10 Best Surround Sound Bars 2025 in the United States

The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus is an impressive surround-sound system that features 5.1 channels, making it capable of delivering a true cinematic experience. It comes with a subwoofer and two surround speakers, which are both wirelessly connected, simplifying the setup process and reducing cable clutter. Additionally, the system supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, providing 3D, lifelike audio that enhances movie watching and gaming experiences. The dedicated center dialogue channel ensures that conversations are crisp and clear, which is beneficial for catching every word in your favorite shows.

This soundbar also offers multiple EQ modes—Movie, Music, Sports, and Night—allowing you to optimize the audio based on your content type. The inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity means you can also stream music directly from your phone or tablet. The soundbar is compatible with smart TVs and TVs connected to streaming media players, and it integrates seamlessly with Fire TV for easy control using a single remote. The design is sleek, with a soundbar size of 37” x 5.2” x 2.5”, making it a good fit for most TV setups without being obtrusive. The 14.3lbs weight of the subwoofer and the size of the components might require careful placement to avoid overwhelming smaller spaces.

The product includes essential accessories like an HDMI cable, wall mount kit, and a quick start guide, making it user-friendly out of the box. With a one-year limited warranty and options for extended coverage, it provides decent after-sales support. The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus is well-suited for users looking for an immersive audio experience with easy setup and comprehensive features, though it might be more optimal for mid-sized to larger living spaces.

The Bose TV Speaker is a compact soundbar designed to enhance your TV sound experience with simplicity and ease. Its most notable strength is its ability to clarify speech, thanks to the enhanced dialogue mode. This is particularly beneficial for users who find it difficult to understand TV dialogue. The soundbar features two angled full-range drivers that provide a wider, more natural sound, creating a more immersive audio experience despite its small size.

The soundbar's primary connectivity options include Bluetooth, HDMI-ARC, optical in, and AUX in, making it versatile for different setups and allowing for the wireless streaming of music and podcasts. One of its biggest selling points is the easy setup; a single connection gets you started in minutes. The remote control adds convenience, offering options to adjust dialogue mode and bass boost. However, it lacks a built-in subwoofer, which may be a drawback for those looking for deeper bass without additional purchases.

The small and sleek design makes it easy to place in front of your TV or mount on a wall, but it might not provide the room-filling sound that larger, multi-channel systems offer. For those who desire a more powerful bass experience, it is compatible with the Bose Bass Module 500 or 700, although this requires an extra purchase. The Bose TV Speaker is an excellent choice for users seeking a straightforward and compact solution to improve TV sound, especially in smaller spaces or for those prioritizing vocal clarity over cinematic surround sound effects.

The Arc Ultra Soundbar by Sonos is a high-end surround sound system designed to deliver an immersive audio experience. With its 9.1.4 channel setup and Dolby Atmos support, this soundbar excels in creating a spatial audio experience that fills the room. The integration of Sound Motion technology enhances this effect by precisely placing sounds around the listener, adding to the depth and realism of the audio. An additional Speech Enhancement feature ensures that dialogue is crystal clear, making it ideal for watching movies and TV shows.

The soundbar is also compatible with various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI eARC, and Apple AirPlay 2, offering flexibility in how you connect and control your audio devices. Voice control through Sonos Voice Control and Amazon Alexa adds convenience, allowing hands-free operation. The elegant design of the Arc Ultra ensures it fits seamlessly into any home decor without being a distraction.

However, it's worth noting that the included subwoofer is wired, which might limit placement options for some users. The soundbar is also relatively large, measuring over 46 inches in width, which could be an issue for smaller spaces. Despite these minor drawbacks, the effortless setup through the Sonos app and the ability to expand the system with additional Sonos speakers make this a versatile choice for those seeking a premium home audio experience.