10 Best Soundbar With Optical Input 2025 in the United States

The Samsung HW-B550D is a 3.1 channel soundbar that offers a rich audio experience with Dolby Audio and DTS Virtual:X technologies. These features help create surround sound and improve dialogue clarity, making it a great fit for home theater users who want immersive sound without extra speakers. The built-in center speaker and adaptive sound mode optimize voice clarity, so you won't miss important details in movies or games. It includes a wireless subwoofer with bass boost, adding satisfying depth to lower frequencies, which is ideal if you enjoy action-packed content or music with punchy bass.

Connectivity options are solid, with Bluetooth allowing two devices to connect at once, making it easy to switch between different music sources. The soundbar is compact and wall-mountable, fitting easily below most TVs without taking up much space. Samsung’s one-remote feature adds convenience by letting you control both your TV and soundbar with a single remote. The soundbar supports wireless surround sound expansion, though extra speakers are sold separately, adding to the cost.

With a 4.4-star rating from over 2,300 users, this model is highly regarded for delivering good sound quality and ease of use. It is a strong choice for users looking for a versatile, easy-to-install soundbar that improves TV audio significantly, especially in small to medium rooms.

The Polk MagniFi Max AX SR is an impressive soundbar system designed to enhance your home entertainment experience, especially for those who enjoy movies and music. With its 7.1.2 channel system and a 10" wireless subwoofer, it delivers deep bass and immersive surround sound, thanks to Dolby Atmos and DTS:X certifications. The 11-driver array and Polk's patented SDA 3D audio technology create an expansive soundstage that fills the room, making it ideal for cinematic experiences. One standout feature is the VoiceAdjust technology, which ensures that dialogue is clear and prominent, a great benefit for viewers who struggle with understanding speech in films or shows.

In terms of connectivity, the soundbar is equipped with multiple options, including three 4K HDMI inputs, an HDMI eARC, and an optical input, which meets the needs of most modern setups. Additionally, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities allow for seamless streaming from various devices, enhancing its versatility. Setting up the unit is straightforward, aided by the Google Home app, making it user-friendly for those less familiar with technology.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While the soundbar is packed with features, it may be relatively large for smaller spaces, and the 13-pound weight might make it cumbersome to mount on walls. Some users might also find that while the subwoofer delivers great bass, it can sometimes overpower the overall sound balance in certain settings. Furthermore, the soundbar does not have water resistance, which is something to keep in mind if you plan to use it near pools or in humid environments.

The Bose TV Speaker is a compact soundbar designed to improve your TV audio experience, especially for dialogue clarity. Its standout feature is the enhancement of speech, making it a great choice for those who often find themselves straining to understand conversations in movies or shows. With two angled full-range drivers, it offers a wider soundstage, which helps create a more immersive listening experience.

In terms of connectivity, the soundbar excels with multiple options, including HDMI ARC, optical in, and AUX in, allowing for easy setup and compatibility with various devices. The Bluetooth feature also lets you stream music directly from your phone or tablet, which adds to its versatility. Setting it up is straightforward, requiring just a single connection to your TV, and the included remote control offers additional features like dialogue mode and bass boost for a personalized listening experience.

The design is sleek and compact, standing only about 2 inches tall, making it suitable for tight spaces in front of your TV or easy wall mounting. It’s important to note that it lacks a built-in subwoofer, which means it may not deliver the deep bass some users expect for action movies or music genres heavy on bass. Additionally, while it’s marketed for home entertainment, the sound quality is primarily stereo, which might not satisfy audiophiles looking for surround sound capabilities.