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10 Best Soundbar 5 1 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE, Wireless Subwoofer, Surround Sound w/Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Bluetooth Speaker - SV510X-0806 (New, 2024 Model)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,148
Audio Channels
Connectivity Options
Subwoofer Type

Most important from
1313 reviews

Audio Channels
The surround sound effect is impressive with audio sources placed precisely in 3D space, and the subwoofer delivers a nice bass that enhances movies and games.
Connectivity Options
The setup is simple and straightforward, with the subwoofer connecting wirelessly and surround speakers easily integrated.
Subwoofer Type
The sound quality is phenomenal, with a subwoofer that absolutely thumps, all controlled instantly by the Vizio remote.
Sound Modes
The app is a must-have to make this soundbar work properly and sound good, allowing adjustments to the equalizer and volume settings.
Size and Design
This soundbar setup fits perfectly in smaller rooms and complements a 55” TV wonderfully, offering a clean and organized setup without clutter.
Brand and Reviews
For the cost, the overall experience is fantastic, making it highly recommended for casual users or smaller rooms.

The VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE is designed to enhance your home audio experience, particularly for medium to large-sized rooms. One of its standout features is the inclusion of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio technology, which creates an immersive sound environment, making it perfect for movie lovers and gamers alike. With a total power output of 180 watts and a wireless subwoofer, users can expect rich, dynamic sound that fills the room.

In terms of connectivity, this soundbar offers options like Bluetooth and HDMI eARC, which allows easy integration with modern TVs. The QuickFit feature is particularly useful for those who own compatible VIZIO TVs, ensuring a seamless setup without the need for tools. Users can also control the soundbar with their existing TV remote, which simplifies the user experience.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The lack of a dedicated remote control may frustrate some users who prefer a standalone device for their soundbar. Additionally, while the sound quality is commendable, the absence of an optical output may restrict connectivity with older TV models. Furthermore, the mobile app, although useful for settings and updates, requires a VIZIO account, which could be a hassle for some. Potential buyers should be cautious about the setup process if they do not have a compatible TV, and it's worth noting that the soundbar is not water-resistant, limiting its placement options in certain environments. This product is ideal for home theater enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly surround sound solution.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,148
Audio Channels
Connectivity Options
Subwoofer Type

Most important from
1313 reviews

Audio Channels
The surround sound effect is impressive with audio sources placed precisely in 3D space, and the subwoofer delivers a nice bass that enhances movies and games.
Connectivity Options
The setup is simple and straightforward, with the subwoofer connecting wirelessly and surround speakers easily integrated.
Subwoofer Type
The sound quality is phenomenal, with a subwoofer that absolutely thumps, all controlled instantly by the Vizio remote.
Sound Modes
The app is a must-have to make this soundbar work properly and sound good, allowing adjustments to the equalizer and volume settings.
Size and Design
This soundbar setup fits perfectly in smaller rooms and complements a 55” TV wonderfully, offering a clean and organized setup without clutter.
Brand and Reviews
For the cost, the overall experience is fantastic, making it highly recommended for casual users or smaller rooms.
#2

JBL Bar 700: 5.1-Channel soundbar with Detachable Surround Speakers and Dolby Atmos®, Black

Rating
10.0
Audio Channels
Connectivity Options
Power Output

Most important from
228 reviews

Audio Channels
The surround sound quality for both music and movies is excellent, creating a sublime audio experience.
Connectivity Options
Smart-home features like AirPlay and Alexa multi-room support enhance its versatility and integration into a connected home.
Power Output
The wireless surround speakers are convenient and offer a decent surround experience, although they have limited power due to their size and battery operation.
Subwoofer Type
The subwoofer is impressively powerful, often needing to be kept at a lower setting to match movie theater levels.
Brand and Reviews
Setting up the JBL Bar 700 is a breeze; everything works almost automatically once plugged in.

The JBL Bar 700 is a robust 5.1-channel soundbar that excels in delivering a high-quality audio experience with several standout features. It boasts Dolby Atmos surround sound, which offers an immersive 3D soundscape, making it ideal for home theater enthusiasts seeking a cinematic audio experience. The detachable surround speakers provide true surround sound without the clutter of extra wires, enhancing ease of use and setup flexibility.

With a powerful 620W output and a 10-inch wireless subwoofer, it ensures deep, precise bass that brings movies, music, and games to life. The built-in Wi-Fi allows access to over 300 music streaming services via AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, and Chromecast, making it highly versatile for various audio content. Additionally, the JBL Bar 700 supports Bluetooth and Ethernet connectivity, catering to different user preferences and setups.

It may not be the best choice for those looking for a compact or lightweight soundbar, as it weighs 37 pounds. Also, the lack of water resistance means it’s not suitable for outdoor use. Despite these minor drawbacks, the JBL Bar 700, with its solid build quality, is a compelling option for anyone looking to enhance their home audio setup.

Rating
10.0
Audio Channels
Connectivity Options
Power Output

Most important from
228 reviews

Audio Channels
The surround sound quality for both music and movies is excellent, creating a sublime audio experience.
Connectivity Options
Smart-home features like AirPlay and Alexa multi-room support enhance its versatility and integration into a connected home.
Power Output
The wireless surround speakers are convenient and offer a decent surround experience, although they have limited power due to their size and battery operation.
Subwoofer Type
The subwoofer is impressively powerful, often needing to be kept at a lower setting to match movie theater levels.
Brand and Reviews
Setting up the JBL Bar 700 is a breeze; everything works almost automatically once plugged in.
#3

JBL Bar 500: 5.1-Channel soundbar with MultiBeam™ and Dolby Atmos®, Black

Rating
9.8
Connectivity Options
Subwoofer Type
Size and Design

Most important from
539 reviews

Connectivity Options
Best quality sound hands down! Easy Bluetooth connectivity, and looks very cool! Sounds better than being at the movies!
Subwoofer Type
The quality of sound is amazing. I'm a bit of a sound geek and was skeptical, but the sound was very impressive. Bluetooth is easy to operate, there is no sound lag like in lower quality sound bars, and the sub is subtle and well-suited for the application.
Size and Design
Best quality sound hands down! Easy Bluetooth connectivity, and looks very cool! Sounds better than being at the movies!

The JBL Bar 500 is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their home audio experience with a 5.1-channel soundbar. One of its standout features is the Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam surround sound technology, which provides a rich, immersive listening experience that can make movies and games feel more lifelike. With a total power output of 590 watts and a powerful 10" wireless subwoofer, it delivers robust bass that adds depth to music and action sequences.

Connectivity is another strong point, as it offers built-in Wi-Fi with support for streaming services like AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, and Chromecast. This means you can easily access a wide array of music and podcasts directly from the soundbar. The Bluetooth capability allows you to connect your smartphone or tablet with ease, extending its versatility for various audio needs.

In terms of design, the JBL Bar 500 is sleek and fits well in most living spaces, measuring 4" deep, 40" wide, and 2.2" high. It does require an AC power source, which might limit placement options, especially in certain setups. This soundbar is an excellent option for home theater setups, music playback, and gaming, providing a good mix of performance and features for everyday use.

Rating
9.8
Connectivity Options
Subwoofer Type
Size and Design

Most important from
539 reviews

Connectivity Options
Best quality sound hands down! Easy Bluetooth connectivity, and looks very cool! Sounds better than being at the movies!
Subwoofer Type
The quality of sound is amazing. I'm a bit of a sound geek and was skeptical, but the sound was very impressive. Bluetooth is easy to operate, there is no sound lag like in lower quality sound bars, and the sub is subtle and well-suited for the application.
Size and Design
Best quality sound hands down! Easy Bluetooth connectivity, and looks very cool! Sounds better than being at the movies!

Buying Guide for the Best Soundbar 5 1

Choosing the right soundbar can significantly enhance your home entertainment experience. A soundbar is a compact speaker system designed to improve the audio quality of your TV, providing clearer dialogue, richer sound effects, and a more immersive experience overall. When selecting a soundbar, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. Here are some key specs to look at and how to navigate them.
ChannelsChannels refer to the number of audio output sources in the soundbar. A 5.1 soundbar means it has five main channels (left, right, center, and two rear) and one subwoofer channel for bass. This setup is important for creating a surround sound experience, making you feel like the sound is coming from all around you. If you enjoy watching movies or playing games with immersive audio, a 5.1 soundbar is a great choice. For general TV watching or smaller spaces, fewer channels (like 2.1 or 3.1) might be sufficient.
ConnectivityConnectivity options determine how you can connect the soundbar to your TV and other devices. Common connectivity options include HDMI ARC, optical, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. HDMI ARC provides high-quality audio and allows you to control the soundbar with your TV remote. Optical connections are also good for high-quality sound but lack some of the convenience features of HDMI ARC. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enable wireless streaming from your phone or other devices. Choose a soundbar with connectivity options that match your devices and how you plan to use it.
Power OutputPower output, measured in watts, indicates the soundbar's ability to produce loud and clear sound. Higher wattage generally means more powerful sound, which is important for larger rooms or if you like to watch action-packed movies with dynamic sound effects. For smaller rooms or casual listening, a lower wattage soundbar may be sufficient. Consider the size of your room and your listening habits when choosing the power output.
Sound QualitySound quality encompasses various factors like frequency response, clarity, and bass performance. A soundbar with a wide frequency response can reproduce a broader range of sounds, from deep bass to high treble. Look for soundbars with good reviews on clarity and balanced sound to ensure dialogue is clear and music sounds rich. If you enjoy bass-heavy music or action movies, consider a soundbar with a dedicated subwoofer for enhanced bass performance.
Size and DesignThe size and design of the soundbar should complement your TV and room decor. Soundbars come in various lengths and styles, from sleek and minimalist to more robust designs. Ensure the soundbar fits comfortably in front of your TV or can be mounted on the wall if desired. A well-designed soundbar not only enhances your audio experience but also adds to the aesthetic appeal of your entertainment setup.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features like voice control, built-in streaming services, and multi-room audio capabilities can enhance your soundbar experience. Voice control allows you to operate the soundbar hands-free using voice commands. Built-in streaming services let you access music and podcasts directly from the soundbar. Multi-room audio capabilities enable you to connect multiple speakers throughout your home for synchronized playback. Consider which features are important to you and how they fit into your lifestyle.

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