10 Best Rear Surround Speakers 2025 in the United States

The VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE is a versatile home audio system designed to deliver an immersive surround sound experience, particularly suited for medium to large-sized rooms. With support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, this soundbar offers dynamic, high-impact sound. It includes three full-range speakers within the soundbar, two surround speakers, and a wireless subwoofer to ensure a full-bodied audio experience.

The soundbar achieves high sound levels with a sensitivity of 96dB and a maximum output power of 180 Watts, making it powerful enough for most home entertainment setups. Connectivity options are robust, featuring Bluetooth and HDMI eARC, although it does lack an optical output. The VIZIO mobile app provides additional control and customization options, although it does require a VIZIO account.

One notable drawback is that the soundbar remote is sold separately, which might be inconvenient for some users. Mounting is made simple with the QuickFit design, especially for those with compatible VIZIO TVs. The soundbar is not waterproof and has a wired subwoofer, which may limit placement options. This VIZIO soundbar is a strong contender for enhancing TV audio with a full surround sound setup, offering good connectivity and control options, though it requires additional purchases for full functionality.

The LG S80QR 5.1.3ch soundbar system offers a robust setup for anyone looking to enhance their home cinema experience. With 4-channel rear speakers and a subwoofer, it promises truly immersive surround sound. Notable features include Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technology, which deliver a 3D sound experience. The center up-firing speaker improves voice clarity, making it ideal for dialogue-heavy content. Meridian Audio Technology and High-Res Audio ensure premium sound quality, and its IMAX Enhanced certification means it's built for movie enthusiasts.

The system is highly versatile, compatible with Airplay2, Spotify HiFi, Alexa, and various other AI platforms, allowing for seamless control and integration with other devices. It's particularly designed to complement LG TVs, offering easy control via the LG TV remote and enhanced sound quality through LG’s sound engine. For gamers, the system provides enhanced connectivity with game consoles, including features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) to improve gaming performance.

However, the setup is quite heavy at 49.9 pounds, which may be cumbersome for some users to handle. Additionally, while it offers wireless subwoofer connectivity, the subwoofer itself is not wireless and needs to be wired, which might limit placement flexibility. The system is not water-resistant, so it should be kept away from moisture. Despite these minor drawbacks, the LG S80QR is a strong contender in the rear-surround-sound category, offering a rich feature set and high-quality audio performance, especially for those with compatible LG TVs.

The SAMSUNG HW-Q990C is a remarkable soundbar that excels in providing an immersive audio experience, perfect for anyone looking to enhance their home theater setup. With its 11.1.4 channel configuration, it creates a rich, surround sound experience that utilizes Dolby Atmos technology, making it ideal for movie lovers and gamers alike. The included up-firing rear speakers contribute to a three-dimensional sound that envelops you, truly bringing your entertainment to life.

One of the standout features is Q-Symphony, which allows this soundbar to work seamlessly with Samsung TVs, enhancing the audio quality. SpaceFit Sound Pro is another impressive capability, adjusting the sound output based on your room's layout for optimal performance. Additionally, the Adaptive Sound feature intelligently analyzes content to improve dialogue clarity, ensuring you won't miss important moments.

The soundbar is also equipped with handy smart features, such as built-in voice assistants for easy navigation and control. Game Mode Pro optimizes audio for gaming, which is a nice touch for gamers looking for an immersive experience. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. While the sound quality is top-notch, the speaker system is on the heavier side, weighing about 22.8 pounds, which might limit placement options or make installation more cumbersome. Additionally, depending on your room setup and personal preferences, the audio might require some tweaking to get just right. The reliance on wireless connectivity could also lead to occasional signal issues, although the HDMI and Bluetooth options generally provide a reliable connection. Finally, while it offers a wealth of features, the price point may be a concern for budget-conscious consumers.

If you’re seeking a high-quality sound system that provides an immersive experience for movies, music, and gaming, the SAMSUNG HW-Q990C is an excellent choice. It is advisable to be prepared to invest a bit more for its advanced capabilities.