Joybuy Insights

Soundbar for TV: Which features suit your living room?

Clear TV sound depends on more than a high wattage or a well-known brand name. If you want to buy a soundbar for TV, you should primarily check the connections, speaker configuration and space required. Otherwise, you could end up with a device under the television that promises plenty of features but does not suit the size of the room or the TV.

Common pitfalls when buying a TV soundbar

1. High wattage figures are mistaken for better sound

Maximum power in watts does not determine sound quality on its own. It says little about dialogue clarity, bass control or the sense of space. The number and arrangement of the speakers, signal processing and supported audio formats are also important.

A compact 2.1 soundbar setup may be sufficient for news, series and smaller rooms. For film fans or gamers looking for genuine surround sound, additional surround speakers or upward-firing drivers are more relevant.

2. Dolby Atmos does not automatically create a 3D cinema experience

A Dolby Atmos soundbar can process height information. However, several conditions must be met for it to be reproduced properly:

  • The TV or playback device must output a suitable Atmos signal.
  • With compatible devices, the connection should use HDMI eARC.
  • Upward-firing speakers need a ceiling that is as unobstructed as possible.
  • The shape of the room and your seating position affect the listening experience.

With a low ceiling, an open-plan living area or a large distance from the TV, the virtual surround effect may differ from what you expect.

3. “Wireless” does not mean completely cable-free

A wireless subwoofer transmits the audio signal without a connection cable to the soundbar, but it still requires a mains socket. Rear speakers may also need power or connection cables. Before buying, you should therefore plan for sockets, cable routes and the position behind the sofa.

The most important technical criteria

Connections: HDMI ARC or HDMI eARC?

HDMI ARC transmits TV audio and, with compatible devices, often allows you to control the volume using the TV remote. HDMI eARC offers greater bandwidth and is better suited to uncompressed multi-channel formats such as Dolby Atmos.

Check the connections on both devices. A TV with HDMI ARC cannot automatically use all the benefits of eARC. An optical input, AUX and Bluetooth are useful additions, but they do not fully replace eARC for demanding multi-channel formats.

Understanding channels correctly

The channel designation describes the speaker configuration:

  • 2.1: Two main channels plus a subwoofer.
  • 3.1: Left, right and centre channels plus a subwoofer.
  • 5.1 soundbar: Multiple front channels, surround channels and a subwoofer.
  • 7.1 soundbar: More discrete or simulated surround channels.
  • 3.1.2 or 7.1.4: The final number represents upward-firing height channels.

Depending on the product, “7.1” may refer to a genuine speaker system or a virtual simulation. You should therefore check whether rear speakers are included.

Dimensions and positioning

Measure the width of the TV unit and the distance to the bottom edge of the screen. A soundbar must not block the television’s infrared sensor. For wall mounting, you also need to consider the type of wall, the bracket and cable routing.

The subwoofer should stand securely and should not be enclosed directly in a corner. Depending on the room, even a small change in position can significantly alter the bass. Families with children should choose a tip-resistant setup and secure cable routing.

Our selection by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Edge X1 2.0 soundbar for TV

Edge X1 2.0 Soundbar for TV, 50W

Why this product suits the profile: This compact stereo soundbar is ideal for smaller rooms, second TVs or anyone looking for a simple TV soundbar with several inputs.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specification states 50 W and a 2.0 configuration rather than making exaggerated multi-channel claims. HDMI ARC, Optical, AUX, USB, RCA and Bluetooth are clearly listed.

Main benefit & strengths

Compact design, three sound modes and wall brackets included.

Suitable for: Buyers with high quality standards
Samsung Q-Series HW-QS710GF soundbar

Samsung Q-Series HW-QS710GF 3.1.2 Channel Soundbar

Why this product suits the profile: Film and series fans get a 3.1.2 configuration with a centre speaker, upward-firing drivers and a wireless 6.5-inch subwoofer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specification lists Dolby Atmos and DTS:X alongside the height speakers that are actually built in. HDMI ARC, an optical input and 4K-60-Hz passthrough are also specified.

Main benefit & strengths

Q-Symphony for compatible Samsung TVs, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2 and automatic room sound calibration according to the product description.

Suitable for: Special uses & frequent users
ULTIMEA Aura S5T 7.1 soundbar

ULTIMEA 7.1ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar Aura S5T

Why this product suits the profile: This home cinema soundbar is designed for users who want to combine four surround speakers, a subwoofer and app-based sound settings.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product data specifies 7.1 channels, HDMI eARC and a 5.25-inch subwoofer. The hybrid cabling for the rear speakers should be factored into your room planning before purchase.

Main benefit & strengths

420 W peak power, a 10-band EQ, 121 presets and 13 surround levels according to the manufacturer.

Suitable for: Families and music lovers
TCL S55HE soundbar with wireless subwoofer

TCL S55HE Soundbar 2.1 Channel with Wireless Subwoofer

Why this product suits the profile: A 2.1 system with a wireless subwoofer is suitable for mixed use with TV, music, gaming and family programmes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specification clearly distinguishes between virtual surround sound and a physical speaker configuration. HDMI eARC, an optical input, USB and Bluetooth 5.3 are listed.

Main benefit & strengths

220 W total power, six sound modes and automatic room calibration according to the product description.

Planning connections and operation correctly

Connect the soundbar via HDMI ARC or eARC wherever possible and activate audio output through the HDMI connection on the TV. With Bluetooth, bear in mind that depending on the TV and playback device, a slight delay between the picture and sound may occur. For music from your smartphone, however, a soundbar with Bluetooth is still practical.

Before installation, test all components at the intended location. Also check whether firmware updates are available through an app and whether the desired voice or dialogue enhancement can be deactivated. A Night mode can be useful for evening use, helping to reduce the impact of bass peaks in flats.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.

Soundbar for TV FAQ

Which soundbar is suitable for a small room?

A compact 2.0 or 2.1 soundbar is often sufficient for smaller rooms. A separate subwoofer can add greater depth, but it needs extra space and a mains socket. Measure the available space under the TV before buying.

Is HDMI eARC required for Dolby Atmos?

Not always, but HDMI eARC provides the greater transmission bandwidth needed for compatible, uncompressed multi-channel formats. Check whether both the TV and soundbar support eARC. Otherwise, alternative Atmos signal paths may be possible depending on the devices.

How long does a soundbar last?

Its lifespan depends on usage, ventilation, volume, power supply and care. Place the device somewhere dry and away from heat sources, do not cover any ventilation openings and use the supplied cables. With wireless subwoofers, you should also ensure a stable wireless connection and secure positioning.