Best sound bar home theater systems (sound bar HTIBs)
Want home theater sound without all those pesky home theater speakers? Well, too bad. Until ventriloquism trickles down to home audio land, you simply can't achieve the realism of true surround sound without using rear-channel speakers. You can come kind of close, however, with these sound bar home-theater-in-a-box (HTIB) systems. They represent the cutting edge of virtual surround technology, approximating the surround experience with just one long pole-like speaker (and sometimes a subwoofer). All of the models listed below include a reasonable connectivity package, allowing you to connect all your existing home theater components.
If the single-speaker design appeals to you, but you really just want to replace your TV speakers, check out our best TV add-on speakers. Already have an AV receiver that handles video switching and amplification, and just looking for a sound bar? Check out our best sound bar speakers.
Sony HT-CT150
Sony's HT-CT150 sound bar home theater system sounds great and is way ahead of the competition with its three HDMI inputs; however, its IR receiver limits the subwoofer's placement options.
Price: $249.99 - $299.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Vizio VHT510
While we'd prefer more input options, the Vizio VHT510 adds rear speakers to the traditional sound bar design, resulting in outstanding sound quality at a very affordable price.
Price: $647.26 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Harman/Kardon SB 16
The Harman Kardon SB 16 features a premium price tag and some remote control quirks, but its excellent sound quality and exterior design make it worth the extra cash.
Price: $599.00 - $599.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
JVC TH-BA1
JVC's TH-BA1 sound bar home theater system is affordable, easy to use, and sounds better-than-expected, but doesn't offer HDMI connectivity.
Price: $1,529.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Samsung HW-C450
The Samsung HW-C450 is an exceedingly thin sound bar home theater system that sounds surprisingly good with movies, but lacks HDMI connectivity.
As shown: $349.99
See manufacturer site for availability
Vizio VSB210WS
The VSB210WS, Vizio's very first sound bar system, delivers reasonably full-bodied sound for a very affordable price.
As shown: $329.99
See manufacturer site for availability
LG LSB316
The LG LSB316 is a sleek sound bar and its Bluetooth support enables AirPlay-like streaming, but its sound quality is only so-so.
Price: $269.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
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