Soundbars are the unsung heroes of modern home entertainment systems. Despite the TV manufacturers’ continual struggle to improve the built-in audio, the reality is that even top-tier TVs like the LG G3 OLED struggle with sound due to the limitations of built-in speakers. Consequently, soundbars are a necessary investment for anyone who values high-quality audio to complement their visual experience. This guide will navigate the labyrinth of options to help you find the best soundbars for 2023.
Why Soundbars?
Soundbars are an all-in-one solution to enhance your TV’s audio output. They are less cumbersome compared to a full home theatre speaker system and considerably cheaper. Some of the top models even support immersive, 3D movie audio with Dolby Atmos and essential connectivity features like HDMI eARC and wireless streaming. The most crucial aspect of selecting a soundbar is ensuring it complements your room’s acoustics, which can dramatically enhance your audio experience.
The Role of Design and Connectivity
Modern soundbars are designed to be sleek and unobtrusive, fitting neatly under your TV or even mounted on the wall. They also offer a range of connectivity options to suit different needs. Whether you’re planning to connect via HDMI, optical cables, or embrace wireless streaming, there’s a soundbar out there for you.
The Importance of Room Acoustics
Room acoustics is a crucial factor when considering a soundbar. The soundbar’s audio output can be drastically affected by the layout and materials present in your room. Some high-end models come with a room correction feature that adjusts the sound based on your room’s unique acoustics, ensuring optimal audio quality.
Top Soundbar Picks for 2023
While there are numerous soundbars available in the market, a few stand out due to their exceptional performance, advanced features, and value for money. Let’s delve into these top picks.
The Samsung Q990D has earned the title of the best soundbar we’ve tested. This next-generation model from Samsung’s HW-Q990 series offers superior sound quality and comes equipped with an 11.1.4 setup. It delivers a clean, clear sound, detailed reproduction of voices, and a robust subwoofer for an immersive, rumbling audio experience.
Additionally, the Samsung HW-Q990C supports Dolby Atmos and allows you to set up satellites around your room for an all-around sound effect. Its soundstage performance might fall short compared to models like the Sonos Ultimate Immersive Set with Arc or the Bose Smart Soundbar 900, but its extensive customization tools give you more control over its sound than its competitors, making it a standout choice.
For those willing to splurge a bit more on their soundbar, the Yamaha SRC30A Compact Sound Bar with Subwoofer takes the cake as the best high-end Dolby Atmos soundbar. The Yamaha SRC30A delivers an unparalleled audio experience, making it worth every penny for those who value superior sound quality.
If you’re looking for a soundbar that delivers top-notch performance without burning a hole in your pocket, the Yamaha SRB40A is your best bet. This soundbar offers excellent music and virtual surround sound performance at an unbeatable price.
For those with space constraints, the Sennheiser Ambeo Mini Soundbar is the perfect compact soundbar that doesn’t compromise on sound quality. This model is perfect for smaller TVs, providing an enhanced audio experience without taking up too much space.
Best Soundbar for LG OLED TV: LG SC9S
The LG SC9S is the ideal soundbar for LG OLED TV owners. This soundbar is designed specifically for 2022 and 2023 LG OLED models, with dimensions and a slim form factor that perfectly complement these TVs.
Soundbar Setup Tips
Once you’ve chosen your soundbar, setting it up correctly is crucial to get the most out of your audio investment. Here are some tips to help you set up your soundbar for the best sound:
- Placement: Your soundbar should ideally be placed at the same height as your ears when you’re sitting down. Also, ensure that it’s not too far away from your TV as it could cause a disconnect between the sound and visuals.
- Connectivity: Make sure to use the right cables to connect your soundbar to your TV. HDMI cables are recommended as they can transmit both audio and video signals. If your TV doesn’t have an HDMI port, you can use an optical cable instead.
- Settings: Adjust the settings on your soundbar to suit your room’s acoustics. Some soundbars come with a built-in room correction feature that can optimize the sound based on your room’s unique characteristics. If it has also Bluetooth options, check our guide for Bluetooth connection instructions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right soundbar can significantly enhance your home entertainment experience. Whether you’re a movie buff, a serial binge-watcher, or a music lover, there’s a soundbar out there that’s perfect for your needs. With brands like Samsung, Yamaha, Sonos, LG, and JBL offering a range of soundbars with various features and price points, you’re sure to find one that fits your requirements and budget. Remember, a good soundbar is an investment that will pay off in the long run with countless hours of high-quality audio enjoyment. So head on over to Centre Hi Fi and buy soundbars from your favorite brands!