The Soundbar Speaker

Soundbars vs. Speakers

Let’s Explore Your Options

For many people the idea of premium sound (meaning upgraded over the tiny, internal speakers built into their ultra-flat HDTVs) is to buy a soundbar. While soundbars today pair nicely with subwoofers and offer faux surround sound – they still lack any kind of real-world, high performance audio. How can I say that? Well, compare the sound of even the most expensive soundbars versus that of even a modest pair of audiophile speakers and you tell me that you can hear the difference.

Here are a few, hand selected options for speakers that you might like better than a soundbar.

Option One: SVS Prime Wireless $599.00 per pair

These sleek, small and sexy loudspeakers can create a more dynamic and realistic sound than any flat soundbar. Yes, you need to power them on their own but even the most modest AV receivers can light up a pair of SVS Prime Bookshelf speakers. They can be heard at a Best Buy shop or sent right to your house for an in-home demo. Try pairing with a small SVS subwoofer for even better low end and more punchy dynamics.

Option Two: Paradigm Monitor SE Atom $599.00 per pair

These Canadian speakers are legendary. The size of the sound that comes from such a small speaker is simply jaw-dropping. Like the SVS listed above, they are very easy to drive on even the most modest AV receivers of audiophile grade integrated amps. The Paradigm stands have a very nice industrial design and the Paradigm Monitor SE Atom speakers also thankfully come in a white gloss finish.

Option Three: Orb Audio Booster Basic $449 (complete)

These round speakers when paired with a small amplifier can wirelessly connect to your Ultra HDTV and present sound from a tiny form factor that matches the grandeur of your video be it streaming in 4K or spinning from a silver UHD Blu-ray disc. This is one of the smallest and least expensive options on our list and what’s nice about it is that you can upgrade and expand your system as you need too including adding a subwoofer and more. People rave about how small the speaker system is yet how “big the sound” is.

Option Four: Apple AirPods Max ($549.00)

Talk about going in a whole other direction, if we are going anti-sound bar then how about using the latest Bluetooth 5 technology to connect your state-of-the-art headphones wirelessly to your TV. The Apple AirPods Max have internal surround sound features that can simulate surround sound. They also have very good internal ANC (noise cancelation) which is useful if you want to tune-out the outside world and external sources of sound so that you can get RIGHT INTO the dialog of your favorite TV shows. Apple offers five really nice colors. The aluminum ear cups make for a more durable headphone. Apples Digital Crown (a knob) allows for easy control of phone calls, music and movies alike. The simplicity of these high end audiophile-grade headphones is excellent and they are a great soundbar replacement option.

Option Five: Nakymatone Echt Invisible Speakers with Gray Sound Subwoofer ($4,500 plus drywall repairs and painting)

What if I told you that you didn’t need to have any visible speakers in your entire system and that it would sound five times better than ANY soundbar? It is possible with Nakymatone speakers. Their $3,000 per pair Echt speakers are true transducers that are designed to work behind any number of materials such as drywall “mud”, think wood veneers, fabric, wallpaper and beyond. The Gray Sound Audiophile Subwoofer is an excellent add on that is also installed (often in the ceiling) and then drywalled around leaving just a “port” for the bass that looks like a lighting fixture. This combination of audiophile sound and custom install genius comes with a lot more installation issues but once you cut your drywall, mud, sand and repaint things – expect FULL audiophile sound without using one square inch of your floor space. Try matching these speakers with a mid-level AV receiver packing room correction and you are in line for even BETTER sound. All soundbars can bow down to the almighty replacement – Invisible speakers are the new way. For more gorgeous looking home theater seating look into Elite HTS.

Have you learned some creative ways to not have to suffer through the crap sound that soundbars offer? We hope so.

What Is a Sound Bar Speaker?

A sound bar is a slim, elongated speaker enclosure designed to deliver high-quality audio. It contains multiple speaker drivers, often with built-in amplifiers, designed to create a more immersive audio experience than standard TV speakers.

Key Features of Sound Bar Speakers:

  • Multiple Channels: Sound bars often come in configurations such as 2.1, 3.1, 5.1, or even 7.1.2 for Dolby Atmos support.

  • Built-in Subwoofers: Some models have integrated subwoofers, while others include separate wireless subwoofers for deep bass.

  • Surround Sound Support: Advanced models offer virtual surround sound or compatibility with additional satellite speakers.

  • Voice Control: Many sound bars support voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant.

  • Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi support for streaming music from smartphones and other devices.

Types of Sound Bars:

  • All-in-One Sound Bars: Compact models with built-in subwoofers for simple setups.

  • Sound Bars with Subwoofers: Separate subwoofers enhance low-frequency response.

  • Surround Sound Systems: Include rear speakers for a more immersive experience.

  • Smart Sound Bars: Equipped with voice assistants and streaming apps.

Advantages of Sound Bar Speakers:

  • Space-Saving Design: Slim and compact, ideal for smaller rooms.

  • Easy Setup: Simple plug-and-play installation with minimal cables.

  • Improved Dialogue Clarity: Enhanced center channels improve vocal clarity.

  • Versatility: Suitable for music, movies, and gaming.

  • Affordability: A cost-effective alternative to full home theater systems.

Popular Sound Bar Brands and Models:

  • Sonos Arc: Known for its premium sound and seamless integration with Sonos ecosystems.

  • Bose Smart Soundbar 900: Offers Dolby Atmos and advanced voice control.

  • Samsung HW-Q990C: Features 11.1.4 channels for immersive surround sound.

  • Yamaha YAS-209: Budget-friendly with built-in Alexa support.

  • LG SP9YA: Great value with Meridian audio technology and Atmos support

Choosing the Right Sound Bar:

  1. Audio Quality: Look for models with Dolby Atmos or DTS:X for immersive sound.

  2. Size and Design: Match the sound bar size to your TV and room dimensions.

  3. Connectivity Options: Ensure compatibility with HDMI ARC/eARC, optical, and Bluetooth.

  4. Smart Features: Consider voice assistants and app support.

  5. Budget: Balance between features and affordability.

Setting Up Your Sound Bar:

  • Placement: Position it below your TV or wall-mount for optimal sound projection.

  • Connections: Use HDMI ARC/eARC for high-quality audio and control convenience.

  • Calibration: Use room correction features to optimize sound for your space.

Maintaining Your Sound Bar:

  • Keep it Clean: Dust regularly to prevent buildup on speakers.

  • Firmware Updates: Ensure the latest updates for performance improvements.

  • Proper Ventilation: Avoid placing objects on or blocking the sound bar.