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 it was one of the highlights for me and others interested in home entertainment. I recently got a chance to go hands-on with the product, installing it in the living room of our testing lab to check its performance, and I can immediately see why it made such an impression at CES.
Also: This LG soundbar transformed my living room into a home theater - with Dolby Atmos included
Amazon advertises its Fire Soundbar Plus at three price points: $249 for the 3.1-channel version, $374 for the addition of an external subwoofer, and $489 for a 5.1-channel system with the subwoofer plus two surround sound speakers (the model I tested).
The Soundbar Plus' predecessor -- the 2023 Fire TV Soundbar (sans "Plus") -- lies at the bottom of the cost ladder as a 2.0 channel speaker for $119.
Besides including the extra hardware, the Fire TV Soundbar Plus's design differs notably from the low-end 2023 model. The base model is shaped like an elongated, 24-inch pill with soft, curving edges. The Plus model maintains its rounded edges but is twice as deep as it is tall (5.2" x 2.5") and significantly longer at 37 inches. The cube-shaped surround speakers and subwoofer also feature rounded edges for a conservative, streamlined form factor.
I should mention that the shipment box also included a wall mount kit with brackets for the two satellite speakers. The soundbar's remote is a compact four inches long, and, as with all Amazon electronics, it comes equipped with batteries.
Also: 5 easy ways to instantly improve your soundbar's audio (without spending a dime)
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