

When it comes to soundbars I want to see how well a system performs with music as well as with movies, as most people will want to do both. I always compare products against one or more reference devices which offer the best performance at a similar price. Be aware: Some of these products are currently on backorder, so check back periodically if a specific model is out of stock.Īt CNET I test audio equipment from compact soundbars though to surround sound speakers systems, but regardless of the device my methodology is largely the same. These are my favorite Atmos soundbar options from $400 and up, periodically updated as I review new products. For example, the $800 Sonos Arc is an all-in-one soundbar which offers great sound, exquisite build quality and excellent multiroom capabilities.

improved sound quality, music streaming and voice assistants like Google Assistant and Amazon's Alexa. While you can easily stop at the $500 mark, there are benefits to be had from the more expensive models: e.g. As competent as these are there's no substitute for physical height speakers. Soundbars like the Sonos Beam Gen 2 and Sony HT-G700 lack upfiring speakers and use digital processing to mimic overhead effects. Most competitors at the price can only offer virtual surround, or even just simulated height speakers. The Vizio M512a is my favorite Dolby Atmos soundbar for under $500 - it offers both dedicated height channels and surround speakers, and sound good in the bargain.

These soundbars are also more compact and easier to set up than a home theater system, with the trade-off being they can't provide the same level of performance. Like its rival DTS:X audio format, Atmos differs from normal surround by adding height to your music and movies.ĭolby Atmos soundbars are now more affordable than ever, especially compared with a traditional Atmos receiver and surround sound speakers. Wireless subwoofers? Bluetooth? HDMI? Of all the features available on a soundbar, one of the most requested by CNET readers is Dolby Atmos audio.
