Are you looking to seriously upgrade your TV’s audio but overwhelmed by all the options? This guide will break down everything you need to know about soundbars vs TV speakers to help you make the right choice.
As a home theater enthusiast and avid audiophile for over 20 years, I’ve tested countless audio setups. My goal is to equip you with insider knowledge to build the ideal home audio system tailored to your needs and budget.
Why TV Speakers Fall Short for Home Entertainment
TV speakers used to be an afterthought for manufacturers. Extra-thin displays left little room for quality integrated speakers. Major strides have been made, but even high-end TV speakers still have limitations:
- Lack bass and volume – Small drivers can’t produce deep bass or high volume needed for immersive sound. Voices and explosions all blend together.
- Tinny, distorted quality – TV speakers often sound shrill and distorted at high volumes, ruining the viewing experience.
- No surround sound – TV speakers fire straight forward, not enveloping you from all directions like theater surround sound.
- Dialogue can get drowned out – With action happening on screen, dialogue delivered through TV speakers can get muddled and hard to understand.
- No Dolby Atmos – No TV speakers provide height channels for Dolby Atmos 3D soundscapes.
The bottom line is integrated TV speakers are a compromise and leave much to be desired. Keep reading or jump ahead:
What is a Soundbar? A Convenient All-In-One Audio Upgrade
Soundbars represent an easy upgrade path over TV speakers, offering improved audio performance without the complexity of a full home theater setup.
A soundbar is a slim speaker unit designed to sit below or mount above your TV. This single all-in-one unit replaces having separate speakers scattered around a room.
Benefits of soundbars:
- Compact, minimalist design
- Simple plug-and-play setup
- Single unit with multiple built-in speakers
- Advanced audio decoding (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X)
- Bluetooth and WiFi streaming
- Voice assistant integration (Alexa, Google Assistant)
Soundbars range from basic 2-channel models under $100 to elaborate surround sound systems costing over $1000. Higher-end units incorporate subwoofers for thunderous bass and even wireless satellite speakers for true surround sound.
Choosing the Best Soundbar – Key Considerations
With countless soundbar options on the market, it helps to focus on a few key factors to find the best model for your needs:
Soundbar Channels and Speakers
One of the biggest factors determining sound quality is the number of built-in speakers and channels. More drivers and channels allow for better surround effects and audio clarity:
- 2.0 channels – Basic stereo left and right.
- 2.1 channels – Left, right, + subwoofer. Most common and affordable.
- 3.1 channels – Left, right, center channel + subwoofer. Center boosts dialogue.
- 5.1 channels – Front left, center, right, side surrounds + sub.
- Dolby Atmos – Adds height channels for 3D overhead effects.
Carefully match the number of channels to your room size so the soundbar isn’t under or overpowered.
Soundbar Connectivity
Modern soundbars offer extensive wired and wireless connectivity:
- HDMI ARC – Allows TV audio signal to travel both directions with a single HDMI cable. Easy universal remote capabilities.
- HDMI eARC – Enhanced audio return channel supports advanced codecs like Dolby Atmos.
- Optical – Allows digital transmission of multichannel audio.
- Bluetooth – Wirelessly stream music from your phone or tablet.
- WiFi – For smart features and music streaming services.
- Chromecast built-in – Cast audio from hundreds of apps.
Soundbar Size
Measure the space in front of your TV stand to ensure a soundbar will fit without blocking the screen. Soundbars range from compact 2-foot models to giant 5+ foot versions.
Bigger soundbars allow for more speaker drivers and better bass but require ample room. Soundbars with wireless subwoofers give you placement flexibility.
Soundbar vs Speakers: Making the Right Choice
So when should you opt for a full speaker setup rather than a soundbar? Here’s how the two options compare:
Sound Quality
Winner: Speakers
Given equal price points, a component speaker system with separate tweeters, woofers and subwoofers will outperform an all-in-one soundbar. You can buy speakers tailored specifically for crystal clear dialogue, heart-thumping action and room-shaking bass.
That said, premium soundbars from brands like Sonos, Bose and Sennheiser get incredibly close to replicating true surround sound.
Installation and Wiring
Winner: Soundbars
Soundbars simply connect to your TV’s HDMI ARC or optical input. Full speaker setups require wiring satellite speakers around the room and configuring A/V receivers.
Soundbars let you avoid cable clutter and placement challenges. Just plug and play.
Flexibility and Upgrades
Winner: Speakers
With component speakers, you can freely mix-and-match brands and models. Start with a basic 3.1 system and upgrade to Dolby Atmos height channels down the road. With soundbars, you’re locked into a single brand’s ecosystem.
Price
Winner: Tie
Inexpensive soundbars under $300 can outperform TV speakers. For true surround sound, plan to spend over $500.
Entry-level speaker packages start around $500. Piece together a high-end 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos system and costs quickly exceed $2,000-$3,000. Both offer good sound for the money.
Best Uses
- Soundbars – Smaller spaces, simple integration, music, dialogue clarity.
- Speakers – Home theater enthusiasts, bass lovers, frequent movie watching.
Key Takeaways
- Integrated TV speakers leave much to be desired for immersive home audio.
- Soundbars provide a simple one-unit audio upgrade with advanced decoding.
- Full surround speaker systems offer ultimate flexibility and performance.
- Carefully consider room size, wiring, price and intended use.
- Both soundbars and speakers outperform TV audio. Pick what fits your lifestyle.
FAQ
Can you connect a soundbar AND speakers?
It is possible but not ideal. The conflicting audio signals can cause distortion and feedback. Pick a single audio system.
Should I get a soundbar with a subwoofer?
Absolutely, a subwoofer allows a soundbar to produce chest-thumping bass for action films. Well worth the investment.
How does a soundbar work?
A soundbar contains multiple speakers and an internal amplifier. It decodes audio signals from TV inputs and drives the speakers to simulate surround sound.
Do soundbars really provide surround sound?
Advanced soundbars with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X processing can get very close to recreating surround effects. But a true multi-speaker home theater setup is still preferable for purists.
Can you mount a soundbar on the wall?
Yes, many soundbars come with wall mounting brackets or can be mounted using aftermarket accessories. Just ensure your mount can safely support the soundbar’s weight.
What’s better – Polk, Vizio or Sonos soundbars?
All three make excellent soundbars. Vizio offers great value. Sonos has whole-home integration. Polk delivers rich audio. Try listening in person at a store to compare.
Why does my Samsung soundbar keep switching to TV speakers?
This could be caused by HDMI control settings, incorrect audio output selected on the TV, or power saving mode. Check your connections and settings to resolve the issue.
What to do if your LG TV sound is not working?
First check your volume levels, mute settings, and audio output menus. Disconnect any external soundbars or speakers. If issues persist, resetting your LG TV may resolve software conflicts.
Why is there no sound coming from your Vizio TV?
Possible causes include incorrect input settings, loose HDMI connections, or outdated firmware. Resetting your Vizio soundbar can resolve many audio issues.
How to fix when there’s no sound on Xfinity TV?
Ensure your Xfinity TV box is set to the correct audio output (HDMI or optical). Check mute settings on both the cable box and your TV. Reboot your devices to clear any temporary glitches.
How to troubleshoot when a Toshiba TV has no sound?
Check your audio output settings, making sure PCM or Dolby Digital is selected. Inspect HDMI/optical connections for any loose cables. Perform a factory reset as a last resort.
What to do when your Element TV has no sound?
First verify the TV isn’t muted and volume is turned up. Cycle through audio output modes and test built-in and external speakers. Update your Element TV firmware to patch any lingering bugs.
Why does my Philips TV have no sound?
Incorrect audio format settings (PCM vs bitstream) are a common culprit. Alternatively, it could be a faulty HDMI handshake between devices. Try a different HDMI input or cable to isolate the issue.
What causes a Sharp TV to have no sound through HDMI?
Possible causes include loose HDMI connections, incorrect audio format settings, or HDMI control conflicts. Disable HDMI CEC/ARC and set audio output to PCM to resolve.
Why does my Sony TV have sound but no picture?
This points to a video processing issue rather than sound. Check your input selection, test different sources, and inspect for any loose or faulty video cables.
The Final Word on Soundbars vs Speakers
As you can see, both soundbars and surround sound speakers have unique pros and cons. The right option comes down to your room, priorities and budget.
Soundbars excel at delivering an audio boost over TV speakers in a compact package. Home theater buffs willing to spend more will ultimately prefer the expansive soundstage of a component speaker system.
Whichever you choose, any soundbar or speaker setup will take your TV viewing experience to the next level!
I’m always available to offer personalized advice if you have any other questions. Feel free to reach out any time. Enjoy your new enhanced home audio!
