{"id":2033041,"date":"2026-07-08T14:28:00","date_gmt":"2026-07-08T11:28:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2033041"},"modified":"2026-07-08T14:28:00","modified_gmt":"2026-07-08T11:28:00","slug":"best-soundbars-of-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2033041","title":{"rendered":"Best Soundbars of 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/d04098b64cb4d7348cd5e46f957e0a0bddca0c10\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/268e6e36-0fb6-4ec1-ba2b-7766b99a24ae\/sonos-ray-2022-soundbar-005.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=675&amp;width=1200&#8243;]<\/p>\n<div id=\"article-b69ee340-f42b-4c99-8089-3d39942434a8\" class=\"c-pageArticle_body sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12 lg:u-col-start-0 u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-pageArticle_content sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12 c-pageArticle_content-izeBestList\">\n<div class=\"u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent_leftRail sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-4 lg:u-col-start-0 u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-11\">\n<div data-cy=\"bylineCard\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard c-articleBylineCard_bestList\">\n<h2 class=\"c-articleBylineCard_header c-articleBylineCard_izeBestList\">\n    Our Experts<br \/>\n  <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorContainer\">\n<div data-cy=\"bylineCard_images\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorImages-noinfo\">\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_image g-container-round c-articleBylineCard_image-0\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/36d460c9e8ba9fb8ed5c388625494e33cf3bb9a9\/hub\/2012\/12\/05\/0b473d5e-870a-11e3-9955-14feb5ca9861\/Ty_Pendlebury.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=96&amp;width=96\" alt=\"Headshot of Ty Pendlebury\" height=\"96\" width=\"96\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_meta-noinfo single\">\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard__authorName-noinfo\">\n<address class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorNameContainer\"><span class=\"c-articleBylineCard_writtenBy g-text-xsmall\">Written by\u00a0<\/span><span data-cy=\"bylineCard_link\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard_link c-articleBylineCard_link-0\"><br \/>\n              Ty Pendlebury<br \/>\n            <\/span><\/address>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_date-updated g-outer-spacing-top-small\">\n<div class=\"c-globalUpdatedDate\">\n  Article updated on\u00a0<time datetime=\"2026-07-08T07:28:00-0800\">July 8, 2026 at 7:28 AM PDT<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"author-card-0\" class=\"col-5 c-globalAuthorCard\">\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_head\">\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_picture\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/1c2de43ecbb7d50d70ece397e12791b0e8da80e8\/hub\/2012\/12\/05\/0b473d5e-870a-11e3-9955-14feb5ca9861\/Ty_Pendlebury.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=84&amp;width=84\" alt=\"Headshot of Ty Pendlebury\" height=\"84\" width=\"84\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_info\"><span class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_name\">Ty Pendlebury<\/span><span>Editor<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_bio\">Ty Pendlebury is CNET&#8217;s senior editor for TV and home audio, and author of the daily Insider newsletter. He has rigorously tested, reviewed and written about AV equipment for the company since 2006. He has a cat named after one of the best TVs ever made.<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_details\"><span>Expertise<\/span><span class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_description\">Ty has worked for radio, print, and online publications, and has been writing about home entertainment since 2004. He is an avid record collector and streaming music enthusiast.<\/span><span>Credentials<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_description\">\n<li>Ty was nominated for Best New Journalist at the Australian IT Journalism awards, but he has only ever won one thing. As a youth, he was awarded a free session for the photography studio at a local supermarket.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_linkWrapper\">See full bio<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_metaContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_header sm:u-hidden\"><span class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_title g-text-small\"><br \/>\n        Why You Can Trust CNET<br \/>\n      <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_metrics\">\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_category\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_category\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_value g-inner-spacing-right-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_valueContainer\"><span>30+<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_topic\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_topic\">Years of Experience<\/span><\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_category\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_category\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_value g-inner-spacing-right-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_valueContainer\"><span>35<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_topic\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_topic\">Product Reviewers<\/span><\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_category\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_category\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_value g-inner-spacing-right-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_valueContainer\"><span>15k<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_topic\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_topic\">Sq. Feet of Lab Space<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_disclosureContainer\">\n<p data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_message\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_message g-text-xxsmall\">CNET staff &#8212; not advertisers, partners or business interests &#8212; determine how we review products and services. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_disclosureLinks u-flexbox-row\">\n        Reviews ethics statement<\/p>\n<p>        How we test\n        <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq g-container-rounded-small c-shortcodeFaq-leftRail u-hidden\">\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_header\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_header\">\n<p id=\"1fac227e-2fce-4315-9918-62cb24ae1e9a\" data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_title\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_title\">\n      What to consider\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_sections\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_sections\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Budget\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Before anything else, you should consider how much you&#8217;re willing to spend on your new soundbar.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Dolby Atmos\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>If you&#8217;re looking for a more realistic and immersive audio experience, you&#8217;ll want to make sure your soundbar supports Dolby Atmos.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      HDMI Connections\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>A soundbar should have at least one HDMI input, and preferably more. The ability to connect multiple cables will help users with a large selection of sources<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Subwoofer and Surround Speakers\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Single-bar systems are great for smaller TVs, while a soundbar-and-subwoofer combo is better suited for a living room. Consider your needs before opting for a larger home theater setup.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_toolbar u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_productsList\">\n<p class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_versus\">vs<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_compareCta\"><span>Compare<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_table u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_tableHead\"><span>Back to selection<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<article class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-8 lg:u-col-start-5\">\n<p data-keep class=\"u-speakableText-p1\">Any television you buy today will have onboard speakers, but every single one can be improved with the addition of a great-sounding soundbar. I&#8217;ve tested dozens of soundbars head-to-head to find the best soundbar for sports, video games or the latest season of The Pitt. From cheap and cheerful models, to those packed with features like Dolby Atmos surround sound, Bluetooth, built-in streaming and multiroom audio, here are my picks for the best soundbars of 2026.<\/p>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"listiclePrecap\" data-location=\"PRECAP\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-hide c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-compact g-outer-spacing-bottom-large\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-hed\">\n<section>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_header\"> Our Picks <\/h2>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"1\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/38ba04d3aeee81336177d0e8a6ff2c2d3e6cc881\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/cf9fb0a5-2256-4203-b0ec-bc6829195c2b\/01-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"The Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar and subwoofer in a living room set up with a wooden console table and colorful rug. \" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign isFirst\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best soundbar of 2026<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Yamaha YAS-209<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$330 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-score\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreValue\">8.5\/10<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreLabel\">CNET Score<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip-expandedContent c-globalTooltip-arrow c-globalTooltip-arrow_top c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipContent\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipTitle\">CNET Score<\/h3>\n<p class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipText\">\n                    CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. When we assign a score, we use a scale of 1-10. Each product we score is evaluated by criteria specific to its category with most assessing pricing, quality, features and performance.\n                  <\/p>\n<p> Read more on: How we test<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out: <\/strong><br \/>The Yamaha YAS-209 packs in everything I expect from a midpriced soundbar: ease of use, powerful output levels and an ability to replay both movies and music to a high standard. The soundbar offers an immersive experience with movies, thanks to DTS Virtual:X, and better separation of instruments and a broader stereo effect (in its Stereo mode) compared to competitors. The wireless subwoofer demonstrates better articulation with music tracks, avoiding the bloated sound that some competitors can produce. As Yamaha&#8217;s first smart speaker, it implements Amazon Alexa effectively &#8212; the microphones work well even in loud environments, and it&#8217;s able to hear commands without shouting.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\">\n              Read full review<br \/>\n               <span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Excellent sound in a compact size with articulate, punchy subwoofer<\/li>\n<li>Feature-packed, including Amazon Alexa and six media-specific presets (music, TV, movie, sports, gaming and stereo)<\/li>\n<li>Onboard DTS Virtual:X for simulated surround effects<\/li>\n<li>Easy setup and use with companion Yamaha Sound Bar Controller app and an intuitive, large remote<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Uses LED lights that are difficult to read instead of on-screen display<\/li>\n<li>Surround sound is just OK, with only two channels of drivers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"2\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/7c920a1df25ff303e704d0f12278759aed59636c\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/5b9e55b0-07f5-4c2b-b2a9-35755a906d86\/sonos-ray-blue-white.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"Image of Sonos Ray\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best value soundbar<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Sonos Ray<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$219 at Sonos<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-score\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreValue\">8.3\/10<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreLabel\">CNET Score<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip-expandedContent c-globalTooltip-arrow c-globalTooltip-arrow_top c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipContent\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipTitle\">CNET Score<\/h3>\n<p class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipText\">\n                    CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. When we assign a score, we use a scale of 1-10. Each product we score is evaluated by criteria specific to its category with most assessing pricing, quality, features and performance.\n                  <\/p>\n<p> Read more on: How we test<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Sonos Ray is the closest thing yet to a Sonos One speaker in soundbar form, and that&#8217;s high praise. Despite its compact 22-inch width and simple design, the Ray delivers sound that belies its physical dimensions. The key to this performance lies in its proprietary tweeters with waveguides that focus high frequencies outwards, allowing it to produce a surprisingly wide soundstage. The vocals sound super crisp, and both the highs and bass are full. It delivers a tight, contained sound and offers respectable dialog reproduction. At $279, it&#8217;s part of the exciting trend toward affordable audio gear that actually sounds good.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\">\n              Read full review<br \/>\n               <span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Excellent sound with two midwoofers and two tweeters that feature waveguide to focus high frequencies outward<\/li>\n<li>Compact, attractive design that comes in two colors (black and white)<\/li>\n<li>Simple connection and easy setup<\/li>\n<li>Unmatched multiroom system for all-over sound<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>No HDMI connection<\/li>\n<li>Lacks extra features like voice assistant or Dolby Atmos capability<\/li>\n<li>No designated remote control (must control with phone or TV remote)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"3\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/dcc9d6318e584c63a56fa98acd49ab13210953b1\/hub\/2024\/05\/23\/d53165f6-5c3a-4fca-8a85-dc1d8536ec39\/klipsch-core-100-1.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"klipsch-core-100-1\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best sound from a single speaker<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Klipsch Flexus Core 100<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$310 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-score\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreValue\">8.3\/10<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreLabel\">CNET Score<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip-expandedContent c-globalTooltip-arrow c-globalTooltip-arrow_top c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipContent\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipTitle\">CNET Score<\/h3>\n<p class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipText\">\n                    CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. When we assign a score, we use a scale of 1-10. Each product we score is evaluated by criteria specific to its category with most assessing pricing, quality, features and performance.\n                  <\/p>\n<p> Read more on: How we test<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>Klipsch has made some of the best soundbars available and, in its first collaboration with stablemate Onkyo, the company continues its dream run. At $350, the Flexus Core 100 has settled into a clever niche between the Sonos Ray and Beam. It&#8217;s an excellent single-bar system with plenty of bass and extraordinary dynamics. If you want muscular sound in a single soundbar for under $400, the Core 100 is the place to get it.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\">\n              Read full review<br \/>\n               <span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>The Flexus Core 100 offers great sound from a single bar<\/li>\n<li>The soundbar is surprisingly loud and dynamic<\/li>\n<li>It has no real competition to speak of<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>There are no Atmos effects despite being compatible<\/li>\n<li>It comes with minimal features<\/li>\n<li>Its three inch height could block TV&#8217;s IR port<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"4\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/efd2c7106d3a83d16b7e4b180a12b8fc3455cee7\/hub\/2026\/03\/05\/318525bc-1c59-4a78-87ef-bf7bbd5d048b\/polk-magnifi-ax.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"polk-magnifi-ax\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best soundbar for dialogue<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Polk MagniFi Mini AX<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$499 at B&amp;H Photo-Video<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-score\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreValue\">8.2\/10<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreLabel\">CNET Score<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip-expandedContent c-globalTooltip-arrow c-globalTooltip-arrow_top c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipContent\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipTitle\">CNET Score<\/h3>\n<p class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipText\">\n                    CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. When we assign a score, we use a scale of 1-10. Each product we score is evaluated by criteria specific to its category with most assessing pricing, quality, features and performance.\n                  <\/p>\n<p> Read more on: How we test<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out: <\/strong>The great-sounding Polk MagniFi Mini AX is an update on one of the best soundbars I&#8217;ve reviewed, and it adds Dolby Atmos compatibility to the mix. If you want better-sounding dialogue, then this is one of the best options with over ten levels of voice boost or cut. It also includes both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, as well as HDMI.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\">\n              Read full review<br \/>\n               <span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Excellent movie sound and decent music replay<\/li>\n<li>Dialogue enhancement is highly configurable<\/li>\n<li>Feature-rich<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>$200 more than the original<\/li>\n<li>No dedicated appSubwoofer adds placement and configuration challenges<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals u-flexbox u-flexbox-column u-flexbox-alignCenter g-inner-spacing-top-xlarge g-inner-spacing-bottom-xlarge\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListDeals_hed u-text-capitalize u-text-center\">BLUETOOTH SPEAKER DEALS OF THE WEEK<\/h3>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_productsBlock g-outer-spacing-top-large\">\n<ul>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                Echo Dot 5th Gen Smart Speaker (2022 Release, Charcoal)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$35<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $15)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                JBL Go 4 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker (Black)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$38<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $12)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                Bose 2nd Gen SoundLink Micro Portable Bluetooth Speaker (Black)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$100<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $30)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                Beats Pill Wireless Portable Bluetooth Speaker (Matte Black)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$100<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $50)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                Bang &amp; Olufsen Beosound Explore Portable Bluetooth Speaker (Black)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$224<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $75)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"u-text-italic u-text-center g-text-xxsmall g-outer-spacing-top-large c-bestListDeals_disclosure\">Deals are selected by the CNET Group commerce team, and may be unrelated to this article.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<nav class=\"c-globalToc\">\n<div class=\"c-globalToc_header\">\n<div class=\"c-globalToc_title\"><span class=\"c-globalToc_titleText\">Table of Contents<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul class=\"c-globalToc_dropdown g-dropShadow-hover\">\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best Soundbars of 2026\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best soundbar of 2026\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best soundbar of 2026\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best value soundbar\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best sound from a single speaker\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best soundbar for dialogue\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Compare soundbars\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Factors to consider when choosing a soundbar\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        How CNET tests soundbars\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Other soundbars we&#8217;ve tested\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Soundbar FAQ\n      <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<h2 id=\"96308195-9d51-4d20-b597-9c5f552e2955\" data-ng-block=\"{\" data-keep data-id=\"96308195-9d51-4d20-b597-9c5f552e2955\">Best soundbar of 2026<\/h2>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"f102a00e-94f6-4761-9bd6-2b8c3ff487b3\" data-id=\"listicle-f102a00e-94f6-4761-9bd6-2b8c3ff487b3\" data-techprodid=\"36aec6af-6ae1-43f9-a359-4b9d864ef89a\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar sits in front of a yellow background. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A hand holds the Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar remote in front of a yellow background. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The back of the Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar shows the wall mount system and power connector in front of a yellow background. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Underneath the Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar shows the HDMI, HDMI ARC, ethernet, TV and update ports in front of a yellow background. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar&apos;s wireless subwoofer sits next to a console table that holds the Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Sarah Tew\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/5<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/b1f7acf402a34d40db7387c0cb407081e436b575\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/6463211a-1384-46a8-b1c6-e775d6d18c14\/06-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/9fcfcee701852775e97c8d8bc63bedc56994a010\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/84e75ce9-757b-4f0d-962a-134d6f91d7e4\/02-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/6e426318b4eef4a9c7c68f64dfeff195c49514f9\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/d3393121-9e88-49d7-9d1f-a171ae60e8fc\/11-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/b1120e08be9aeeba2c343a7fafde656b749ad64b\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/cc4c305a-b13d-4c59-b634-47a208cfc9d1\/08-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/7b7a7fcdc5287dad84a2c0c4f362eb0d0994d9f8\/hub\/2019\/08\/14\/d454fdb8-33a3-40cd-8a62-cd8c31915e5d\/yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Sarah Tew\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignStart\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"f102a00e-94f6-4761-9bd6-2b8c3ff487b3\" data-id=\"f102a00e-94f6-4761-9bd6-2b8c3ff487b3\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best soundbar of 2026<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Yamaha YAS-209<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_badges g-outer-spacing-bottom-small g-outer-spacing-top-medium u-flexbox u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-wrap c-bestListListicle_badges-hasEditorsChoice\">\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge g-color-white c-bestListListicle_productRating g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall c-reviewScoreBadge-inline\"><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_rating\"><br \/>\n    8.5<br \/>\n  <\/span><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_overall\"><br \/>\n    \/10<br \/>\n  <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_cnetScore u-text-uppercase\">\n    SCORE\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Excellent sound in a compact size with articulate, punchy subwoofer\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Feature-packed, including Amazon Alexa and six media-specific presets (music, TV, movie, sports, gaming and stereo)\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Onboard DTS Virtual:X for simulated surround effects\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Easy setup and use with companion Yamaha Sound Bar Controller app and an intuitive, large remote\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Uses LED lights that are difficult to read instead of on-screen display\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Surround sound is just OK, with only two channels of drivers\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out: <\/strong><br \/>The Yamaha YAS-209 packs in everything I expect from a midpriced soundbar: ease of use, powerful output levels and an ability to replay both movies and music to a high standard. The soundbar offers an immersive experience with movies, thanks to DTS Virtual:X, and better separation of instruments and a broader stereo effect (in its Stereo mode) compared to competitors. The wireless subwoofer demonstrates better articulation with music tracks, avoiding the bloated sound that some competitors can produce. As Yamaha&#8217;s first smart speaker, it implements Amazon Alexa effectively &#8212; the microphones work well even in loud environments, and it&#8217;s able to hear commands without shouting.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Perfect for these listeners: <\/strong><br \/>The YAS-209 is ideal for those seeking a midrange soundbar with excellent performance for both movies and music. Home theater enthusiasts will appreciate the DTS Virtual:X for simulated surround effects from a single bar. Those who want connectivity options will find HDMI, optical digital and Bluetooth, plus Ethernet and Wi-Fi for Spotify Connect. It&#8217;s perfect for people who want the convenience of voice control, as it incorporates two microphones for use with Amazon Alexa. The fact that you can ask Alexa for a song &#8212; and have it sound better than pretty much any smaller smart speaker &#8212; makes it particularly appealing for music lovers who&#8217;ve embraced smart home technology.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Consider alternatives if: <\/strong><br \/>If you&#8217;re invested in the Apple or Google ecosystems you&#8217;ll be disappointed, as the Yamaha only works with Amazon Alexa. There&#8217;s also no AirPlay 2 or built-in Chromecast. The subwoofer is quite large at roughly 16 inches square and 7.5 inches wide, making it potentially intrusive in smaller spaces. Those who prefer visual feedback when adjusting settings might be frustrated by the lack of a display, and the tiny LEDs on top that are too small to see from across the room. Finally, music purists might note that its Music mode adds reverb to vocals and less separation between instruments than its Stereo mode, and it can sound slightly compressed during complex musical passages.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$330 at Amazon\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section u-flexbox o-accordion_header u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-justifyBetween\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails-title\"> Specs &amp; Configurations<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_specs u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Size<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 39.75 x 4.0 x 2.4 inches<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Number of channels<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 2.1<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Subwoofer<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Yes<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Peak power<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 100 watts<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Connections<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Bluetooth, optical, HDMI, Wi-Fi<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Supported audio formats<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Dolby Digital, DTS<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_subratings o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section o-accordion_header u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_subratings-title\">Score Breakdown<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score u-flexbox-alignCenter g-text-xxsmall u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Design<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        9<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Features<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        9<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Sound<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        8<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Value<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        8<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_review\">\n<div class=\"o-cta g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">Learn more<\/div>\n<p>        Yamaha YAS-209 review\n       <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"2ee7b7a6-7866-4525-b0e8-cf5350fca602\" data-id=\"listicle-2ee7b7a6-7866-4525-b0e8-cf5350fca602\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray soundbar in front of a TV on a dresser\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray soundbar under a TV\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Sonos<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/5<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/38305b09e36817ba51fdc4163584323f09d6656d\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/8d19ba40-d3e9-415c-b148-3a14a2c3ecea\/sonos-ray-promo-yellow-white.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/966c651960f052ff65c3e2e849ee145935de419d\/hub\/2022\/05\/06\/906fe6ec-1612-4233-8a2e-808a407184c4\/fr-h4-cwyaa-keq.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/50e1af874b95ecb5b038ca774eeb1730851e2d71\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/5fd6b45e-81b8-4dd1-bef2-882648c9f473\/sonos-ray-2022-soundbar-003.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/8122111a4c58327a20ad7d9a868535ec676d9ae6\/hub\/2022\/05\/27\/427b30db-9cd0-4bee-bb56-2cccfd857edc\/sonos-ray-001.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/591f6d722826c3c9f7bf377d9dbff2864fc9f256\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/a057f353-559f-4fdd-9b1b-e12ae3a7307a\/sonos-ray-2022-soundbar-001.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Sonos<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"2ee7b7a6-7866-4525-b0e8-cf5350fca602\" data-id=\"2ee7b7a6-7866-4525-b0e8-cf5350fca602\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best value soundbar<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Sonos Ray<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_badges g-outer-spacing-bottom-small g-outer-spacing-top-medium u-flexbox u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-wrap\">\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge g-color-white c-bestListListicle_productRating g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall c-reviewScoreBadge-inline\"><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_rating\"><br \/>\n    8.3<br \/>\n  <\/span><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_overall\"><br \/>\n    \/10<br \/>\n  <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_cnetScore u-text-uppercase\">\n    SCORE\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Excellent sound with two midwoofers and two tweeters that feature waveguide to focus high frequencies outward\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Compact, attractive design that comes in two colors (black and white)\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Simple connection and easy setup\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Unmatched multiroom system for all-over sound\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No HDMI connection\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Lacks extra features like voice assistant or Dolby Atmos capability\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No designated remote control (must control with phone or TV remote)\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Sonos Ray is the closest thing yet to a Sonos One speaker in soundbar form, and that&#8217;s high praise. Despite its compact 22-inch width and simple design, the Ray delivers sound that belies its physical dimensions. The key to this performance lies in its proprietary tweeters with waveguides that focus high frequencies outwards, allowing it to produce a surprisingly wide soundstage. The vocals sound super crisp, and both the highs and bass are full. It delivers a tight, contained sound and offers respectable dialog reproduction. At $279, it&#8217;s part of the exciting trend toward affordable audio gear that actually sounds good.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><strong>Perfect for these listeners:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Sonos Ray is ideal for those who primarily use their soundbar for music, as it performs particularly well with this content, sometimes even outshining the more expensive Sonos Beam. The Ray makes a perfect complement to a bedroom TV and would also work well to upgrade a television in a smaller living room. Those who want to start building a Sonos multiroom system will find the Ray an excellent entry point, as it includes all the streaming capabilities that make Sonos the gold standard of multiroom speakers. It features dozens of streaming services and connections with Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect. People who prefer simplicity will appreciate the straightforward optical connection and lack of unnecessary features.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Consider alternatives if:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Sonos Ray isn&#8217;t for everyone, particularly those looking for the most bang for their buck in pure home theater performance. The Ray lacks HDMI connectivity, which seems an odd omission given that almost every new soundbar &#8212; even the $80 ones &#8212; now includes an HDMI port. While most TVs have an optical output, this connection limits the soundbar to Dolby Digital sound formats. The Ray also doesn&#8217;t include a voice assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant built in (though you can control it using a separate smart speaker). Those seeking powerful bass effects should consider alternatives with separate subwoofers, as the Ray sounds positively anemic compared to speaker systems. The Speech Enhancement feature is also quite subtle compared to competitors, which offer numerous levels of voice enhancement and are more effective for making dialog more understandable.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$219 at Sonos\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section u-flexbox o-accordion_header u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-justifyBetween\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails-title\"> Specs &amp; Configurations<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_specs u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Size<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 22.0 x 3.74 x 2.79 inches<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Number of channels<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 2.0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Subwoofer<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Available separately <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Peak power<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 55 watts<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Connections<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Optical, Ethernet, Wi-Fi<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Supported audio formats<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Dolby Digital, DTS<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_review\">\n<div class=\"o-cta g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">Learn more<\/div>\n<p>        Sonos Ray review\n       <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"4cbacbb5-547e-4aba-89e1-051c910080b4\" data-id=\"listicle-4cbacbb5-547e-4aba-89e1-051c910080b4\" data-techprodid=\"05987f12-b4ef-46b8-958b-68ff00ad9735\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"klipsch-core-100-1\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"klipsch-flexus-core-100-4\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"flexus-with-sub-and-satellites\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/3<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/68ea7acf8263d6a20cede50619b483b0e61cb39e\/hub\/2024\/05\/23\/d53165f6-5c3a-4fca-8a85-dc1d8536ec39\/klipsch-core-100-1.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/63846b129f2f48b3b0c62922957f5eedcf84f736\/hub\/2024\/05\/24\/b815cde3-9494-4563-bb91-8b9312c44f83\/klipsch-flexus-core-100-4.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/3d16e8b9dd23012c47f9bd48719cccbc12b70a1e\/hub\/2024\/05\/24\/21977d30-66ef-44cb-ad7b-e9974b585675\/flexus-with-sub-and-satellites.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"4cbacbb5-547e-4aba-89e1-051c910080b4\" data-id=\"4cbacbb5-547e-4aba-89e1-051c910080b4\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best sound from a single speaker<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Klipsch Flexus Core 100<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_badges g-outer-spacing-bottom-small g-outer-spacing-top-medium u-flexbox u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-wrap\">\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge g-color-white c-bestListListicle_productRating g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall c-reviewScoreBadge-inline\"><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_rating\"><br \/>\n    8.3<br \/>\n  <\/span><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_overall\"><br \/>\n    \/10<br \/>\n  <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_cnetScore u-text-uppercase\">\n    SCORE\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  The Flexus Core 100 offers great sound from a single bar\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  The soundbar is surprisingly loud and dynamic\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  It has no real competition to speak of\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  There are no Atmos effects despite being compatible\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  It comes with minimal features\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Its three inch height could block TV&#8217;s IR port\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>Klipsch has made some of the best soundbars available and, in its first collaboration with stablemate Onkyo, the company continues its dream run. At $350, the Flexus Core 100 has settled into a clever niche between the Sonos Ray and Beam. It&#8217;s an excellent single-bar system with plenty of bass and extraordinary dynamics. If you want muscular sound in a single soundbar for under $400, the Core 100 is the place to get it.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Perfect for these listeners:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Flexus Core 100 is compact and would suit smaller spaces, and while this is perfect for people who don&#8217;t want a soundbar, it&#8217;s also good to have the option. Even without a sub, the Flexus Core 100 offered plenty of bass slam and was loud enough for small to medium-sized rooms.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Consider alternatives if:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Flexus Core soundbars come without a subwoofer, and adding one tacks an extra $350 or more onto your bill. Also, while I love the 100, the larger 200 doesn&#8217;t impress as much for the extra outlay. If you&#8217;re spending $350 on this single bar, you could consider the Sonos Ray or Beam &#8212; which also feature multiroom music &#8212; or the excellent Yamaha YAS-209, which comes with a sub, and is better for movies.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$310 at Amazon\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section u-flexbox o-accordion_header u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-justifyBetween\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails-title\"> Specs &amp; Configurations<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_specs u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Size<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 28 x 5 x 3 inches<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Number of channels<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 2.1<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Subwoofer<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Available separately<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Peak power<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 100 watts<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Connections<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, USB-C, digital optical<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Supported audio formats<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_subratings o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section o-accordion_header u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_subratings-title\">Score Breakdown<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score u-flexbox-alignCenter g-text-xxsmall u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Design<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        9<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Features<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        7<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Sound<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        8<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Value<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        9<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_review\">\n<div class=\"o-cta g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">Learn more<\/div>\n<p>        Klipsch Flexus Core 100 review\n       <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"18a61549-71b2-455b-86d8-078646d448cb\" data-id=\"listicle-18a61549-71b2-455b-86d8-078646d448cb\" data-techprodid=\"d0f0650a-d964-4553-95ad-8f7f582a7f77\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The Polk soundbar sitting on top of the subwoofer against a blue background\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A person holds the polk magnifi ax vertically so that we get a front view of the device.\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The back view of the polk magnifi ax shows all the available ports.\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/3<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/1009b8f05d50e8dd3ee5e0102ef18f1cd5711fc8\/hub\/2026\/03\/06\/ad867019-bd1e-4fee-956f-67d4c30c16c3\/polk-magnifi-ax-5.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/d5df20d96ebb63666733d0d099cc8814a604933b\/hub\/2026\/03\/06\/742d846f-851d-4ced-b519-02a67967e77a\/polk-magnifi-ax-2.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/83eb90ce2dcc98e0ea15e1600b26c492c06a60ee\/hub\/2026\/03\/06\/be480ca2-6158-462f-8148-dd8e065ec7c2\/polk-magnifi-ax-3.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_caption g-color-black\">\n<p>The soundbar is roughly the same length as the\u00a0subwoofer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"18a61549-71b2-455b-86d8-078646d448cb\" data-id=\"18a61549-71b2-455b-86d8-078646d448cb\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best soundbar for dialogue<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Polk MagniFi Mini AX<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_badges g-outer-spacing-bottom-small g-outer-spacing-top-medium u-flexbox u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-wrap\">\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge g-color-white c-bestListListicle_productRating g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall c-reviewScoreBadge-inline\"><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_rating\"><br \/>\n    8.2<br \/>\n  <\/span><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_overall\"><br \/>\n    \/10<br \/>\n  <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_cnetScore u-text-uppercase\">\n    SCORE\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Excellent movie sound and decent music replay\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Dialogue enhancement is highly configurable\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Feature-rich\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  $200 more than the original\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No dedicated appSubwoofer adds placement and configuration challenges\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out: <\/strong>The great-sounding Polk MagniFi Mini AX is an update on one of the best soundbars I&#8217;ve reviewed, and it adds Dolby Atmos compatibility to the mix. If you want better-sounding dialogue, then this is one of the best options with over ten levels of voice boost or cut. It also includes both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, as well as HDMI.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Perfect for these listeners:<\/strong> If you want a soundbar that is tiny to look at, and puts out a big sound, then the Mini AX is the only solution I can think of. It also includes a bunch of different streaming options, and it sounds great with your favorite tunes, which makes it well-suited to music streaming as well.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Consider alternatives if: <\/strong>While the soundbar itself is tiny, you still need to stick that subwoofer somewhere. It&#8217;s relatively trashcan-like and so will slip in between furniture, but it&#8217;s not as self-sufficient as a single bar like the Beam Gen 2. Also, there are a number of great soundbars on this list that are less than the $500, and they still offer plenty of immersion.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>\n<div data-v-0ea4bff7>\n        $499 at B&amp;H Photo-Video\n      <\/div>\n<div data-v-0ea4bff7>\n        $499 at Walmart\n      <\/div>\n<div data-v-0ea4bff7>\n        $499 at Crutchfield\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section u-flexbox o-accordion_header u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-justifyBetween\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails-title\"> Specs &amp; Configurations<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_specs u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Size<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 14.4 \u00d7 4.1 \u00d7 3.1 inches (soundbar)<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Channels<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 2.1<br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Subwoofer<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Yes<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Peak power<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> n\/a<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Connections<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> HDMI, optical, aux, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Supported audio formats<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_review\">\n<div class=\"o-cta g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">Learn more<\/div>\n<p>        Polk MagniFi Mini AX review\n       <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<blockquote data-ng-block=\"{\">\n<p class=\"u-speakableText-p2\"><strong>What we updated:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>July 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Removed discontinued Vizio SV210 and Bose Smart Soundbar models. Updated pricing.<\/p>\n<p><strong>April 2026<\/strong><br \/>Update prices and added the Creative Stage Pro to also tested. <br \/><strong>March 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Added Polk MagniFi Mini AX and removed the discontinued Creative Stage<\/p>\n<p><strong>October 2025<\/strong><br \/>Removed the discontinued Roku Streambar and added Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar and Klipsch Flexus Core 100 to the list. Moved the Sennheiser Ambeo Max to also tested.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"1a042807-414c-4b0d-ad5f-a302d52a5a17\" data-id=\"1a042807-414c-4b0d-ad5f-a302d52a5a17\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Compare soundbars<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeChart\">\n<div>\n<p>Compare the best soundbars based on size, audio channels, subwoofer inclusion, power output, connectivity options and supported audio formats. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chartWrapper\">\n<table class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Product<\/th>\n<th>Size<\/th>\n<th>Number of channels<\/th>\n<th>Subwoofer<\/th>\n<th>Peak power<\/th>\n<th>Connections<\/th>\n<th>Supported audio formats<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Polk MagniFi Mini AX<\/th>\n<td>14.4 \u00d7 4.1 \u00d7 3.1 inches<\/td>\n<td>2.1<\/td>\n<td>Yes<\/td>\n<td>n\/a<\/td>\n<td>HDMI, optical, aux, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi<\/td>\n<td>PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Klipsch Flexus Core 100<\/th>\n<td>28 x 5 x 3 inches<\/td>\n<td>2.1<\/td>\n<td>Available separately<\/td>\n<td>100 watts<\/td>\n<td>HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, USB-C, digital optical<\/td>\n<td>PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Sonos Ray<\/th>\n<td>22.0 x 3.74 x 2.79 inches<\/td>\n<td>2<\/td>\n<td>Available separately<\/td>\n<td>55 watts<\/td>\n<td>Optical, Ethernet, Wi-Fi<\/td>\n<td>Dolby Digital, DTS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Yamaha YAS-209<\/th>\n<td>39.75 x 4.0 x 2.4 inches<\/td>\n<td>2.1<\/td>\n<td>Yes<\/td>\n<td>100 watts<\/td>\n<td>Bluetooth, Optical, HDMI, Wi-Fi<\/td>\n<td>Dolby Digital, DTS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"e47b7cff-40aa-4299-8df4-f05b4395c7ef\" data-id=\"e47b7cff-40aa-4299-8df4-f05b4395c7ef\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Factors to consider when choosing a soundbar<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<p>Everyone&#8217;s audio needs are different, so be sure to consider your unique preferences, space and listening habits. With the right model, you get the benefits of a home theater system or AV receiver without having to run messy wires or take up much space. Use this guide to navigate the options and find the best soundbar for you. If you need a little extra help, check out my complete guide to how to buy a soundbar in 2026. <\/p>\n<h3 id=\"cb7e533b-7841-4d2e-af1c-914a03fe231e\" data-ng-block=\"{\">Budget<\/h3>\n<p>The most important consideration when choosing a soundbar is working out how much you can spend, and I have found there are great soundbars at every price, starting at $100. If you&#8217;re looking for more premium, feature-packed models, be prepared to spend a lot more &#8212; upwards of $3,000. I do have one rule of thumb: Once the price of a soundbar exceeds $500, you may find it more worthwhile to save for an AV receiver and speakers.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re a movie buff, consider splurging on features like Dolby Atmos to bring the theater experience home. Music lovers will want to prioritize audio reproduction and multiroom or wireless streaming to fill their space with sound. Gamers should look for soundbars with dedicated gaming presets that enhance dialogue clarity and directional audio cues.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"440d723e-a512-4015-87fe-0ff70ce8025c\" data-ng-block=\"{\">Room size<\/h3>\n<p>Consider your room&#8217;s size and layout. Smaller spaces, like bedrooms and offices, might be overwhelmed by high-wattage soundbars with separate subwoofers. Single-bar systems are great for smaller rooms and TVs, as their length allows for built-in stereo sound while still being compact. Larger rooms or home theater setups will benefit from more robust soundbars with additional speakers and subwoofers to produce that booming surround sound.<\/p>\n<p>Also think about where you&#8217;ll place it &#8212; will it sit on an entertainment console, be mounted on a wall or fit beneath your TV? Be sure that your soundbar can physically fit in the desired space by checking the dimensions and mounting capabilities. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeChart\">\n<div>\n<p>Use the following guide to see which soundbar length we recommend for each TV size.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chartWrapper\">\n<table aria-label class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Speaker length (in inches)<\/th>\n<th>Recommended TV screen size<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">12<\/th>\n<td>Any<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">38 to 45<\/th>\n<td>42-inch to 50-inch<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">50<\/th>\n<td>55-inch to 65-inch<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">60<\/th>\n<td>70-inch and larger<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<h3 id=\"fac08440-6afa-4830-9d55-9c682f3001e3\" data-ng-block=\"{\">Audio format compatibility<\/h3>\n<p>Match your soundbar&#8217;s audio format to the content you enjoy most. Here are a few of the most important audio formats and their use cases to consider when choosing a soundbar:<\/p>\n<ul data-ng-block=\"{\">\n<li><strong>Dolby Atmos <\/strong>for 3D soundscapes with height channels that create immersive experiences perfect for movie buffs<\/li>\n<li><strong>DTS:X <\/strong>for object-based audio that adapts to your specific speaker setup, ideal for home theater enthusiasts<\/li>\n<li><strong>PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) <\/strong>for uncompressed digital audio commonly found on Blu-ray discs and gaming consoles<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dolby Digital 5.1 <\/strong>for traditional surround sound with five speakers and a subwoofer, the standard for DVD content<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bluetooth audio codecs (AAC, aptX, LDAC) <\/strong>for wireless streaming with varying levels of quality, essential for music streaming from mobile devices<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Check your TV&#8217;s connection options (HDMI ARC\/eARC, optical) to ensure compatibility with the soundbar you choose.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"bf61a075-7cac-4953-a314-10f8675d1ec9\" data-id=\"bf61a075-7cac-4953-a314-10f8675d1ec9\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">How CNET tests soundbars<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeImage u-clearfix c-shortcodeImage-large c-shortcodeImage-hasCaption\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeImage_imageContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-shortcodeImage_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/d669d332debc76d2524c8ba5d96f68dabda8722d\/hub\/2023\/09\/12\/a9c3468a-d6fa-4912-9c9b-7ad0addf26cd\/soundbar-testing.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=768\" alt=\"soundbar testing lab with various audio equipment and a big TV\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_caption g-inner-spacing-right-small g-text-xxsmall\"><\/p>\n<p>At the AV lab in New York, I test soundbars against a variety of reference equipment.<\/p>\n<p><\/span><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_credit g-inner-spacing-right-small g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-color-text-meta g-text-xxxsmall\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>CNET follows a rigorous, unbiased evaluation process for all of its soundbar testing. In the CNET AV lab, I do comparative testing, pitting similar soundbars against each other side by side.<\/p>\n<p>I evaluate the sound performance of each soundbar with several different types of content, including movies, music, TV shows and games. I use several test scenes, mainly from action movies, including the opening of Mad Max: Fury Road for playback of the spatial audio standard Dolby Atmos for soundbars that support it. I also use the Thanator attack scene of Avatar (26:53) to test a system&#8217;s dynamics and detail retrieval.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>CNET&#8217;s dedicated audio lab in downtown New York includes a selection of recent televisions (with HDMI eARC), plus\u00a0an Apple TV 4K streamer\u00a0and Roku Ultra streamer, a\u00a0Microsoft Xbox Series X\u00a0and an Oppo UDP-205 4K Blu-ray player. I also use\u00a0<span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Roon music software<\/span> to stream to individual devices or the Oppo player as needed.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeImage u-clearfix c-shortcodeImage-large c-shortcodeImage-hasCaption\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeImage_imageContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-shortcodeImage_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/1a6db354eab4d51b5482d370963d6b97cb6da2eb\/hub\/2025\/04\/24\/58de5fb5-3895-4f58-9d3b-4d4a1f601f80\/screenshot-2025-04-24-at-11-37-25am.png?auto=webp&amp;width=768\" alt=\"Audio-visual setup featuring stacked components with Sony Blu-ray player on top, AV ProConnect switcher in the middle displaying input options, and an Oppo disc player showing 'HELLO' on its display panel, arranged on an entertainment shelf with dark fini\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_caption g-inner-spacing-right-small g-text-xxsmall\"><\/p>\n<p>From top: Sony UXP-700 Blu-ray player, AVPro 8&#215;8 4K UHD Matrix Switch and Oppo BDP-203 Blu-ray player.<\/p>\n<p><\/span><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_credit g-inner-spacing-right-small g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-color-text-meta g-text-xxxsmall\">David Katzmaier\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>When it comes to music, I use several CNET test tracks,\u00a0which you can find here in a Tidal or Spotify playlist. Tracks such as Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds&#8217; Red Right Hand, with its deep bass notes and tenor vocals, help determine a system&#8217;s ability to track male voices in particular, without sounding congested. The song also helps with uncovering hidden details and the relative dynamics a speaker is capable of. Using both types of content &#8212; movies and music &#8212; I then grade the sound quality of each soundbar. I evaluate characteristics such as speech clarity, dynamics\/volume, bass response and musical playback.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeChart\">\n<div>\n<p>My reviews also account for things like features, design and value. Here&#8217;s a quick breakdown of our testing categories for more details on what I&#8217;m looking for.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chartWrapper\">\n<table class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Subrating Category<\/th>\n<th>Weight<\/th>\n<th>What we looked for<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Design<\/th>\n<td>25%<\/td>\n<td>Assessment of build quality, aesthetics, size relative to TVs, remote functionality, display readability, and placement flexibility (wall-mountable, low profile, etc.).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Features<\/th>\n<td>25%<\/td>\n<td>Evaluation of audio format support, connectivity options, wireless capabilities, room calibration, voice assistant integration, and specialized modes like night listening or dialogue enhancement.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Sound<\/th>\n<td>25%<\/td>\n<td>Overall audio performance across movies, music, and games. We test clarity, bass response, maximum volume without distortion, and surround sound accuracy in various room sizes.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Value<\/th>\n<td>25%<\/td>\n<td>Analysis of overall performance and features relative to price point compared with similar models in the same category. Higher-priced models must deliver proportionally better experiences.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"629a4586-3c7b-4928-a322-cf929148157c\" data-id=\"629a4586-3c7b-4928-a322-cf929148157c\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Other soundbars we&#8217;ve tested<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeImage u-clearfix c-shortcodeImage-large\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeImage_imageContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-shortcodeImage_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/b4a1f69a31057ffc1e002ac337678730f282340f\/hub\/2025\/04\/25\/1cb1fe78-ad30-41c2-9015-c43f2c3f7e25\/sonos-arc-ultra-3.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=768\" alt=\"Sonos Arc Ultra soundbar\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_credit g-inner-spacing-right-small g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-color-text-meta g-text-xxxsmall\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Sonos Arc Ultra<\/span> ($1,099): The high-end Sonos Arc Ultra has even better bass than the previous model, and it&#8217;s great for music in particular. Yet it isn&#8217;t as expansive-sounding as before and it costs more than the original, as well as its main rival: the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar. Read my review of the Sonos Arc Ultra.  <\/p>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Creative Stage Pro <\/span> ($170): A refined version of the earlier Stage soundbar, the Stage Pro is able to connect to either a TV or a PC and make it sound great &#8212; especially for music. Read the full review of the Creative Stage Pro.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Polk Signa S3<\/span> ($300): If you&#8217;re looking for a speaker that can do music as well as play the latest episode of The Last of Us, then the Polk Audio Signa S3 has a lot to offer. It&#8217;s great for accessing streaming services, as it has\u00a0Chromecast built-in\u00a0in addition to Bluetooth and an HDMI input.\u00a0Read my Polk Signa S3 review.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Zvox SB500<\/span><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>($400): If you&#8217;re looking for a single audio bar that&#8217;s even cheaper than the Sonos Arc, the Zvox SB500 is a great option for people who still prize sound quality. This speaker offers multiple sound mode options, tighter bass and better sound than most other single-speaker options. While it may lack the Sonos&#8217; Wi-Fi streaming, the Zvox still includes Bluetooth connectivity for streaming audio from your phone or tablet.\u00a0Read the Zvox SB500 review.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Sennheiser Ambeo Max<\/span> ($3,000): The Sennheiser Ambeo is the best surround experience I&#8217;ve had from a single speaker.  Without rears, the Sennheiser can make voices hover over the top of your head, even if it still can&#8217;t convince you that things are behind you. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList izeBorder\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large\">\n<h2 id=\"6c897f96-20e7-49a2-9ec0-f1646e8a1ea3\" data-id=\"6c897f96-20e7-49a2-9ec0-f1646e8a1ea3\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Soundbar FAQ<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<div id data-cy=\"shortcodeListicle\" data-id=\"listicle-74ffc873-4ac7-43ac-a9d7-8caada6a72ad\" data-location=\"LIST\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle g-border-thin-light-top g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium g-inner-spacing-left-large g-inner-spacing-right-large c-shortcodeListicle-infoCard c-shortcodeListicle-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_text\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heading g-outer-spacing-top-large\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heds u-flexbox-column u-flex-grow u-flexbox-justifyCenter\">\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_hed g-text-medium g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\">HDMI vs. optical: Which connections do I want? <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_dek c-shortcodeListicleDek g-color-text-meta c-shortcodeListicleDek-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_clamp\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12\">\n<p>Depending on the age of your TV, there are two main ways to output to a soundbar: Digital optical and HDMI. <\/p>\n<p>Both HDMI and optical pass digital audio from your TV to your soundbar. Both are better than analog (the red and white cables, or RCA). Both can pass multichannel audio, like Dolby Digital. Both cables can be had pretty cheap.<\/p>\n<p>The biggest difference is that HDMI can pass higher-resolution audio, including the formats found on streaming services such as\u00a0Dolby Atmos\u00a0and\u00a0DTS HD Master Audio. These formats can&#8217;t be transmitted across optical.<\/p>\n<p>The bottom line? Use HDMI when you can. The cables are cheap, and having just one wire simplifies setup. If you can&#8217;t, optical is fine. If your TV or soundbar doesn&#8217;t have HDMI, it can&#8217;t take advantage of the high-resolution audio formats from streaming services anyway. On the other hand, Dolby Digital is surprisingly good, and unless you have decent gear, you probably won&#8217;t hear much (if any) improvement with Dolby Atmos and DTS HD MA.<\/p>\n<p>Before you buy a soundbar, make sure it accepts the same connections that exist on your TV. The most common input on soundbars is now HDMI-ARC, and if your TV is less than 5 years old, it should be compatible, but it&#8217;s worth double-checking.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_readMore o-inText-link o-inText-link-lightBg\"><br \/>\n      Show more<br \/>\n    <\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id data-cy=\"shortcodeListicle\" data-id=\"listicle-2a9de4f6-dd00-496e-8248-e9939d239dbc\" data-location=\"LIST\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle g-border-thin-light-top g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium g-inner-spacing-left-large g-inner-spacing-right-large c-shortcodeListicle-infoCard c-shortcodeListicle-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_text\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heading g-outer-spacing-top-large\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heds u-flexbox-column u-flex-grow u-flexbox-justifyCenter\">\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_hed g-text-medium g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\">Do I need Bluetooth or Wi-Fi on my soundbar?<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_dek c-shortcodeListicleDek g-color-text-meta c-shortcodeListicleDek-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_clamp\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12\">\n<p>If you plan on playing music through your soundbar, wireless streaming through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi is a must-have. Wireless streaming lets you play music from a multitude of sources &#8212; like Spotify on your phone, or iTunes on your computer &#8212; via your soundbar. Higher-end soundbars usually have both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming, but most budget and mid-range options have one or the other.<\/p>\n<p>Bluetooth is the easiest way to wirelessly stream audio to your soundbar. It works with the music stored on your device and any music app, plus it&#8217;s platform-agnostic &#8212; virtually all iOS, Android and Windows phones and tablets have built-in Bluetooth. Likewise, almost every soundbar on the market features Bluetooth, and if it doesn&#8217;t you can buy an adapter like those made by\u00a0Belkin\u00a0or Logitech.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Still, Wi-Fi offers several upgrades to Bluetooth including the ability to listen in multiple rooms and even control it with Google Assistant or Alexa. Wi-Fi streaming generally sounds better, too, as its higher bandwidth allows for uncompressed audio (unlike Bluetooth). That said, most people won&#8217;t notice a difference in most situations.<\/p>\n<p>So, if you prioritize convenience and quick connections from multiple devices, Bluetooth works well. But if sound quality is your primary concern, Wi-Fi streaming is generally superior. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_readMore o-inText-link o-inText-link-lightBg\"><br \/>\n      Show more<br \/>\n    <\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id data-cy=\"shortcodeListicle\" data-id=\"listicle-d7741cdb-699f-40dc-aa9f-cd830c227965\" data-location=\"LIST\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle g-border-thin-light-top g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium g-inner-spacing-left-large g-inner-spacing-right-large c-shortcodeListicle-infoCard c-shortcodeListicle-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_text\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heading g-outer-spacing-top-large\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heds u-flexbox-column u-flex-grow u-flexbox-justifyCenter\">\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_hed g-text-medium g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\">Do I need separate speakers with my soundbar?<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_dek c-shortcodeListicleDek g-color-text-meta c-shortcodeListicleDek-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_clamp\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12\">\n<p>If you&#8217;re looking for the simplest possible solution to improving TV sound, a stand-alone soundbar is the perfect place to start. <\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re serious about sound quality though, adding separate speakers to your soundbar is the best way to go. You can mix and match according to your needs, and it&#8217;s easier to upgrade once new formats come in &#8212; you won&#8217;t need to replace everything if you want to add 8K video capability, for example. Many retailers offer a soundbar-subwoofer bundle to jumpstart your speaker setup.  <\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re not ready to upgrade to a full speaker system just yet, look for a soundbar with several HDMI ports. That way you can connect additional speakers to the soundbar when you&#8217;re ready.<\/p>\n<p>We have a full piece designed to help you pick between a soundbar and speaker system, if you need a bit more help. Whichever option you choose, you will never be able to go back to tinny, little TV speakers ever again.<\/p>\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_readMore o-inText-link o-inText-link-lightBg\"><br \/>\n      Show more<br \/>\n    <\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-8 lg:u-col-start-5\">\n<section class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter g-outer-spacing-top-large g-outer-spacing-bottom-xxlarge c-pageArticle_articleAuthorBioFooter\">\n<h2 class=\"g-outer-spacing-bottom-large\">About the Author<\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_body u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_primaryAuthor fullBleed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_imgContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/80b9ede53d910f1648cf9822ccb4c95cc3bb7a73\/hub\/2012\/12\/05\/0b473d5e-870a-11e3-9955-14feb5ca9861\/Ty_Pendlebury.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=64&amp;width=64\" alt=\"Headshot of Ty Pendlebury\" height=\"64\" width=\"64\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"md:u-hidden lg:u-hidden\">\n<h3 class=\"u-text-capitalize\">Ty Pendlebury<\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_credentials g-color-text-meta g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall\">Editor<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_bioContainer u-flexbox-column fullBleed\">\n<div class=\"sm:u-hidden\">\n<h3 class=\"u-text-capitalize\">Ty Pendlebury<\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_credentials g-color-text-meta\">Editor<\/span><\/div>\n<p class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_bio\"> Ty Pendlebury is CNET&#8217;s senior editor for TV and home audio, and author of the daily Insider newsletter. He has rigorously tested, reviewed and written about AV equipment for the company since 2006. He has a cat named after one of the best TVs ever made. <\/p>\n<p>          Read full bio\n        <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div data-cy=\"articleLinkBlock\" class=\"c-articleLinkBlock\">\n<div class=\"c-articleLinkBlock_blockWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlock\">\n<h2 class=\"c-bestListLinkBlock_header\">\n    Home Entertainment Guides<br \/>\n  <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlock_itemContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_categoryContainer\"><span class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_category\"><br \/>\n      TVs<br \/>\n    <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_listContainer\">\n<ul class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_list\">\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best TV\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Smart TV\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best 4k TV\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Budget TV\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best TV for PS5 &amp; Xbox\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best 75-Inch TV\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best 65-Inch TV\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best TV Deals\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          How CNET Tests TVs\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          QLED vs OLED\n        <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlock_itemContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_categoryContainer\"><span class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_category\"><br \/>\n      Streaming &amp; TV Accessories<br \/>\n    <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_listContainer\">\n<ul class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_list\">\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Live TV Streaming Service\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Streaming Service\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Free TV Streaming Service\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Music Streaming Service\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Streaming Device\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Fire TV Stick\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Soundbar\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best TV Antenna\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best AV Receiver\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best HDMI Cables\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Universal Remote\n        <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlock_itemContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_categoryContainer\"><span class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_category\"><br \/>\n      Speakers<br \/>\n    <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_listContainer\">\n<ul class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_list\">\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Bluetooth Speaker\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Portable Mini Bluetooth Speaker\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Speakers\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Wi-Fi Speaker\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Speakerphone for Working from Home\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Sonos Speakers\n        <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlock_itemContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_categoryContainer\"><span class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_category\"><br \/>\n      Projectors<br \/>\n    <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_listContainer\">\n<ul class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_list\">\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Home Theater Projector\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best 4k Projector\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Portable Projector\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Outdoor Projector\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Big TV vs Projector\n        <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlock_itemContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_categoryContainer\"><span class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_category\"><br \/>\n      Other Home Entertainment<br \/>\n    <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_listContainer\">\n<ul class=\"c-bestListLinkBlockItem_list\">\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Record Player\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Home Theater System\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best Blu-ray Player\n        <\/li>\n<li class=\"g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n          Best DVR for Cord Cutters\n        <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-pageArticle_content sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12 c-pageArticle_content-izeBestList\">\n<div class=\"u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent_leftRail sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-4 lg:u-col-start-0 u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-11\">\n<div data-cy=\"bylineCard\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard c-articleBylineCard_bestList\">\n<h2 class=\"c-articleBylineCard_header c-articleBylineCard_izeBestList\">\n    Our Experts<br \/>\n  <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorContainer\">\n<div data-cy=\"bylineCard_images\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorImages-noinfo\">\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_image g-container-round c-articleBylineCard_image-0\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/36d460c9e8ba9fb8ed5c388625494e33cf3bb9a9\/hub\/2012\/12\/05\/0b473d5e-870a-11e3-9955-14feb5ca9861\/Ty_Pendlebury.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=96&amp;width=96\" alt=\"Headshot of Ty Pendlebury\" height=\"96\" width=\"96\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_meta-noinfo single\">\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard__authorName-noinfo\">\n<address class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorNameContainer\"><span class=\"c-articleBylineCard_writtenBy g-text-xsmall\">Written by\u00a0<\/span><span data-cy=\"bylineCard_link\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard_link c-articleBylineCard_link-0\"><br \/>\n              Ty Pendlebury<br \/>\n            <\/span><\/address>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_date-updated g-outer-spacing-top-small\">\n<div class=\"c-globalUpdatedDate\">\n  Article updated on\u00a0<time datetime=\"2026-07-08T07:28:00-0800\">July 8, 2026 at 7:28 AM PDT<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"author-card-0\" class=\"col-5 c-globalAuthorCard\">\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_head\">\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_picture\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/1c2de43ecbb7d50d70ece397e12791b0e8da80e8\/hub\/2012\/12\/05\/0b473d5e-870a-11e3-9955-14feb5ca9861\/Ty_Pendlebury.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=84&amp;width=84\" alt=\"Headshot of Ty Pendlebury\" height=\"84\" width=\"84\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_info\"><span class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_name\">Ty Pendlebury<\/span><span>Editor<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_bio\">Ty Pendlebury is CNET&#8217;s senior editor for TV and home audio, and author of the daily Insider newsletter. He has rigorously tested, reviewed and written about AV equipment for the company since 2006. He has a cat named after one of the best TVs ever made.<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_details\"><span>Expertise<\/span><span class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_description\">Ty has worked for radio, print, and online publications, and has been writing about home entertainment since 2004. He is an avid record collector and streaming music enthusiast.<\/span><span>Credentials<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_description\">\n<li>Ty was nominated for Best New Journalist at the Australian IT Journalism awards, but he has only ever won one thing. As a youth, he was awarded a free session for the photography studio at a local supermarket.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_linkWrapper\">See full bio<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_metaContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_header sm:u-hidden\"><span class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_title g-text-small\"><br \/>\n        Why You Can Trust CNET<br \/>\n      <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_metrics\">\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_category\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_category\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_value g-inner-spacing-right-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_valueContainer\"><span>30+<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_topic\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_topic\">Years of Experience<\/span><\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_category\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_category\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_value g-inner-spacing-right-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_valueContainer\"><span>35<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_topic\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_topic\">Product Reviewers<\/span><\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_category\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_category\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_value g-inner-spacing-right-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_valueContainer\"><span>15k<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_topic\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_topic\">Sq. Feet of Lab Space<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_disclosureContainer\">\n<p data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_message\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_message g-text-xxsmall\">CNET staff &#8212; not advertisers, partners or business interests &#8212; determine how we review products and services. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_disclosureLinks u-flexbox-row\">\n        Reviews ethics statement<\/p>\n<p>        How we test\n        <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq g-container-rounded-small c-shortcodeFaq-leftRail u-hidden\">\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_header\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_header\">\n<p id=\"1fac227e-2fce-4315-9918-62cb24ae1e9a\" data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_title\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_title\">\n      What to consider\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_sections\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_sections\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Budget\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Before anything else, you should consider how much you&#8217;re willing to spend on your new soundbar.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Dolby Atmos\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>If you&#8217;re looking for a more realistic and immersive audio experience, you&#8217;ll want to make sure your soundbar supports Dolby Atmos.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      HDMI Connections\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>A soundbar should have at least one HDMI input, and preferably more. The ability to connect multiple cables will help users with a large selection of sources<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Subwoofer and Surround Speakers\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Single-bar systems are great for smaller TVs, while a soundbar-and-subwoofer combo is better suited for a living room. Consider your needs before opting for a larger home theater setup.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_toolbar u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_productsList\">\n<p class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_versus\">vs<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_compareCta\"><span>Compare<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_table u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_tableHead\"><span>Back to selection<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<article class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-8 lg:u-col-start-5\">\n<p data-keep class=\"u-speakableText-p1\">Any television you buy today will have onboard speakers, but every single one can be improved with the addition of a great-sounding soundbar. I&#8217;ve tested dozens of soundbars head-to-head to find the best soundbar for sports, video games or the latest season of The Pitt. From cheap and cheerful models, to those packed with features like Dolby Atmos surround sound, Bluetooth, built-in streaming and multiroom audio, here are my picks for the best soundbars of 2026.<\/p>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"listiclePrecap\" data-location=\"PRECAP\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-hide c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-compact g-outer-spacing-bottom-large\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-hed\">\n<section>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_header\"> Our Picks <\/h2>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"1\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/38ba04d3aeee81336177d0e8a6ff2c2d3e6cc881\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/cf9fb0a5-2256-4203-b0ec-bc6829195c2b\/01-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"The Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar and subwoofer in a living room set up with a wooden console table and colorful rug. \" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign isFirst\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best soundbar of 2026<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Yamaha YAS-209<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$330 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-score\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreValue\">8.5\/10<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreLabel\">CNET Score<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip-expandedContent c-globalTooltip-arrow c-globalTooltip-arrow_top c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipContent\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipTitle\">CNET Score<\/h3>\n<p class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipText\">\n                    CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. When we assign a score, we use a scale of 1-10. Each product we score is evaluated by criteria specific to its category with most assessing pricing, quality, features and performance.\n                  <\/p>\n<p> Read more on: How we test<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out: <\/strong><br \/>The Yamaha YAS-209 packs in everything I expect from a midpriced soundbar: ease of use, powerful output levels and an ability to replay both movies and music to a high standard. The soundbar offers an immersive experience with movies, thanks to DTS Virtual:X, and better separation of instruments and a broader stereo effect (in its Stereo mode) compared to competitors. The wireless subwoofer demonstrates better articulation with music tracks, avoiding the bloated sound that some competitors can produce. As Yamaha&#8217;s first smart speaker, it implements Amazon Alexa effectively &#8212; the microphones work well even in loud environments, and it&#8217;s able to hear commands without shouting.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\">\n              Read full review<br \/>\n               <span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Excellent sound in a compact size with articulate, punchy subwoofer<\/li>\n<li>Feature-packed, including Amazon Alexa and six media-specific presets (music, TV, movie, sports, gaming and stereo)<\/li>\n<li>Onboard DTS Virtual:X for simulated surround effects<\/li>\n<li>Easy setup and use with companion Yamaha Sound Bar Controller app and an intuitive, large remote<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Uses LED lights that are difficult to read instead of on-screen display<\/li>\n<li>Surround sound is just OK, with only two channels of drivers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"2\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/7c920a1df25ff303e704d0f12278759aed59636c\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/5b9e55b0-07f5-4c2b-b2a9-35755a906d86\/sonos-ray-blue-white.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"Image of Sonos Ray\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best value soundbar<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Sonos Ray<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$219 at Sonos<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-score\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreValue\">8.3\/10<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreLabel\">CNET Score<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip-expandedContent c-globalTooltip-arrow c-globalTooltip-arrow_top c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipContent\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipTitle\">CNET Score<\/h3>\n<p class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipText\">\n                    CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. When we assign a score, we use a scale of 1-10. Each product we score is evaluated by criteria specific to its category with most assessing pricing, quality, features and performance.\n                  <\/p>\n<p> Read more on: How we test<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Sonos Ray is the closest thing yet to a Sonos One speaker in soundbar form, and that&#8217;s high praise. Despite its compact 22-inch width and simple design, the Ray delivers sound that belies its physical dimensions. The key to this performance lies in its proprietary tweeters with waveguides that focus high frequencies outwards, allowing it to produce a surprisingly wide soundstage. The vocals sound super crisp, and both the highs and bass are full. It delivers a tight, contained sound and offers respectable dialog reproduction. At $279, it&#8217;s part of the exciting trend toward affordable audio gear that actually sounds good.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\">\n              Read full review<br \/>\n               <span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Excellent sound with two midwoofers and two tweeters that feature waveguide to focus high frequencies outward<\/li>\n<li>Compact, attractive design that comes in two colors (black and white)<\/li>\n<li>Simple connection and easy setup<\/li>\n<li>Unmatched multiroom system for all-over sound<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>No HDMI connection<\/li>\n<li>Lacks extra features like voice assistant or Dolby Atmos capability<\/li>\n<li>No designated remote control (must control with phone or TV remote)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"3\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/dcc9d6318e584c63a56fa98acd49ab13210953b1\/hub\/2024\/05\/23\/d53165f6-5c3a-4fca-8a85-dc1d8536ec39\/klipsch-core-100-1.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"klipsch-core-100-1\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best sound from a single speaker<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Klipsch Flexus Core 100<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$310 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-score\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreValue\">8.3\/10<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreLabel\">CNET Score<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip-expandedContent c-globalTooltip-arrow c-globalTooltip-arrow_top c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipContent\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipTitle\">CNET Score<\/h3>\n<p class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipText\">\n                    CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. When we assign a score, we use a scale of 1-10. Each product we score is evaluated by criteria specific to its category with most assessing pricing, quality, features and performance.\n                  <\/p>\n<p> Read more on: How we test<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>Klipsch has made some of the best soundbars available and, in its first collaboration with stablemate Onkyo, the company continues its dream run. At $350, the Flexus Core 100 has settled into a clever niche between the Sonos Ray and Beam. It&#8217;s an excellent single-bar system with plenty of bass and extraordinary dynamics. If you want muscular sound in a single soundbar for under $400, the Core 100 is the place to get it.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\">\n              Read full review<br \/>\n               <span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>The Flexus Core 100 offers great sound from a single bar<\/li>\n<li>The soundbar is surprisingly loud and dynamic<\/li>\n<li>It has no real competition to speak of<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>There are no Atmos effects despite being compatible<\/li>\n<li>It comes with minimal features<\/li>\n<li>Its three inch height could block TV&#8217;s IR port<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"4\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/efd2c7106d3a83d16b7e4b180a12b8fc3455cee7\/hub\/2026\/03\/05\/318525bc-1c59-4a78-87ef-bf7bbd5d048b\/polk-magnifi-ax.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"polk-magnifi-ax\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best soundbar for dialogue<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Polk MagniFi Mini AX<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$499 at B&amp;H Photo-Video<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-score\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreValue\">8.2\/10<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreLabel\">CNET Score<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip-expandedContent c-globalTooltip-arrow c-globalTooltip-arrow_top c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipContent\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipTitle\">CNET Score<\/h3>\n<p class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipText\">\n                    CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. When we assign a score, we use a scale of 1-10. Each product we score is evaluated by criteria specific to its category with most assessing pricing, quality, features and performance.\n                  <\/p>\n<p> Read more on: How we test<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out: <\/strong>The great-sounding Polk MagniFi Mini AX is an update on one of the best soundbars I&#8217;ve reviewed, and it adds Dolby Atmos compatibility to the mix. If you want better-sounding dialogue, then this is one of the best options with over ten levels of voice boost or cut. It also includes both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, as well as HDMI.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\">\n              Read full review<br \/>\n               <span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Excellent movie sound and decent music replay<\/li>\n<li>Dialogue enhancement is highly configurable<\/li>\n<li>Feature-rich<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>$200 more than the original<\/li>\n<li>No dedicated appSubwoofer adds placement and configuration challenges<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals u-flexbox u-flexbox-column u-flexbox-alignCenter g-inner-spacing-top-xlarge g-inner-spacing-bottom-xlarge\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListDeals_hed u-text-capitalize u-text-center\">BLUETOOTH SPEAKER DEALS OF THE WEEK<\/h3>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_productsBlock g-outer-spacing-top-large\">\n<ul>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                Echo Dot 5th Gen Smart Speaker (2022 Release, Charcoal)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$35<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $15)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                JBL Go 4 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker (Black)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$38<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $12)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                Bose 2nd Gen SoundLink Micro Portable Bluetooth Speaker (Black)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$100<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $30)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                Beats Pill Wireless Portable Bluetooth Speaker (Matte Black)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$100<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $50)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                Bang &amp; Olufsen Beosound Explore Portable Bluetooth Speaker (Black)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$224<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $75)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"u-text-italic u-text-center g-text-xxsmall g-outer-spacing-top-large c-bestListDeals_disclosure\">Deals are selected by the CNET Group commerce team, and may be unrelated to this article.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<nav class=\"c-globalToc\">\n<div class=\"c-globalToc_header\">\n<div class=\"c-globalToc_title\"><span class=\"c-globalToc_titleText\">Table of Contents<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul class=\"c-globalToc_dropdown g-dropShadow-hover\">\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best Soundbars of 2026\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best soundbar of 2026\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best soundbar of 2026\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best value soundbar\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best sound from a single speaker\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best soundbar for dialogue\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Compare soundbars\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Factors to consider when choosing a soundbar\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        How CNET tests soundbars\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Other soundbars we&#8217;ve tested\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Soundbar FAQ\n      <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<h2 id=\"96308195-9d51-4d20-b597-9c5f552e2955\" data-ng-block=\"{\" data-keep data-id=\"96308195-9d51-4d20-b597-9c5f552e2955\">Best soundbar of 2026<\/h2>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"f102a00e-94f6-4761-9bd6-2b8c3ff487b3\" data-id=\"listicle-f102a00e-94f6-4761-9bd6-2b8c3ff487b3\" data-techprodid=\"36aec6af-6ae1-43f9-a359-4b9d864ef89a\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar sits in front of a yellow background. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A hand holds the Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar remote in front of a yellow background. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The back of the Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar shows the wall mount system and power connector in front of a yellow background. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Underneath the Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar shows the HDMI, HDMI ARC, ethernet, TV and update ports in front of a yellow background. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar&apos;s wireless subwoofer sits next to a console table that holds the Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Sarah Tew\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/5<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/b1f7acf402a34d40db7387c0cb407081e436b575\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/6463211a-1384-46a8-b1c6-e775d6d18c14\/06-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/9fcfcee701852775e97c8d8bc63bedc56994a010\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/84e75ce9-757b-4f0d-962a-134d6f91d7e4\/02-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/6e426318b4eef4a9c7c68f64dfeff195c49514f9\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/d3393121-9e88-49d7-9d1f-a171ae60e8fc\/11-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/b1120e08be9aeeba2c343a7fafde656b749ad64b\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/cc4c305a-b13d-4c59-b634-47a208cfc9d1\/08-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/7b7a7fcdc5287dad84a2c0c4f362eb0d0994d9f8\/hub\/2019\/08\/14\/d454fdb8-33a3-40cd-8a62-cd8c31915e5d\/yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Sarah Tew\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignStart\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"f102a00e-94f6-4761-9bd6-2b8c3ff487b3\" data-id=\"f102a00e-94f6-4761-9bd6-2b8c3ff487b3\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best soundbar of 2026<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Yamaha YAS-209<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_badges g-outer-spacing-bottom-small g-outer-spacing-top-medium u-flexbox u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-wrap c-bestListListicle_badges-hasEditorsChoice\">\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge g-color-white c-bestListListicle_productRating g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall c-reviewScoreBadge-inline\"><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_rating\"><br \/>\n    8.5<br \/>\n  <\/span><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_overall\"><br \/>\n    \/10<br \/>\n  <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_cnetScore u-text-uppercase\">\n    SCORE\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Excellent sound in a compact size with articulate, punchy subwoofer\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Feature-packed, including Amazon Alexa and six media-specific presets (music, TV, movie, sports, gaming and stereo)\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Onboard DTS Virtual:X for simulated surround effects\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Easy setup and use with companion Yamaha Sound Bar Controller app and an intuitive, large remote\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Uses LED lights that are difficult to read instead of on-screen display\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Surround sound is just OK, with only two channels of drivers\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out: <\/strong><br \/>The Yamaha YAS-209 packs in everything I expect from a midpriced soundbar: ease of use, powerful output levels and an ability to replay both movies and music to a high standard. The soundbar offers an immersive experience with movies, thanks to DTS Virtual:X, and better separation of instruments and a broader stereo effect (in its Stereo mode) compared to competitors. The wireless subwoofer demonstrates better articulation with music tracks, avoiding the bloated sound that some competitors can produce. As Yamaha&#8217;s first smart speaker, it implements Amazon Alexa effectively &#8212; the microphones work well even in loud environments, and it&#8217;s able to hear commands without shouting.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Perfect for these listeners: <\/strong><br \/>The YAS-209 is ideal for those seeking a midrange soundbar with excellent performance for both movies and music. Home theater enthusiasts will appreciate the DTS Virtual:X for simulated surround effects from a single bar. Those who want connectivity options will find HDMI, optical digital and Bluetooth, plus Ethernet and Wi-Fi for Spotify Connect. It&#8217;s perfect for people who want the convenience of voice control, as it incorporates two microphones for use with Amazon Alexa. The fact that you can ask Alexa for a song &#8212; and have it sound better than pretty much any smaller smart speaker &#8212; makes it particularly appealing for music lovers who&#8217;ve embraced smart home technology.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Consider alternatives if: <\/strong><br \/>If you&#8217;re invested in the Apple or Google ecosystems you&#8217;ll be disappointed, as the Yamaha only works with Amazon Alexa. There&#8217;s also no AirPlay 2 or built-in Chromecast. The subwoofer is quite large at roughly 16 inches square and 7.5 inches wide, making it potentially intrusive in smaller spaces. Those who prefer visual feedback when adjusting settings might be frustrated by the lack of a display, and the tiny LEDs on top that are too small to see from across the room. Finally, music purists might note that its Music mode adds reverb to vocals and less separation between instruments than its Stereo mode, and it can sound slightly compressed during complex musical passages.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$330 at Amazon\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section u-flexbox o-accordion_header u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-justifyBetween\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails-title\"> Specs &amp; Configurations<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_specs u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Size<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 39.75 x 4.0 x 2.4 inches<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Number of channels<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 2.1<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Subwoofer<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Yes<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Peak power<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 100 watts<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Connections<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Bluetooth, optical, HDMI, Wi-Fi<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Supported audio formats<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Dolby Digital, DTS<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_subratings o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section o-accordion_header u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_subratings-title\">Score Breakdown<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score u-flexbox-alignCenter g-text-xxsmall u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Design<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        9<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Features<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        9<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Sound<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        8<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Value<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        8<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_review\">\n<div class=\"o-cta g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">Learn more<\/div>\n<p>        Yamaha YAS-209 review\n       <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"2ee7b7a6-7866-4525-b0e8-cf5350fca602\" data-id=\"listicle-2ee7b7a6-7866-4525-b0e8-cf5350fca602\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray soundbar in front of a TV on a dresser\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray soundbar under a TV\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Sonos<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/5<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/38305b09e36817ba51fdc4163584323f09d6656d\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/8d19ba40-d3e9-415c-b148-3a14a2c3ecea\/sonos-ray-promo-yellow-white.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/966c651960f052ff65c3e2e849ee145935de419d\/hub\/2022\/05\/06\/906fe6ec-1612-4233-8a2e-808a407184c4\/fr-h4-cwyaa-keq.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/50e1af874b95ecb5b038ca774eeb1730851e2d71\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/5fd6b45e-81b8-4dd1-bef2-882648c9f473\/sonos-ray-2022-soundbar-003.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/8122111a4c58327a20ad7d9a868535ec676d9ae6\/hub\/2022\/05\/27\/427b30db-9cd0-4bee-bb56-2cccfd857edc\/sonos-ray-001.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/591f6d722826c3c9f7bf377d9dbff2864fc9f256\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/a057f353-559f-4fdd-9b1b-e12ae3a7307a\/sonos-ray-2022-soundbar-001.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Sonos<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"2ee7b7a6-7866-4525-b0e8-cf5350fca602\" data-id=\"2ee7b7a6-7866-4525-b0e8-cf5350fca602\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best value soundbar<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Sonos Ray<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_badges g-outer-spacing-bottom-small g-outer-spacing-top-medium u-flexbox u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-wrap\">\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge g-color-white c-bestListListicle_productRating g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall c-reviewScoreBadge-inline\"><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_rating\"><br \/>\n    8.3<br \/>\n  <\/span><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_overall\"><br \/>\n    \/10<br \/>\n  <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_cnetScore u-text-uppercase\">\n    SCORE\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Excellent sound with two midwoofers and two tweeters that feature waveguide to focus high frequencies outward\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Compact, attractive design that comes in two colors (black and white)\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Simple connection and easy setup\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Unmatched multiroom system for all-over sound\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No HDMI connection\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Lacks extra features like voice assistant or Dolby Atmos capability\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No designated remote control (must control with phone or TV remote)\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Sonos Ray is the closest thing yet to a Sonos One speaker in soundbar form, and that&#8217;s high praise. Despite its compact 22-inch width and simple design, the Ray delivers sound that belies its physical dimensions. The key to this performance lies in its proprietary tweeters with waveguides that focus high frequencies outwards, allowing it to produce a surprisingly wide soundstage. The vocals sound super crisp, and both the highs and bass are full. It delivers a tight, contained sound and offers respectable dialog reproduction. At $279, it&#8217;s part of the exciting trend toward affordable audio gear that actually sounds good.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><strong>Perfect for these listeners:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Sonos Ray is ideal for those who primarily use their soundbar for music, as it performs particularly well with this content, sometimes even outshining the more expensive Sonos Beam. The Ray makes a perfect complement to a bedroom TV and would also work well to upgrade a television in a smaller living room. Those who want to start building a Sonos multiroom system will find the Ray an excellent entry point, as it includes all the streaming capabilities that make Sonos the gold standard of multiroom speakers. It features dozens of streaming services and connections with Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect. People who prefer simplicity will appreciate the straightforward optical connection and lack of unnecessary features.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Consider alternatives if:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Sonos Ray isn&#8217;t for everyone, particularly those looking for the most bang for their buck in pure home theater performance. The Ray lacks HDMI connectivity, which seems an odd omission given that almost every new soundbar &#8212; even the $80 ones &#8212; now includes an HDMI port. While most TVs have an optical output, this connection limits the soundbar to Dolby Digital sound formats. The Ray also doesn&#8217;t include a voice assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant built in (though you can control it using a separate smart speaker). Those seeking powerful bass effects should consider alternatives with separate subwoofers, as the Ray sounds positively anemic compared to speaker systems. The Speech Enhancement feature is also quite subtle compared to competitors, which offer numerous levels of voice enhancement and are more effective for making dialog more understandable.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$219 at Sonos\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section u-flexbox o-accordion_header u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-justifyBetween\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails-title\"> Specs &amp; Configurations<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_specs u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Size<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 22.0 x 3.74 x 2.79 inches<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Number of channels<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 2.0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Subwoofer<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Available separately <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Peak power<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 55 watts<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Connections<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Optical, Ethernet, Wi-Fi<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Supported audio formats<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Dolby Digital, DTS<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_review\">\n<div class=\"o-cta g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">Learn more<\/div>\n<p>        Sonos Ray review\n       <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"4cbacbb5-547e-4aba-89e1-051c910080b4\" data-id=\"listicle-4cbacbb5-547e-4aba-89e1-051c910080b4\" data-techprodid=\"05987f12-b4ef-46b8-958b-68ff00ad9735\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"klipsch-core-100-1\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"klipsch-flexus-core-100-4\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"flexus-with-sub-and-satellites\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/3<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/68ea7acf8263d6a20cede50619b483b0e61cb39e\/hub\/2024\/05\/23\/d53165f6-5c3a-4fca-8a85-dc1d8536ec39\/klipsch-core-100-1.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/63846b129f2f48b3b0c62922957f5eedcf84f736\/hub\/2024\/05\/24\/b815cde3-9494-4563-bb91-8b9312c44f83\/klipsch-flexus-core-100-4.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/3d16e8b9dd23012c47f9bd48719cccbc12b70a1e\/hub\/2024\/05\/24\/21977d30-66ef-44cb-ad7b-e9974b585675\/flexus-with-sub-and-satellites.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"4cbacbb5-547e-4aba-89e1-051c910080b4\" data-id=\"4cbacbb5-547e-4aba-89e1-051c910080b4\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best sound from a single speaker<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Klipsch Flexus Core 100<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_badges g-outer-spacing-bottom-small g-outer-spacing-top-medium u-flexbox u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-wrap\">\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge g-color-white c-bestListListicle_productRating g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall c-reviewScoreBadge-inline\"><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_rating\"><br \/>\n    8.3<br \/>\n  <\/span><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_overall\"><br \/>\n    \/10<br \/>\n  <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_cnetScore u-text-uppercase\">\n    SCORE\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  The Flexus Core 100 offers great sound from a single bar\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  The soundbar is surprisingly loud and dynamic\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  It has no real competition to speak of\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  There are no Atmos effects despite being compatible\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  It comes with minimal features\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Its three inch height could block TV&#8217;s IR port\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>Klipsch has made some of the best soundbars available and, in its first collaboration with stablemate Onkyo, the company continues its dream run. At $350, the Flexus Core 100 has settled into a clever niche between the Sonos Ray and Beam. It&#8217;s an excellent single-bar system with plenty of bass and extraordinary dynamics. If you want muscular sound in a single soundbar for under $400, the Core 100 is the place to get it.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Perfect for these listeners:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Flexus Core 100 is compact and would suit smaller spaces, and while this is perfect for people who don&#8217;t want a soundbar, it&#8217;s also good to have the option. Even without a sub, the Flexus Core 100 offered plenty of bass slam and was loud enough for small to medium-sized rooms.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Consider alternatives if:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Flexus Core soundbars come without a subwoofer, and adding one tacks an extra $350 or more onto your bill. Also, while I love the 100, the larger 200 doesn&#8217;t impress as much for the extra outlay. If you&#8217;re spending $350 on this single bar, you could consider the Sonos Ray or Beam &#8212; which also feature multiroom music &#8212; or the excellent Yamaha YAS-209, which comes with a sub, and is better for movies.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$310 at Amazon\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section u-flexbox o-accordion_header u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-justifyBetween\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails-title\"> Specs &amp; Configurations<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_specs u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Size<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 28 x 5 x 3 inches<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Number of channels<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 2.1<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Subwoofer<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Available separately<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Peak power<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 100 watts<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Connections<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, USB-C, digital optical<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Supported audio formats<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_subratings o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section o-accordion_header u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_subratings-title\">Score Breakdown<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score u-flexbox-alignCenter g-text-xxsmall u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Design<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        9<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Features<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        7<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Sound<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        8<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Value<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        9<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_review\">\n<div class=\"o-cta g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">Learn more<\/div>\n<p>        Klipsch Flexus Core 100 review\n       <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"18a61549-71b2-455b-86d8-078646d448cb\" data-id=\"listicle-18a61549-71b2-455b-86d8-078646d448cb\" data-techprodid=\"d0f0650a-d964-4553-95ad-8f7f582a7f77\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The Polk soundbar sitting on top of the subwoofer against a blue background\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A person holds the polk magnifi ax vertically so that we get a front view of the device.\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The back view of the polk magnifi ax shows all the available ports.\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/3<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/1009b8f05d50e8dd3ee5e0102ef18f1cd5711fc8\/hub\/2026\/03\/06\/ad867019-bd1e-4fee-956f-67d4c30c16c3\/polk-magnifi-ax-5.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/d5df20d96ebb63666733d0d099cc8814a604933b\/hub\/2026\/03\/06\/742d846f-851d-4ced-b519-02a67967e77a\/polk-magnifi-ax-2.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/83eb90ce2dcc98e0ea15e1600b26c492c06a60ee\/hub\/2026\/03\/06\/be480ca2-6158-462f-8148-dd8e065ec7c2\/polk-magnifi-ax-3.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_caption g-color-black\">\n<p>The soundbar is roughly the same length as the\u00a0subwoofer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"18a61549-71b2-455b-86d8-078646d448cb\" data-id=\"18a61549-71b2-455b-86d8-078646d448cb\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best soundbar for dialogue<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Polk MagniFi Mini AX<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_badges g-outer-spacing-bottom-small g-outer-spacing-top-medium u-flexbox u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-wrap\">\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge g-color-white c-bestListListicle_productRating g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall c-reviewScoreBadge-inline\"><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_rating\"><br \/>\n    8.2<br \/>\n  <\/span><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_overall\"><br \/>\n    \/10<br \/>\n  <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_cnetScore u-text-uppercase\">\n    SCORE\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Excellent movie sound and decent music replay\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Dialogue enhancement is highly configurable\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Feature-rich\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  $200 more than the original\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No dedicated appSubwoofer adds placement and configuration challenges\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out: <\/strong>The great-sounding Polk MagniFi Mini AX is an update on one of the best soundbars I&#8217;ve reviewed, and it adds Dolby Atmos compatibility to the mix. If you want better-sounding dialogue, then this is one of the best options with over ten levels of voice boost or cut. It also includes both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, as well as HDMI.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Perfect for these listeners:<\/strong> If you want a soundbar that is tiny to look at, and puts out a big sound, then the Mini AX is the only solution I can think of. It also includes a bunch of different streaming options, and it sounds great with your favorite tunes, which makes it well-suited to music streaming as well.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Consider alternatives if: <\/strong>While the soundbar itself is tiny, you still need to stick that subwoofer somewhere. It&#8217;s relatively trashcan-like and so will slip in between furniture, but it&#8217;s not as self-sufficient as a single bar like the Beam Gen 2. Also, there are a number of great soundbars on this list that are less than the $500, and they still offer plenty of immersion.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>\n<div data-v-0ea4bff7>\n        $499 at B&amp;H Photo-Video\n      <\/div>\n<div data-v-0ea4bff7>\n        $499 at Walmart\n      <\/div>\n<div data-v-0ea4bff7>\n        $499 at Crutchfield\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section u-flexbox o-accordion_header u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-justifyBetween\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails-title\"> Specs &amp; Configurations<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_specs u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Size<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 14.4 \u00d7 4.1 \u00d7 3.1 inches (soundbar)<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Channels<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 2.1<br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Subwoofer<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Yes<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Peak power<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> n\/a<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Connections<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> HDMI, optical, aux, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Supported audio formats<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_review\">\n<div class=\"o-cta g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">Learn more<\/div>\n<p>        Polk MagniFi Mini AX review\n       <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<blockquote data-ng-block=\"{\">\n<p class=\"u-speakableText-p2\"><strong>What we updated:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>July 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Removed discontinued Vizio SV210 and Bose Smart Soundbar models. Updated pricing.<\/p>\n<p><strong>April 2026<\/strong><br \/>Update prices and added the Creative Stage Pro to also tested. <br \/><strong>March 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Added Polk MagniFi Mini AX and removed the discontinued Creative Stage<\/p>\n<p><strong>October 2025<\/strong><br \/>Removed the discontinued Roku Streambar and added Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar and Klipsch Flexus Core 100 to the list. Moved the Sennheiser Ambeo Max to also tested.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"1a042807-414c-4b0d-ad5f-a302d52a5a17\" data-id=\"1a042807-414c-4b0d-ad5f-a302d52a5a17\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Compare soundbars<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeChart\">\n<div>\n<p>Compare the best soundbars based on size, audio channels, subwoofer inclusion, power output, connectivity options and supported audio formats. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chartWrapper\">\n<table class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Product<\/th>\n<th>Size<\/th>\n<th>Number of channels<\/th>\n<th>Subwoofer<\/th>\n<th>Peak power<\/th>\n<th>Connections<\/th>\n<th>Supported audio formats<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Polk MagniFi Mini AX<\/th>\n<td>14.4 \u00d7 4.1 \u00d7 3.1 inches<\/td>\n<td>2.1<\/td>\n<td>Yes<\/td>\n<td>n\/a<\/td>\n<td>HDMI, optical, aux, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi<\/td>\n<td>PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Klipsch Flexus Core 100<\/th>\n<td>28 x 5 x 3 inches<\/td>\n<td>2.1<\/td>\n<td>Available separately<\/td>\n<td>100 watts<\/td>\n<td>HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, USB-C, digital optical<\/td>\n<td>PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Sonos Ray<\/th>\n<td>22.0 x 3.74 x 2.79 inches<\/td>\n<td>2<\/td>\n<td>Available separately<\/td>\n<td>55 watts<\/td>\n<td>Optical, Ethernet, Wi-Fi<\/td>\n<td>Dolby Digital, DTS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Yamaha YAS-209<\/th>\n<td>39.75 x 4.0 x 2.4 inches<\/td>\n<td>2.1<\/td>\n<td>Yes<\/td>\n<td>100 watts<\/td>\n<td>Bluetooth, Optical, HDMI, Wi-Fi<\/td>\n<td>Dolby Digital, DTS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"e47b7cff-40aa-4299-8df4-f05b4395c7ef\" data-id=\"e47b7cff-40aa-4299-8df4-f05b4395c7ef\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Factors to consider when choosing a soundbar<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<p>Everyone&#8217;s audio needs are different, so be sure to consider your unique preferences, space and listening habits. With the right model, you get the benefits of a home theater system or AV receiver without having to run messy wires or take up much space. Use this guide to navigate the options and find the best soundbar for you. If you need a little extra help, check out my complete guide to how to buy a soundbar in 2026. <\/p>\n<h3 id=\"cb7e533b-7841-4d2e-af1c-914a03fe231e\" data-ng-block=\"{\">Budget<\/h3>\n<p>The most important consideration when choosing a soundbar is working out how much you can spend, and I have found there are great soundbars at every price, starting at $100. If you&#8217;re looking for more premium, feature-packed models, be prepared to spend a lot more &#8212; upwards of $3,000. I do have one rule of thumb: Once the price of a soundbar exceeds $500, you may find it more worthwhile to save for an AV receiver and speakers.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re a movie buff, consider splurging on features like Dolby Atmos to bring the theater experience home. Music lovers will want to prioritize audio reproduction and multiroom or wireless streaming to fill their space with sound. Gamers should look for soundbars with dedicated gaming presets that enhance dialogue clarity and directional audio cues.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"440d723e-a512-4015-87fe-0ff70ce8025c\" data-ng-block=\"{\">Room size<\/h3>\n<p>Consider your room&#8217;s size and layout. Smaller spaces, like bedrooms and offices, might be overwhelmed by high-wattage soundbars with separate subwoofers. Single-bar systems are great for smaller rooms and TVs, as their length allows for built-in stereo sound while still being compact. Larger rooms or home theater setups will benefit from more robust soundbars with additional speakers and subwoofers to produce that booming surround sound.<\/p>\n<p>Also think about where you&#8217;ll place it &#8212; will it sit on an entertainment console, be mounted on a wall or fit beneath your TV? Be sure that your soundbar can physically fit in the desired space by checking the dimensions and mounting capabilities. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeChart\">\n<div>\n<p>Use the following guide to see which soundbar length we recommend for each TV size.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chartWrapper\">\n<table aria-label class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Speaker length (in inches)<\/th>\n<th>Recommended TV screen size<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">12<\/th>\n<td>Any<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">38 to 45<\/th>\n<td>42-inch to 50-inch<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">50<\/th>\n<td>55-inch to 65-inch<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">60<\/th>\n<td>70-inch and larger<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<h3 id=\"fac08440-6afa-4830-9d55-9c682f3001e3\" data-ng-block=\"{\">Audio format compatibility<\/h3>\n<p>Match your soundbar&#8217;s audio format to the content you enjoy most. Here are a few of the most important audio formats and their use cases to consider when choosing a soundbar:<\/p>\n<ul data-ng-block=\"{\">\n<li><strong>Dolby Atmos <\/strong>for 3D soundscapes with height channels that create immersive experiences perfect for movie buffs<\/li>\n<li><strong>DTS:X <\/strong>for object-based audio that adapts to your specific speaker setup, ideal for home theater enthusiasts<\/li>\n<li><strong>PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) <\/strong>for uncompressed digital audio commonly found on Blu-ray discs and gaming consoles<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dolby Digital 5.1 <\/strong>for traditional surround sound with five speakers and a subwoofer, the standard for DVD content<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bluetooth audio codecs (AAC, aptX, LDAC) <\/strong>for wireless streaming with varying levels of quality, essential for music streaming from mobile devices<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Check your TV&#8217;s connection options (HDMI ARC\/eARC, optical) to ensure compatibility with the soundbar you choose.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"bf61a075-7cac-4953-a314-10f8675d1ec9\" data-id=\"bf61a075-7cac-4953-a314-10f8675d1ec9\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">How CNET tests soundbars<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeImage u-clearfix c-shortcodeImage-large c-shortcodeImage-hasCaption\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeImage_imageContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-shortcodeImage_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/d669d332debc76d2524c8ba5d96f68dabda8722d\/hub\/2023\/09\/12\/a9c3468a-d6fa-4912-9c9b-7ad0addf26cd\/soundbar-testing.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=768\" alt=\"soundbar testing lab with various audio equipment and a big TV\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_caption g-inner-spacing-right-small g-text-xxsmall\"><\/p>\n<p>At the AV lab in New York, I test soundbars against a variety of reference equipment.<\/p>\n<p><\/span><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_credit g-inner-spacing-right-small g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-color-text-meta g-text-xxxsmall\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>CNET follows a rigorous, unbiased evaluation process for all of its soundbar testing. In the CNET AV lab, I do comparative testing, pitting similar soundbars against each other side by side.<\/p>\n<p>I evaluate the sound performance of each soundbar with several different types of content, including movies, music, TV shows and games. I use several test scenes, mainly from action movies, including the opening of Mad Max: Fury Road for playback of the spatial audio standard Dolby Atmos for soundbars that support it. I also use the Thanator attack scene of Avatar (26:53) to test a system&#8217;s dynamics and detail retrieval.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>CNET&#8217;s dedicated audio lab in downtown New York includes a selection of recent televisions (with HDMI eARC), plus\u00a0an Apple TV 4K streamer\u00a0and Roku Ultra streamer, a\u00a0Microsoft Xbox Series X\u00a0and an Oppo UDP-205 4K Blu-ray player. I also use\u00a0<span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Roon music software<\/span> to stream to individual devices or the Oppo player as needed.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeImage u-clearfix c-shortcodeImage-large c-shortcodeImage-hasCaption\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeImage_imageContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-shortcodeImage_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/1a6db354eab4d51b5482d370963d6b97cb6da2eb\/hub\/2025\/04\/24\/58de5fb5-3895-4f58-9d3b-4d4a1f601f80\/screenshot-2025-04-24-at-11-37-25am.png?auto=webp&amp;width=768\" alt=\"Audio-visual setup featuring stacked components with Sony Blu-ray player on top, AV ProConnect switcher in the middle displaying input options, and an Oppo disc player showing 'HELLO' on its display panel, arranged on an entertainment shelf with dark fini\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_caption g-inner-spacing-right-small g-text-xxsmall\"><\/p>\n<p>From top: Sony UXP-700 Blu-ray player, AVPro 8&#215;8 4K UHD Matrix Switch and Oppo BDP-203 Blu-ray player.<\/p>\n<p><\/span><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_credit g-inner-spacing-right-small g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-color-text-meta g-text-xxxsmall\">David Katzmaier\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>When it comes to music, I use several CNET test tracks,\u00a0which you can find here in a Tidal or Spotify playlist. Tracks such as Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds&#8217; Red Right Hand, with its deep bass notes and tenor vocals, help determine a system&#8217;s ability to track male voices in particular, without sounding congested. The song also helps with uncovering hidden details and the relative dynamics a speaker is capable of. Using both types of content &#8212; movies and music &#8212; I then grade the sound quality of each soundbar. I evaluate characteristics such as speech clarity, dynamics\/volume, bass response and musical playback.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeChart\">\n<div>\n<p>My reviews also account for things like features, design and value. Here&#8217;s a quick breakdown of our testing categories for more details on what I&#8217;m looking for.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chartWrapper\">\n<table class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Subrating Category<\/th>\n<th>Weight<\/th>\n<th>What we looked for<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Design<\/th>\n<td>25%<\/td>\n<td>Assessment of build quality, aesthetics, size relative to TVs, remote functionality, display readability, and placement flexibility (wall-mountable, low profile, etc.).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Features<\/th>\n<td>25%<\/td>\n<td>Evaluation of audio format support, connectivity options, wireless capabilities, room calibration, voice assistant integration, and specialized modes like night listening or dialogue enhancement.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Sound<\/th>\n<td>25%<\/td>\n<td>Overall audio performance across movies, music, and games. We test clarity, bass response, maximum volume without distortion, and surround sound accuracy in various room sizes.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Value<\/th>\n<td>25%<\/td>\n<td>Analysis of overall performance and features relative to price point compared with similar models in the same category. Higher-priced models must deliver proportionally better experiences.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"629a4586-3c7b-4928-a322-cf929148157c\" data-id=\"629a4586-3c7b-4928-a322-cf929148157c\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Other soundbars we&#8217;ve tested<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeImage u-clearfix c-shortcodeImage-large\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeImage_imageContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-shortcodeImage_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/b4a1f69a31057ffc1e002ac337678730f282340f\/hub\/2025\/04\/25\/1cb1fe78-ad30-41c2-9015-c43f2c3f7e25\/sonos-arc-ultra-3.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=768\" alt=\"Sonos Arc Ultra soundbar\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_credit g-inner-spacing-right-small g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-color-text-meta g-text-xxxsmall\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Sonos Arc Ultra<\/span> ($1,099): The high-end Sonos Arc Ultra has even better bass than the previous model, and it&#8217;s great for music in particular. Yet it isn&#8217;t as expansive-sounding as before and it costs more than the original, as well as its main rival: the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar. Read my review of the Sonos Arc Ultra.  <\/p>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Creative Stage Pro <\/span> ($170): A refined version of the earlier Stage soundbar, the Stage Pro is able to connect to either a TV or a PC and make it sound great &#8212; especially for music. Read the full review of the Creative Stage Pro.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Polk Signa S3<\/span> ($300): If you&#8217;re looking for a speaker that can do music as well as play the latest episode of The Last of Us, then the Polk Audio Signa S3 has a lot to offer. It&#8217;s great for accessing streaming services, as it has\u00a0Chromecast built-in\u00a0in addition to Bluetooth and an HDMI input.\u00a0Read my Polk Signa S3 review.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Zvox SB500<\/span><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>($400): If you&#8217;re looking for a single audio bar that&#8217;s even cheaper than the Sonos Arc, the Zvox SB500 is a great option for people who still prize sound quality. This speaker offers multiple sound mode options, tighter bass and better sound than most other single-speaker options. While it may lack the Sonos&#8217; Wi-Fi streaming, the Zvox still includes Bluetooth connectivity for streaming audio from your phone or tablet.\u00a0Read the Zvox SB500 review.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Sennheiser Ambeo Max<\/span> ($3,000): The Sennheiser Ambeo is the best surround experience I&#8217;ve had from a single speaker.  Without rears, the Sennheiser can make voices hover over the top of your head, even if it still can&#8217;t convince you that things are behind you. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList izeBorder\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large\">\n<h2 id=\"6c897f96-20e7-49a2-9ec0-f1646e8a1ea3\" data-id=\"6c897f96-20e7-49a2-9ec0-f1646e8a1ea3\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Soundbar FAQ<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<div id data-cy=\"shortcodeListicle\" data-id=\"listicle-74ffc873-4ac7-43ac-a9d7-8caada6a72ad\" data-location=\"LIST\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle g-border-thin-light-top g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium g-inner-spacing-left-large g-inner-spacing-right-large c-shortcodeListicle-infoCard c-shortcodeListicle-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_text\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heading g-outer-spacing-top-large\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heds u-flexbox-column u-flex-grow u-flexbox-justifyCenter\">\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_hed g-text-medium g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\">HDMI vs. optical: Which connections do I want? <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_dek c-shortcodeListicleDek g-color-text-meta c-shortcodeListicleDek-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_clamp\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12\">\n<p>Depending on the age of your TV, there are two main ways to output to a soundbar: Digital optical and HDMI. <\/p>\n<p>Both HDMI and optical pass digital audio from your TV to your soundbar. Both are better than analog (the red and white cables, or RCA). Both can pass multichannel audio, like Dolby Digital. Both cables can be had pretty cheap.<\/p>\n<p>The biggest difference is that HDMI can pass higher-resolution audio, including the formats found on streaming services such as\u00a0Dolby Atmos\u00a0and\u00a0DTS HD Master Audio. These formats can&#8217;t be transmitted across optical.<\/p>\n<p>The bottom line? Use HDMI when you can. The cables are cheap, and having just one wire simplifies setup. If you can&#8217;t, optical is fine. If your TV or soundbar doesn&#8217;t have HDMI, it can&#8217;t take advantage of the high-resolution audio formats from streaming services anyway. On the other hand, Dolby Digital is surprisingly good, and unless you have decent gear, you probably won&#8217;t hear much (if any) improvement with Dolby Atmos and DTS HD MA.<\/p>\n<p>Before you buy a soundbar, make sure it accepts the same connections that exist on your TV. The most common input on soundbars is now HDMI-ARC, and if your TV is less than 5 years old, it should be compatible, but it&#8217;s worth double-checking.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_readMore o-inText-link o-inText-link-lightBg\"><br \/>\n      Show more<br \/>\n    <\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id data-cy=\"shortcodeListicle\" data-id=\"listicle-2a9de4f6-dd00-496e-8248-e9939d239dbc\" data-location=\"LIST\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle g-border-thin-light-top g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium g-inner-spacing-left-large g-inner-spacing-right-large c-shortcodeListicle-infoCard c-shortcodeListicle-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_text\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heading g-outer-spacing-top-large\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heds u-flexbox-column u-flex-grow u-flexbox-justifyCenter\">\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_hed g-text-medium g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\">Do I need Bluetooth or Wi-Fi on my soundbar?<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_dek c-shortcodeListicleDek g-color-text-meta c-shortcodeListicleDek-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_clamp\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12\">\n<p>If you plan on playing music through your soundbar, wireless streaming through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi is a must-have. Wireless streaming lets you play music from a multitude of sources &#8212; like Spotify on your phone, or iTunes on your computer &#8212; via your soundbar. Higher-end soundbars usually have both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming, but most budget and mid-range options have one or the other.<\/p>\n<p>Bluetooth is the easiest way to wirelessly stream audio to your soundbar. It works with the music stored on your device and any music app, plus it&#8217;s platform-agnostic &#8212; virtually all iOS, Android and Windows phones and tablets have built-in Bluetooth. Likewise, almost every soundbar on the market features Bluetooth, and if it doesn&#8217;t you can buy an adapter like those made by\u00a0Belkin\u00a0or Logitech.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Still, Wi-Fi offers several upgrades to Bluetooth including the ability to listen in multiple rooms and even control it with Google Assistant or Alexa. Wi-Fi streaming generally sounds better, too, as its higher bandwidth allows for uncompressed audio (unlike Bluetooth). That said, most people won&#8217;t notice a difference in most situations.<\/p>\n<p>So, if you prioritize convenience and quick connections from multiple devices, Bluetooth works well. But if sound quality is your primary concern, Wi-Fi streaming is generally superior. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_readMore o-inText-link o-inText-link-lightBg\"><br \/>\n      Show more<br \/>\n    <\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id data-cy=\"shortcodeListicle\" data-id=\"listicle-d7741cdb-699f-40dc-aa9f-cd830c227965\" data-location=\"LIST\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle g-border-thin-light-top g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium g-inner-spacing-left-large g-inner-spacing-right-large c-shortcodeListicle-infoCard c-shortcodeListicle-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_text\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heading g-outer-spacing-top-large\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heds u-flexbox-column u-flex-grow u-flexbox-justifyCenter\">\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_hed g-text-medium g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\">Do I need separate speakers with my soundbar?<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_dek c-shortcodeListicleDek g-color-text-meta c-shortcodeListicleDek-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_clamp\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12\">\n<p>If you&#8217;re looking for the simplest possible solution to improving TV sound, a stand-alone soundbar is the perfect place to start. <\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re serious about sound quality though, adding separate speakers to your soundbar is the best way to go. You can mix and match according to your needs, and it&#8217;s easier to upgrade once new formats come in &#8212; you won&#8217;t need to replace everything if you want to add 8K video capability, for example. Many retailers offer a soundbar-subwoofer bundle to jumpstart your speaker setup.  <\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re not ready to upgrade to a full speaker system just yet, look for a soundbar with several HDMI ports. That way you can connect additional speakers to the soundbar when you&#8217;re ready.<\/p>\n<p>We have a full piece designed to help you pick between a soundbar and speaker system, if you need a bit more help. Whichever option you choose, you will never be able to go back to tinny, little TV speakers ever again.<\/p>\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_readMore o-inText-link o-inText-link-lightBg\"><br \/>\n      Show more<br \/>\n    <\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<article class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-8 lg:u-col-start-5\">\n<p data-keep class=\"u-speakableText-p1\">Any television you buy today will have onboard speakers, but every single one can be improved with the addition of a great-sounding soundbar. I&#8217;ve tested dozens of soundbars head-to-head to find the best soundbar for sports, video games or the latest season of The Pitt. From cheap and cheerful models, to those packed with features like Dolby Atmos surround sound, Bluetooth, built-in streaming and multiroom audio, here are my picks for the best soundbars of 2026.<\/p>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"listiclePrecap\" data-location=\"PRECAP\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-hide c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-compact g-outer-spacing-bottom-large\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-hed\">\n<section>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_header\"> Our Picks <\/h2>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"1\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/38ba04d3aeee81336177d0e8a6ff2c2d3e6cc881\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/cf9fb0a5-2256-4203-b0ec-bc6829195c2b\/01-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"The Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar and subwoofer in a living room set up with a wooden console table and colorful rug. \" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign isFirst\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best soundbar of 2026<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Yamaha YAS-209<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$330 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-score\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreValue\">8.5\/10<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreLabel\">CNET Score<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip-expandedContent c-globalTooltip-arrow c-globalTooltip-arrow_top c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipContent\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipTitle\">CNET Score<\/h3>\n<p class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipText\">\n                    CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. When we assign a score, we use a scale of 1-10. Each product we score is evaluated by criteria specific to its category with most assessing pricing, quality, features and performance.\n                  <\/p>\n<p> Read more on: How we test<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out: <\/strong><br \/>The Yamaha YAS-209 packs in everything I expect from a midpriced soundbar: ease of use, powerful output levels and an ability to replay both movies and music to a high standard. The soundbar offers an immersive experience with movies, thanks to DTS Virtual:X, and better separation of instruments and a broader stereo effect (in its Stereo mode) compared to competitors. The wireless subwoofer demonstrates better articulation with music tracks, avoiding the bloated sound that some competitors can produce. As Yamaha&#8217;s first smart speaker, it implements Amazon Alexa effectively &#8212; the microphones work well even in loud environments, and it&#8217;s able to hear commands without shouting.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\">\n              Read full review<br \/>\n               <span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Excellent sound in a compact size with articulate, punchy subwoofer<\/li>\n<li>Feature-packed, including Amazon Alexa and six media-specific presets (music, TV, movie, sports, gaming and stereo)<\/li>\n<li>Onboard DTS Virtual:X for simulated surround effects<\/li>\n<li>Easy setup and use with companion Yamaha Sound Bar Controller app and an intuitive, large remote<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Uses LED lights that are difficult to read instead of on-screen display<\/li>\n<li>Surround sound is just OK, with only two channels of drivers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"2\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/7c920a1df25ff303e704d0f12278759aed59636c\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/5b9e55b0-07f5-4c2b-b2a9-35755a906d86\/sonos-ray-blue-white.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"Image of Sonos Ray\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best value soundbar<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Sonos Ray<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$219 at Sonos<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-score\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreValue\">8.3\/10<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreLabel\">CNET Score<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip-expandedContent c-globalTooltip-arrow c-globalTooltip-arrow_top c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipContent\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipTitle\">CNET Score<\/h3>\n<p class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipText\">\n                    CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. When we assign a score, we use a scale of 1-10. Each product we score is evaluated by criteria specific to its category with most assessing pricing, quality, features and performance.\n                  <\/p>\n<p> Read more on: How we test<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Sonos Ray is the closest thing yet to a Sonos One speaker in soundbar form, and that&#8217;s high praise. Despite its compact 22-inch width and simple design, the Ray delivers sound that belies its physical dimensions. The key to this performance lies in its proprietary tweeters with waveguides that focus high frequencies outwards, allowing it to produce a surprisingly wide soundstage. The vocals sound super crisp, and both the highs and bass are full. It delivers a tight, contained sound and offers respectable dialog reproduction. At $279, it&#8217;s part of the exciting trend toward affordable audio gear that actually sounds good.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\">\n              Read full review<br \/>\n               <span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Excellent sound with two midwoofers and two tweeters that feature waveguide to focus high frequencies outward<\/li>\n<li>Compact, attractive design that comes in two colors (black and white)<\/li>\n<li>Simple connection and easy setup<\/li>\n<li>Unmatched multiroom system for all-over sound<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>No HDMI connection<\/li>\n<li>Lacks extra features like voice assistant or Dolby Atmos capability<\/li>\n<li>No designated remote control (must control with phone or TV remote)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"3\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/dcc9d6318e584c63a56fa98acd49ab13210953b1\/hub\/2024\/05\/23\/d53165f6-5c3a-4fca-8a85-dc1d8536ec39\/klipsch-core-100-1.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"klipsch-core-100-1\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best sound from a single speaker<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Klipsch Flexus Core 100<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$310 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-score\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreValue\">8.3\/10<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreLabel\">CNET Score<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip-expandedContent c-globalTooltip-arrow c-globalTooltip-arrow_top c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipContent\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipTitle\">CNET Score<\/h3>\n<p class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipText\">\n                    CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. When we assign a score, we use a scale of 1-10. Each product we score is evaluated by criteria specific to its category with most assessing pricing, quality, features and performance.\n                  <\/p>\n<p> Read more on: How we test<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>Klipsch has made some of the best soundbars available and, in its first collaboration with stablemate Onkyo, the company continues its dream run. At $350, the Flexus Core 100 has settled into a clever niche between the Sonos Ray and Beam. It&#8217;s an excellent single-bar system with plenty of bass and extraordinary dynamics. If you want muscular sound in a single soundbar for under $400, the Core 100 is the place to get it.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\">\n              Read full review<br \/>\n               <span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>The Flexus Core 100 offers great sound from a single bar<\/li>\n<li>The soundbar is surprisingly loud and dynamic<\/li>\n<li>It has no real competition to speak of<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>There are no Atmos effects despite being compatible<\/li>\n<li>It comes with minimal features<\/li>\n<li>Its three inch height could block TV&#8217;s IR port<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"4\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/efd2c7106d3a83d16b7e4b180a12b8fc3455cee7\/hub\/2026\/03\/05\/318525bc-1c59-4a78-87ef-bf7bbd5d048b\/polk-magnifi-ax.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"polk-magnifi-ax\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best soundbar for dialogue<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Polk MagniFi Mini AX<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$499 at B&amp;H Photo-Video<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-score\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreValue\">8.2\/10<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreLabel\">CNET Score<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-globalTooltip-expandedContent c-globalTooltip-arrow c-globalTooltip-arrow_top c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltip\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipContent\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipTitle\">CNET Score<\/h3>\n<p class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreTooltipText\">\n                    CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. When we assign a score, we use a scale of 1-10. Each product we score is evaluated by criteria specific to its category with most assessing pricing, quality, features and performance.\n                  <\/p>\n<p> Read more on: How we test<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out: <\/strong>The great-sounding Polk MagniFi Mini AX is an update on one of the best soundbars I&#8217;ve reviewed, and it adds Dolby Atmos compatibility to the mix. If you want better-sounding dialogue, then this is one of the best options with over ten levels of voice boost or cut. It also includes both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, as well as HDMI.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\">\n              Read full review<br \/>\n               <span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Excellent movie sound and decent music replay<\/li>\n<li>Dialogue enhancement is highly configurable<\/li>\n<li>Feature-rich<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>$200 more than the original<\/li>\n<li>No dedicated appSubwoofer adds placement and configuration challenges<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals u-flexbox u-flexbox-column u-flexbox-alignCenter g-inner-spacing-top-xlarge g-inner-spacing-bottom-xlarge\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListDeals_hed u-text-capitalize u-text-center\">BLUETOOTH SPEAKER DEALS OF THE WEEK<\/h3>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_productsBlock g-outer-spacing-top-large\">\n<ul>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                Echo Dot 5th Gen Smart Speaker (2022 Release, Charcoal)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$35<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $15)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                JBL Go 4 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker (Black)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$38<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $12)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                Bose 2nd Gen SoundLink Micro Portable Bluetooth Speaker (Black)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$100<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $30)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                Beats Pill Wireless Portable Bluetooth Speaker (Matte Black)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$100<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $50)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_product\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyCenter u-text-center\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_link\">\n                Bang &amp; Olufsen Beosound Explore Portable Bluetooth Speaker (Black)<span>:\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDeals_price\"><span class=\"g-text-bold\">$224<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListDeals-msrp u-text-italic\">(save $75)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"u-text-italic u-text-center g-text-xxsmall g-outer-spacing-top-large c-bestListDeals_disclosure\">Deals are selected by the CNET Group commerce team, and may be unrelated to this article.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<nav class=\"c-globalToc\">\n<div class=\"c-globalToc_header\">\n<div class=\"c-globalToc_title\"><span class=\"c-globalToc_titleText\">Table of Contents<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul class=\"c-globalToc_dropdown g-dropShadow-hover\">\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best Soundbars of 2026\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best soundbar of 2026\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best soundbar of 2026\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best value soundbar\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best sound from a single speaker\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best soundbar for dialogue\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Compare soundbars\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Factors to consider when choosing a soundbar\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        How CNET tests soundbars\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Other soundbars we&#8217;ve tested\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Soundbar FAQ\n      <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<h2 id=\"96308195-9d51-4d20-b597-9c5f552e2955\" data-ng-block=\"{\" data-keep data-id=\"96308195-9d51-4d20-b597-9c5f552e2955\">Best soundbar of 2026<\/h2>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"f102a00e-94f6-4761-9bd6-2b8c3ff487b3\" data-id=\"listicle-f102a00e-94f6-4761-9bd6-2b8c3ff487b3\" data-techprodid=\"36aec6af-6ae1-43f9-a359-4b9d864ef89a\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar sits in front of a yellow background. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A hand holds the Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar remote in front of a yellow background. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The back of the Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar shows the wall mount system and power connector in front of a yellow background. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Underneath the Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar shows the HDMI, HDMI ARC, ethernet, TV and update ports in front of a yellow background. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar&apos;s wireless subwoofer sits next to a console table that holds the Yamaha YAS-209 soundbar. \" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Sarah Tew\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/5<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/b1f7acf402a34d40db7387c0cb407081e436b575\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/6463211a-1384-46a8-b1c6-e775d6d18c14\/06-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/9fcfcee701852775e97c8d8bc63bedc56994a010\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/84e75ce9-757b-4f0d-962a-134d6f91d7e4\/02-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/6e426318b4eef4a9c7c68f64dfeff195c49514f9\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/d3393121-9e88-49d7-9d1f-a171ae60e8fc\/11-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/b1120e08be9aeeba2c343a7fafde656b749ad64b\/hub\/2019\/08\/08\/cc4c305a-b13d-4c59-b634-47a208cfc9d1\/08-yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/7b7a7fcdc5287dad84a2c0c4f362eb0d0994d9f8\/hub\/2019\/08\/14\/d454fdb8-33a3-40cd-8a62-cd8c31915e5d\/yamaha-yas-209.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Sarah Tew\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignStart\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"f102a00e-94f6-4761-9bd6-2b8c3ff487b3\" data-id=\"f102a00e-94f6-4761-9bd6-2b8c3ff487b3\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best soundbar of 2026<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Yamaha YAS-209<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_badges g-outer-spacing-bottom-small g-outer-spacing-top-medium u-flexbox u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-wrap c-bestListListicle_badges-hasEditorsChoice\">\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge g-color-white c-bestListListicle_productRating g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall c-reviewScoreBadge-inline\"><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_rating\"><br \/>\n    8.5<br \/>\n  <\/span><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_overall\"><br \/>\n    \/10<br \/>\n  <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_cnetScore u-text-uppercase\">\n    SCORE\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Excellent sound in a compact size with articulate, punchy subwoofer\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Feature-packed, including Amazon Alexa and six media-specific presets (music, TV, movie, sports, gaming and stereo)\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Onboard DTS Virtual:X for simulated surround effects\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Easy setup and use with companion Yamaha Sound Bar Controller app and an intuitive, large remote\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Uses LED lights that are difficult to read instead of on-screen display\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Surround sound is just OK, with only two channels of drivers\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out: <\/strong><br \/>The Yamaha YAS-209 packs in everything I expect from a midpriced soundbar: ease of use, powerful output levels and an ability to replay both movies and music to a high standard. The soundbar offers an immersive experience with movies, thanks to DTS Virtual:X, and better separation of instruments and a broader stereo effect (in its Stereo mode) compared to competitors. The wireless subwoofer demonstrates better articulation with music tracks, avoiding the bloated sound that some competitors can produce. As Yamaha&#8217;s first smart speaker, it implements Amazon Alexa effectively &#8212; the microphones work well even in loud environments, and it&#8217;s able to hear commands without shouting.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Perfect for these listeners: <\/strong><br \/>The YAS-209 is ideal for those seeking a midrange soundbar with excellent performance for both movies and music. Home theater enthusiasts will appreciate the DTS Virtual:X for simulated surround effects from a single bar. Those who want connectivity options will find HDMI, optical digital and Bluetooth, plus Ethernet and Wi-Fi for Spotify Connect. It&#8217;s perfect for people who want the convenience of voice control, as it incorporates two microphones for use with Amazon Alexa. The fact that you can ask Alexa for a song &#8212; and have it sound better than pretty much any smaller smart speaker &#8212; makes it particularly appealing for music lovers who&#8217;ve embraced smart home technology.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Consider alternatives if: <\/strong><br \/>If you&#8217;re invested in the Apple or Google ecosystems you&#8217;ll be disappointed, as the Yamaha only works with Amazon Alexa. There&#8217;s also no AirPlay 2 or built-in Chromecast. The subwoofer is quite large at roughly 16 inches square and 7.5 inches wide, making it potentially intrusive in smaller spaces. Those who prefer visual feedback when adjusting settings might be frustrated by the lack of a display, and the tiny LEDs on top that are too small to see from across the room. Finally, music purists might note that its Music mode adds reverb to vocals and less separation between instruments than its Stereo mode, and it can sound slightly compressed during complex musical passages.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$330 at Amazon\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section u-flexbox o-accordion_header u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-justifyBetween\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails-title\"> Specs &amp; Configurations<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_specs u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Size<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 39.75 x 4.0 x 2.4 inches<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Number of channels<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 2.1<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Subwoofer<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Yes<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Peak power<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 100 watts<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Connections<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Bluetooth, optical, HDMI, Wi-Fi<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Supported audio formats<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Dolby Digital, DTS<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_subratings o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section o-accordion_header u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_subratings-title\">Score Breakdown<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score u-flexbox-alignCenter g-text-xxsmall u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Design<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        9<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Features<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        9<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Sound<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        8<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Value<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        8<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_review\">\n<div class=\"o-cta g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">Learn more<\/div>\n<p>        Yamaha YAS-209 review\n       <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"2ee7b7a6-7866-4525-b0e8-cf5350fca602\" data-id=\"listicle-2ee7b7a6-7866-4525-b0e8-cf5350fca602\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray soundbar in front of a TV on a dresser\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray soundbar under a TV\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Sonos Ray\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Sonos<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/5<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/38305b09e36817ba51fdc4163584323f09d6656d\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/8d19ba40-d3e9-415c-b148-3a14a2c3ecea\/sonos-ray-promo-yellow-white.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/966c651960f052ff65c3e2e849ee145935de419d\/hub\/2022\/05\/06\/906fe6ec-1612-4233-8a2e-808a407184c4\/fr-h4-cwyaa-keq.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/50e1af874b95ecb5b038ca774eeb1730851e2d71\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/5fd6b45e-81b8-4dd1-bef2-882648c9f473\/sonos-ray-2022-soundbar-003.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/8122111a4c58327a20ad7d9a868535ec676d9ae6\/hub\/2022\/05\/27\/427b30db-9cd0-4bee-bb56-2cccfd857edc\/sonos-ray-001.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/591f6d722826c3c9f7bf377d9dbff2864fc9f256\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/a057f353-559f-4fdd-9b1b-e12ae3a7307a\/sonos-ray-2022-soundbar-001.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Sonos<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"2ee7b7a6-7866-4525-b0e8-cf5350fca602\" data-id=\"2ee7b7a6-7866-4525-b0e8-cf5350fca602\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best value soundbar<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Sonos Ray<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_badges g-outer-spacing-bottom-small g-outer-spacing-top-medium u-flexbox u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-wrap\">\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge g-color-white c-bestListListicle_productRating g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall c-reviewScoreBadge-inline\"><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_rating\"><br \/>\n    8.3<br \/>\n  <\/span><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_overall\"><br \/>\n    \/10<br \/>\n  <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_cnetScore u-text-uppercase\">\n    SCORE\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Excellent sound with two midwoofers and two tweeters that feature waveguide to focus high frequencies outward\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Compact, attractive design that comes in two colors (black and white)\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Simple connection and easy setup\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Unmatched multiroom system for all-over sound\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No HDMI connection\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Lacks extra features like voice assistant or Dolby Atmos capability\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No designated remote control (must control with phone or TV remote)\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Sonos Ray is the closest thing yet to a Sonos One speaker in soundbar form, and that&#8217;s high praise. Despite its compact 22-inch width and simple design, the Ray delivers sound that belies its physical dimensions. The key to this performance lies in its proprietary tweeters with waveguides that focus high frequencies outwards, allowing it to produce a surprisingly wide soundstage. The vocals sound super crisp, and both the highs and bass are full. It delivers a tight, contained sound and offers respectable dialog reproduction. At $279, it&#8217;s part of the exciting trend toward affordable audio gear that actually sounds good.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><strong>Perfect for these listeners:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Sonos Ray is ideal for those who primarily use their soundbar for music, as it performs particularly well with this content, sometimes even outshining the more expensive Sonos Beam. The Ray makes a perfect complement to a bedroom TV and would also work well to upgrade a television in a smaller living room. Those who want to start building a Sonos multiroom system will find the Ray an excellent entry point, as it includes all the streaming capabilities that make Sonos the gold standard of multiroom speakers. It features dozens of streaming services and connections with Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect. People who prefer simplicity will appreciate the straightforward optical connection and lack of unnecessary features.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Consider alternatives if:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Sonos Ray isn&#8217;t for everyone, particularly those looking for the most bang for their buck in pure home theater performance. The Ray lacks HDMI connectivity, which seems an odd omission given that almost every new soundbar &#8212; even the $80 ones &#8212; now includes an HDMI port. While most TVs have an optical output, this connection limits the soundbar to Dolby Digital sound formats. The Ray also doesn&#8217;t include a voice assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant built in (though you can control it using a separate smart speaker). Those seeking powerful bass effects should consider alternatives with separate subwoofers, as the Ray sounds positively anemic compared to speaker systems. The Speech Enhancement feature is also quite subtle compared to competitors, which offer numerous levels of voice enhancement and are more effective for making dialog more understandable.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$219 at Sonos\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section u-flexbox o-accordion_header u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-justifyBetween\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails-title\"> Specs &amp; Configurations<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_specs u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Size<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 22.0 x 3.74 x 2.79 inches<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Number of channels<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 2.0<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Subwoofer<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Available separately <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Peak power<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 55 watts<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Connections<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Optical, Ethernet, Wi-Fi<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Supported audio formats<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Dolby Digital, DTS<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_review\">\n<div class=\"o-cta g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">Learn more<\/div>\n<p>        Sonos Ray review\n       <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"4cbacbb5-547e-4aba-89e1-051c910080b4\" data-id=\"listicle-4cbacbb5-547e-4aba-89e1-051c910080b4\" data-techprodid=\"05987f12-b4ef-46b8-958b-68ff00ad9735\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"klipsch-core-100-1\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"klipsch-flexus-core-100-4\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"flexus-with-sub-and-satellites\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/3<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/68ea7acf8263d6a20cede50619b483b0e61cb39e\/hub\/2024\/05\/23\/d53165f6-5c3a-4fca-8a85-dc1d8536ec39\/klipsch-core-100-1.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/63846b129f2f48b3b0c62922957f5eedcf84f736\/hub\/2024\/05\/24\/b815cde3-9494-4563-bb91-8b9312c44f83\/klipsch-flexus-core-100-4.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/3d16e8b9dd23012c47f9bd48719cccbc12b70a1e\/hub\/2024\/05\/24\/21977d30-66ef-44cb-ad7b-e9974b585675\/flexus-with-sub-and-satellites.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"4cbacbb5-547e-4aba-89e1-051c910080b4\" data-id=\"4cbacbb5-547e-4aba-89e1-051c910080b4\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best sound from a single speaker<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Klipsch Flexus Core 100<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_badges g-outer-spacing-bottom-small g-outer-spacing-top-medium u-flexbox u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-wrap\">\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge g-color-white c-bestListListicle_productRating g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall c-reviewScoreBadge-inline\"><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_rating\"><br \/>\n    8.3<br \/>\n  <\/span><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_overall\"><br \/>\n    \/10<br \/>\n  <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_cnetScore u-text-uppercase\">\n    SCORE\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  The Flexus Core 100 offers great sound from a single bar\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  The soundbar is surprisingly loud and dynamic\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  It has no real competition to speak of\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  There are no Atmos effects despite being compatible\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  It comes with minimal features\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Its three inch height could block TV&#8217;s IR port\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>Klipsch has made some of the best soundbars available and, in its first collaboration with stablemate Onkyo, the company continues its dream run. At $350, the Flexus Core 100 has settled into a clever niche between the Sonos Ray and Beam. It&#8217;s an excellent single-bar system with plenty of bass and extraordinary dynamics. If you want muscular sound in a single soundbar for under $400, the Core 100 is the place to get it.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Perfect for these listeners:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Flexus Core 100 is compact and would suit smaller spaces, and while this is perfect for people who don&#8217;t want a soundbar, it&#8217;s also good to have the option. Even without a sub, the Flexus Core 100 offered plenty of bass slam and was loud enough for small to medium-sized rooms.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Consider alternatives if:\u00a0<\/strong><br \/>The Flexus Core soundbars come without a subwoofer, and adding one tacks an extra $350 or more onto your bill. Also, while I love the 100, the larger 200 doesn&#8217;t impress as much for the extra outlay. If you&#8217;re spending $350 on this single bar, you could consider the Sonos Ray or Beam &#8212; which also feature multiroom music &#8212; or the excellent Yamaha YAS-209, which comes with a sub, and is better for movies.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$310 at Amazon\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section u-flexbox o-accordion_header u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-justifyBetween\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails-title\"> Specs &amp; Configurations<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_specs u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Size<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 28 x 5 x 3 inches<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Number of channels<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 2.1<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Subwoofer<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Available separately<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Peak power<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 100 watts<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Connections<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, USB-C, digital optical<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Supported audio formats<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_subratings o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section o-accordion_header u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_subratings-title\">Score Breakdown<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score u-flexbox-alignCenter g-text-xxsmall u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Design<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        9<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Features<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        7<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Sound<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        8<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-item\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-justifyBetween\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-attribute\"><br \/>\n                        Value<br \/>\n                      <\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_score-value\"><br \/>\n                        9<br \/>\n                      <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_review\">\n<div class=\"o-cta g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">Learn more<\/div>\n<p>        Klipsch Flexus Core 100 review\n       <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"18a61549-71b2-455b-86d8-078646d448cb\" data-id=\"listicle-18a61549-71b2-455b-86d8-078646d448cb\" data-techprodid=\"d0f0650a-d964-4553-95ad-8f7f582a7f77\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The Polk soundbar sitting on top of the subwoofer against a blue background\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A person holds the polk magnifi ax vertically so that we get a front view of the device.\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The back view of the polk magnifi ax shows all the available ports.\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/3<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/1009b8f05d50e8dd3ee5e0102ef18f1cd5711fc8\/hub\/2026\/03\/06\/ad867019-bd1e-4fee-956f-67d4c30c16c3\/polk-magnifi-ax-5.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/d5df20d96ebb63666733d0d099cc8814a604933b\/hub\/2026\/03\/06\/742d846f-851d-4ced-b519-02a67967e77a\/polk-magnifi-ax-2.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/83eb90ce2dcc98e0ea15e1600b26c492c06a60ee\/hub\/2026\/03\/06\/be480ca2-6158-462f-8148-dd8e065ec7c2\/polk-magnifi-ax-3.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_caption g-color-black\">\n<p>The soundbar is roughly the same length as the\u00a0subwoofer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"18a61549-71b2-455b-86d8-078646d448cb\" data-id=\"18a61549-71b2-455b-86d8-078646d448cb\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best soundbar for dialogue<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Polk MagniFi Mini AX<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_badges g-outer-spacing-bottom-small g-outer-spacing-top-medium u-flexbox u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-wrap\">\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge g-color-white c-bestListListicle_productRating g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall c-reviewScoreBadge-inline\"><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_rating\"><br \/>\n    8.2<br \/>\n  <\/span><span class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_overall\"><br \/>\n    \/10<br \/>\n  <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-reviewScoreBadge_cnetScore u-text-uppercase\">\n    SCORE\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Excellent movie sound and decent music replay\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Dialogue enhancement is highly configurable\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Feature-rich\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  $200 more than the original\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No dedicated appSubwoofer adds placement and configuration challenges\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>What makes it stand out: <\/strong>The great-sounding Polk MagniFi Mini AX is an update on one of the best soundbars I&#8217;ve reviewed, and it adds Dolby Atmos compatibility to the mix. If you want better-sounding dialogue, then this is one of the best options with over ten levels of voice boost or cut. It also includes both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, as well as HDMI.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Perfect for these listeners:<\/strong> If you want a soundbar that is tiny to look at, and puts out a big sound, then the Mini AX is the only solution I can think of. It also includes a bunch of different streaming options, and it sounds great with your favorite tunes, which makes it well-suited to music streaming as well.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Consider alternatives if: <\/strong>While the soundbar itself is tiny, you still need to stick that subwoofer somewhere. It&#8217;s relatively trashcan-like and so will slip in between furniture, but it&#8217;s not as self-sufficient as a single bar like the Beam Gen 2. Also, there are a number of great soundbars on this list that are less than the $500, and they still offer plenty of immersion.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>\n<div data-v-0ea4bff7>\n        $499 at B&amp;H Photo-Video\n      <\/div>\n<div data-v-0ea4bff7>\n        $499 at Walmart\n      <\/div>\n<div data-v-0ea4bff7>\n        $499 at Crutchfield\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails o-accordion\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_metadata-section u-flexbox o-accordion_header u-flexbox-alignCenter u-flexbox-justifyBetween\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_additionalDetails-title\"> Specs &amp; Configurations<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_specs u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Size<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 14.4 \u00d7 4.1 \u00d7 3.1 inches (soundbar)<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Channels<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> 2.1<br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Subwoofer<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> Yes<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Peak power<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> n\/a<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Connections<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> HDMI, optical, aux, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-attribute\">Supported audio formats<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_detail-value\"> PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_review\">\n<div class=\"o-cta g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">Learn more<\/div>\n<p>        Polk MagniFi Mini AX review\n       <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<blockquote data-ng-block=\"{\">\n<p class=\"u-speakableText-p2\"><strong>What we updated:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>July 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Removed discontinued Vizio SV210 and Bose Smart Soundbar models. Updated pricing.<\/p>\n<p><strong>April 2026<\/strong><br \/>Update prices and added the Creative Stage Pro to also tested. <br \/><strong>March 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Added Polk MagniFi Mini AX and removed the discontinued Creative Stage<\/p>\n<p><strong>October 2025<\/strong><br \/>Removed the discontinued Roku Streambar and added Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar and Klipsch Flexus Core 100 to the list. Moved the Sennheiser Ambeo Max to also tested.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"1a042807-414c-4b0d-ad5f-a302d52a5a17\" data-id=\"1a042807-414c-4b0d-ad5f-a302d52a5a17\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Compare soundbars<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeChart\">\n<div>\n<p>Compare the best soundbars based on size, audio channels, subwoofer inclusion, power output, connectivity options and supported audio formats. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chartWrapper\">\n<table class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Product<\/th>\n<th>Size<\/th>\n<th>Number of channels<\/th>\n<th>Subwoofer<\/th>\n<th>Peak power<\/th>\n<th>Connections<\/th>\n<th>Supported audio formats<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Polk MagniFi Mini AX<\/th>\n<td>14.4 \u00d7 4.1 \u00d7 3.1 inches<\/td>\n<td>2.1<\/td>\n<td>Yes<\/td>\n<td>n\/a<\/td>\n<td>HDMI, optical, aux, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi<\/td>\n<td>PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Klipsch Flexus Core 100<\/th>\n<td>28 x 5 x 3 inches<\/td>\n<td>2.1<\/td>\n<td>Available separately<\/td>\n<td>100 watts<\/td>\n<td>HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, USB-C, digital optical<\/td>\n<td>PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Sonos Ray<\/th>\n<td>22.0 x 3.74 x 2.79 inches<\/td>\n<td>2<\/td>\n<td>Available separately<\/td>\n<td>55 watts<\/td>\n<td>Optical, Ethernet, Wi-Fi<\/td>\n<td>Dolby Digital, DTS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Yamaha YAS-209<\/th>\n<td>39.75 x 4.0 x 2.4 inches<\/td>\n<td>2.1<\/td>\n<td>Yes<\/td>\n<td>100 watts<\/td>\n<td>Bluetooth, Optical, HDMI, Wi-Fi<\/td>\n<td>Dolby Digital, DTS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"e47b7cff-40aa-4299-8df4-f05b4395c7ef\" data-id=\"e47b7cff-40aa-4299-8df4-f05b4395c7ef\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Factors to consider when choosing a soundbar<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<p>Everyone&#8217;s audio needs are different, so be sure to consider your unique preferences, space and listening habits. With the right model, you get the benefits of a home theater system or AV receiver without having to run messy wires or take up much space. Use this guide to navigate the options and find the best soundbar for you. If you need a little extra help, check out my complete guide to how to buy a soundbar in 2026. <\/p>\n<h3 id=\"cb7e533b-7841-4d2e-af1c-914a03fe231e\" data-ng-block=\"{\">Budget<\/h3>\n<p>The most important consideration when choosing a soundbar is working out how much you can spend, and I have found there are great soundbars at every price, starting at $100. If you&#8217;re looking for more premium, feature-packed models, be prepared to spend a lot more &#8212; upwards of $3,000. I do have one rule of thumb: Once the price of a soundbar exceeds $500, you may find it more worthwhile to save for an AV receiver and speakers.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re a movie buff, consider splurging on features like Dolby Atmos to bring the theater experience home. Music lovers will want to prioritize audio reproduction and multiroom or wireless streaming to fill their space with sound. Gamers should look for soundbars with dedicated gaming presets that enhance dialogue clarity and directional audio cues.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"440d723e-a512-4015-87fe-0ff70ce8025c\" data-ng-block=\"{\">Room size<\/h3>\n<p>Consider your room&#8217;s size and layout. Smaller spaces, like bedrooms and offices, might be overwhelmed by high-wattage soundbars with separate subwoofers. Single-bar systems are great for smaller rooms and TVs, as their length allows for built-in stereo sound while still being compact. Larger rooms or home theater setups will benefit from more robust soundbars with additional speakers and subwoofers to produce that booming surround sound.<\/p>\n<p>Also think about where you&#8217;ll place it &#8212; will it sit on an entertainment console, be mounted on a wall or fit beneath your TV? Be sure that your soundbar can physically fit in the desired space by checking the dimensions and mounting capabilities. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeChart\">\n<div>\n<p>Use the following guide to see which soundbar length we recommend for each TV size.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chartWrapper\">\n<table aria-label class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Speaker length (in inches)<\/th>\n<th>Recommended TV screen size<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">12<\/th>\n<td>Any<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">38 to 45<\/th>\n<td>42-inch to 50-inch<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">50<\/th>\n<td>55-inch to 65-inch<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">60<\/th>\n<td>70-inch and larger<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<h3 id=\"fac08440-6afa-4830-9d55-9c682f3001e3\" data-ng-block=\"{\">Audio format compatibility<\/h3>\n<p>Match your soundbar&#8217;s audio format to the content you enjoy most. Here are a few of the most important audio formats and their use cases to consider when choosing a soundbar:<\/p>\n<ul data-ng-block=\"{\">\n<li><strong>Dolby Atmos <\/strong>for 3D soundscapes with height channels that create immersive experiences perfect for movie buffs<\/li>\n<li><strong>DTS:X <\/strong>for object-based audio that adapts to your specific speaker setup, ideal for home theater enthusiasts<\/li>\n<li><strong>PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) <\/strong>for uncompressed digital audio commonly found on Blu-ray discs and gaming consoles<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dolby Digital 5.1 <\/strong>for traditional surround sound with five speakers and a subwoofer, the standard for DVD content<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bluetooth audio codecs (AAC, aptX, LDAC) <\/strong>for wireless streaming with varying levels of quality, essential for music streaming from mobile devices<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Check your TV&#8217;s connection options (HDMI ARC\/eARC, optical) to ensure compatibility with the soundbar you choose.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"bf61a075-7cac-4953-a314-10f8675d1ec9\" data-id=\"bf61a075-7cac-4953-a314-10f8675d1ec9\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">How CNET tests soundbars<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeImage u-clearfix c-shortcodeImage-large c-shortcodeImage-hasCaption\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeImage_imageContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-shortcodeImage_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/d669d332debc76d2524c8ba5d96f68dabda8722d\/hub\/2023\/09\/12\/a9c3468a-d6fa-4912-9c9b-7ad0addf26cd\/soundbar-testing.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=768\" alt=\"soundbar testing lab with various audio equipment and a big TV\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_caption g-inner-spacing-right-small g-text-xxsmall\"><\/p>\n<p>At the AV lab in New York, I test soundbars against a variety of reference equipment.<\/p>\n<p><\/span><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_credit g-inner-spacing-right-small g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-color-text-meta g-text-xxxsmall\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>CNET follows a rigorous, unbiased evaluation process for all of its soundbar testing. In the CNET AV lab, I do comparative testing, pitting similar soundbars against each other side by side.<\/p>\n<p>I evaluate the sound performance of each soundbar with several different types of content, including movies, music, TV shows and games. I use several test scenes, mainly from action movies, including the opening of Mad Max: Fury Road for playback of the spatial audio standard Dolby Atmos for soundbars that support it. I also use the Thanator attack scene of Avatar (26:53) to test a system&#8217;s dynamics and detail retrieval.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>CNET&#8217;s dedicated audio lab in downtown New York includes a selection of recent televisions (with HDMI eARC), plus\u00a0an Apple TV 4K streamer\u00a0and Roku Ultra streamer, a\u00a0Microsoft Xbox Series X\u00a0and an Oppo UDP-205 4K Blu-ray player. I also use\u00a0<span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Roon music software<\/span> to stream to individual devices or the Oppo player as needed.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeImage u-clearfix c-shortcodeImage-large c-shortcodeImage-hasCaption\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeImage_imageContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-shortcodeImage_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/1a6db354eab4d51b5482d370963d6b97cb6da2eb\/hub\/2025\/04\/24\/58de5fb5-3895-4f58-9d3b-4d4a1f601f80\/screenshot-2025-04-24-at-11-37-25am.png?auto=webp&amp;width=768\" alt=\"Audio-visual setup featuring stacked components with Sony Blu-ray player on top, AV ProConnect switcher in the middle displaying input options, and an Oppo disc player showing 'HELLO' on its display panel, arranged on an entertainment shelf with dark fini\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_caption g-inner-spacing-right-small g-text-xxsmall\"><\/p>\n<p>From top: Sony UXP-700 Blu-ray player, AVPro 8&#215;8 4K UHD Matrix Switch and Oppo BDP-203 Blu-ray player.<\/p>\n<p><\/span><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_credit g-inner-spacing-right-small g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-color-text-meta g-text-xxxsmall\">David Katzmaier\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>When it comes to music, I use several CNET test tracks,\u00a0which you can find here in a Tidal or Spotify playlist. Tracks such as Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds&#8217; Red Right Hand, with its deep bass notes and tenor vocals, help determine a system&#8217;s ability to track male voices in particular, without sounding congested. The song also helps with uncovering hidden details and the relative dynamics a speaker is capable of. Using both types of content &#8212; movies and music &#8212; I then grade the sound quality of each soundbar. I evaluate characteristics such as speech clarity, dynamics\/volume, bass response and musical playback.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeChart\">\n<div>\n<p>My reviews also account for things like features, design and value. Here&#8217;s a quick breakdown of our testing categories for more details on what I&#8217;m looking for.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chartWrapper\">\n<table class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Subrating Category<\/th>\n<th>Weight<\/th>\n<th>What we looked for<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Design<\/th>\n<td>25%<\/td>\n<td>Assessment of build quality, aesthetics, size relative to TVs, remote functionality, display readability, and placement flexibility (wall-mountable, low profile, etc.).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Features<\/th>\n<td>25%<\/td>\n<td>Evaluation of audio format support, connectivity options, wireless capabilities, room calibration, voice assistant integration, and specialized modes like night listening or dialogue enhancement.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Sound<\/th>\n<td>25%<\/td>\n<td>Overall audio performance across movies, music, and games. We test clarity, bass response, maximum volume without distortion, and surround sound accuracy in various room sizes.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"c-shortcodeChart_chart_hasBg\">Value<\/th>\n<td>25%<\/td>\n<td>Analysis of overall performance and features relative to price point compared with similar models in the same category. Higher-priced models must deliver proportionally better experiences.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"629a4586-3c7b-4928-a322-cf929148157c\" data-id=\"629a4586-3c7b-4928-a322-cf929148157c\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Other soundbars we&#8217;ve tested<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<figure class=\"c-shortcodeImage u-clearfix c-shortcodeImage-large\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeImage_imageContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-shortcodeImage_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/b4a1f69a31057ffc1e002ac337678730f282340f\/hub\/2025\/04\/25\/1cb1fe78-ad30-41c2-9015-c43f2c3f7e25\/sonos-arc-ultra-3.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=768\" alt=\"Sonos Arc Ultra soundbar\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption><span class=\"c-shortcodeImage_credit g-inner-spacing-right-small g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-color-text-meta g-text-xxxsmall\">Ty Pendlebury\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Sonos Arc Ultra<\/span> ($1,099): The high-end Sonos Arc Ultra has even better bass than the previous model, and it&#8217;s great for music in particular. Yet it isn&#8217;t as expansive-sounding as before and it costs more than the original, as well as its main rival: the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar. Read my review of the Sonos Arc Ultra.  <\/p>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Creative Stage Pro <\/span> ($170): A refined version of the earlier Stage soundbar, the Stage Pro is able to connect to either a TV or a PC and make it sound great &#8212; especially for music. Read the full review of the Creative Stage Pro.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Polk Signa S3<\/span> ($300): If you&#8217;re looking for a speaker that can do music as well as play the latest episode of The Last of Us, then the Polk Audio Signa S3 has a lot to offer. It&#8217;s great for accessing streaming services, as it has\u00a0Chromecast built-in\u00a0in addition to Bluetooth and an HDMI input.\u00a0Read my Polk Signa S3 review.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Zvox SB500<\/span><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>($400): If you&#8217;re looking for a single audio bar that&#8217;s even cheaper than the Sonos Arc, the Zvox SB500 is a great option for people who still prize sound quality. This speaker offers multiple sound mode options, tighter bass and better sound than most other single-speaker options. While it may lack the Sonos&#8217; Wi-Fi streaming, the Zvox still includes Bluetooth connectivity for streaming audio from your phone or tablet.\u00a0Read the Zvox SB500 review.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"c-shortcodeCommerceLink\">Sennheiser Ambeo Max<\/span> ($3,000): The Sennheiser Ambeo is the best surround experience I&#8217;ve had from a single speaker.  Without rears, the Sennheiser can make voices hover over the top of your head, even if it still can&#8217;t convince you that things are behind you. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList izeBorder\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large\">\n<h2 id=\"6c897f96-20e7-49a2-9ec0-f1646e8a1ea3\" data-id=\"6c897f96-20e7-49a2-9ec0-f1646e8a1ea3\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Soundbar FAQ<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<div id data-cy=\"shortcodeListicle\" data-id=\"listicle-74ffc873-4ac7-43ac-a9d7-8caada6a72ad\" data-location=\"LIST\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle g-border-thin-light-top g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium g-inner-spacing-left-large g-inner-spacing-right-large c-shortcodeListicle-infoCard c-shortcodeListicle-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_text\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heading g-outer-spacing-top-large\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heds u-flexbox-column u-flex-grow u-flexbox-justifyCenter\">\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_hed g-text-medium g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\">HDMI vs. optical: Which connections do I want? <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_dek c-shortcodeListicleDek g-color-text-meta c-shortcodeListicleDek-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_clamp\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12\">\n<p>Depending on the age of your TV, there are two main ways to output to a soundbar: Digital optical and HDMI. <\/p>\n<p>Both HDMI and optical pass digital audio from your TV to your soundbar. Both are better than analog (the red and white cables, or RCA). Both can pass multichannel audio, like Dolby Digital. Both cables can be had pretty cheap.<\/p>\n<p>The biggest difference is that HDMI can pass higher-resolution audio, including the formats found on streaming services such as\u00a0Dolby Atmos\u00a0and\u00a0DTS HD Master Audio. These formats can&#8217;t be transmitted across optical.<\/p>\n<p>The bottom line? Use HDMI when you can. The cables are cheap, and having just one wire simplifies setup. If you can&#8217;t, optical is fine. If your TV or soundbar doesn&#8217;t have HDMI, it can&#8217;t take advantage of the high-resolution audio formats from streaming services anyway. On the other hand, Dolby Digital is surprisingly good, and unless you have decent gear, you probably won&#8217;t hear much (if any) improvement with Dolby Atmos and DTS HD MA.<\/p>\n<p>Before you buy a soundbar, make sure it accepts the same connections that exist on your TV. The most common input on soundbars is now HDMI-ARC, and if your TV is less than 5 years old, it should be compatible, but it&#8217;s worth double-checking.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_readMore o-inText-link o-inText-link-lightBg\"><br \/>\n      Show more<br \/>\n    <\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id data-cy=\"shortcodeListicle\" data-id=\"listicle-2a9de4f6-dd00-496e-8248-e9939d239dbc\" data-location=\"LIST\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle g-border-thin-light-top g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium g-inner-spacing-left-large g-inner-spacing-right-large c-shortcodeListicle-infoCard c-shortcodeListicle-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_text\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heading g-outer-spacing-top-large\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heds u-flexbox-column u-flex-grow u-flexbox-justifyCenter\">\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_hed g-text-medium g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\">Do I need Bluetooth or Wi-Fi on my soundbar?<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_dek c-shortcodeListicleDek g-color-text-meta c-shortcodeListicleDek-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_clamp\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12\">\n<p>If you plan on playing music through your soundbar, wireless streaming through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi is a must-have. Wireless streaming lets you play music from a multitude of sources &#8212; like Spotify on your phone, or iTunes on your computer &#8212; via your soundbar. Higher-end soundbars usually have both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming, but most budget and mid-range options have one or the other.<\/p>\n<p>Bluetooth is the easiest way to wirelessly stream audio to your soundbar. It works with the music stored on your device and any music app, plus it&#8217;s platform-agnostic &#8212; virtually all iOS, Android and Windows phones and tablets have built-in Bluetooth. Likewise, almost every soundbar on the market features Bluetooth, and if it doesn&#8217;t you can buy an adapter like those made by\u00a0Belkin\u00a0or Logitech.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Still, Wi-Fi offers several upgrades to Bluetooth including the ability to listen in multiple rooms and even control it with Google Assistant or Alexa. Wi-Fi streaming generally sounds better, too, as its higher bandwidth allows for uncompressed audio (unlike Bluetooth). That said, most people won&#8217;t notice a difference in most situations.<\/p>\n<p>So, if you prioritize convenience and quick connections from multiple devices, Bluetooth works well. But if sound quality is your primary concern, Wi-Fi streaming is generally superior. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_readMore o-inText-link o-inText-link-lightBg\"><br \/>\n      Show more<br \/>\n    <\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id data-cy=\"shortcodeListicle\" data-id=\"listicle-d7741cdb-699f-40dc-aa9f-cd830c227965\" data-location=\"LIST\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle g-border-thin-light-top g-inner-spacing-bottom-medium g-inner-spacing-left-large g-inner-spacing-right-large c-shortcodeListicle-infoCard c-shortcodeListicle-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_text\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heading g-outer-spacing-top-large\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_heds u-flexbox-column u-flex-grow u-flexbox-justifyCenter\">\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_hed g-text-medium g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\">Do I need separate speakers with my soundbar?<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_dek c-shortcodeListicleDek g-color-text-meta c-shortcodeListicleDek-bestListInfoCard\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_clamp\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12\">\n<p>If you&#8217;re looking for the simplest possible solution to improving TV sound, a stand-alone soundbar is the perfect place to start. <\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re serious about sound quality though, adding separate speakers to your soundbar is the best way to go. You can mix and match according to your needs, and it&#8217;s easier to upgrade once new formats come in &#8212; you won&#8217;t need to replace everything if you want to add 8K video capability, for example. Many retailers offer a soundbar-subwoofer bundle to jumpstart your speaker setup.  <\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re not ready to upgrade to a full speaker system just yet, look for a soundbar with several HDMI ports. That way you can connect additional speakers to the soundbar when you&#8217;re ready.<\/p>\n<p>We have a full piece designed to help you pick between a soundbar and speaker system, if you need a bit more help. Whichever option you choose, you will never be able to go back to tinny, little TV speakers ever again.<\/p>\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"c-shortcodeListicleDek_readMore o-inText-link o-inText-link-lightBg\"><br \/>\n      Show more<br \/>\n    <\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/article>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;http:\/\/cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/best-soundbar\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/d04098b64cb4d7348cd5e46f957e0a0bddca0c10\/hub\/2022\/05\/26\/268e6e36-0fb6-4ec1-ba2b-7766b99a24ae\/sonos-ray-2022-soundbar-005.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=675&amp;width=1200&#8243;] Our Experts Written by\u00a0 Ty Pendlebury Article updated on\u00a0July 8, 2026 at 7:28 AM PDT Ty PendleburyEditor Ty Pendlebury is CNET&#8217;s senior editor for TV and home audio, and author of the daily Insider newsletter. He has rigorously tested, reviewed and written about AV equipment for the company since 2006. He has [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[67,226],"class_list":["post-2033041","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-cnet-com","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2033041","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2033041"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2033041\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2033041"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2033041"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2033041"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}