG S80QY, the lack of Dolby Atmos and advanced sound optimization features like AI Room Calibration is noticeable. These are features that elevate the audio experience in more premium models.
LG S65Q does a commendable job for vocal-centric content. Its discrete center channel ensures that dialogue in TV shows is crystal clear. However, it does not provide a truly immersive sound experience with deep bass and surround sound.
LG S65Q Soundbar is a solid choice for enhancing TV audio, mainly if you prioritize clear dialogue. Although it doesn’t offer a rich bass experience or advanced audio features, it’s effective for day-to-day use. If your primary concern is improving the clarity of voices in your TV shows and movies, the LG S65Q is a soundbar worth considering.
Pros
- Discrete center channel enhances vocal clarity.
- Balanced mids and sparkling highs improve overall sound quality.
- Adjustable bass and treble settings for customized audio.
- Compact design, suitable for most setups.
- It is ideal for general TV viewing and listening to music.
Cons
- It lacks rumbling bass for action scenes and bass-heavy music.
- Limited surround sound performance.
- No support for Dolby Atmos or advanced sound optimization features.
What to consider when buying a soundbar under $200? Buying Guide!
Navigating the soundbar market under $200 can be tricky, with numerous features and specifications to consider. Making an informed choice is key to avoiding disappointment and getting the best value for your money.
Here’s a guide to help you pick the right soundbar:
Evaluate Shape and Design:
Soundbars are evolving, featuring diverse shapes and designs. If you have a large room, consider soundbars with detachable speakers for flexibility. For smaller spaces, ensure the soundbar fits well with your TV unit. Your aesthetic preference, whether modern or traditional, also plays a role in your choice. Remember, the shape and size may influence the price.
Choose the Right Number of Channels:
Soundbars typically come in 2.1 or multi-channel configurations. A 2.1-channel soundbar suits moderate-sized rooms, providing a balanced audio experience. For a more immersive sound, opt for multi-channel soundbars that can include technologies like DTS or Dolby Atmos. However, these may be bulkier.
Plan the Placement:
Before buying, visualize where you’ll place the soundbar. This foresight helps in selecting the right size and style for your space. Sleek models are great for tight areas, while compact, robust designs fit well in larger rooms.
Consider Connection Types:
Beyond Bluetooth, think about your connectivity needs. Do you require Wi-Fi or other wireless options? Ensure the soundbar you choose supports the types of connections you prefer.
Check Warranties:
Warranties are indicators of a product’s durability. While more affordable soundbars might not offer extensive warranties, they should still provide enough coverage to ensure value for your investment.
Be Budget-Smart:
High-end soundbars can be tempting, but many affordable models offer comparable quality. Compare prices and features to find a soundbar that fits within your budget without compromising on quality.
Final Thoughts:
While soundbars might seem like just another tech gadget, they can significantly enhance your audio experience. With options ranging from $200 to $2000, choice can be overwhelming. Use this guide to navigate your options and find a soundbar that not only fits your budget but also enriches your audio experience.
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