10 Best 5 1 Surround Sound System 2025 in the United States

The VIZIO Elevate SE 5.1.2 Soundbar is a modern and feature-rich surround sound system that promises a cinematic audio experience at home. It includes adaptive height speakers that rotate to reflect sound off the ceiling when Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content is detected, enhancing your immersive experience. This system boasts a sleek design with premium materials, customizable LED lights, and is easy to set up, especially with compatible VIZIO TVs using QuickFit mounting screws.

The 5.1.2 configuration with a wireless subwoofer and two surround speakers offers robust sound output, with a maximum power of 185 watts and a frequency response of 100 Hz, ideal for TV and movie watching. Connectivity options are solid, with Bluetooth and HDMI eARC providing high-quality audio and easy control with your TV remote. However, there is no optical output, which might limit connectivity with some older devices. Additionally, the lack of a remote control means you'll need to rely on the VIZIO app for advanced settings, which requires a VIZIO account.

At 27.7 pounds, this soundbar is relatively heavy, and while it's not water-resistant, it's made of durable plastic, metal, and rubber. This sound system is best suited for those looking for high-quality audio enhancement for their TV setup and are comfortable using a mobile app for control.

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is a premium surround sound system aimed at enhancing TV audio with advanced features like Dolby Atmos and Bose TrueSpace technology. This soundbar excels in delivering an immersive audio experience, thanks to its six transducers and upward-firing dipole speakers that fill the room with sound from all directions. The A.I. Dialogue Mode ensures that dialogue is clear, making it great for catching every word in movies or shows.

The built-in Amazon Alexa and Google Voice Control add convenience for controlling entertainment and other smart home tasks using your voice. Connectivity options are robust, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, with simple plug-and-play setup via HDMI eARC or optical audio cable. You can also pair it with Bose headphones or other Bose Bluetooth speakers for private or extended listening experiences using Bose SimpleSync.

While the power output of 180 watts is substantial, the soundbar is configured as a 3.1 channel system rather than the 5.1 configuration typical of full surround setups. It lacks a dedicated subwoofer, which might be a downside for those seeking deep bass for their home theater experience. At 12.68 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and designed for tabletop mounting. Made of plastic, its build quality may not feel as premium as other high-end options. This soundbar is best suited for users seeking a high-quality, easy-to-use soundbar with smart features, especially those who prioritize clear dialogues and immersive spatial audio. Users looking for a traditional 5.1 surround sound system with a dedicated subwoofer may want to consider additional components to complement this soundbar.

The VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE (2024 Model) offers a robust sound experience with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, making it a strong contender for home theater enthusiasts. The speaker configuration includes three full-range speakers in the soundbar, two surround speakers, and a wireless subwoofer, delivering a powerful 96dB sound suitable for medium to large rooms. The soundbar's power output is 180 Watts, ensuring dynamic audio performance. The frequency response of 5E+1 Hz suggests it can handle a wide range of sounds, enhancing the listening experience.

Connectivity options are versatile, with Bluetooth and HDMI eARC available, although it lacks an optical output. The build quality is practical with a compact design (3.23"D x 33"W x 2.28"H) and the QuickFit feature simplifies mounting with compatible VIZIO TVs. Users can control the soundbar through the VIZIO mobile app or their TV's remote, though it should be noted that no dedicated soundbar remote is included, which might be inconvenient for some users.

VIZIO has a solid brand reputation and this model is ranked well among home audio sound bars. However, it's not waterproof and the subwoofer requires a wired connection, which might limit placement flexibility. Potential buyers should also be aware that the product relies on a corded electric power source and it may not be ideal for those seeking a completely wireless setup. The VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE is a great choice for enhancing television audio, especially for users with VIZIO TVs looking for easy integration and immersive sound capabilities.