10 Best Passive Soundbars 2025 in the United States

The Bose TV Speaker is a compact passive soundbar tailored for those looking to enhance their TV audio experience without a complex setup. One of its standout strengths is its ability to clarify dialogue, making it an excellent choice for users who struggle to hear speech clearly during shows or movies. With two angled full-range drivers, it delivers a wide sound that creates a more immersive experience, especially for its size. The soundbar’s design is sleek and unobtrusive, fitting nicely in front of most TVs or even mounted on a wall, which is a plus for space-conscious users.

Connectivity is another strong point; it offers Bluetooth pairing for streaming music, along with HDMI ARC, optical audio, and AUX options to connect multiple devices. The included remote control adds convenience, allowing you to switch modes to enhance dialogue or boost bass as needed.

There are a few limitations to consider. While the soundbar provides decent audio quality, audiophiles may find it lacking in deeper bass without the optional Bose Bass Module, which is an additional expense. Furthermore, the frequency response is somewhat narrow, which means it may not deliver a full-range sound experience compared to larger sound systems. Additionally, the absence of smart features like voice assistant integration might disappoint users seeking a more high-tech solution.

The Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar is a great option for anyone looking to enhance their home audio setup without occupying much space. Its compact design makes it ideal for smaller living spaces or home offices, seamlessly blending with most room designs. One of its standout features is the easy setup, which includes HDMI ARC for simple TV connection and Bluetooth for wireless streaming.

The added convenience of a built-in tweeter and Bass Reflex speaker ensures clear and deep sound, suitable for a variety of audio content. It also includes a voice enhancement feature that improves clarity for TV dialogues or conference calls, making it versatile for both entertainment and work purposes. The S-Force Pro Front Surround technology attempts to provide a more immersive listening experience, although it might not fully replicate the surround sound of more advanced systems.

With a power output of 120 Watts, it offers sufficient volume for regular use, but might fall short for those seeking a more powerful audio experience. The inclusion of a remote, batteries, cables, and a wall-mount template is a nice touch, making setup hassle-free. However, its 2.0 channel configuration means it lacks a dedicated subwoofer, which could be a drawback for bass enthusiasts. The Sony S100F is well-suited for casual listeners who prioritize ease of use and compactness over high-end sound performance.

The Arc Ultra Soundbar stands out in the passive soundbar category with its impressive 9.1.4 surround sound experience, thanks to Dolby Atmos. This makes it an excellent choice for users who want immersive audio for both movies and music. The advanced Sound Motion technology enhances spatial audio, ensuring that sound feels like it's coming from various directions, which can significantly enhance your viewing experience.

One of its strongest points is its elegant design, which blends seamlessly into home decor without being an eyesore. Additionally, the setup process is simple, requiring only a single HDMI eARC connection, making it user-friendly for those who might not be tech-savvy. Control options are abundant, including a remote, the Sonos app, touch controls, and voice commands through Sonos Voice Control or Amazon Alexa. This flexibility allows users to choose their preferred method of operation, enhancing convenience.

In terms of room customization, the Trueplay feature is a nice touch, allowing you to fine-tune audio based on your environment, but it may require some extra effort from users. Additionally, while the sound is generally clear, some users might find that they need to utilize the Speech Enhancement feature to ensure dialogue clarity, especially in action-packed films. The Arc Ultra Soundbar is a top-tier option for anyone looking to enhance their home audio experience, especially for those who value high-quality surround sound and smart home integration.