10 Best Surround Sound 2025 in the United States

The JBL Bar 9.1 is a robust surround-sound system designed to deliver an immersive audio experience. With a 9.1 channel configuration and an impressive combined output of 820 watts, it ensures powerful sound performance. A key highlight is the inclusion of detachable, battery-powered surround speakers, which provide flexibility in placing them around the room without the clutter of wires. The 300W, 10-inch subwoofer further enhances the audio experience by delivering deep bass, ideal for movie enthusiasts and gamers alike.

Built-in Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding help create a 3D sound field, making it perfect for enjoying high-quality audio formats. The system supports Ultra HD 4K pass-through with Dolby Vision, ensuring compatibility with the latest video standards for a superior viewing experience. Room calibration technology helps optimize sound quality based on the room's acoustics, ensuring consistent performance across different environments. Connectivity options are diverse, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Optical, and HDMI, making it versatile and user-friendly. The included remote control and various mounting options (floor or wall) add to the convenience.

However, there are some drawbacks. The soundbar's size and weight (34.8 inches wide and 8 pounds) might be cumbersome for smaller spaces. Additionally, the system requires a corded electric power source, which might limit placement options. Despite its wireless features, the detachable surround speakers need periodic battery charging, which could be seen as a minor inconvenience. This makes the JBL Bar 9.1 well-suited for those seeking a high-performance, flexible surround-sound system that delivers exceptional audio quality without compromising on modern features and connectivity.

The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus is designed for those seeking an immersive home theater experience. It offers a 5.1 channel setup, which includes the main soundbar, subwoofer, and two surround speakers. This configuration ensures a rich and enveloping sound experience. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support elevate the audio quality by providing 3D sound and lifelike audio, which are key features for high-end surround sound systems.

The dedicated center channel enhances dialogue clarity, making it easier to follow conversations during movies and shows. This soundbar also has various EQ modes to optimize audio for different content types, such as movies, music, sports, and nighttime viewing, which is a thoughtful addition. The wireless connectivity of the subwoofer and surround speakers simplifies setup and reduces cable clutter.

Additionally, the soundbar is compatible with smart TVs and streaming media players, and it allows for Bluetooth streaming from phones or tablets, adding to its versatility. One remote can control both the TV and soundbar, which is convenient for users. The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus appears to be a comprehensive option for anyone looking to enhance their home theater experience with high-quality surround sound.

The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar is a high-end 9.1.4 surround sound system offering a premium audio experience suitable for both TV and music. Its standout feature is Dolby Atmos support, which creates an immersive sound environment, and the Sound Motion technology ensures sounds are precisely placed around you. Users will appreciate the ultra-clear dialogue, especially with the Speech Enhancement feature that makes speech even clearer, ideal for watching movies and TV shows.

The elegant design is a plus, fitting seamlessly into any home decor without being distracting. Control options are versatile, including TV remote, Sonos app, touch controls, Sonos Voice Control, and Amazon Alexa, making it user-friendly for various preferences. Setting it up is straightforward with a single HDMI eARC connection and guided instructions from the Sonos app. Room Calibration with Trueplay helps optimize sound quality for your specific room configuration.

Connectivity is robust with options like WiFi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect, providing flexibility for streaming music and other audio content. To achieve the best surround sound experience with Dolby Atmos, you may need to add the Sonos Sub and Era 300 rear speakers, which could be an additional cost. The soundbar does not include an MP3 player or waterproof features, and its relatively high price might be a consideration for some buyers. Its performance and features make it an excellent choice for those seeking a top-tier surround sound system.