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This midrange Sony home theater beats the pricey flagship for me - here's why

Sony Bravia Theater System 6 ZDNET's key takeaways The Bravia Theater System 6 consists of a center channel soundbar, two rear speakers, and an external subwoofer for $800. It offers great sound, in-app Bravia audio features, and a simple user experience. Without Wi-Fi connectivity, many wireless streaming options are unavailable, but the movie and TV watching experience remains unchanged $798 at Walmart $768 at B&H Photo-Video $798 at Crutchfield more buying choices Follow ZDNET: Add us as a

Samsung HW-Q990F Soundbar System Review: Glorious Atmos

It’s hard to convince anyone to spend over a thousand dollars on a soundbar system. Ask a home theater nerd or Redditor, and they’ll say spending real cash on anything other than a receiver and dedicated speakers and subwoofer is a fool's errand. As an A/V reviewer, I see this as a hilariously case of gatekeeping. These arguments are predicated on the fact that everyone has the room, know-how, and desire to deal with cables, speakers, and the associated setup. For those of us with partners who

I was struggling to hear TV dialogue until this soundbar fixed everything for cheap

Creative Stage Pro soundbar ZDNET's key takeaways The Creative Stage Pro soundbar is available on Amazon for $170. This cost-effective soundbar excels at producing clear dialogue. The Stage Pro subwoofer won't blow you away, but it does add some depth to voices. View now at Amazon Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. This space-saving soundbar/subwoofer combo from Creative might not meet the lofty demands of an audiophile, but for anyone who wants more sound from their movie

Can't hear TV dialogue? This soundbar fixed my audio problems for cheap

Creative Stage Pro soundbar ZDNET's key takeaways The Creative Stage Pro soundbar is available on Amazon for $170. This cost-effective soundbar excels at producing clear dialogue. The Stage Pro subwoofer won't blow you away, but it does add some depth to voices. $169.99 at B&H Photo-Video $169.99 at Amazon more buying choices Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. This space-saving soundbar/subwoofer combo from Creative might not meet the lofty demands of an audiophile, but fo

Marshall’s Mid-Century-Looking Soundbar Would Make Don Draper Cry Tears of Joy

Marshall’s lineup of non-rockstar-grade audio gear just got a little bigger. As a part of IFA 2025, the company announced the Heston 60, a more compact soundbar that complements its previously released Heston 120. As usual, Marshall is keeping things mid-century with a design that invokes its classic amps and includes tactile controls (buttons instead of knobs like those used on the Heston 120), woven fabric, and PU leather. It also comes in either cream or black, but if you don’t buy the cream

5 ways to instantly boost your soundbar audio quality (without spending a dime)

Jada Jones/ZDNET Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. Soundbars are gaining in popularity because of their sleek design and ability to provide an ample boost in audio quality compared to built-in TV speakers. Even with their plug-and-play nature, you can make a few modifications to help unleash the best possible sound quality. Also: I tried Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds' AI noise cancelling, and can't go back to regular ANC Whether you're new to soundbar setups or a self-p

14 Best Soundbars We’ve Tested and Reviewed (2025): Sonos, Sony, Bose

Honorable Mentions Photograph: Parker Hall There are a lot of great soundbars out there, and we don’t have room to feature them all. Here are some others you might want to consider. LG S95AR for $1,700: LG's latest 9.1.5-channel system offers minor upgrades over its predecessor, the ST95R, leaving few reasons to upgrade at full price. It's among the top performers in its class, offering impressive clarity, swift and fluid immersion, and snappy setup and control with LG's continuously improvin

Sennheiser updates the Ambeo Max soundbar with lossless audio, customizable immersion and more

Sennheiser's most expensive Ambeo soundbar is getting a substantial update. The company announced that the Ambeo Soundbar Max, a $2,000 beast of a living room speaker, will gain two features it calls Customizable Immersion and Voice Enhancement Mode. Plus, the company is adding lossless audio support on top of Dolby Atmos Music. The firmware update will equip the Max with Ambeo OS2 and is available via free download through the Sennheiser Smart Control app for iOS and Android. With Customizable

5 quick ways to make your soundbar sound better than ever (and for free)

Jada Jones/ZDNET Soundbars are gaining in popularity because of their sleek design and ability to provide an ample boost in audio quality compared to built-in TV speakers. Even with their plug-and-play nature, you can make a few modifications to help unleash the best possible sound quality. Also: I replaced my Sonos Arc Ultra with this Samsung flagship soundbar - and it's a worthy alternative Whether you're new to soundbar setups or a self-proclaimed audiophile, familiarizing yourself with so

I did not expect this JBL soundbar to outperform pricier models by Sonos and Bose like this

JBL Bar 1000MK2 ZDNET's key takeaways The JBL Bar 1000MK2 includes a soundbar, two detachable rear speakers, and an external subwoofer for $1,200. It's a versatile system, with powerful audio performance suitable for large rooms. It's not an ideal option for people who want permanent rear speakers. $1,199.95 at Walmart $1,199.95 at B&H Photo-Video $1,199.95 at Crutchfield more buying choices The original JBL Bar 1000 made a compelling case for itself as a versatile soundbar for those who want

Sony Bravia Theater Bar 6 review: Great sound, greater frustration

Unlike two of its biggest rivals , Sony waited until April to unveil its latest soundbars rather than debut them at CES in January. And even then, the two most premium options in the company’s 2025 lineup remain untouched. Instead, Sony gave us the Bravia Theater Bar 6 ($650) : a 3.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos soundbar that comes with a wireless subwoofer and a modest set of features. However, the caveats here are real headscratchers, especially on a soundbar launching this year. Sony 75 100 Expert

I replaced my Sonos soundbar for one with detachable rear speakers - and it's worth it

JBL Bar 1000MK2 ZDNET's key takeaways The JBL Bar 1000MK2 includes a soundbar, two detachable rear speakers, and an external subwoofer for $1,200. It's a versatile system, with powerful audio performance suitable for large rooms. It's not an ideal option for people who want permanent rear speakers. $1,199.95 at Walmart $1,199.95 at Crutchfield $1,199.95 at JBL.com more buying choices The original JBL Bar 1000 made a compelling case for itself as a versatile soundbar for those who wanted the o

I swapped my Sonos soundbar for one with detachable rear speakers - genius or gimmick?

JBL Bar 1000MK2 ZDNET's key takeaways The JBL Bar 1000MK2 includes a soundbar, two detachable rear speakers, and an external subwoofer for $1,200. It's a versatile system, with powerful audio performance suitable for large rooms. It's not an ideal option for people who want permanent rear speakers. $1,199.95 at Walmart $1,199.95 at B&H Photo-Video $1,199.95 at Crutchfield more buying choices The original JBL Bar 1000 made a compelling case for itself as a versatile soundbar for those who want

The best soundbars of 2025: Expert tested and recommended

Why we like it: If you're willing to spend the money for the best soundbar system you can get right now, and want something that comes with a subwoofer and surrounds all ready to go, then the Samsung HW-Q990F is the way to go. The system is powerful, immersive, and incredible sounding, and while it's far from cheap, it pushes the limits of what a soundbar can offer. Review: Samsung HQ-Q990F The Samsung HW-Q990F is pretty bulky, and for a reason. It has a 23 drivers built straight into it, with

Yamaha’s New Soundbar Has More Up-Firing Dolby Atmos Speakers Than There Are ‘Fast and Furious’ Movies

Sometimes more is better. Case in point: money. I could really use more money, and if you gave me more money, I’d be happy about that—I think most would agree with that sentiment, and if you don’t, I have a favor to ask. Speakers, like money, are also a thing you may want more of, and while they’re not as important as money, they’re important for your ears, and Yamaha is here to take your money in exchange for satisfying your ears in a very maximalist way. Yamaha’s True X Surround 90A soundbar

This is the soundbar I recommend for deeply immersive audio - and now it's $300 off

LG S95TR Soundbar ZDNET's key takeaways The LG S95TR soundbar with wireless subwoofer is currently on sale for $1,296. The LGS95TR may be expensive, but the high-quality audio is easily worth the price. The soundbar has many features, but some of the best ones require a newer LG TV model. View now at Best Buy View now at Amazon more buying choices It's been a year since LG released the S95TR soundbar, following much hype, as a high-end complement to its newest OLED TVs. The soundbar and wirel

5 simple ways to dramatically improve your soundbar's audio (and for free)

Adam Breeden/ZDNET Soundbars are gaining in popularity because of their sleek design and ability to provide an ample boost in audio quality compared to built-in TV speakers. Even with their plug-and-play nature, you can make a few modifications to help unleash the best possible sound quality. Also: I replaced my Sonos Arc Ultra with this Samsung flagship soundbar - and it's a worthy alternative Whether you're new to soundbar setups or a self-proclaimed audiophile, familiarizing yourself with

I replaced my Sonos Arc Ultra with this Samsung flagship soundbar - and it's a worthy alternative

Samsung HW-Q990F ZDNET's key takeaways The Samsung HW-Q990F home entertainment system is on sale on Amazon for $1,999, including a soundbar, external subwoofer, and two rear speakers. The Q990F is packed with software features, plenty of audio modes, and delivers big, room-filling sound. However, there aren't many substantial upgrades over last year's model, leaving no urgency to upgrade. $1,497.99 at Amazon $1,599.99 at Samsung $1,997.99 at Walmart more buying choices You don't need me to te

This is the soundbar I recommend for deeply immersive audio - and now it's $600 off

LG S95TR Soundbar ZDNET's key takeaways The LG S95TR soundbar with wireless subwoofer is currently on sale for $996. The LGS95TR may be expensive, but the high-quality audio is easily worth the price. The soundbar has many features, but some of the best ones require a newer LG TV model. View now at Best Buy View now at Amazon more buying choices It's been a year since LG released the S95TR soundbar, following much hype, as a high-end complement to its newest OLED TVs. The soundbar and wireles

Marshall's first soundbar rocks as a mainstream alternative - Here's my take

ZDNET's key takeaways The Marshall Heston 120 is a one-box soundbar (no rear speakers or sub included) that retails for $999. This soundbar delivers a fresh design and plenty of bass, audio features, and connectivity ports. For a first-generation product, it retails for as much as its well-established, acclaimed rivals. View now at Marshall The Marshall Heston 120 soundbar is currently out of stock on Marshall's website, and there are no other retailers. According to Marshall, it will be rest

I recommend this Amazon Fire TV soundbar to most people - here's why

ZDNET's key takeaways The Fire TV Soundbar Plus is perfect for those who want an affordable plug-and-play solution, available now for $250 standalone or $490 for the bundle. Bass is impressive (especially with the subwoofer), and the dialogue enhancement feature is helpful for clarity. It lacks built-in Wi-Fi streaming, smart features, or Alexa integration, connects with Bluetooth, and doesn't have a companion app. View now at Amazon Amazon showcased its Fire TV Soundbar Plus at CES 2025, and

I tested Samsung's flagship soundbar, and it easily competes with my Sonos Arc Ultra

ZDNET's key takeaways The Samsung HW-Q990F home entertainment system is on sale on Amazon for $1,347, including a soundbar, external subwoofer, and two rear speakers. The Q990F is packed with software features, plenty of audio modes, and delivers big, room-filling sound. However, there aren't many substantial upgrades over last year's model, leaving no urgency to upgrade. $1,497.99 at Amazon $1,599.99 at Samsung $1,497.99 at Walmart more buying choices For a limited time, the HW-Q990F soundba

I recommend this soundbar if you want deeply immersive sound - and it's on sale at Amazon

ZDNET's key takeaways The LG S95TR soundbar with wireless subwoofer is optimized for the company's OLED TVs with immersive audio features. The LGS95TR may be expensive, but the high-quality audio is easily worth the price. The soundbar has many features, but some of the best ones require a newer LG TV model. View now at Best Buy View now at Amazon more buying choices During Amazon Prime Day, the LG S95TR soundbar setup is on sale for $997. Other cheaper options are available too. It's been a

Samsung HW-QS700F soundbar review: Sophisticated design, automatic adjustments

Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products . It’s nice to see Samsung offer something new for 2025. For the last few years, the company has been updating existing designs for its annual refreshes , especially its most premium soundbar, the Q990 . I was pleasantly surprised to see something entirely new when the company debuted th

Pick up the Amazon Fire TV Soundbar at an all-time low price with Prime savings

Amazon Prime Day is hitting its stride with incredible discounts on popular tech products. If you’re looking to enhance your home audio setup, this year’s deals include an enticing offer on the Amazon Fire TV Soundbar. It’s now available for $84.99, down from its standard price of $119.99. This offers you a 29% discount, and the best offer we’ve ever tracked on the home entertainment addition. Amazon Fire TV Soundbar for $84.99 (29% off) This soundbar is a 3.1-channel audio device featuring sup

Prime Day Soundbar Deal Alert: Sony Bravia Theater System 6

Sony's soundbar lineup for 2025 zigged while most other brands zagged, and the result was one of my favorite all-in-one surround sound systems you can buy. The wild and wonderful Bravia Theater System 6 is a different kind of surround system that borrows from the past while keeping a keen eye on the future of your home theater room. It's on sale for a killer deal during Prime Day, a rarity for Sony that's worth jumping on for anyone looking for cinematic thrills. This is one of the best Prime Da

The best soundbars to boost your TV audio in 2025

Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products . The best soundbars can completely transform your TV setup, turning flat, lifeless audio into something that actually sounds cinematic. Whether you're watching blockbuster movies, listening to music or gaming, a good soundbar delivers clearer vocals, deep bass and better overall playbac

Bose Is Going Nuts, Its TV Soundbar Hits a New All-Time Low for Prime Day

Bose has been a name in the household for decades and it is well known for its speakers and headphones. Some forget, though, that Bose is just as good at home audio as it is at headphones and travel speakers. The best example of this is the Bose TV speaker which offers an easy but effective solution for those who want to get a better sound out of their TV. As part of Prime Day, this soundbar is exclusively for Prime members at a brand-new all-time low price of $199, from its usual $279. See at

This Prime Day Deal Knocking $450 Off the JBL Bar 9.1 Soundbar System Is Coming Through Loud and Clear

Sometimes we say that the biggest and best Prime Day deal have to be seen to be believed, but this is one that has to be heard to be believed. JBL’s Bar 9.1 soundbar system , a wireless setup that delivers amazing cinema-quality surround sound, is just $750 for Prime Day, a huge 37% price break from its regular price of $1,200. You can add to the already impressive $450 savings you get during this hot Prime Day deal all of the hundreds of dollars you won’t be paying someone to either wire your

KEF Xio Review: So Good, So Expensive

There’s a level of confidence you have to admire in a brand entering a new market and out-pricing almost every single one of its competitors, straight from the off. That certainly appears to be KEF’s strategy with its very first soundbar, the KEF Xio—an all-in-one Atmos soundbar that will set you back a cool $2,500 (£2,000.) Of course, there’s the obvious: that’s enough to buy yourself a pretty decent surround sound package, with a performance that any soundbar will struggle to match. But if yo