How to Choose a Soundbar
When choosing a soundbar, three factors deserve the most attention.
1. HDMI ARC or eARC Connectivity HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) or eARC is the best way to connect a soundbar to your TV. It enables single-remote volume control, power synchronization, and passes high-quality audio signals. For Dolby Atmos in its full lossless form, eARC is required — regular ARC uses a compressed version.
2. Subwoofer: Built-in, Bundled, or Separate Bundled wireless subwoofers offer the best value — you get impactful bass without extra cables. Separate (add-on) subwoofers offer more power for larger rooms but at extra cost. For smaller rooms or speech-focused viewing, skip the sub and save money.
3. Room Size and Output Power Small rooms (up to 15 m²) are well served by 100W or less. Medium to large living rooms benefit from 200W+ and wider speaker arrays. Upward-firing drivers for Dolby Atmos are more impactful in rooms with ceiling heights of 2.4m or more.
Soundbar Comparison Table
| Product | Dolby Atmos | Subwoofer | HDMI eARC | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony HT-A7000 | Yes | Sold separately | Yes | ~$900 |
| Sonos Arc | Yes | Sold separately | Yes | ~$900 |
| Yamaha YAS-209 | No | Included (wireless) | No | ~$300 |
| LG DSP9YA | Yes | Included (wireless) | Yes | ~$500 |
| Bose Smart Soundbar 600 | Yes | Sold separately | Yes | ~$600 |
| Samsung HW-Q800C | Yes | Included (wireless) | Yes | ~$700 |
Product Details
1. Sony HT-A7000 — Our Top Pick
Sony’s flagship soundbar features seven upward-firing and side-firing speaker units to deliver a genuine Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround experience. HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Spotify Connect are all included, along with hi-res audio support. Sony BRAVIA TV owners get the added bonus of Acoustic Center Sync, which integrates the TV’s built-in speakers as a center channel. If you want the best Sony home theater experience, this is the foundation to build on.
2. Sonos Arc — Highest User Satisfaction
The Sonos Arc packs 11 speaker drivers into a sleek bar that delivers expansive Dolby Atmos sound. As the centerpiece of the Sonos multi-room ecosystem, it streams directly from Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, and supports Apple AirPlay 2. Adding the Sonos Sub (sold separately) transforms it into a full home theater system. The best choice for Apple users and anyone invested in whole-home audio.
3. Yamaha YAS-209 — Best Value
Exceptional value: a wireless subwoofer is included at a very accessible price. Yamaha’s DTS Virtual:X technology simulates a 3D surround sound field without physical surround speakers, and Bluetooth pairing is quick. If you want a real performance jump from your TV speakers without spending a lot, this is the most recommended entry-level choice.
4. LG DSP9YA — Best Balance of Features
Co-engineered with MERIDIAN audio, the LG DSP9YA delivers Dolby Atmos with high dialogue clarity alongside a wireless subwoofer in the box. HDMI eARC, ThinQ AI with Alexa and Google Assistant voice control, and LG TV’s Sound Sharing feature for seamless integration round out a well-rounded package. LG TV owners in particular benefit from plug-and-play simplicity.
5. Bose Smart Soundbar 600 — Best Pure Sound Quality
Bose’s PhaseGuide technology creates an unusually wide sound stage from a compact form factor, and upward-firing drivers handle Dolby Atmos overhead audio convincingly. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, and detailed EQ via the Bose app offer strong flexibility. If pure audio quality matters most to you and you don’t need an included subwoofer, this is the bar to beat at this price.
6. Samsung HW-Q800C — Best for Samsung TV Owners
Q-Symphony is the standout feature: it harmonizes the soundbar with your Samsung TV’s built-in speakers to produce a richer, wider soundstage than the soundbar alone. Dolby Atmos, a wireless subwoofer, HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi are all included. If you own a Samsung TV, the seamless Q-Symphony integration makes this the most natural pairing.
Summary
For most buyers, the Sony HT-A7000 strikes the best overall balance: true Dolby Atmos performance, versatile connectivity, and room to expand with a subwoofer later. On a tighter budget, the Yamaha YAS-209 is unbeatable value with its included wireless subwoofer. Apple ecosystem users should look seriously at the Sonos Arc for its multiroom audio and AirPlay 2 integration. See all comparison articles at Compare Top.