10 Best Airplay Soundbar 2025 in the United States

The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a solid choice for those looking to enhance their home entertainment experience with an airplay soundbar. One of its standout features is the audio quality, which includes vibrant bass and crystal clear dialogue, along with a 3D surround sound effect thanks to Dolby Atmos. This makes it particularly appealing for movie enthusiasts and music lovers alike. The option to stream music and podcasts even when the TV is off broadens its usability, allowing it to function as a versatile audio source.

In terms of connectivity, the Beam Gen 2 supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and HDMI, ensuring compatibility with a variety of devices and easy integration into existing setups. The inclusion of Apple AirPlay 2 and voice control via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant adds convenience, particularly for users who prefer smart home capabilities.

Setup is designed to be user-friendly, requiring only two cables and guided assistance through the Sonos app. This ease of setup appeals to users who may not be tech-savvy, making it accessible for a wider audience. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The soundbar lacks a dedicated subwoofer, which may limit bass performance for those who prefer a more powerful low-end sound, although it does come with decent bass for its size. Additionally, while the sleek design fits well in most home environments, it may not be suitable for larger rooms without additional speakers for an immersive experience.

The Arc Ultra Soundbar from Sonos is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enhance their home audio experience with a focus on spatial sound. The standout feature is its 9.1.4 surround sound capability powered by Dolby Atmos, which creates an immersive audio environment, perfect for both movies and music. The Sound Motion technology ensures sound is precisely placed around the room, making it ideal for dynamic listening experiences. Users will appreciate the ultra-clear dialogue enhancement, which is particularly useful during quieter scenes in films.

Connectivity is also a strong point, with options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, and compatibility with Apple AirPlay 2. This allows for easy connection to various devices and streaming services. The Sonos app provides a user-friendly interface for control, and setup is straightforward, requiring only a single HDMI eARC connection to your TV.

In terms of design, the Arc Ultra sports an elegant look that should blend seamlessly with most home décors. However, its size—almost 46 inches wide—might not suit smaller spaces. While the soundbar can be used alone, it's worth noting that adding a Sonos Sub or rear speakers can enhance the surround sound experience significantly. One potential drawback is its weight of 12.7 pounds, which may pose challenges for wall mounting. Additionally, while the sound quality is generally praised, some users might find the price point to be on the higher side compared to other soundbars in the market. Lastly, while the warranty is limited, Sonos has a good reputation for customer support and product reliability.

The Arc Ultra Soundbar excels in audio quality and connectivity while providing an elegant design and ease of setup, making it a strong candidate for home audio enthusiasts. Prospective buyers should consider their space and budget before making a decision.

The JBL Bar 1300X is a powerful 11.1.4-channel soundbar designed to deliver immersive home theater audio. Its standout feature is true Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support combined with MultiBeam technology, creating a rich 3D surround sound experience. The detachable surround speakers are wireless and battery-powered, making it easy to place them anywhere without extra cables, enhancing the surround effect. With a robust 1170-watt total output and a 12-inch wireless subwoofer, it offers deep, impactful bass and loud, clear audio that suits movies, music, and games alike.

In terms of connectivity, it supports Wi-Fi with AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, and Chromecast built-in, giving you access to a wide range of streaming services without needing additional devices. Bluetooth and Ethernet are also available for flexible connection options. The soundbar's size and sleek rectangular design make it suitable for wall mounting or placing in front of your TV without taking up much space. Setup is straightforward, thanks to wireless surround speakers and included mounting accessories. The remote control allows easy operation, and automatic software updates via Wi-Fi keep the system current.

The unit is quite heavy at 59 pounds, which might be a bit challenging to handle during installation. It is not water-resistant, so it is strictly for indoor use. While it scores well in sound and features, it is priced at a premium level, which may not suit budget-conscious buyers. This soundbar fits best for home theater enthusiasts seeking high-quality, immersive sound with flexible wireless speaker placement and smart streaming options. For those wanting a top-tier audio experience with modern smart features and who don’t mind the weight or price, the JBL Bar 1300X is a strong contender.