10 Best Sound Bars 2026 in the United States

The Samsung Q990D soundbar is a top-tier choice for those wanting an immersive home theater experience. Its 11.1.4 channel setup includes 11 front speakers, a wireless subwoofer, and 4 up-firing channels, plus rear speakers that bounce sound off walls and ceilings. This design creates a rich, all-around sound, ideal for movies, music, and gaming with 3D audio effects. Connectivity is flexible and wireless, supporting Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and features like Chromecast and AirPlay 2, which make streaming from phones or smart devices easy. The soundbar also has built-in Alexa voice control, adding convenience. Samsung’s SpaceFit Sound Pro automatically adjusts audio based on your room’s layout, helping sound stay clear and balanced. Adaptive Sound further improves dialogue clarity at any volume, so you won’t miss important lines.

The soundbar is quite large and heavy (over 50 pounds), which might require a sturdy wall mount and enough space below your TV. It’s designed exclusively for indoor use and isn’t water-resistant. The price is higher than average, reflecting its premium features, so it might be more than casual listeners need.

If you want a powerful, smart soundbar that truly fills a room with rich Dolby Atmos sound and works seamlessly with Samsung TVs, the Q990D is an excellent pick. For those preferring something simpler or more compact, there are lighter, more affordable options available.

The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 Soundbar is a robust choice for home theater enthusiasts, featuring 13 speakers and supporting advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. This soundbar excels in delivering a cinema-like surround sound experience, enhanced by 360 Spatial Sound Mapping and Sound Field Optimization, which calibrates audio to your room's characteristics for optimal performance. Connectivity options are plentiful, including HDMI 2.1, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, and Apple AirPlay 2, making it versatile for streaming music and connecting to various devices.

The soundbar is expandable with optional wireless subwoofers and rear speakers, offering flexibility for those seeking a more immersive experience. Measuring 51.2 inches in width, it's substantial in size and ideal for larger spaces. Despite its impressive audio capabilities, the soundbar lacks water resistance and is limited to indoor use. Additionally, while it includes essential components like a remote and HDMI cable, some users might need additional accessories for wall mounting.

The product has received positive customer reviews, with a 4.3-star rating, indicating general satisfaction. However, users should consider the wired subwoofer connectivity, which may not appeal to those seeking a completely wireless setup. The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 Soundbar is a high-quality addition to any home theater system, particularly for those prioritizing sound quality and advanced audio features.

The Bose Home Theater System Smart Ultra Dolby Atmos Soundbar is designed to deliver an immersive audio experience, making it a great option for home theater enthusiasts. One of its key strengths is the inclusion of Dolby Atmos, which enhances sound quality by adding depth and clarity. The system's 3.1 surround sound channel configuration, combined with the Bass Module 700 and two Surround Speakers 700, ensures a rich and dynamic soundscape perfect for movies, gaming, and music.

Additionally, the system supports voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, and features Voice4video technology, allowing for easy voice control and integration with your smart home setup. Connectivity options are robust, with both optical and HDMI inputs, and it also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, providing flexibility in how you connect your devices. The soundbar's modern design and relatively compact size make it suitable for various living room setups, and it can be wall-mounted to save space.

On the downside, the system has a somewhat high price point and the subwoofer requires a wired connection, which might limit placement options. The power output of 300 Watts is substantial, but the weight of 59.4 pounds could be a consideration for those who might need to frequently move or adjust the setup. The lack of waterproofing means it's best suited for indoor use only. This system is ideal for users seeking a high-quality, immersive audio experience with advanced smart features for their home entertainment setup.