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Our labs evaluate soundbars for their features, ease of setup, and—most critically—sound quality. The best soundbars provide high-quality audio, but many other models fall short. Learn more about soundbars and make smarter shopping decisions.
View our ratings and reviews and browse our buying guide to find the best soundbars.
Most soundbars are long, thin enclosures that are mounted on the wall or placed on a shelf above or below the TV. There are also pedestal-style soundbars called sound bases that can serve as a base for a TV.
. . .As TVs slim down, the quality of their sound often follows suit. If you want richer, fuller sound, a soundbar is an easier and less expensive fix than a complete add-on component system. A soundbar has several speakers and the electronics to power them in one thin module you connect to the TV—no need for a receiver. Some have a separate subwoofer, usually wireless, and a few have rear speakers.
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