When enjoying movies and dramas on TV, not only image quality but also sound quality is important. There are various items to improve the sound quality of TV, but even beginners of audio can easily use the sound bar.
So this time, we will introduce the recommended model of the sound bar. The functions installed differ depending on the model, such as support for virtual surround and Bluetooth connection, so please try to find the one that suits your needs.
What is a sound bar?
A sound bar is a slim bar-shaped speaker with a built-in amplifier. It is also called a theater bar, with the main purpose of reinforcing the sound side of flat-screen TVs.
There is also a model that supports the “virtual surround function” that allows you to enjoy three-dimensional sound just by placing it on the front of the TV. Also, if it is something that can be connected wirelessly such as Bluetooth, you can enjoy music by connecting it to your smartphone or tablet.
Differences between soundbars and home theater systems
Home theater systems require multiple speakers to be installed to achieve three-dimensional sound. On the other hand, the sound bar is basically characterized by being able to produce sound by itself.
Some soundbars have a subwoofer instead of a single unit. It takes up less space than a home theater system with multiple speakers, so it is easy to install. If you want to easily improve the sound at home, the sound bar is recommended.
How to choose a soundbar
Check type
“One body type” that is smart and easy to install
the one-body type is a type that consists of only one sound bar. It is recommended for those who want to reduce the introduction cost because the price is relatively cheap. The deep bass is inferior to the two-unit type, but if you do not want the sound to reverberate much like in an apartment or apartment, try looking mainly for the one-body type.
“2-unit type” with a subwoofer set
The 2-unit type is a type that includes a subwoofer for bass speakers. Since it can reproduce deep bass firmly, it is easier to get a sense of reality compared to the one-body type. Recommended for those who want to enjoy movies, sports, games, etc. with great power.
Choose by size
The sound bar is generally installed on the TV stand. Please note that if the size is too large, it may come out of the table.
Also, check the height of the sound bar. If the TV has a low stand, it may overlap the screen. In addition, if the subwoofer is a set of 2 units, check the size of the subwoofer as well.
Select by connection method
The typical connection method of the sound bar is HDMI cable connection, and it is a big merit that it supports high-quality digital audio output. Also, if both the TV and the soundbar support the “ARC standard”, you can connect with a single HDMI cable.
In addition, the Bluetooth connection compatible soundbar is convenient when connecting to mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Check the connection method of your audio equipment, and then select the soundbar you want to purchase.
Choose by sound quality and surround system
Sound quality is also important when choosing a soundbar. If you have a model that supports “high resolution sound source”, which has more sound information than a CD sound source, you can enjoy TV with excellent sound quality. It is also recommended when watching content that is particular about sound, such as live video.
Also, if you want to enjoy a three-dimensional or realistic sound, check whether it supports “virtual surround” that can virtually reproduce surround sound. You can immerse yourself in the world of movies and dramas because you can enjoy the experience of being surrounded by sound without increasing the number of speakers.
Select by function
Anything that supports wireless LAN connection can play music on your PC or smartphone with excellent sound quality. It can be used not only as a sound bar for TVs, but also as a high-quality speaker for PCs and smartphones.
Also check the HDMI terminal of the soundbar to see how far 4K standards such as 4K / 60p, HDR, and HDCP2.2 are supported for pass-through. Please note that depending on the model of the soundbar, the performance of the player or TV may not be fully utilized.
Recommended manufacturers of soundbars
Sony (SONY)
Sony is known as a major domestic electronic device and electrical equipment manufacturer. We have one of the best technological capabilities in audio equipment, and we are selling high-quality products that utilize the technology and know-how that we have cultivated over many years.
The sound bar also utilizes the original technology developed for audio equipment. If you want to enjoy high-quality sound even with a wireless connection, check it out.
Yamaha (YAMAHA)
Yamaha is a manufacturer that has been working on the development of audio equipment for a long time. We have developed original technologies for many years, such as the three-dimensional sound field reproduction program “Cinema DSP” created by collecting the sound field data of famous halls and theaters in the world, and the “A-YST II method” that resonates powerful bass even in a compact size. I’ve done it. This manufacturer is recommended for those who want to experience high quality 3D sound.
Bose
Bose is a well-known audio manufacturer whose products are installed in various places such as public facilities and luxury automobiles. Our strengths are our patented technology for reproducing high-quality sound and our ability to tune sound quality.
Bose soundbars are often compact models, but the thickness and spread of the sound is good. When you make a sound, you can fully feel its presence.
JBL (JBL)
JBL, a long-established American brand, is a global speaker manufacturer that boasts a high market share of professional speakers used in theaters and movie theaters. We also have a lineup of high-quality products for home audio.
As there are only manufacturers that have contributed to the entertainment field for many years, their know-how and technological capabilities are at the top level in the industry. This maker is recommended for those who are looking for a sound bar that emphasizes loud volume and power.
Recommended model of sound bar
Sony Soundbar HT-X8500
A sound bar equipped with Sony’s original virtual surround technology. The feature is that you can enjoy three-dimensional three-dimensional sound with the bar speaker alone. The dual subwoofer is carried in the main body, and a compact but powerful bass is reproduced.
Also, one of the attractions is that it is compatible with the stereophonic technology “Dolby Atmos”. Realizes a sound field that makes you feel as if you are surrounded by sound. In addition to the wired connection with the HDMI terminal, it is also a point that it supports wireless connection with Bluetooth. You can easily connect to your smartphone or PC and enjoy your favorite music.
Recommended for those looking for a compact and highly functional soundbar.
Sony Soundbar HT-S100F
Recommended for those who value cost performance
A sound bar compatible with ARC. If your TV is also compatible with ARC, you can connect it with a single HDMI cable. The feature is that it can be installed stylishly because the wiring is not cluttered. The sound is rich and easy to enjoy.
In addition to wired connection, one of the attractions is that wireless connection via Bluetooth is possible. You can easily play music by connecting your smartphone or PC.
Another point is that it has a “sound mode” that adjusts the sound according to the genre of the content. It can be purchased at a relatively reasonable price, so it is also recommended for those who value cost performance.
Sony Soundbar HT-G700
Recommended for those who want to focus on functionality as well as sound quality
A 2-unit type soundbar that includes a subwoofer that can reproduce deep bass. Since the subwoofer uses a 2.4GHz wireless connection, it can be installed separately from the main unit. You can freely choose the installation location according to the interior of the room.
Also, one of the attractions is that it supports surround sound with a sense of realism. With the 3D sound technology “Dolby Atmos”, you can feel as if you were in a movie theater. Another point is that it has a “night mode” that allows you to enjoy clear sound even during times when you are concerned about the sound, such as midnight.
If you want to focus not only on sound quality but also on functionality, please check it out.
Sony Compact Soundbar HT-S200F
A powerful sound experience for those who love it
It is a compact sound bar with a body size of about 580 mm in width x 64 mm in height x 95 mm in depth. The feature is that it has a subwoofer inside. It has a “bass reflex effect” that enhances the bass, so it is recommended for those who want to enjoy movies with powerful sound.
Another point is that it is equipped with a digital amplifier “S-Master” that can suppress deterioration of sound quality. It is also suitable for those who prefer a sound that is faithful to the original sound.
Equipped with “Sound Optimizer” technology is also attractive. When playing at low volume, it corrects the frequency characteristics of the content and makes it easier to hear. If you want to focus on sound quality and comfortable music playback, please check it out.
Sony Soundbar HT-Z9F
Enjoy full-scale 3D sound
It is a sound bar equipped with the original virtual surround technology “Vertical Surround Engine”. In addition, it also has “S-Force Pro Front Surround”, which realizes a three-dimensional sound with a single front speaker. By adopting a 2-unit type that includes a subwoofer, you can enjoy a deeper sound.
Since Bluetooth connection is possible, music can be played from devices such as smartphones and PCs. It is also attractive that it is compatible with “Chromecast built-in”, which allows you to easily enjoy Internet radio and music distribution services.
With its stylish design, it fits seamlessly into a variety of interiors.. Recommended for those who want to enjoy full-scale 3D sound and those who are looking for a model with excellent functionality.
Yamaha Soundbar YAS-109
It is a sound bar that supports the voice assistant function of “Amazon Alexa”. The feature is that you can play music just by talking to the main unit. It is easy to operate, so it is recommended for those who are not good at machine operation.
Also, one of the attractions is that it is equipped with a Wi-Fi function that allows you to connect to a smartphone via wireless LAN. You can easily enjoy music with the soundbar directly accessing music distribution services such as “Spotify” and “Amazon Music”.
In addition, the compact body with a height of 53 mm makes it possible to install it neatly. It is also recommended for those who are looking for a convenient soundbar.
Yamaha Soundbar SR-C20A
A soundbar that supports both wired and Bluetooth connections. If you have an ARC compatible TV, you can connect it with a single HDMI cable. In addition, you can enjoy music by connecting wirelessly to your smartphone.
In addition, one of the attractions is that you can enjoy sounds according to genres such as movies, TV, and games with four types of sound modes. It is also important to install a “clear voice function” that emphasizes and reproduces human voices.
It’s simple and easy to use, so if you’re buying a soundbar for the first time, be sure to check it out.
Yamaha Soundbar YAS-209
A sound bar with a subwoofer. The subwoofer, which has achieved a high-quality texture and design, fits into various interiors. Since it can be connected wirelessly, it is also a feature that the wiring is not cluttered.
One of the attractions is that it supports the voice assistant function of “Amazon Alexa”. You can play music with just the voice. Another point is that it is compatible with the virtual 3D surround technology “DTS Virtual: X”. It reproduces the sound field in the upward direction as well as in the front, left and right, and rear.
As a 2-unit type, it can be purchased at a relatively reasonable price, so it is also recommended for those who place importance on cost performance.
Yamaha Soundbar SR-B20A
A sound bar that uses virtual surround technology that can reproduce not only the front, back, left, and right, but also the height. You can enjoy the experience of being surrounded by sound from above. It also features a “clear voice” function that allows you to hear human voices more clearly, and a “bass extension” function that emphasizes bass. You can adjust the sound according to the content you are watching.
The main body is a thin type with a height of 5.3 cm, and it is also a point that it can be installed neatly in front of the TV. If you use the touch-sensitive operation buttons on the top, you can turn the power on and off and adjust the volume with a light touch.
It is also attractive to be able to connect to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth. It is also recommended for those who want to enjoy music wirelessly. If you install the dedicated app on your smartphone, you can also operate it from the app screen.
Bose TV Speaker
A sound bar that allows you to clearly listen to TV lines and talks. Furthermore, if you turn on the dialog mode while watching a program, you can make the human voice stand out. Recommended for those who often watch talk shows.
Since the height of the main body is only 56 mm, it can be installed neatly in front of the TV. The simple design fits comfortably in the interior. It also supports Bluetooth connection, and it is also a point that you can play music by connecting to a smartphone or PC.
Bose Smart Soundbar 300
A soundbar that supports the voice assistants of “Amazon Alexa” and “Google Assistant”. The feature is that you can easily control the soundbar and TV with just voice. The excellent operability makes it suitable for the first soundbar.
It is also a point that “QuietPort technology” reduces distortion and realizes clearer bass.
Because of the stylish design, it blends well into any interior.. It can be installed neatly with a compact body.
JBL (JBL) BAR 5.0 MultiBeam JBLBAR50MBBLKJN
A sound bar where you can enjoy the immersive feeling of a movie theater at home. It features a hybrid system of real surround technology and virtual sound technology. It realizes a sound field that makes you feel as if you are surrounded by sound.
Also, one of the attractions is that it is equipped with “AMC technology” that automatically measures the environment of the room. You can experience real surround with various room shapes. Even though it does not come with a subwoofer, it is also a point that you can feel the powerful bass by itself.
If you want to stick to surround sound or experience powerful sound, please check it out.
JBL BAR 2.0 All-in-one JBL BAR20AIO BKJN
It is a compact one-body type sound bar that can reproduce rich bass. Equipped with original surround sound technology, you can enjoy realistic sound.
Can be connected to a TV with a single HDMI cable or optical digital cable. Wiring is neat, so it can be installed stylishly. It also supports Bluetooth connection, and it is also a point that you can easily play music from your smartphone.
You can buy it at a relatively reasonable price, so please check it out even if you are focusing on cost performance.
DENON DHT-S216
It is a sound bar compatible with the virtual 3D surround technology “DTS Virtual: X”. Even if it is installed in front of the TV, the feature is that you can feel the sound from various directions such as behind and above. In addition to the ARC standard HDMI connection, it also supports Bluetooth connection, so you can enjoy music wirelessly.
Also, one of the attractions is that you can select from three sound modes: Music, Movie, and Night according to the content. In addition, it is equipped with a “Pure mode” that reproduces the original sound as faithfully as possible, and can be used properly according to the scene.
It is also a point that it can be installed stylishly with a slim design. It also supports wall-mounted style, so it is a recommended sound bar that is easy to install in various places.
DENON Soundbar DHT-S316
A sound bar recommended for those who want to enjoy powerful sound. The independent subwoofer is wireless and does not need to be connected to the main unit with a cable, so it can be installed in various locations.
Equipped with a “night mode” that makes it easier to hear the sound even when the volume is turned down by compressing the difference between loud and soft sounds. In addition, the “Dialogue Enhancer” function that clears the human voice is perfect for watching dramas and movies.
You can easily connect to a TV with the included HDMI cable. If your TV supports the CEC function, you can turn the power on and off. It also supports Bluetooth, so you can enjoy music wirelessly by connecting it to your smartphone or computer.
Panasonic Theater Bar SC-HTB200
A small sound bar that fits at the foot of the TV and makes it easy to see the screen. The height is designed to be as low as 51 mm, so it is suitable for those who want a product that does not take up much space. If you have an ARC compatible TV, you can connect it with a single HDMI cable. It is also attractive to be able to clean the area around the TV.
Depending on the product, if your TV supports HDMI-CEC, you can turn the power on and off and adjust the volume with the TV remote control. Recommended for those who are looking for a product that is easy to operate.
LG Electronics Soundbar SN7CY
A sound bar tuned under the supervision of the long-established British audio brand “Meridian”. The feature is that you can feel the realistic sound. In addition, by installing a “dual action bus”, the low frequency band can be reproduced firmly.
One of the attractions is that you can enjoy three-dimensional audio by installing “Dolby Atmos” and “DTS: X”. It is also a point that AI has “AI Sound Pro” that analyzes the content you are watching and adjusts it to the appropriate sound.
Sharp (SHARP) AQUOS Audio 8A-C22CX1
It is a sound bar compatible with the 8K broadcasting standard “MPEG-4 AAC 22.2ch audio input”. The feature is that even those who use 8K TV can enjoy full-scale stereophonic sound. It also supports “Dolby Atmos”, so you can experience the sound with a sense of realism.
One of the attractions is that by adopting a “3Way speaker system” and a “6ch digital amplifier”, bass, midrange, and treble can be played independently. It is also a point that it is equipped with 7 types of sound modes that can be used properly according to the content.
Hisense New Theater Sound System HS214
A stylish and high-performance sound bar. Equipped with three unique virtual technologies, “Outscreen Surround,” “Pure Surround,” and “Clear Surround.” Surround sound is corrected according to each mode, so you can enjoy high-quality, realistic surround sound.
It is also a point that it has a built-in large subwoofer with a diameter of 78 mm. You can adjust the deep bass from 11 levels from -5 to +5 to your liking. It is easy to operate with the touch-type control panel of the main unit and the simple remote control that comes with it.
In addition to being able to connect to a TV with a single HDMI ARC, it also supports Bluetooth and can be connected to smartphones, tablets, and PCs. As a sound bar, the price is cheap and it is a recommended model with excellent cost performance.
CONCLUSION
A sound bar that can easily improve the sound quality of flat-screen TVs. Products that can create a pseudo surround environment just by placing it on the front are also on sale. If it supports Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection, you can listen to music via your smartphone. If you want to stick to sound, please introduce it.
