10 Best TV Soundbar Without Subwoofer 2026 in the United States

The Bose TV Speaker is a compact soundbar that excels in delivering clear audio and enhancing dialogue, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize speech clarity while watching TV. It features two angled full-range drivers that create a more immersive sound experience, which is particularly beneficial in smaller living spaces. The design is sleek and unobtrusive, measuring just over 2 inches in height, making it easy to fit in front of your TV or mount on the wall if needed.

Connectivity is well-covered with options including HDMI ARC, optical, and AUX inputs, and it supports Bluetooth for streaming music from your devices. This flexibility allows you to connect up to three devices, which is convenient if you frequently switch between different sources.

One of the standout features is the dialogue mode, which can be activated via the included remote control, making it easier to hear conversations without adjusting the overall volume. The soundbar provides good audio for dialogue and music, though it may lack the deep bass impact that a dedicated subwoofer would offer. This could be a drawback for users seeking a more robust audio experience, especially for action movies or music with heavy bass lines. While it is compatible with Bose Bass Modules for those wanting to enhance their experience, the extra cost of the subwoofer and cables can add to the overall investment. The Bose TV Speaker is ideal for casual viewers and those who primarily watch dialogue-heavy content, offering excellent clarity, a sleek design, and convenient connectivity.

The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is designed for those seeking an enhanced audio experience for their TV, especially in smaller spaces or setups without a subwoofer. Its Dolby Atmos technology offers impressive sound quality by creating a surround sound effect that immerses you in your favorite shows and movies. The A.I. Dialogue Mode is a standout feature, ensuring that dialogue is crisp and clear, helping viewers catch every word without straining to hear. With six transducers and upward-firing speakers, it provides a spatial audio experience which is quite appealing.

In terms of connectivity, this soundbar comes equipped with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi options, allowing for easy pairing with devices and smart home integration through Amazon Alexa. The included HDMI eARC and optical cables make it user-friendly during setup, and the ability to pair with other Bose devices for synchronized audio adds versatility.

There are some considerations to be aware of. Despite its many features, the soundbar might not deliver the same low-end punch that a dedicated subwoofer would provide, which could disappoint users looking for deep bass. Additionally, while the soundbar's design is sleek and modern, its dimensions may not suit all entertainment setups, particularly if space is limited. The price point is also on the higher side, which could be a drawback for budget-conscious consumers.

The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 8 HT-A8000 Soundbar stands out in the tv-soundbar-without-subwoofer category with its exceptional sound quality. Featuring 11 speakers and advanced technologies like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, it provides an immersive audio experience with 360 Spatial Sound Mapping that envelops you in surround sound. This makes it an excellent choice for movie enthusiasts and those seeking a cinematic audio experience at home.

The soundbar also includes Sound Field Optimization for auto calibration, ensuring clear and balanced audio tailored to your room settings. Additionally, the option to expand with a wireless subwoofer and rear speakers adds versatility for future upgrades. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including HDMI 2.1, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, allowing for seamless integration with various devices. The inclusion of a remote control and app control further enhances user convenience.

The sleek design, with a width of 43.3 inches, fits well under most TVs, and the wall mounting option offers flexibility in placement. However, it's worth noting that the soundbar lacks built-in voice control, which might be a drawback for users who prefer hands-free operation. As a product from Sony, the brand reputation adds trustworthiness to the purchase. The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 8 HT-A8000 Soundbar is a strong contender in its category, particularly for those prioritizing sound quality and immersive features.