If you’re shopping around for a new soundbar, you already know they’ve come a long way in recent years. Now, with the end of 2024 rolling in, there are some impressive models on the market that can make your living room feel like a mini-theater. Whether you’re watching the latest blockbuster, playing your favorite music, or even gaming, the right soundbar can elevate everything with deep, detailed sound.
But with so many options, where do you even start? This guide takes you through the top soundbars available right now, each bringing something unique to the table. Here’s what to keep in mind when picking your next soundbar, and an overview of five fantastic models that stand out this year.
What to Look for When Choosing a Soundbar
A few key features can make all the difference when choosing a best soundbar. First, look at the number of audio channels (e.g., 5.1 or 7.1.4)—more channels typically mean a fuller sound. Also, check connectivity options like HDMI ARC/eARC, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth to ensure it will work seamlessly with your setup. If immersive audio is your thing, look for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X compatibility for that surround-sound effect. Finally, don’t forget to measure the soundbar dimensions so it fits your space well without clashing with your decor.
| Model | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Q990D | Superb surround sound, Dolby Atmos | Higher price range |
| Samsung Q930D | Strong bass, sleek design | Limited HDMI inputs |
| LG S95TR | Great customization options | Bulky subwoofer |
| Sonos Beam (Gen 2) with Sub Mini and One SL Speakers for Rear | Compact and ideal for small spaces | Bass limited without subwoofer |
| Sony BRAVIA Theater Quad with Bass Module | Deep bass, optimized for BRAVIA TVs | Best features exclusive to BRAVIA TVs |
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Top 5 Soundbars 2024
1. Samsung Q990D
The Samsung Q990D is the big player in the soundbar game right now, and for good reason. With an impressive 11.1.4-channel setup, this model supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which create that real, surround-sound feel you want for movies and music. It’s ideal for larger rooms, as the rear speakers also have upward-firing drivers that make the audio feel like it’s wrapping around you. Many people consider Q990D as the best soundbar on the market right now.
Besides the top-notch sound, the Q990D has all the connectivity you need: HDMI eARC, multiple HDMI inputs, and Bluetooth. You can even stream via Wi-Fi to connect with services like Spotify and Apple Music. Another cool perk? Samsung’s Q-Symphony feature lets you sync the soundbar with Samsung TVs for an even richer sound. If you’re serious about audio and don’t mind the higher price tag, this soundbar is tough to beat.
2. Samsung Q930D
For a slightly more affordable option that still packs a punch, check out the Samsung Q930D. This 9.1.4-channel soundbar gives you powerful bass and a stylish design, perfect for elevating your home theater setup without going overboard on budget. It also comes with Dolby Atmos, which does wonders for creating a cinematic vibe, even though it has fewer HDMI inputs compared to other models in this lineup.
The Q930D doesn’t just sound good – it looks good too. The slim soundbar and wireless rear speakers keep things looking clean and modern. Plus, Samsung’s Acoustic Beam technology makes dialogue crystal clear, which is great if you’re into dramas or documentaries. This model strikes a solid balance between quality and price, and it’s easy to install, making it a great pick for just about anyone.
3. LG S95TR
S95TR is the best soundbar coming from LG. It’s all about flexibility and customization, making it perfect for those who want more control over their audio setup. The 9.1.5-channel soundbar has a rear speaker kit and a robust subwoofer that really gets those low frequencies right. It’s a bit bulky, so it might not work in every living room, but if you have the space, the audio payoff is huge.
One of the best things about the S95TR is the customization it offers through the LG Soundbar app. You can adjust the audio depending on what you’re watching, whether it’s an action flick or a sports game. It also has AI Room Calibration, which fine-tunes the audio based on your room layout for optimal sound. With Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, this is a serious soundbar for serious listeners, and it pairs perfectly with LG TVs if you’re already in the LG ecosystem.
4. Sonos Beam (Gen 2) with Sub Mini and One SL Speakers for Rear Surround
Compact and stylish, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a fantastic choice for smaller spaces, like apartments or cozy living rooms. It’s not as beefy as the other soundbars here, but paired with the Sub Mini and One SL speakers for the rear surround, it still delivers surprisingly immersive sound. It’s especially good for dialogue clarity, making it a favorite for movie nights and streaming.
The Beam (Gen 2) includes Dolby Atmos support, which adds a spatial element that’s impressive for its size. The Sonos app also lets you manage multi-room audio, so you can add more Sonos speakers over time for a fuller setup. With voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant built-in, it’s convenient for hands-free control. The Beam is a compact powerhouse that offers great sound without overwhelming small spaces, and it’s ideal if you’re looking for a setup that can grow with you.
5. Sony BRAVIA Theater Quad with Bass Module
If you’re a Sony BRAVIA TV owner, the Sony BRAVIA Theater Quad with Bass Module is worth checking out. It’s tailored to work seamlessly with BRAVIA TVs, delivering deep bass and a rich, enveloping sound profile. This 5.1.2-channel setup is geared toward providing impactful audio with the help of a powerful bass module, giving action movies and games that extra punch.
Sony’s Acoustic Center Sync ensures the soundbar and TV speakers are perfectly in sync, creating a more immersive audio experience. Plus, with the Vertical Surround Engine, you get that height element in the audio, making it feel as though sounds are coming from above. The soundbar also supports 360 Reality Audio for a richer music experience, and with HDMI eARC, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity, you’re covered on all fronts. This one is especially great for BRAVIA users who want a system that leverages Sony’s own audio tech to its fullest potential.
Conclusion
Each of these soundbars has its strengths, whether you’re after Samsung’s high-end audio with the Q990D, LG’s customizable sound with the S95TR, or Sonos’ compact Beam (Gen 2) for smaller spaces. Soundbars have become game-changers for home entertainment setups, and any of these models will make a noticeable difference in your audio experience as we close out 2024.
