[Updated Oct. 26, 2023] What are the best soundbars for your home theater in 2023? Here is a list of some of the best soundbars available from manufacturers such as Bose, JBL, LG Samsung, Sony, and Vizio. If you’re planning on getting a new soundbar, why not get one that supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X? The two formats offer the best immersive surround sound audio quality on current systems.
How many channels does a soundbar have? Soundbars usually have at least two speakers (left and right) but they can also be configured with a subwoofer for low bass frequencies. So, a 2-channel soundbar would be labeled as 2.0 while a 2-channel soundbar with a subwoofer is labeled 2.1. As the number of channels go up, so does the number. So, a 3-channel with subwoofer is 3.1, 5-channel with subwoofer 5.1, and so on.
What is Dolby Atmos and DTS:X? Both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X are object-based audio formats which allow 3-dimensional placement of sound across a placement of speakers. Most notably, Atmos and DTS:X distribute audio to height speakers, allowing overhead sound in ceiling speakers, wall speakers (placed high for best effect), and angled speakers that direct sound to reflect off the ceiling.
Here are some of the best Dolby Atmos & DTS:X soundbars available.
Sony HT-A7000 7.1.2ch 500W
The Sony HT-A7000 7.1.2-channel soundbar is currently Sony’s top-of-the-line model boasting 500 watts of power! The HT-A7000 includes support for both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive audio formats and features Vertical Surround Engine, S-Force Pro Front Surround, and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping to emulate surround sound. And, visuals and video gameplay are enhanced with 8K/HDR, Dolby Vision, and 4K/120 passthrough. The model also pairs with BRAVIA XR TVs4 to easily access to soundbar controls. Subwoofers are optional. List Price: $1,399 | Sale $998 on Amazon.
Sony HT-A5000 5.1.2ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar with 360 Spatial Sound Mapping
The Sony HT-A5000 5.1.2 channel home theater soundbar supports both DTS:X and Dolby Atmos immersive audio, Vertical Surround Engine, S-Force Pro Front Surround, and 360 Reality Audio, The soundbar works with Alexa & Google Assistant. Want an even better home theater experience? Bundle the HT-A5000 with the Sony 300W Wireless Subwoofer (also works with Sony HT-A9 and HT-A7000). The Sony HT-A5000 is priced $788 (alone) or $1,699 (with subwoofer). See on Amazon
Sony HT-S2000: 3.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar + Subwoofer
The Sony HT-S2000: 3.1 channel Dolby Atmos & DTS:X Soundbar released in April, 2023 is best configured with the 200W SA-SW3 subwoofer (it will make all the difference!) connected via Bluetooth. The HT-S2000 soundbar features Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force PRO Front Surround to simulate audio effects over head. Bundle List: $899 Price: $796. See on Amazon
JBL Bar 500: 5.1-Channel soundbar with MultiBeam and Dolby Atmos
The 590W output JBL Bar 500 is a 5.1 channel soundbar that features MultiBeam technology to direct audio effects around the room. The soundbar features built-in Wi-Fi with AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music and Chromecast. Includes a 10″ subwoofer and supports Dolby Atmos. List: $599. See on Amazon
Bose Smart Soundbar 600 Dolby Atmos with Alexa Built-in, Bluetooth
The Bose Smart Soundbar 600 can be purchased with or without a separate bass module, but it’s highly recommended if you have the space! The Bose Soundbar 600 supports Dolby Atmos and includes 5 built-in speakers (including 2 upward firing) in a small, 27.5” wide soundbar for your home theater that can be configured with a 10″ x 10″ wireless subwoofer (not shown). Price: $499 with Bass Module $1,007. See on Amazon
