Best soundbar in India – Top Picks (2021)
After a hectic busy day, most of us cozy down on the couch to watch some of our favorite TV shows or movies and unwind. But what if we tell you that you can make that experience a lot more realistic and lifelike?
Most TV manufacturers today offer an average sound system that offers a pretty average sound throw. This is because, the slimmer the TV gets, the lesser the space for a powerful audio system. While the sound quality of these TVs work just fine, if you want an exceptionally good audio quality from your television, a soundbar is an excellent way to go about this. In this article, we’ll talk about what a soundbar does, how it improves your TV audio performance and which is the best soundbar in India.
What is a soundbar and what does it do?
A soundbar, also called a media bar, is a type of a loudspeaker that is placed above or below a displaying device, like a television, computer monitor or a home theater. It projects sound from a wider angle (being short but lengthy) towards the audience, unlike surround sound speakers that are placed at the back of the audience.
A soundbar is an all in one loudspeaker that provides crisp and outstanding audio quality for TVs without requiring a home theatre receiver, space or a complex wiring system like in the case of surround sound speakers. A good soundbar, even the cheapest model out there, is sure to improve your TV audio quality to a great, great extent.
How to choose a soundbar? – A Buying Guide:
If you decide to go ahead with a soundbar, it is important to do a bit of research to ensure you invest in one that suits your needs best. Here are some important factors to consider before buying a soundbar:
1. Decide on the number of channels you require
A 2.1 channel soundbar consists of a left and a right channel, along with a subwoofer. This is sufficient if you simply want to enhance or upgrade your TV audio quality. A 3.1 channel soundbar consists of a left, right and center channel along with a subwoofer. The additional center channel offers great dialogue audio since the center channel focuses primarily on dialogue quality. And then there’s a 5.1 channel soundbar, where the additional two channels serve as a surround sound system that gives you a surround sound experience.
2. Pre-plan where you want to place your soundbar
Ideally a soundbar is placed under a television set, but it is not uncommon for it to be placed over the TV as well. The placement of the soundbar depends on the model. For an upward-firing soundbar, it is best to place it above the TV since the product projects sound from the top and sound waves may cause potential damage to your TV in the long run. Front-firing speakers are best suited to be placed below the TV, for sound that flows around you, in your direction.
3. Consider connectivity
If you want to connect a Bluetooth device to your soundbar, to play music or to connect to online music streaming apps like spotify, it is a good idea to opt for a Wi fi or a Bluetooth soundbar.
4. Decide if you need an active sound bar or a passive sound bar
The main difference between active sound bar speakers and passive sound bar speakers is the presence of an amplifier or a receiver. While passive sound bars don’t have amplifiers, active sound bars come with in-built amplifiers and are thus easier to use and install. A passive sound bar is suitable for someone who already has an amplifier and wants flexibility in upgrading the sound system or someone who is looking for a standalone speaker that can be connected to other devices. They generally have more space for bigger drivers and are more expensive than active sound bars, but the audio output is definitely of higher definition.
5. Compare pricing and other specifications
Once you make a decision on the above factors, you could make a list of your most suitable choices keeping budget, performance, and specifications in mind. To make that easier for you, we have curated some of the best soundbars in India that are sure to blow your mind with their amazing sound payoffs.
Comparing 8 Best Soundbars in India
| Image | Product/Features | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick |
Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Sound System✔ Bluetooth Connectivity ✔ Dialogue Mode ✔ Universal Remote |
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Polk Audio MagniFi ✔ Wireless Music Streaming ✔ Ultra-compact size ✔ Immersive home theater surround sound |
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Sony HT Dolby Digital Soundbar✔ 5.1 ch Surround Sound for cinematic experience ✔ Powerful Bass ✔ HDMI Cable |
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Budget Pick |
boAt AAVANTE Bar✔ 2.1 ch bluetooth soundbar ✔ Wireless Subwoofer ✔ Multiple connectivity modes |
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Blaupunkt Soundbar with Built in Subwoofer✔ Built in Speakers ✔ LED Display ✔ HDMI Arc Connectivity |
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Samsung Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer✔ 2.1ch soundbar and wireless subwoofer ✔ Bluetooth connectivity ✔ One remote control |
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Zebronics Zeb-Juke Bar✔ Clear Audio ✔ Triple hdmi ✔ LED Display |
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Mi Soundbar with 8 Speaker Drivers✔ Enhanced Bass ✔ Easy set up ✔ Light weight and compact |
1. Bose Solo 5 Sound bar – Our Top Pick
If it’s superior sound quality, it has to be Bose. The Bose Solo 5 Sound bar challenges to make your TV sound as good as it looks!
Quick Facts:
✦ Single sound bar with more distinct dialogue, richer soundtracks, music and effects, and deeper bass
✦ Dialogue mode for precise and crisp dialogue audio quality
✦ Compatible with TV, Mobile,(Android, IOS, others), Tablets, Laptops, and Bluetooth devices.
✦ Universal Remote that controls TV, bass, Bluetooth and more.
The Bose Solo 5 Sound bar is a 2.0 channel standalone soundbar and is one of the most purchased and best soundbar in India. Easy to install and even easier to mount or place anywhere near the television, this sound bar is lightweight, compact, with a classy exterior body of tough plastic and metal.
It brings superior clarity and improved sound quality for all your favorite TV programs with a frequency range from 61 Hz to around 19 kHz. Despite the compact small size, this soundbar can generate around 87 dB of volume, which is powerful and loud with minimum to no loss or jarring. It also comes with an universal remote control, that handles your television, player, the sound bar and any other device connected to your TV, all in one. The buttons on the remote are easy to understand and offer an interesting “Bass” button, that lets you increase or decrease the bass at your fingertips!
Additionally, the sound bar also provides wireless connectivity which has widely become a necessity in today’s day and age. A perfect sound bar to enhance your TV’s simple audio system, Bose knows how to play with sound and we have to give them that!
Pros
2. Minimum sound loss or distortion even at higher volumes
3. Dialogue mode offers extremely crisp audio payoff
4. Adjustable Bass
5. Universal remote control
6. Supports wireless connectivity
7. Extremely easy setup
Cons
1. No Display
2. Polk Audio Sound bar
The Polk Audio MagniFi is a great example of the brand’s exceptional quality compressed at an affordable price. The 5.1 Dolby Digital soundbar is among the best soundbar in India for entry level and home use.
Quick Facts:
✦ 2.1ch sound bar with 220 watt RMS power output
✦ 5.25’’ Driver, 100 watt wireless subwoofer
✦ Sound Bar Drivers : (2) 1.25″ x 4.4″ (32 x 112mm) full-range oval drivers, (2) 1″ (25mm) tweeters
✦ Bluetooth connectivity version 4.0/AUX/3.5 mm jack/USB/Optical/ HDMI port(ARC)
✦ Dolby Digital Audio enabled
✦ Frequency range: 45Hz to 20KHz
✦ Compatible with 4k and high-definition TVs with HDMI connectivity and Optical cables included
✦ Pre-drilled mounting holes
A fairly good sound bar to improve your TVs sound quality, the Polk Audio MagniFi comes as a compact central unit and a small size wireless subwoofer that are both easy to place even in the smallest living room or home. The soundbar design is classy and elegant, it is fully coated with a black grille and sports LED lights at the center to indicate certain actions like Bluetooth, user modification, and input usage. The soundbar is pre-paired from the factory and is easy to set up by simply connecting it to the TV and plugging in the HDMI port.
As for the audio and music performance, it offers universal compatibility and performance tuned surround sound systems with driver array and Dolby Digital 5.1 decoding that helps create an incredible room-filling surround sound. With a 2.1 channel, the product still delivers intense sound quality and bass performance. Whether its movies or music, the S2 offers outstanding performance with beautiful high peaks, closed mid-range, and user satisfying low notes. The soundbar also offers Bluetooth connectivity and Polk’s voice adjust technology for clear, precise dialogue delivery.
Pros
2. Smooth treble
3. Can get really loud without any difficulty
4. User friendly
5. Elegant design
Cons
1. Limited sound adjustments
3. Sony HT-S20R 5.1ch Dolby Digital Soundbar Home Theatre System
A 5.1ch soundbar home theatre system from Sony! Doesn’t seem like we need to say more than that. The Sony HT-S20R 5.1ch Dolby Digital Soundbar truly delivers a surround sound experience at the comfort of your home!
Quick Facts:
✦ Cinematic Sound Experience with 5.1 channel real Surround Sound, 3 channel soundbar, wired external subwoofer, and two wired surround sound rear channel speakers
✦ Audio Inputs: Bluetooth, Optical-audio input, Analogue audio input.
✦ Easy plug and play with type A USB port
✦ One cable connection with HDMI ARC
✦ Powerful Bass of 400w Power Output
The Sony HT-S20R 5.1ch Dolby Digital Soundbar System is a powerful 400 watt power output home theatre consisting of 6 drivers – a 3.1 soundbar along with a wired subwoofer and two rear channel speakers to give you an incredible surround sound experience. Enabled with Dolby Audio, you can enjoy dramatic, high-quality surround sound while watching your favorite TV programs and movies. If you’re more into music, the Sony HT media bar supports Bluetooth connectivity and USB connectivity for quick and easy music listening experience that can be enjoyed wirelessly. The design is sturdy and made of full strong plastic and mesh that protects the inner components of the speakers.
The Sony HT soundbar comes with a remote control that offers a button for every sound such as, Auto, Standard, Cinema and Music. You can also additionally, select Night mode and Voice mode, and use subwoofer control to fine-tune your viewing experience as per your daily requirements.
Pros
2. Multiple audio inputs
3. USB port for quick plug and play
4. Good bass performance
5. Affordable price for great quality
6. Easy to understand remote control
Cons
1. Good for movies but average soundstage so may not be great for music
2. Inconvenience of too many wires
3. No HDMI pass through
4. boAt Aavante Bar 2050 – Budget Pick
A beautiful sleek design, powerful 160 watt RMS and Bluetooth connectivity, the BoAt Aavante Bar 2050 is a great soundbar that offers superior sound quality under a tight budget.
Quick Facts:
✦ 2.1 channel bar and wireless subwoofer
✦ 160w RMS resonant sound
✦ Ample connectivity modes like Bluetooth V5.0, Aux, USB, Optical and HDMI(ARC)
✦ Remote control
✦ Active soundbar
The first thing you will notice about the BoAt Aavante Bar 2050 is its exquisite design. It boasts a sleek design made of plastic and metal giving you a premium finish. The soundbar is equipped with 4 x 2.25″ drivers while the subwoofer is equipped with a fairly decent 6.5 driver. If you’re tight on finances, but still really want a good soundbar that can improve your TV viewing experience, then this is the one we’d recommend you to get. With a deep bass performance, the unit handles dynamic bursts and high volumes with utmost ease. The only downside we found with this speaker is that the treble can be harsh and piercing at some point. However, it is still an extremely budget friendly soundbar that offers premium audio quality and design.
Pros
2. Easy to mount/place
3. No wire hassle with wireless subwoofer
4. Bluetooth connectivity
5. Integrated controls
Cons
1. Slightly harsh treble response
5. Blaupunkt SBA01 100W Soundbar
The iconic German audio brand was not going to pass on this list. The Blaupunkt SBA01 100W Soundbar would complete your television set making it hard to ever leave your home!
Quick Facts:
✦ 2.1 channel soundbar
✦ 2 Built-in woofers
✦ 2 Built in speakers
✦ Twin 3 inch subwoofers along with Dual 2 inch full range speakers
✦ Digital Signal Processing technology that allows the soundbar to be driven to full utility
✦ Four Equalizer Sound modes – Music, Movies, Dialog and Flat
✦ Remote control
✦ LED indicator
Blaupunkt’s SBA01 100w soundbar is another product that offers superior audio quality at an extremely reasonable price range. The design is strong and sturdy with easy placement options. The soundbar comes with 2 built-in woofers and 2 built-in speakers that work in unison to give you 100Watts of pure and premium audio reproduction. Furthermore, it also comes with twin 3 inch wireless subwoofers along with Dual 2 inch full range speakers that give you double the bass response and adds a rich, deep, thumping tone to your TV.
The soundbar offers easy connectivity with HDMI Arc or Optical/ AUX/ line-in and, of course, Bluetooth. Additionally, it also offers a LED indicator for quick information on what is currently functioning on the soundbar. There are four EQ sound modes for music, movies dialog and flat that are all accessible through the remote control. Each mode is fine tuned and balanced to create the perfect audio reproduction. Choose the one that matches your entertainment and you are sure to notice a difference!
Pros
2. Supports Bluetooth, HDMI and USB
3. Easy to use remote Control that controls sound modes easily
4. Affordable price
5. LED indicator
6. Twin subwoofers for extreme deep bass production
Cons
1. HDMI arc cable is not provided with the soundbar
6. Samsung T45E 2.1 Channel Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer
Imagine a soundbar that automatically optimizes to different sound modes based on your content? The Samsung T45E is smart like that.
Quick Facts:
✦ 2.1ch soundbar and 6.5-inch subwoofer
Smart Sound: Optimized sound for various content
Remote control that is compatible with selected samsung TVs
Game mode compatible with selected TVs and game consoles
Sound Modes: Surround Sound Expansion mode, Game mode, Smart mode, Standard mode
Connectivity Options: Bluetooth, USB and Optical
Samsung is quickly branching out its services and after successfully taking on the mobile world, they are now marking their spot in audio devices. The T45E is a 2.1ch soundbar that comes with a 6.5” subwoofer that can be placed anywhere thanks to its wireless connectivity. One of the smartest soundbars that automatically analyzes the audio content you’re viewing and optimizes the mode which is best suitable for it to give you a surround sound experience without having to manually change the modes! What’s more is that since most leading television sets are from the same brand, the remote control is also compatible with some selected TVs so if you have a Samsung TV, you will not have to use 2 or 3 remotes for different devices.
The soundbar also has a unique Game mode, where you can plug in your console and get an amazing surround sound effect and a top-notch gaming experience. The auto settings optimizes your sound to the game you’re playing while cross-talk cancellation technology removes distracting sounds so you hear clear audio throughout the game. It is compatible with Xbox, PS4, and Nintendo Switch.
The soundbar comes with Bluetooth, USB input and Optical connectivity and sports a beautiful design with an LED indicator at the center. Overall a great buy for such great features at an even better price!
Pros
2. Game mode
3. Remote control compatible with selected TVs
4. Compatible with game consoles
5. Wireless subwoofer
Cons
1. No HDMI arc
2. No AUX
7. Zebronics Zeb-Juke Bar
Hear the unheard with India’s First Dolby Atmos soundbar brand – Zebronics! The Zeb-Juke Bar offers multi-dimensional 3D surround sound quality with fantastic clarity and detail that will surprise your hearing ability!
Quick Facts:
✦ 5.1 soundbar with wired subwoofer
✦ Subwoofer Speaker Driver: 6.5”
✦ Triple HDMI ports (1 HDMI arc and 2 HDMI inputs)
✦ Power output: 450W
✦ Wall mounting option
The best parts about the Zebronics Zeb-Juke Bar is the ample amount of connectivity options and the Dolby Atmos decoding. The soundbar comes in a fairly decent plastic design that has the brand name and Dolby Digital engraved on the speaker. It can be wall mounted easily or placed on a table, whichever you prefer. However, it is to be noted that most of the ports are at the back of the soundbar so wall mounting it would be slightly inconvenient with regard to managing the cables.
The price is a little on the expensive side but we can’t complain as it is in fact a Dolby Atmos soundbar and that means superior sound quality. The soundbar comes with a powerful subwoofer with a 16.5 sm driver while the soundbar alone offers high and mid range frequencies with Quad 5.71 cm and Dual 5.08 cm drivers which give you a 360 degree surround sound with an amazing thumping bass production. It also comes with a remote control and a LED indicator that shows you the sound, current source, and other quick information.
As for connectivity options, the soundbar speakers offers triple HDMI ports (2 in and 1 arc) that supports 4K and HDR, USB, Bluetooth version 5.0, AUX, and Optical. Ultimately, one of the best soundbars in India, for people who can’t do without music and other plug and play audio tracks.
Pros
supports 4k and HDR
2. Easy to use
3. Bluetooth version 5.0
Cons
1. Input mode needs to be set manually each time
2. Bass heavy sound output
8. Mi Soundbar
A mind (or ear) blowing soundbar that includes 8 sound drivers to deliver crisp treble, deep bass and clean mids for an outstanding audio experience. If you’re looking to support your life-like video quality, the Mi Soundbar is the perfect fit to complete your surround sound home theatre system.
Quick Facts:
✦ 8 sound drivers for superior movie viewing, gameplay and music playback
✦ 30 second easy setup (Both wall mounting and table top installation)
✦ Frequency response: 50Hz to 25000Hz
✦ Connectivity options: S/PDIF, optical, Aux-in, Bluetooth, and Line-in connectivity
Last but not the least, Xiaomi’s MI Soundbar is a stylishly designed media bar with fabric mesh cover and an aesthetically minimalist modern exterior body. It’s powerful core and rich sound delivery blend beautifully together to take the sound and deep bass performance to the next level. The soundbar comes with whooping 8 sound drivers with a 50Hz to 25000Hz frequency response range along with two tweeters, four passive radiators and two wide-range drivers that handle the sonic frequency range.
The soundbar is a standalone product that does not come with a subwoofer since the passive radiators serve the bass unit. Although setup or installation is easy, the soundbar is relatively tall and may interfere with the TV’s IR receiver, so it might be better to have your TV mounted and the soundbar on the table below it.
As for the sound performance, the MI soundbar is front firing with 8 drivers so you can expect some top-notch high and low range sound quality. The soundstage too is wide, thanks to its length and multiple drivers and customers can enjoy music without a doubt, but it is definitely better for TV viewing and dialogue clarity. The only disadvantage according to us? Is the absence of a remote control. This means you need to get up from your couch to operate the product. Of course you can control volume via Bluetooth or a smartphone, but a basic remote would have definitely made this soundbar one of our favorites.
Pros
2. Easy to install
3. Stylish and unique design
4. 8 sound drivers give great sound performance
Cons
1. No remote control
2. Can connect only one device via Bluetooth at a time
The Verdict
Which is the best soundbars or home theater system?
Without a doubt, our favorite pick is the Bose Solo 5 Soundbar. The mighty power compressed in a compact size won our hearts and the hearts of many users throughout India. Without a doubt, one of the best soundbars in India.
Our Budget pick is the boAt Aavante Bar 2050. The exquisite design, 160w RMS resonant sound and integrated control is too good to be true at such an affordable price. We’ve said it before, we’ll say it again, if you’re on a tight budget, this is your best buy!
How do you set up a wireless soundbar?
To connect your wireless soundbar to your television, follow the below steps:
1. Press the Bluetooth button on the soundbar to turn on the Bluetooth.
2. On the remote of the soundbar, find and click “Pair” to enter into the Bluetooth pairing mode.
3. On your TV set, go into the Bluetooth settings.
4. Select your soundbar and press “Pair and Connect” to connect your wireless soundbar.
How to mount a soundbar to the wall?
If your TV is wall mounted, it is best to place your soundbar under it over a table. But if you want to wall mount your soundbar ensure you take the following steps :
✦ Place the wall mount guide against the wall and make sure the soundbar is atleast 5 cm below the television.
✦ Make sure it is aligned with the center of the television
✦ Mark the holes on the wall mount guide with a pencil or pen for the screws and remove the guide.
✦ With an appropriate drill, make screw holes on each of the markings.
✦ Use the wall mount brackets and screw the screws in a holder screw firmly.
✦ Make sure the hanger part of the bracket are behind the back of the soundbar
✦ Place the soundbar and slide it into the holder screw and make sure both sides are firmly fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Is it OK to leave the soundbar on all the time?
It is unsafe to keep speakers on for a long period of time. It can overheat, consume unnecessary amounts of energy and can also be a fire hazard. Kindly ensure to switch off your soundbar when not in use.
2. Do I need a subwoofer with my soundbar?
While most soundbars come with subwoofers, a soundbar doesn’t actually need a subwoofer unless you specifically want low frequency audio production. Soundbars include internal speakers that are sufficient to produce great audio payoffs but if you are particular about deep bass, you can get a subwoofer for your soundbar.
3. How to control soundbar with tv remote?
While this is not possible for all soundbars, if your soundbar is a Bluetooth soundbar, you can follow the instructions to do so:
1. Find a compatible connection on both devices, like a HDMI arc or an optical connection
2. Connect cable to both devices
3. Turn off “TV speaker” on the TV and you will be able to hear the sound through the soundbar.
4. Control the soundbar through the remote.
4. How do I get the best sound from my soundbar?
Placement of the soundbar plays a vital role in getting the best sound from the speaker. Front-firing sound speakers need to be placed on a table, around 5cm below the television. Upward-firing soundbar speakers should be placed above the television to keep your TV safe from the sound waves.
A few more best soundbar practices are as follows:
– Keep in mind the size of room and get a soundbar that is large enough to fill the room with sound or invest in a soundbar that has surround sound technology.
– Turn off the TV’s speaker to ensure it doesn’t interfere with your sound bar’s speaker.
– Use the HDMI or other high quality cables to make sure your soundbar receives good audio signals.
5. Are soundbars good for listening to music?
Soundbars are meant to enhance any sound quality, be it movies, music streaming or gaming. If you want a soundbar specifically for music, you could invest in a Dolby atmos bluetooth soundbar since Dolby Digital or Dolby Atmos gives the best sound output and soundstage for music.
6. How to reset soundbar?
To reset a soundbar, press and hold down the power button and the volume button, simultaneously for about 5 seconds. Then, unplug the power cord from your soundbar. Wait a few seconds before plugging the power cord back in and your soundbar would be reset.
Wrapping Up
A good soundbar can really turn movie nights far more entertaining and enjoyable and those home parties will be the talk of the town when you play your favorite beats on them!
A great investment for any entertainment buff, bring home your soundbar today and give your TV speakers a break forever.
