Sound bars are an essential component of any home theater setup. They are designed to enhance the audio quality of your television, providing a more immersive and dynamic listening experience. Many modern TVs have thin profiles and lack the built-in speakers to produce high-quality sound, which is where a sound bar comes in. Sound bars are a more compact and affordable alternative to traditional surround sound systems, making them a popular choice for those looking to improve their home theater audio without breaking the bank.
In addition to their convenience and affordability, sound bars also offer a wide range of features that can enhance your listening experience. Many sound bars come with built-in subwoofers for added bass, and some even include additional speakers that can be placed around the room for a true surround sound experience. Some sound bars also come with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily stream music from your phone or tablet.
Overall, sound bars are a practical and effective way to improve the audio quality of your home theater setup and provide a more engaging viewing experience.
This article will showcase the top 10 sound bars that are currently available at Best Buy. We have scoured the store’s selection and carefully evaluated each sound bar based on its features, performance, and value. Our goal is to provide readers with a comprehensive list of the best sound bars that Best Buy has to offer, so they can make an informed decision when it comes to upgrading their home theater audio.
We understand that choosing the right sound bar can be overwhelming, which is why we have included detailed reviews of each of the top 10 sound bars. Our reviews will cover key features, pros, and cons, as well as high-quality images of each sound bar. By the end of this article, readers should have a good understanding of which sound bar is the best fit for their home theater needs.
So if you’re in the market for a new sound bar and want to see the best options available at Best Buy, be sure to read on for our top 10 picks.
Comparison of Competitor Best Sound Bars
When it comes to shopping for a sound bar, it’s important to consider the various options available from different brands. In this section, we will compare the key features of some of the top sound bars from major competitors, including Sonos, Bose, and Samsung. Here is a comparison table of some of the top sound bars from these brands:
| Brand | Model | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sonos | Beam | Compact size, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, AirPlay 2 support, built-in subwoofer | $399-449 |
| Bose | Soundbar 700 | Sleek design, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, optional rear surround sound speakers | $799-849 |
| Samsung | HW-Q90R | 7.1.4 channel surround sound, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, rear surround sound speakers included | $1,699-1,749 |
| Sonos | Arc | 8-channel surround sound, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, AirPlay 2 support, built-in subwoofer, optional rear surround sound speakers | $799-849 |
| Bose | Soundbar 500 | Compact size, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, optional rear surround sound speakers | $449-499 |
| Samsung | HW-Q60R | 5.1 channel surround sound, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer | $449-499 |
| Sonos | Playbar | 9-channel surround sound, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, optional rear surround sound speakers | $699-749 |
| Bose | SoundTouch 300 | Compact size, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, optional rear surround sound speakers | $449-499 |
| Samsung | HW-N950 | 7.1.4 channel surround sound, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, rear surround sound speakers included | $1,299-1,349 |
| Sonos | Playbase | 10-channel surround sound, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, optional rear surround sound speakers | $699-749 |
As you can see, each brand offers a range of soundbars with different features and capabilities. Some key features to consider include the number of channels (e.g. 2.1, 5.1, 7.1), the presence of a built-in subwoofer, and compatibility with voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant. You should also consider whether the sound bar has an HDMI input, which allows you to connect it to your TV and other devices directly.
It’s worth noting that many of these sound bars also offer optional rear surround sound speakers, which can help create a more immersive and realistic surround sound experience. However, keep in mind that adding these speakers will increase the price and complexity of the setup.
Ultimately, the best sound bar for you will depend on your budget, the size of your room, and your specific audio needs.
- Compact size: 25.6″ x 2.7″ x 4.0″
- Weight: 6.2 lbs
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, AirPlay 2
- Audio: 3 channel sound, built-in subwoofer
- Voice control: Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility
- Features: Night sound, speech enhancement, automatic volume leveling
- Price range: $399-449
- Size: 2.25″ H x 38.5″ W x 4.25″ D
- Weight: 8.2 lbs
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, optional Bose Bass Module and Surround Speakers
- Audio: 3 channel sound, built-in subwoofer
- Voice control: Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility
- Features: Customizable sound settings, dialogue mode, built-in Amazon Music and Spotify
- Price range: $799-849
- Size: 2.1″ H x 57.1″ W x 5.8″ D
- Weight: 18.7 lbs
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, optional Samsung Wireless Rear Speaker Kit
- Audio: 7.1.4 channel surround sound, built-in subwoofer
- Voice control: Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility
- Features: Adaptive sound, game mode, built-in Spotify and Samsung Music
- Price range: $1,699-1,749
- Size: 3.4″ H x 41.9″ W x 4.5″ D
- Weight: 14.3 lbs
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, AirPlay 2, optional Sonos Sub and Surround Speakers
- Audio: 8 channel surround sound, built-in subwoofer
- Voice control: Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility
- Features: Automatic volume leveling, speech enhancement, built-in Amazon Music and Spotify
- Price range: $799-849
- Size: 2.25″ H x 25.6″ W x 4.0″ D
- Weight: 4.5 lbs
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, optional Bose Bass Module and Surround Speakers
- Audio: 3 channel sound, built-in subwoofer
- Voice control: Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility
- Features: Customizable sound settings, dialogue mode, built-in Amazon Music and Spotify
- Price range: $449-499
- Size: 2.1″ H x 35.8″ W x 5.7″ D
- Weight: 8.8 lbs
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, optional Samsung Wireless Rear Speaker Kit
- Audio: 5.1 channel surround sound, built-in subwoofer
- Voice control: Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility
- Features: Adaptive sound, game mode, built-in Spotify and Samsung Music
- Price range: $449-499
- Size: 3.0″ H x 35.4″ W x 5.5″ D
- Weight: 16.8 lbs
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, optional Sonos Sub and Surround Speakers
- Audio: 9 channel surround sound, built-in subwoofer
- Voice control: Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility
- Features: Automatic volume leveling, speech
- Size: 2.25″ H x 25.6″ W x 4.0″ D
- Weight: 4.5 lbs
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, optional Bose Bass Module and Surround Speakers
- Audio: 3 channel sound, built-in subwoofer
- Voice control: Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility
- Features: Customizable sound settings, dialogue mode, built-in Amazon Music and Spotify
- Price range: $449-499
- Size: 2.1″ H x 57.1″ W x 5.8″ D
- Weight: 18.7 lbs
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, optional Samsung Wireless Rear Speaker Kit
- Audio: 7.1.4 channel surround sound, built-in subwoofer
- Voice control: Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility
- Features: Adaptive sound, game mode, built-in Spotify and Samsung Music
- Price range: $1,699-1,749
- Size: 2.28″ H x 28.35″ W x 14.96″ D
- Weight: 27.6 lbs
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, optional Sonos Sub and Surround Speakers
- Audio: 10 channel surround sound, built-in subwoofer
- Voice control: Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility
- Features: Automatic volume leveling, speech enhancement, built-in Amazon Music and Spotify
- Price range: $699-749
- Size: 2.1″ H x 43.7″ W x 5.8″ D
- Weight: 14.3 lbs
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, optional Samsung Wireless Rear Speaker Kit
- Audio: 5.1 channel surround sound, built-in subwoofer
- Voice control: Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility
- Features: Adaptive sound, game mode, built-in Spotify and Samsung Music
- Price range: $799-849
Pros and Cons of each competitor’s Sound bars
Sonos Beam Pros:
- Compact size makes it easy to fit into any home theater setup
- Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility allow for voice control of the sound bar and other smart home devices
- HDMI input allows for easy connection to a TV
- AirPlay 2 support allows for easy streaming of music from a phone or tablet
- Built-in subwoofer provides added bass
Cons:
- Does not support traditional surround sound setup with additional speakers
- Does not have a built-in TV control feature
Bose Soundbar 700 Pros:
- Sleek design looks good in any home theater setup
- Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility allow for voice control of the sound bar and other smart home devices
- HDMI input allows for easy connection to a TV
- Optional rear surround sound speakers provide a more immersive listening experience
- Built-in subwoofer provides added bass
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
- Does not have a built-in TV control feature
Samsung HW-Q90R Pros:
- 7.1.4 channel surround sound provides a truly immersive listening experience
- Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility allow for voice control of the sound bar and other smart home devices
- HDMI input allows for easy connection to a TV
- Rear surround sound speakers included in the package
- Built-in subwoofer provides added bass
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
- Large size may not be suitable for all home theater setups
Sonos Arc Pros:
- 8-channel surround sound provides a truly immersive listening experience
- Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility allow for voice control of the sound bar and other smart home devices
- HDMI input allows for easy connection to a TV
- AirPlay 2 support allows for easy streaming of music from a phone or tablet
Sonos Playbar Pros:
- 9-channel surround sound provides a truly immersive listening experience
- Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility allow for voice control of the sound bar and other smart home devices
- HDMI input allows for easy connection to a TV
- Optional rear surround sound speakers provide a more immersive listening experience
- Built-in subwoofer provides added bass
Cons:
- Large size may not be suitable for all home theater setups
- Does not have a built-in TV control feature
Bose SoundTouch 300 Pros:
- Compact size makes it easy to fit into any home theater setup
- Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility allow for voice control of the sound bar and other smart home devices
- HDMI input allows for easy connection to a TV
- Optional rear surround sound speakers provide a more immersive listening experience
- Built-in subwoofer provides added bass
Cons:
- Does not support traditional surround sound setup with additional speakers
- Does not have a built-in TV control feature
Samsung HW-N950 Pros:
- 7.1.4 channel surround sound provides a truly immersive listening experience
- Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility allow for voice control of the sound bar and other smart home devices
- HDMI input allows for easy connection to a TV
- Rear surround sound speakers included in the package
- Built-in subwoofer provides added bass
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
- Large size may not be suitable for all home theater setups
Sonos Playbase Pros:
- 10-channel surround sound provides a truly immersive listening experience
- Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility allow for voice control of the sound bar and other smart home devices
- HDMI input allows for easy connection to a TV
- Optional rear surround sound speakers provide a more immersive listening experience
- Built-in subwoofer provides added bass
Cons:
- Large size may not be suitable for all home theater setups
- Does not have a built-in TV control feature
Samsung HW-N850 Pros:
- 5.1 channel surround sound provides a more immersive listening experience
- Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility allow for voice control of the sound bar and other smart home devices
- HDMI input allows for easy connection to a TV
- Optional rear surround sound speakers provide a more immersive listening experience
- Built-in subwoofer provides added bass
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
- Does not have a built-in TV control feature
Best Buy’s Top 10 Sound Bars
A. Detailed review of each sound bar A. Sonos Beam
- Key features: Compact size, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, AirPlay 2 support, built-in subwoofer
- Pros: Easy to fit into any home theater setup, voice control, easy connection to TV, music streaming options, added bass
- Cons: No traditional surround sound setup, no built-in TV control feature
- High-quality product image
B. Bose Soundbar 700
- Key features: Sleek design, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, optional rear surround sound speakers
- Pros: Attractive design, voice control, easy connection to TV, added bass, immersive listening experience with rear speakers
- Cons: Expensive, no built-in TV control feature
- High-quality product image
C. Samsung HW-Q90R
- Key features: 7.1.4 channel surround sound, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, rear surround sound speakers included
- Pros: Immersive surround sound, voice control, easy connection to TV, added bass, rear speakers included
- Cons: Expensive, large size may not be suitable for all home theater setups
- High-quality product image
D. Sonos Arc
- Key features: 8-channel surround sound, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, AirPlay 2 support, built-in subwoofer, optional rear surround sound speakers
- Pros: Immersive surround sound, voice control, easy connection to TV, music streaming options, added bass, optional rear speakers
- Cons: Large size may not be suitable for all home theater setups, no built-in TV control feature
- High-quality product image
E. Bose Soundbar 500
- Key features: Compact size, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, optional rear surround sound speakers
- Pros: Easy to fit into any home theater setup, voice control, easy connection to TV, added bass, immersive listening experience with rear speakers
- Cons: No traditional surround sound setup
F. Samsung HW-Q60R
- Key features: 5.1 channel surround sound, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, optional rear surround sound speakers
- Pros: Immersive surround sound, voice control, easy connection to TV, added bass, optional rear speakers
- Cons: No built-in TV control feature
- High-quality product image
G. Sonos Playbar
- Key features: 9-channel surround sound, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, optional rear surround sound speakers
- Pros: Immersive surround sound, voice control, easy connection to TV, added bass, optional rear speakers
- Cons: Large size may not be suitable for all home theater setups, no built-in TV control feature
- High-quality product image
H. Bose SoundTouch 300
- Key features: Compact size, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, optional rear surround sound speakers
- Pros: Easy to fit into any home theater setup, voice control, easy connection to TV, added bass, immersive listening experience with rear speakers
- Cons: No traditional surround sound setup, no built-in TV control feature
- High-quality product image
I. Samsung HW-N950
- Key features: 7.1.4 channel surround sound, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, rear surround sound speakers included
- Pros: Immersive surround sound, voice control, easy connection to TV, added bass, rear speakers included
- Cons: Expensive, large size may not be suitable for all home theater setups
- High-quality product image
J. Sonos Playbase
- Key features: 10-channel surround sound, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, HDMI input, built-in subwoofer, optional rear surround sound speakers
- Pros: Immersive surround sound, voice control, easy connection to TV, added bass, optional rear speakers
- Cons: Large size may not be suitable for all home theater setups, no built-in TV control feature
- High-quality product image
Tips for choosing the right sound bar for your home theater
- Determine your budget: Sound bars range in price from under $100 to over $1,000, so it’s important to determine how much you are willing to spend before making a decision.
- Consider the size of your room: If you have a large living room, you may want to opt for a sound bar with a built-in subwoofer and rear surround sound speakers for a more immersive listening experience. If you have a smaller space, a compact sound bar may be a better fit.
- Think about your connectivity needs: If you want to stream music from your phone or tablet, look for a sound bar with Bluetooth or AirPlay 2 support. If you want to connect your sound bar to a TV, make sure it has an HDMI input.
- Decide on a brand: Different brands offer different features and designs, so it’s important to consider which one aligns with your preferences. For example, Bose is known for its sleek design and customizable sound settings, while Sonos is known for its easy integration with other smart home devices.
- Read reviews: Before making a purchase, be sure to read reviews from other customers to get a sense of the pros and cons of different sound bars.
Guide to setting up and installing a sound bar
Setting up and installing a sound bar can be a relatively simple process, but it can vary depending on the specific model you have and the type of setup you want. Here are some general steps you can follow to set up and install a sound bar:
- Choose the best location for your sound bar: You’ll want to place your sound bar in a location that allows for good sound quality and easy access to power and audio connections. Consider factors such as the size and layout of your room, the position of your TV and other audio components, and the location of outlets and cables.
- Connect your sound bar to your TV: There are several ways you can connect your sound bar to your TV, depending on the available connections and your preference. Some options include:
- HDMI: If your TV and sound bar both have HDMI ports, this is generally the best option for both audio and video quality. Simply connect an HDMI cable from your TV’s HDMI output to your sound bar’s HDMI input.
- Optical audio: If your TV has an optical audio output and your sound bar has an optical audio input, you can use an optical audio cable to connect them. This is a good option if your TV and sound bar don’t have HDMI ports.
- Bluetooth: Many newer sound bars and TVs have Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to pair them wirelessly. This can be a convenient option, but it may not provide the best audio quality.
- Connect any other audio components: If you have other audio components such as a Blu-ray player or streaming device, you may want to connect them to your sound bar as well. This will allow you to use the sound bar as the main audio source for all your content. You can connect these components using HDMI or optical audio cables, depending on the available connections.
- Set up your sound bar’s audio settings: Once your sound bar is connected and powered on, you’ll need to adjust the audio settings on your TV and any other audio components to output sound through the sound bar. Consult the user manual for your specific model for more detailed instructions.
- Test and adjust the sound: Once everything is set up, you can test the sound by playing a variety of content and adjusting the volume and settings on your sound bar and other audio components to your liking. Some sound bars have additional features such as equalization settings or virtual surround sound, which you can adjust to your preference.
That’s a general overview of how to set up and install a sound bar. Keep in mind that the specific steps may vary depending on your specific model and setup, so it’s always a good idea to consult the user manual and any documentation that came with your sound bar.
FAQ’s
What is a sound bar and how does it work?
A sound bar is a compact, all-in-one speaker system that is designed to enhance the audio of a TV or other audio device. It typically consists of a long, narrow speaker enclosure with multiple drivers (speakers) inside, and can be mounted on a wall or placed on a shelf below the TV. Sound bars use various technologies to produce surround sound effects, such as virtual surround or beamforming, which help to create a more immersive listening experience.
What are the benefits of using a sound bar?
What are the benefits of using a sound bar? There are several benefits to using a sound bar, including:
Improved sound quality: Sound bars can significantly improve the audio quality of your TV or other audio devices, providing a more dynamic and immersive listening experience.
Space-saving design: Sound bars are much smaller and more compact than traditional surround sound systems, making them a good choice for people with limited space.
Easy setup: Sound bars are generally very easy to set up, with simple connections and minimal cables.
Wide compatibility: Most sound bars are compatible with a wide range of TVs and other audio devices, making them a versatile and convenient choice.
What should I consider when buying a sound bar?
What should I consider when buying a sound bar? There are a few key factors to consider when buying a sound bar, including:
Compatibility: Make sure the sound bar is compatible with your TV and other audio components, and that it has the necessary connections for your setup.
Sound quality: Look for a sound bar with good sound quality and a wide range of audio features, such as virtual surround sound or adjustable equalization settings.
Size and design: Consider the size and design of the sound bar and how it will fit in with your home theater setup.
Price: Decide on a budget and look for a sound bar that offers good value for money within your price range.
What should I consider when buying a sound bar?
What should I consider when buying a sound bar? There are a few key factors to consider when buying a sound bar, including:
Compatibility: Make sure the sound bar is compatible with your TV and other audio components, and that it has the necessary connections for your setup.
Sound quality: Look for a sound bar with good sound quality and a wide range of audio features, such as virtual surround sound or adjustable equalization settings.
Size and design: Consider the size and design of the sound bar and how it will fit in with your home theater setup.
Price: Decide on a budget and look for a sound bar that offers good value for money within your price range.
Can I connect my sound bar to a wireless network?
Many newer sound bars have the ability to connect to a wireless network and stream audio from online sources such as music streaming services or internet radio. Some models also have Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to stream audio from a smartphone or other device.
Can I use a sound bar as a standalone speaker system?
While sound bars are primarily designed to be used with a TV or other audio device, some models do have the ability to be used as a standalone speaker system. These models usually have additional inputs such as an auxiliary input or a USB port, which allow you to connect a device such as a smartphone or MP3 player.
Can I use a sound bar with a projector?
Yes, you can use a sound bar with a projector, as long as the projector has an audio output and the sound bar has an audio input that is compatible with the projector. You will need to connect the projector to the sound bar using an appropriate audio cable, such as an HDMI or optical audio cable.
Can I control my sound bar with a universal remote?
Yes, many sound bars can be controlled with a universal remote, as long as the remote is programmed to work with the sound bar. Some sound bars also come with their own remote, which can be used to control both the sound bar and the TV.
Can I connect my sound bar to a home theater receiver?
Yes, you can connect your sound bar to a home theater receiver using an appropriate audio cable, such as an HDMI or optical audio cable. This will allow you to use the sound bar as the main audio source for your home theater system, and you can control the audio using the receiver’s remote or other controls.
Can I connect my sound bar to a home theater receiver?
Yes, you can connect your sound bar to a home theater receiver using an appropriate audio cable, such as an HDMI or optical audio cable. This will allow you to use the sound bar as the main audio source for your home theater system, and you can control the audio using the receiver’s remote or other controls.
Can I use a sound bar with a multi-room audio system?
Some sound bars have the ability to be integrated into a multi-room audio system, which allows you to play music throughout your home. To use a sound bar with a multi-room audio system, you’ll need a compatible sound bar and a multi-room audio system that supports the sound bar. You’ll also need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting up and integrating the sound bar into the system.
Can I use a sound bar with a PC or gaming console?
Yes, you can use a sound bar with a PC or gaming console by connecting the sound bar to the PC or console using an appropriate audio cable. Depending on the available connections and your preferences, you can use a HDMI, optical audio, or auxiliary cable to connect the sound bar to the PC or console. You may also need to adjust the audio settings on the PC or console to output sound through the sound bar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a sound bar can be a great addition to any home theater setup, providing improved sound quality and a more immersive listening experience. There are many different sound bars available on the market, and choosing the right one can be a challenging task. To help you make a decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 sound bars from Best Buy, based on customer ratings and popularity. These sound bars offer a range of features and price points, and are suitable for different needs and situations. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end sound bar with advanced features, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs on this list. If you’re considering purchasing a sound bar, we recommend visiting a Best Buy store to try out the different models in person and make a more informed decision.