10 Best Sound Bars 2026 in the United States

The Bose Smart Ultra Dolby Atmos Soundbar is designed to bring a rich, immersive audio experience to your TV setup. With a 5.1.4 channel configuration and Dolby Atmos technology, it effectively creates surround sound that feels like it’s coming from all directions, including overhead. This is enhanced by six transducers, including upward-firing speakers, which help deliver detailed and spacious sound. In terms of clarity, the soundbar includes an A.I. Dialogue Mode that balances voices and background sounds, making it easier to hear conversations without increasing the volume excessively. It also comes with a wireless subwoofer connectivity option, which adds deep bass for a fuller sound experience, though the subwoofer itself is not included in the main unit.

Connectivity is versatile, featuring Bluetooth for wireless streaming, and HDMI eARC and optical cables for easy TV connection. The soundbar supports voice control through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing hands-free operation not only for music but also for controlling your TV and smart home devices. The design is sleek and compact, measuring just over 41 inches wide and 2.3 inches tall, making it suitable for tabletop placement or mounting below a TV. The white color option adds a modern look that can blend well with various room styles.

It’s important to note that the soundbar is not water-resistant and relies on corded power. While it offers excellent sound quality and smart features, the absence of a built-in subwoofer means you may want to invest in an additional subwoofer for the best bass performance. Its weight (around 12.7 pounds) makes it sturdy but manageable. This soundbar is well suited for users seeking a high-quality surround sound experience with smart controls and clear dialogue for home entertainment. Those looking for simple setup, immersive sound, and voice integration will find it a strong contender, though it may be more than what casual listeners need.

The Samsung Q990D soundbar is a top-tier choice for those wanting an immersive home theater experience. Its 11.1.4 channel setup includes 11 front speakers, a wireless subwoofer, and 4 up-firing channels, plus rear speakers that bounce sound off walls and ceilings. This design creates a rich, all-around sound, ideal for movies, music, and gaming with 3D audio effects. Connectivity is flexible and wireless, supporting Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and features like Chromecast and AirPlay 2, which make streaming from phones or smart devices easy. The soundbar also has built-in Alexa voice control, adding convenience. Samsung’s SpaceFit Sound Pro automatically adjusts audio based on your room’s layout, helping sound stay clear and balanced. Adaptive Sound further improves dialogue clarity at any volume, so you won’t miss important lines.

The soundbar is quite large and heavy (over 50 pounds), which might require a sturdy wall mount and enough space below your TV. It’s designed exclusively for indoor use and isn’t water-resistant. The price is higher than average, reflecting its premium features, so it might be more than casual listeners need.

If you want a powerful, smart soundbar that truly fills a room with rich Dolby Atmos sound and works seamlessly with Samsung TVs, the Q990D is an excellent pick. For those preferring something simpler or more compact, there are lighter, more affordable options available.

The LG S95TR is a high-end 9.1.5-channel soundbar designed to enhance your home theater experience. One of its standout features is the use of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technology, which provides a premium 3-dimensional sound experience. The inclusion of up-firing rear speakers, which are truly wireless and easy to set up, allows for flexible positioning and an immersive audio experience in any room size or shape. The soundbar also boasts an industry-exclusive up-firing center channel that enhances dialogue clarity, making it ideal for watching movies and TV shows where understanding speech is crucial.

The WOW Orchestra feature is impressive as it allows you to combine the audio output of your LG TV and the soundbar, delivering a more harmonious and detailed sound experience controlled through a single remote. Additionally, the WOWCAST feature enables wireless connection to the TV without any loss of sound quality, maintaining a sleek and clutter-free setup. Connectivity options are robust, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and compatibility with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa, making it versatile and user-friendly. Advanced room calibration uses built-in microphones to measure your room's dimensions and optimize audio settings for the best sound experience, which is a strong advantage.

Potential drawbacks include its size, which may be too large for smaller spaces, and its premium price point, which might not be suitable for budget-conscious buyers. The complex array of features might also be overwhelming for someone looking for a straightforward plug-and-play soundbar. The LG S95TR is best suited for users seeking a premium, feature-rich audio system to complement their home theater setup, especially those already using an LG TV.