10 Best HDMI Soundbars 2025 in the United States

The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar is a high-end option designed to deliver an immersive audio experience for both TV and music. Its main strength lies in its 9.1.4 channel configuration supported by Dolby Atmos, which ensures superior spatial audio, filling the room with well-placed sounds. This soundbar also includes Speech Enhancement for ultra-clear dialogue, which is a great feature if you watch a lot of movies or shows with intricate dialogue.

The design is elegant and modern, blending seamlessly with most home décor without being a distraction. Setting it up is straightforward with a single HDMI eARC connection and helpful guidance from the Sonos app. For control, it offers multiple options, including your TV remote, voice control via Amazon Alexa, and the Sonos app, ensuring flexibility and ease of use. The Sonos Arc also supports various streaming options like WiFi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect, making it versatile for playing music from different sources.

One potential drawback is that the subwoofer is not included and must be purchased separately if you want deeper bass. Additionally, it is a corded electric device, which might limit placement options to areas near power outlets. It is also quite large, measuring over 46 inches, so it may not be suitable for very small spaces. Despite its premium features and high quality, it does come with a higher price tag, which is something to consider depending on your budget. In conclusion, if you are looking for a top-tier soundbar with excellent audio quality, multiple control options, and modern connectivity features, the Sonos Arc Ultra is a compelling choice, especially if you are willing to invest in additional components like the subwoofer for a complete surround sound experience.

The JBL Bar 9.1 Channel Soundbar System is a robust choice for anyone looking to enhance their home theater experience. With an impressive 820W power output, this soundbar delivers powerful and immersive audio. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos and DTS: X decoding ensures a high-quality sound experience, making it ideal for enjoying movies and music in rich surround sound.

The system is designed to be user-friendly with detachable, battery-powered surround speakers, which offer flexibility and convenience without the hassle of wires. The 300W, 10-inch powered subwoofer adds deep bass, enhancing the audio experience further. For connectivity, the soundbar supports HDMI ARC/eARC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and optical inputs, providing various options for connecting your devices. It also features Ultra HD 4K pass-through with Dolby Vision, making it a suitable addition to a modern home theater setup.

A notable feature is the built-in calibration system, which adjusts the audio settings to fit your room's acoustics, ensuring optimal sound quality. However, some users may find the soundbar's size a bit bulky, and it requires a corded power source, limiting its placement options. The soundbar is not water-resistant, so it's best used in indoor, dry environments. Despite these minor drawbacks, the JBL Bar 9.1 is praised for its sound quality and ease of use, making it a solid investment for a home theater system.

The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a feature-rich soundbar that aims to enhance your home entertainment experience. It excels in delivering clear dialogue and rich bass, and with Dolby Atmos, it provides an immersive 3D surround sound effect, making your movie nights truly cinematic. The soundbar has a power output of 200 watts, which should be ample for most living rooms. However, it does not include a subwoofer, which might be a downside for those who prefer deeper bass without the need for additional equipment.

On the connectivity front, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is quite versatile. It supports HDMI ARC/eARC, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet connections, and can be controlled via the Sonos app, TV remote, Apple AirPlay 2, or by voice using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This makes it highly convenient to use and integrate with other smart home devices. Its sleek and compact design (3.9"D x 25.6"W x 2.7"H) ensures that it can easily fit on a shelf or be wall-mounted without disrupting your décor.

One of the key highlights is its easy setup process, requiring only two cables and guided by the Sonos app. The soundbar also supports multi-room audio, allowing you to expand your Sonos system over time. It lacks a built-in subwoofer and is not water-resistant, so it's best suited for indoor use. Additionally, it may be on the pricier side for some users. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is ideal for those looking for a high-quality, easy-to-use soundbar with excellent sound quality and smart home integration features, but it might not satisfy users who need an included subwoofer or a budget-friendly option.