Best Soundbars in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update January 17, 2024
Is there any simple way to enhance the sound of your TV set and turn your living room into a cinema? Yes! Sound bars are compact speaker systems that can make your TV sound much better. Read our brand-new review of the best soundbars and take your pick. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Type
Speakers Configuration
Output Power
Sound Enhancing Features
Equalizer settings
Interfaces
Dimensions
Warranty
 
PROS
Owing to the Wi-Fi support this Sonos soundbar can be streamed audio data to from any room of your house using your mobile devices.
CONS
The system is incapable of delivering a truly surround sound experience without auxiliary components.
OUR VERDICT
The Sonos Playbar is an excellent audio device that boasts 9 individually amplified built-in speakers grouped for delivering a 3-channel sound reproduction and making your music listening and movies watching an exciting pastime.
detailed parameters
Type
Tabletop
Speakers Configuration
3.0
Output Power
no
Sound Enhancing Features
Supports the Dolby Digital stereo playback, 9 active speakers with an automatic equalization for a high-quality sound
Equalizer settings
Night mode, Bass / Tremble control, Dialogue control
Interfaces
Wi-Fi, 1x Optical audio input, 2x Ethernet ports
Dimensions
85 x 900 x 140 mm
Warranty
2 years
PROS
The Bose Solo 5 TV comes with a versatile remote control that is compatible with many modern TVs and allows controlling many parameters with one device.
CONS
Configuring the bundled remote control for controlling your TV may take a while.
OUR VERDICT
This is a compact soundbar with rather decent sound performance. It will serve well for audio listening in small rooms and for enhancing the sound of the stock sound system of your TV.
detailed parameters
Type
Tabletop
Speakers Configuration
2.0
Output Power
no
Sound Enhancing Features
Dolby Digital multi-channel sound, TrueSpace technology delivers a surround sound
Equalizer settings
Dialogue mode, Bass control
Interfaces
Bluetooth, 1x Optical audio input, 1x Analog audio input (3.5 mm jack) 1x Coaxial audio input
Dimensions
66 x 549 x 86 mm
Warranty
1 year
PROS
The YAS105BLB integrates two subwoofer drivers for a deep and punchy bass reproduction.
CONS
The table installation of the soundbar causes poor visibility of the device indicator panel.
OUR VERDICT
This easily oriented model in an ultraslim case not only looks great both when mounted on a wall or placed on a table but also boosts the low register sound reproduction of your TV.
detailed parameters
Type
Tabletop
Speakers Configuration
2.1
Output Power
120 W
Sound Enhancing Features
Dolby Digital multi-channel sound, Dolby Pro Logic 2 surround sound support, AirSurround Xtreme support offers 7.1-channel sound reproduction
Equalizer settings
Clear Voice mode, Bass Extension mode, DSP mode
Interfaces
Bluetooth, 1x Optical audio input, 1x Analog audio input (3.5 mm jack) 1x Coaxial audio input, 1x Subwoofer out
Dimensions
53 x 890 x 131 mm
Warranty
2 years
PROS
The NFC support allows quick synchronization of your portable devices with this wireless soundbar for using them as audio streaming sources.
CONS
The remote control buttons have a subpar response and may require a repeated pressing to change a setting.
OUR VERDICT
A superb set comprised of a soundbar and a wirelessly paired subwoofer that can deliver a powerful audio reproduction.
detailed parameters
Type
Tabletop
Speakers Configuration
2.1
Output Power
100 W
Sound Enhancing Features
Dolby Digital multi-channel sound, ClearAudio+ in-house technology attenuates the source audio for clearer dialogues, movie effects and music
Equalizer settings
Night mode, Surround mode, Clearaudio+ mode, Voice mode, Dual mono mode
Interfaces
Bluetooth, NFC, 1x Optical audio input, 1x Analog audio input (3.5 mm jack)
Dimensions
52 x 901 x 84 mm (soundbar), 342 x 170 x 325 mm (subwoofer)
Warranty
1 year
PROS
The front panel accommodates LED indicators showing you the sound settings and modes. You can optimize the sound settings to the volume level you wish.
CONS
Few equalizer settings.
OUR VERDICT
VIZIO sound bar is compact and stylish - ideal device for using with any 32'' TV.
detailed parameters
Type
Tabletop
Speakers Configuration
2.0
Output Power
~120W
Sound Enhancing Features
DTS TruSurround® for realistic sound, DTS TruVolume® technology ensures a comfortable volume
Equalizer settings
Bass / Treble control
Interfaces
Bluetooth, 1 x Optical audio input, 1 x Coaxical audio input, 1 x AUX input, 1 x Analog Stereo RCA, 1 x USB input, 1 x Subwoofer out
Dimensions
3" x 29" x 3"
Warranty
1 year
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Sonos PLAYBAR

Nine is Really A Lot

The distinguishing feature of this Sonos soundbar is the availability of as many as nine speakers under the hood, which are grouped in three phased speaker arrays containing two middle speakers and one tweeter each. This feature is really outstanding as it enables a “directional” sound reproduction that means if there’s a loud sound on the left side of the scene you’ll hear it right there because the group of speakers on the left plays the sound and the rightmost speaker group reproduces the inverse of that sound. Though this engineering solution is not announced as some surround feature, it offers a new dimension of sound experience on this soundbar when playing movies or even music through it. This wireless soundbar by Sonos is equipped with a Wi-Fi module so you can pair practically any wireless mobile device with the Playbar soundbar and stream digital audio to the Playbar directly from your mobile device. Contrary to the Bluetooth-enabled soundbars this Sonos wireless soundbar establishes a more reliable and fast wireless connection. Not using the Sonos application with this soundbar is an omission as this application enables the management of a playlist of audio tracks played and the selection of a source device. The flexibility of the Sonos Playbar does not end here – those willing to get an acoustic system with a higher output power under their control can easily expand the stock system to a full-fledged surround system by adding two smart wireless speakers.

Review of Sonos PLAYBAR Wireless Soundbar

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £249.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00BD1I8P4

VIDEO
Review: Sonos Playbar | Before you Buy
 

Bose Solo 5 TV Sound System

Sounds as Brilliant as It Looks

The Solo 5 TV soundbar model by the Bose manufacturer is rendered in a compact case with a length of about 549 mm, which makes it easy to locate the soundbar in almost any recess or on any stand near your TV. The Solo 5 TV installation options include mounting it on the wall above or below your TV or simple placement on a suitable horizontal surface. As a comprehensive mounting solution, we suggest a TV stand, which provides you with enough space to mount not only a TV with the soundbar but some additional audio devices or another equipment. Despite its compactness, the Solo TV 5 is equipped with two powerful speakers, which deliver rather convincing sound. Add the support of Dolby Stereo and TrueSpace audio technologies and will get the concept of the clear and surround sound this Bose soundbar is capable of delivering. The soundbar supply package includes the remote control that unlocks the features of remote configuration and control not only of the Solo TV 5 itself but also of many modern TVs. We consider this versatility a big plus as you can use a single remote control to operate your whole home system and enjoy watching movies and listening to music.

Review of Bose Solo 5 TV Sound System Sound Bar

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £211.47
Stock In stock
ASIN B008HD0FW0

 

Yamaha YAS-105

An Ultraslim Design

The Yamaha YAS105BLB soundbar stands out from the rest owing to its compact design. The YAS105BLB soundbar compactness is achieved by placing the internals into a very slim casing with only 53 mm height, which brings you a lot of comfort in choosing the soundbar installation as even placing it in front of your TV does not obstruct remote control signals. The soundbar exterior is rendered in such a way as to make the device fit organically in your interior disregarding the place you put this soundbar in. The specifications of this Yamaha soundbar are impressive as well as its 120 W output power for such a small footprint, thus such a power is packed into a small case to make your movie watching and music listening leisure even more fun. You can use the Yamaha Home Theater Controller mobile application to configure this wireless soundbar from your iOS-based or Android-based mobile device. The wireless connectivity of the Yamaha YAS105BLBА enables you to enjoy your favourite music when streamed via the Bluetooth from your smartphone or a tablet PC. Regarding the cable connection you can quickly connect the YAS105BLBА soundbar to your TV using an optical signal cable, for example, this moderately priced and decent quality model.

Review of Yamaha YAS-105 Soundbar

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B010LY7YDK

VIDEO
Yamaha YAS-105 - REVIEW
 

Sony HT-CT180

Maximum Comfort of Use

This soundbar and subwoofer set by the Sony corporation that without a doubt holds one of the leading positions on the digital and audio devices market was made with a maximum comfort in mind. The wireless connectivity of the Sony HT-CT180 subwoofer is worth noticing as it ensures the subwoofer reliable operation when positioned in any suitable place of the room where you installed the soundbar. The brand aesthetics of the HT-CT180 soundbar exterior makes it look striking when both mounted on a wall, simply put on a shelf or placed in front of a TV and this fit bracket helps you do just that. Being persistent in pursuing the maximum comfort, the Sony equipped this soundbar system with the NFC wireless technology support. Using the NFC feature you can ready all your mobile devices for working with this HT-CT180 wireless soundbar by simply carrying them near the corresponding area of the soundbar. After such initialization, you will be able to stream your audio data from these devices to the soundbar. In practice, it is very convenient as this approach allows saving time otherwise spent on manual configuration of the devices. In addition, this Sony soundbar offers two input options: the standard optical digital input for receiving a signal from a TV or a Blu-Ray player and the analogue audio input, which enables connecting a DAP or tablet PC to the soundbar system.

Review of Sony HT-CT180 Sound Bar

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £250.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00U1DW7BG

 

VIZIO SB2920-C6

Made to Fit Your Style

SB2920-C6 is one of the best soundbars produced by VIZIO, which is one of the new manufacturers but known for its cutting-edge products. VIZIO was founded in 2002 and it's known to be a manufacturer of HDTVs. The company also produces a range of other high-tech items, and sound bars are among them. The company's motto is 'Simply Immersive' and that's fully described the soundbar. It's, probably, one of the best devices you can find for using with 32'' TVs. You can place the sound bar as you wish: either in front of the TV, mount it to a wall, or place on a shelf near the TV. In any case, the soundbar will fit into the interior of your room. The casing is streamlined and all corners are rounded. There are 8 light indicators on the front panel; they indicate different sound modes and settings, so you will easily know which one is on at the moment.

Review of VIZIO SB2920-C6 Sound Bar

Wireless Stream of Music

This VIZIO sound bar has a Bluetooth adapter thanks to which you can pair it with your mobile devices, such as smartphones or tablets, and play audio files right from your devices. So, no need for any wires and cables, turn Bluetooth on, press play and enjoy your favorite music. It's really simple and convenient since you don't need to get an expensive sound system. The Bluetooth range is around 33 feet - more than enough for any home! Also, the package contents include a handy remote that allows for choosing modes and set the soundbar.

In the end, this soundbar for TV is a great compact device that will help you significantly enhance the sound of your TV. The sound bar also has DTS Tru Sound and DTS Tru Volume technologies to achieve the best sound quality possible.

VIZIO SB2920-C6 Sound Bar in the use

More Products to Consider

We would recommend you to get a comfortable Arrowmount AM-SPKR103 and mount the device the way you wish.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £59.95
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00SMBFZNG

VIDEO
Vizio SB2920C6 Soundbar Review
 

What is a Sound Bar?

Soundbars are the best solution for people who wish to improve the sound from their TV sets with no big extra expenses. Unlike home theatre sound systems, soundbars are very compact. A typical soundbar is a highly integrated solution manufactured as a small panel with built-in speakers, amplifier and digital to analogue converter. That is why soundbars only need a digital signal input (optical or electric coaxial) to produce sound. A sound bar can be placed very close to your TV set, so it requires no additional space or pieces of furniture to stand on. For the most part, soundbars are designed to be used with widescreen TV models. We have selected the most popular soundbars on the market to help you make your choice of the most suitable solution for you.

If you wish to enhance the audio performance of your laptop or a desktop PC, make sure to read our up-to-date review of the best computer speakers.

What Features to Compare

Type and Design

If you want to place a soundbar right in front of your TV, you need a tabletop bar. Some sound bars are wall-mountable and, therefore, can be placed in a close proximity to a TV on the wall. Keep in mind that soundbars are made transparent for remote control signals. There is also another type of sound bars - TV stands. They are larger and wider than wall-mounted ones so TVs are usually placed on top of such bars. However, you should still check the dimensions of the stand to make sure it is suitable for a widescreen TV (52'', for example) to stand on. The structure of a TV stand soundbar has to be steady and durable enough for a TV weight.

Sound Performance

The next issue to consider is the sound performance as soundbars are intended to produce a high-quality sound. Though the design of acoustic systems on different soundbar models is not the same, thus their sound signature may differ greatly. That is why if you prefer a bass-heavy sound you should choose the soundbars with bundled subwoofers or those equipped with a subwoofer output. Such important features as the soundbar output power, sensitivity (in case of analogue input availability), and frequency range determine the sound performance and loudness level of your soundbar system to a great extent. However, knowing these parameters is not sufficient for deciding on the optimal soundbar. Hence, we strongly recommend checking the sound enhancing features supported by the soundbar you consider. For example, top-tier soundbars support Dolby Surround feature for a multi-channel sound reproduction. Also, many sound bars are capable of producing various surround sound effects allowing you to experience a full immersion in a movie scene or a music track. Nowadays many manufacturers develop their own sound enhancing technologies to further enrich your sound and multimedia experience. If you are a fan of adjusting the tonal balance (the proportion of high, middle and low frequencies), make sure to choose the soundbar with a user-configurable equaliser. Using a hardware equaliser on a soundbar tends to be a better solution in terms of sound quality than adjusting the frequency-response curve on your TV output.

Connectivity and Controls

After clarifying the sound performance parameters, you need to focus on the connectivity and controls of the soundbar considered. Apart from standard audio ports, some devices offer other types of connection interfaces. For example, a soundbar with an HDMI in ensures the playback of a high-quality sound in Blu-Ray movies. The availability of the USB port allows for playing media files stored on your smartphones and flash drives. The Bluetooth support makes it possible to stream the music to a compatible soundbar wirelessly right from your mobile device. Some soundbars are made equipped with a Wi-Fi connection, which allows connecting to Internet music services. Finally, check out the soundbar controls - they should provide you enough flexibility and comfort in configuring the soundbar parameters. The best soundbars in terms of control comfort have a remote control enabling a user to change the needed parameters from a distance. Moreover, many modern soundbars can be controlled from a smartphone via mobile apps thus replacing an RC with your phone or a tablet PC.

Sources:

1. Jon L. Jacobi How to pick the right sound bar to go with your flat-screen TV, TechHive. December 18, 2014.

2. Adrian Diaconescu How To Shop For A Sound Bar, DIGITAL TRENDS. February 23, 2013.

3. Andy Clough Soundbar Buying Guide: How to choose the right soundbar, What HiFi? June 18, 2014.

4. Deia Z Sound bars buying guide, Crutchfield. November 28, 2016.

5. Deia Z Sound bar connection and setup guide, Crutchfield. August 3, 2016.

6. Matthew Moskovciak Sound bar buying guide: What you need to know, CNET. July 3, 2013.

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