You probably already have spent a lot of money for a nice big tvand maybe a streaming gadget to play your Netflix. But no matter how big your screen or how expensive it is, your TV speakers probably sound horrible.
You’d be surprised how much more you enjoy these shows with a half-decent soundbar or surround system hooked up to your primo panel. Explosions pop, dialogue is much crisper, and you might even notice sonic details in your favorite movies that you’ve never picked up before.
Need advice on finding the perfect bar? Check out our full article on How to buy a soundbar before choosing one below.
November 2022 Update: We added the Samsung HW-Q990B system and updated links and prices.
Why do you need a soundbar
We’ve yet to test a new TV that doesn’t look shabby without some sort of added audio accessory. This is mainly due to the way televisions are designed. Good-sounding speakers are bulky, and as TVs have gotten thinner, with shrinking bezels and sleeker designs, manufacturers are finding it harder to fit good speakers into them.
You can spend as little as $150 on a new soundbar with a subwoofer, and it’s essential to get the most out of your viewing experience. To help you out, we’ve put together this list of the best soundbars we’ve tested, including soundbars sold on their own, as well as models that come with a subwoofer. We’ve also compiled some tips for getting the most out of your purchase.
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