10 Best Cheap Surround Sound Systems 2025 in the United States

The VIZIO Elevate SE 5.1.2 Soundbar system is an appealing option for those seeking an affordable surround sound experience with modern features. This system includes a soundbar, wireless subwoofer, and two surround speakers, delivering a 5.1.2 channel configuration. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technology ensures a dynamic and immersive audio experience, especially with the adaptive height speakers that reflect sound off the ceiling.

However, the soundbar remote control isn't included, which may be inconvenient for some users who prefer traditional controls over mobile apps. The connectivity options are robust, featuring Bluetooth and HDMI eARC, enabling high-quality audio and easy control with your TV remote. There is no optical output, which could be a drawback for those with older devices. The power output of 185 watts is decent for a system in this price range, providing ample volume for most home setups.

The QuickFit mounting system is a plus for VIZIO TV owners, ensuring a seamless setup without the need for additional tools. On the downside, the lack of advanced room calibration features means that users might need to manually adjust settings to optimize sound for their specific room. The system’s modern design, premium materials, and customizable LED lights add a touch of elegance to any living space. At 27.7 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight and easy to install. Despite some minor drawbacks, this sound system is a solid choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for good sound quality and modern features.

The JBL Bar 9.1 Channel Soundbar System is a strong contender for those seeking an affordable surround sound experience. With a robust output power of 820W, it delivers impressive audio performance, especially with built-in Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding, which enhances your movie and music experience remarkably. One of its standout features is the detachable, battery-powered surround speakers, allowing for true surround sound without the hassle of wires, giving you flexibility in setting up your audio space.

The 300W, 10-inch powered subwoofer ensures deep bass, adding to the immersive quality of the sound. Additionally, its Ultra HD 4K Pass-through with Dolby Vision supports high-quality video, making it a great choice for home theater enthusiasts.

On the connectivity front, the JBL Bar 9.1 offers a variety of options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, optical inputs, and HDMI, making it compatible with a range of devices. The inclusion of room calibration features is also a plus, as it helps the system adapt to your specific environment for optimized audio. There are some drawbacks to consider, such as the initial setup complexity due to the various components, and its weight of 8 pounds can pose a challenge for some when mounting on walls, although wall-mount brackets are included. Additionally, while the sound quality is impressive, audiophiles might still find areas for improvement compared to more expensive systems.

The JBL Bar 9.1 provides excellent value for those looking for a compelling surround sound experience on a budget, but potential buyers should be prepared for a learning curve during setup and consider their specific audio needs.

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar offers a premium surround sound experience for your TV with its Dolby Atmos and Bose TrueSpace technology. This soundbar delivers immersive audio, placing sounds in different parts of the room for a true spatial audio experience. The A.I. Dialogue Mode ensures that voices are ultra-clear, so you won't miss any dialogue. Equipped with six transducers, including two upward-firing speakers, it fills the room with sound from every direction, including overhead. This makes it a strong contender for anyone looking to enhance their home entertainment setup on a budget.

For connectivity, it supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and includes HDMI eARC and optical audio cables for easy setup. Voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant adds convenience, allowing you to control the system and access information hands-free. Setup is straightforward with the plug-and-play option, and it can be paired with other Bose devices for more extensive sound coverage.

Despite its weight of 12.68 pounds and lack of water resistance, it offers decent power output at 180 watts, which might not be sufficient for very large rooms. The surround sound channel configuration of 3.1 may not fully meet the needs of a high-end surround sound system enthusiast. It includes a remote control and supports app-based controls but requires a power cord, thus not entirely wireless in terms of power. Given its price, it provides excellent value but may not compete with more expensive, high-end systems in terms of channel configuration and power output.