Does your favorite movie sound flat? Are the explosions in your games just a gentle rumble? Many of us love great sound, but bulky home theater systems are a hassle. We want that cinema magic without the mess of wires and huge speakers.
Choosing the perfect soundbar and wireless subwoofer can feel like a maze. You see terms like “Dolby Atmos,” “wattage,” and “connectivity,” and it gets confusing fast. Which one fits your TV? Which one truly delivers that deep bass you crave? Getting it wrong means wasting money on a system that doesn’t rock your living room.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what you need to know to pick a soundbar and subwoofer combo that makes your music clearer and your movies louder and richer. Get ready to transform your viewing experience without the clutter.
Top Soundbar And Wireless Subwoofer Recommendations
- A PREMIUM ULTRA-SLIM SOUNDBAR WITH WIRELESS SUBWOOFER INCLUDED – 5 powerful full-range drivers deliver rich audio with deep bass. Polk’s exclusive VoiceAdjust technology & Dolby Digital Decoding maximizes audio clarity & reduces voice delays
- EXCELLENT SOUND AND VALUE on par with any mid- to high-range sound bars for TV with subwoofer. At just over 2" tall it fits most spaces — easily wall-mount or place in front of your TV. It won’t block your TV’s bottom edge or IR remote sensor
- UPGRADE YOUR HOME THEATER SOUND SYSTEM – Watch your favorite shows on 4K HD Smart TV with exceptional picture quality and crystal clear sound using numerous connection possibilities, plug any audio source via HDMI, ARC optical input, and AUX
- WIRELESSLY STREAM MUSIC from your favorite streaming apps like Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, and others directly from your smartphone, tablet or other compatible device to this wireless sound bar for smart tv through the built-in Bluetooth technology
- SET UP YOUR SOUND BAR IN MINUTES — With the included soundbar for tv with subwoofer, HDMI and optical cables, quickly connect your TV to the sound bar then get set up and listening in minutes
- Simplified 5.1ch Dolby Atmos Setup: Enjoy immersive 4D sound with real Dolby Atmos and 5.1-channel audio. Five built-in speakers, including two side-firing drivers, create wide surround without rear speakers. Precision DSP ensures <0.5 ms latency for smooth, theater-like sound. Setup takes less than 1 minute.
- Voice Clarity Enhancement: VoiceMX technology uses advanced DSP algorithms to isolate and enhance vocal frequencies in real time. Dialogue remains crisp and easy to follow by separating speech from background effects and music, even at low volumes or during intense scenes.
- 300W Output with 6-Driver System: Featuring five precision-tuned full-range drivers and a dedicated wired wooden subwoofer, the system delivers up to 300W of peak power for bold, room-filling sound. With a frequency response of 45 Hz–18 kHz and a maximum SPL of 99 dB, it reproduces everything from subtle nuances to explosive cinematic effects.
- 18 mm High-Excursion Driver: Powered by BassMX technology, the wired wooden subwoofer features a 18 mm high-excursion driver, a 5.3L tuned cabinet, and a high-density magnetic circuit. This design delivers deeper, tighter bass with greater air displacement and enhanced low-frequency performance—bringing more realism to every scene.
- HDMI eARC for True Dolby Atmos: HDMI eARC supports up to 37 Mbps of bandwidth, unlocking the full potential of lossless Dolby Atmos 5.1-channel audio. Compared to standard ARC, eARC delivers richer surround effects and greater detail. CEC integration allows the TV and soundbar to work together with unified control.
- DTS VIRTUAL:X: Expand your listening experience; DTS Virtual: X creates spacious 3D sound putting you at the center of the action for an elevated and immersive home theater experience
- SUBWOOFER INCLUDED: Get that big boom with our included subwoofer; Bring home intense sound with rich, powerful bass; Elevate the action and take things to the next level
- BASS BOOST: Bass you can boost with a tap; Feel the depth of distant thunder as your listening experience is taken to another level; Tap the button Feel the power
- ADAPTIVE SOUND LITE: Enjoy all your favorite video content with dynamically optimized audio and enhanced voice clarity so you can follow along with action packed games and blockbuster films
- GAME MODE: Optimize your gaming experience with perfectly synced directional audio that moves with the onscreen action; Game Mode eliminates distractions so you can hear better and play harder
- Why Choose TCL: TCL is a global leader in TVs and audio, combining innovative technology with reliable performance. Enjoy award-winning sound, durable design, and customer support that keeps your entertainment experience worry-free
- Immersive Sound with Deep Bass Subwoofer: Experience cinematic audio with Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X. Includes a wireless subwoofer delivering deep, room-filling bass that brings movies, music, and games to life while freeing the soundbar for crisp dialogue and detailed mids
- Powerful Room‑Filling Performance (Up to 220 W):The wireless subwoofer adds deep, punchy bass, letting you hear everything from the low rumble of a car engine to the high whir of a helicopter. Perfect for apartments, bedrooms, or small-to-medium rooms where every detail matters
- AI Sonic Auto Room Calibration: Built-in AI Sonic technology adjusts audio to your unique layout and listening position, giving you balanced sound every time. Simple one-time setup via the TCL app
- Works with Any Smart TV: The TCL S55H 2.1 Sound Bar + Subwoofer delivers rich, room-filling audio for TV, movies, music, gaming, and even projectors. Connect easily via HDMI eARC/ARC, optical, Bluetooth, or AUX for an immersive experience anywhere
- Three full-range speakers inside the soundbar, two surround speakers, and one wireless compact subwoofer deliver 96dB of detailed and dynamic high-impact sound that’s perfect for medium to large-sized rooms.
- Soundbar remote control sold separately.
- Receive the latest product updates and adjust advanced soundbar settings by downloading the VIZIO mobile app for your Android or iOS device (A VIZIO Account is required.)
- Use your existing TV remote to control volume on your soundbar when connected through your TV's HDMI eARC port. (HDMI eARC Output ONLY.) No TV HDMI port? No problem! Contact VIZIO customer support 844-254-8087 or visit support.VIZIO.com if your TV requires optical connection.
- When watching Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content, this soundbar puts you at the center of your entertainment, creating an immersive audio experience
- 240W Output: 2 powerful speakers and a wireless subwoofer, erupting impressive 240W max audio power to upgrade your TV sound instantly.
- DTS Virtual: X: Whether you’re gaming, watching your favorite movie or show, or listening to that new track on repeat, DTS Virtual X enhances the entertainment you love across all of your devices. It goes beyond ordinary listening by transporting you with the breakthrough spatial sound experience that draws you in deeper, so you hear and feel more.
- Wireless Subwoofer: A wireless subwoofer delivers the robust low-end frequencies that punctuate your favorite movies, music, and games, without any messy wires. You’ll feel the “boom” while the two front- facing speakers project bright, clear high- and mid-range frequencies.
- Easy Connectivity: With HDMI ARC, the Hisense HS2100 can connect to your TV through a single HDMI cable (included), connect wirelessly via Bluetooth, and control both with one remote. You’ll be enjoying better TV sound in minutes.
- Wireless Music Streaming: Wireless Bluetooth technology easily connects to smart devices so the listener can enjoy their favorite playlists from their phone or other wireless devices.
- FULL, BALANCED SOUND WITH A SUBWOOFER INCLUDED: Hear every beat, rumble and roar with deep and rich bass that fills any space. With the included wireless subwoofer, experience powerful sound that draws you in from the very first scene.
- MULTI-DIRECTIONAL SPATIAL AUDIO THAT COMES FROM ALL AROUND YOU: Let immersive virtual surround sound draw you in, with spatial audio that moves all around you. Feel at the center of all your movies, shows and games without the need for rear speakers.
- AN EXTRA PUNCH OF BASS FOR SOUND YOU CAN FEEL: Add more excitement with deeper, fuller sound in your favorite heart-pumping, beat-thumping content. Enjoy a rush of extra powerful bass in your favorite movie scenes, trending songs and more.
- OPTIMIZED SOUND FOR EVERY SCENE: Get the optimal listening experience for each scene. The soundbar recognizes the type of content you’re watching and automatically adapts audio settings to produce clear voices and detailed sounds.
- PICK UP EVERY PIECE OF DIALOGUE: Hear voices more clearly with automatically amplified dialogue allowing it to stand out so you don't miss a word, no matter what you're watching.
- Bring the power: Fill your whole room with sound. An impressive 300W of total system power puts you in control. Your movies and music have never sounded so good.
- Surround yourself with sound: JBL Surround Sound instantly brings movies, sports and music to life. Upgrade to an immersive sound experience for your TV without any extra wires or speakers.
- All about the bass: Why just listen to the bass when you can experience it. The 6.5’’ wireless subwoofer delivers deep, thrilling sound.
- Visit the movies, from your sofa: Get the popcorn ready. Built-in Dolby Digital gives you an authentic cinematic experience in your home.
- Stream it all: Not in the mood for a film. No problem. With the JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass, you can also enjoy wireless music streaming via Bluetooth from your mobile or tablet.
Choosing Your Perfect Soundbar and Wireless Subwoofer Combo
A great sound system makes watching movies or listening to music so much better. A soundbar with a wireless subwoofer is a fantastic way to boost your TV’s sound without cluttering your room with wires. This guide helps you pick the best one for you.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, you need to check a few important things. These features decide how good the sound will be and how easy the system is to use.
1. Sound Technology (Dolby Atmos and DTS:X)
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X: These are fancy terms for 3D sound. They make sound feel like it is coming from all around you—even from above. Look for systems that support at least one of these.
- Channel Count: Soundbars are often listed as 2.1, 3.1, or 5.1. The first number is the soundbar channels, and the “.1” is the subwoofer. More channels usually mean richer, more detailed sound.
2. Connectivity Options
- HDMI (ARC/eARC): This is the best way to connect. ARC (Audio Return Channel) lets your TV remote control the soundbar volume. eARC is newer and handles the best quality sound formats.
- Optical/Aux Input: Older TVs might only have these ports. Make sure your soundbar has them if you need them.
- Bluetooth/Wi-Fi: Wireless connections let you easily stream music from your phone or tablet.
3. Subwoofer Power and Placement
The subwoofer handles the deep bass—the rumbles and booms. Since it is wireless, you can place it almost anywhere in the room for the best bass effect. Check the subwoofer’s size; a bigger one usually moves more air for deeper bass.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used affect how long the soundbar lasts and how it looks.
- Enclosure Material: Most good soundbars use strong materials like high-density plastic or sometimes metal. Metal enclosures often sound cleaner because they vibrate less.
- Grille Fabric: The front grille protects the speakers. Look for durable fabric or metal mesh. Metal mesh is often easier to wipe clean.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Sound Quality
Good sound doesn’t happen by accident. Several things make a big difference.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Up-Firing Speakers: These speakers bounce sound off your ceiling to create that overhead Atmos effect. They really boost the immersion.
- Sound Calibration: Many high-end bars have a feature that tests your room size and shape. It adjusts the sound specifically for your space. This tailoring makes the sound much better.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Poor Driver Quality: If the small speakers inside the bar (the drivers) are cheap, the mid-range sounds (like voices) can sound tinny or muddy.
- Compression Issues: If you use older or lower-quality connections (like basic Bluetooth), the sound signal gets compressed, losing some detail. HDMI is always better for quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the soundbar matters just as much as how it sounds.
Ease of Setup
A good soundbar setup should be simple. Most modern systems connect with one HDMI cable to the TV. If you can connect it in under 15 minutes, that is a win. Wireless subwoofers usually pair automatically when you turn them on.
Use Cases:
- Movie Nights: For movies, you want powerful bass and clear dialogue. Look for systems with a dedicated center channel or good dialogue enhancement modes.
- Music Listening: If you play a lot of music, focus on balanced sound across all frequencies, not just booming bass. Wi-Fi streaming often provides better audio quality than standard Bluetooth.
- Gaming: Gamers should look for low latency (delay). A fast connection ensures the sound matches the action on screen perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between a soundbar and a regular home theater system?
A: A soundbar is one long speaker that sits under your TV. It is much simpler and takes up less space. A regular system uses many separate speakers placed all around the room.
Q: Does “wireless subwoofer” mean no power cord?
A: No. The subwoofer connects to the soundbar without a speaker wire, but it still needs to be plugged into a wall outlet for power.
Q: Why is Dolby Atmos important?
A: Dolby Atmos creates height in the sound. It makes rain sound like it is falling from above you, making action scenes feel much more real.
Q: Will this soundbar work with my old TV?
A: It probably will, but you might need an adapter. Check if your TV has an HDMI ARC port. If not, the optical digital audio port is the next best choice.
Q: How loud can these soundbars get?
A: Most soundbars get very loud, easily filling a medium to large living room. Check the wattage (power output), but for most homes, any reputable brand will be loud enough.
Q: Does the wireless connection for the subwoofer ever drop out?
A: Modern, high-quality soundbars use dedicated, stable connections. Dropouts are rare unless there is heavy interference from many other wireless devices nearby.
Q: What does “dialogue enhancement” do?
A: This feature boosts the frequencies where human voices live. It makes spoken words clearer, especially during loud action scenes.
Q: Should I buy a soundbar with built-in subwoofers?
A: No. A separate, wireless subwoofer almost always delivers much deeper, more powerful bass than small drivers built into the soundbar itself.
Q: Is Wi-Fi streaming better than Bluetooth for music?
A: Yes, Wi-Fi streaming usually handles a higher quality audio signal than standard Bluetooth, meaning your music will sound cleaner.
Q: How do I know if the soundbar will fit under my TV?
A: Measure the space beneath your TV, especially if it sits on a stand. Then, check the length specifications of the soundbar you want to buy.