10 Best Small Soundbar 2025 in the United States

The Arc Ultra Soundbar by Sonos is designed to deliver an immersive audio experience, particularly appealing for those who enjoy watching movies or listening to music in their home. With advanced features like Dolby Atmos, it provides a remarkable 9.1.4 spatial audio output, making sound placement around the room precise and engaging. Users can expect clarity in dialogue thanks to its Speech Enhancement feature, which is perfect for those who often struggle to hear conversations in films or shows.

In terms of connectivity, the Arc Ultra offers multiple options including HDMI eARC, WiFi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2. This variety allows for easy integration with various devices and streaming services, making it versatile for different users' needs. The setup process is streamlined with the Sonos app, which guides you step-by-step, making it accessible even for non-tech-savvy individuals.

The soundbar's elegant design is another strong point; it fits well in modern living spaces without being obtrusive. The option to add additional Sonos speakers for a fuller surround sound experience is also a plus, especially for audiophiles or home theater enthusiasts. However, it’s worth noting that the Arc Ultra isn't the most compact soundbar on the market, measuring 46.18 inches in width, which may be a consideration for smaller spaces. Additionally, while the price reflects its high-end features, it may be on the higher side for budget-conscious shoppers. Lastly, while features like voice control are convenient, they may not appeal to everyone, especially if you're looking for straightforward audio playback.

The Arc Ultra is well-suited for consumers who prioritize sound quality and smart features in a soundbar, but its size and price might deter those with limited space or budget constraints.

The Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max delivers an impressive and immersive 5.1.4 channel sound experience, making it an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality home theater audio without needing an extra subwoofer. Thanks to AMBEO audio technology, it produces deep bass down to 30Hz and clear midrange and treble from its 13 speakers, including five dedicated tweeters. The soundbar’s advanced room calibration technology adapts to your space, enhancing the surround sound effect. Connectivity options are strong with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, plus built-in Chromecast, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect for easy wireless streaming. It also supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and MPEG-H formats for modern audio compatibility.

In terms of size and design, it measures nearly 50 inches wide and weighs about 40 pounds, which is larger and heavier than many small soundbars, so it’s better suited for bigger TV setups or spaces. Its aluminum and mesh build has a sleek, modern look but might feel bulky if you need a compact solution. The soundbar offers 500 watts of power, enough to fill a medium to large room with rich sound. Additional features include a built-in equalizer and multiple sound modes to customize your listening experience.

One downside is the wired-only subwoofer connection, which means if you want more bass, you’ll need to manage extra cables, and the optional subwoofer is sold separately. While the price and size may not fit every budget or room, this soundbar is ideal for users who prioritize top-tier immersive audio and versatile wireless streaming in a premium design.

The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 HT-A9000 Soundbar is a high-end option for those seeking exceptional sound quality in a compact size. This soundbar features 13 speakers and supports advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which deliver a cinema-quality, three-dimensional sound experience. The 360 Spatial Sound Mapping further enhances the immersion by creating a broad, room-filling audio environment.

The Sound Field Optimization adjusts audio output based on your room's characteristics, ensuring optimal sound quality in any setting. However, to fully maximize its capabilities, additional purchases such as a subwoofer and rear speakers are necessary, which could be a downside for some users due to the extra cost involved.

In terms of connectivity, it supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, providing flexibility for various devices, and is easy to control via a remote or app. The size and sleek design make it suitable for most living spaces, and it can be wall-mounted or placed on a tabletop. The relatively high price and the need for additional components may not make it the best choice for budget-conscious buyers. This soundbar is ideal for home theater enthusiasts who are willing to invest in a premium audio experience.