best 5.1 soundbar under 500
Evan Whitaker Sep 24, 2023 8:12 PM
To obtain the Best 5.1 soundbar under 500, you don't have to give up amazing features like voice controls, Dolby Atmos, or Bluetooth connectivity. Brands like Samsung, Roku, and LG offer affordable ways to enhance the sound quality of your TV.
OVERVIEW
You'll still receive excellent sound with fewer channels even though none of these models support 4.1 or 5.1 CH audio. In order to create a home audio system at a reasonable price, one option even includes a subwoofer and satellite speakers. To assist you in selecting the Best 5.1 soundbar under 500 that is perfect for your room and budget, we examined the qualities of some of the best inexpensive soundbars
VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar with Dolby Audio, Bluetooth, Wireless Subwoofer, Voice Assistant Compatible, Includes Remote Control - V51x-J6
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- BrandVIZIO
- Prime
SAMSUNG 3.1ch A650 A Series Soundbar - Dolby 5.1/ DTS Virtual: X (HW-A650, 2021 Model)
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- BrandSAMSUNG
- Prime
JBL Bar 5.1 - Soundbar with Built-in Virtual Surround, 4K and 10" Wireless Subwoofer (JBL2GBAR51IMBLKAM)
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- BrandJBL
- Prime
- SCORE9.2AI Score
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- BrandVIZIO
- Prime
LG SP7Y 5.1 Channel High Res Audio Sound Bar (2021) w/DTS Virtual:X and Wireless Active Subwoofer Bundle with CPS Protection Pack + Deco Gear Home Theater Kit Including 2 HDMI Cables + Surge Adapter
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AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.
- BrandLG
100W Sound bar, BESTISAN TV Soundbar, Bluetooth 5.1 Wired and Wireless Sound bar for TV/Home Theater/PC(6 Drivers, 105dB, 3 EQ Modes, Bass Adjustable, 3D Surround Sound)
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AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.
- BrandBESTISAN
- Prime
- SCORE8.6AI Score
AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.
AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.
- BrandVIZIO
Soundbar, KMOUK Sound Bar for Small TV, Bluetooth 5.0, Mini Sound bar for PC/Home Theater, 2.0 Channel, 3 Equalizer Mode Audio, Optical/Aux/RCA Connection, Wired Gaming Speaker with 3D Surround Sound
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AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.
- BrandKMOUK
- Prime
VIZIO M-Series 5.1 Premium Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Bluetooth, Wireless Subwoofer, Voice Assistant Compatible, Includes Remote Control - M51ax-J6
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AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.
AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.
- BrandVIZIO
- Prime
SAMSUNG HW-Q60T 5.1ch Soundbar with 3D Surround Sound and Acoustic Beam (2020) , Black
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AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.
- BrandSAMSUNG
- Prime
SAMSUNG HW-S50B/ZA 3.0ch All-in-One Soundbar w/Dolby 5.1, DTS Virtual:X, Q Symphony, Built in Center Speaker, Adaptive Sound Lite, Bluetooth Multi Connection, 2022
View on Amazon- SCORE7.2AI Score
AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.
AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.
- BrandSAMSUNG
- Prime
VIZIO M-Series 5.1.2 Premium Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Bluetooth, Wireless Subwoofer, Voice Assistant Compatible, Includes Remote Control - M512a-H6
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AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.
AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.
- BrandVIZIO
Bose Smart Soundbar 900 Dolby Atmos with Alexa Built-In, Bluetooth connectivity - Black
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AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.
- BrandBose
Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
As televisions become thinner, the audio quality declines, making them more visually appealing but less enjoyable to listen to. Without the mess and wires of a home theater, volume and bass may be regained with a soundbar.
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Sound
Make an informed choice because many soundbars only have stereo output. On the other hand, depending on how it is configured, surround sound can be either amazing or a complete disaster. Naturally, it sounds fantastic on all of the soundbars we've selected, but keep that in mind as you consider your alternatives.
Instead of having built-in subwoofers in the main device, some people employ standalone, wireless woofers (in the sense that they link to the bar wirelessly, but still require electricity).
VIZIO M-Series 5.1.2 Premium is the best 5.1 soundbar under 500
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Wi-Fi
Many smartphones now come with the ability to stream music wirelessly over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. On select versions, microphones that work with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa will be available.
The best place for a soundbar should be considered. Depending on how the TV is placed atop the media center, the soundbar occasionally may get in the way of the remote control or even the TV's base. You should be aware that certain soundbars are more low-profile than others.
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Connect
Think about the variety and availability of wired connections. Since it's the simplest method for plug-and-play and does away with the need for a separate remote for your soundbar, using HDMI ARC has become the industry standard.
Some older televisions have just one or no HDMI ARC connectors, so most soundbars come with an optical audio connection as a backup. Select a soundbar that has the proper connection types to connect to your television.
VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater is the best overall
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Budget
When your TV only has one HDMI ARC connector, HDMI passthrough is a common feature on high-end and budget soundbars. Although the soundbar only gets audio from the TV, it may also transfer video from a set-top box or gaming console directly to the TV.
Bose Smart Soundbar 900 suitable for your budget
What distinguishes a 5.1 soundbar from a 4.1 soundbar?
A 5.1 soundbar has three extra audio channels incorporated into its housing than a 4.1 soundbar, which only has two. A 4.1 soundbar's left and right channels are the only ones that provide stereo sound. This system was not designed to produce surround sound, regardless of how fantastic the speakers sound. A 5.1 soundbar includes left, right, center, and left and right surround channels as well. Despite this, it does not accurately simulate surround sound since at least two of the audio channels need to be heard well through separate speakers that must be placed behind the listener. A 5.1 soundbar has additional speaker channels, and when used in conjunction with virtual surround processing, they effectively simulate surround sound from a single soundbar. The ".1" suffix serves to identify soundbars that include a subwoofer.
What exactly does "5.1-channel soundbar" mean?
Two more audio channels beyond those found in the 4.1-channel variant are added to the soundbar to create surround sound. To home theater systems with individual speakers for each channel, the 5.1-channel setup adds two side speakers, creating the channel layout of left, right, center, L/R rear, and L/R center. The most popular home theater layout is this one. If you have a 5.1-channel system, you have the option of adding additional speakers to the soundbar's enclosure or adding additional back speakers in addition to the soundbar and subwoofer.
What is a 5.1 soundbar, and why should I consider one?
A 5.1 soundbar is a home audio system that consists of a soundbar and a separate subwoofer, along with additional satellite speakers. The "5.1" refers to the configuration of the audio channels, with five speakers and one subwoofer. This setup provides a more immersive and cinematic audio experience compared to traditional soundbars, which typically only have stereo output. If you enjoy watching movies, playing games, or listening to music with dynamic sound, a 5.1 soundbar can greatly enhance your audio enjoyment.
What factors should I consider when choosing a 5.1 soundbar under $500?
When looking for the best 5.1 soundbar under $500, several factors come into play. First, consider the audio quality. Look for a soundbar that offers clear and balanced sound reproduction, with good bass response from the subwoofer. Additionally, check for connectivity options such as HDMI ARC, optical, or Bluetooth, to ensure compatibility with your devices. It's also worth considering the design and size of the soundbar to ensure it fits well with your living space. Lastly, check customer reviews and ratings to gauge the reliability and performance of the soundbar.
Which 5.1 soundbars under $500 are highly recommended?
There are several 5.1 soundbars under $500 that have received positive reviews and recommendations from users. Here are three options worth considering:
a. Sonos Beam + Sub (Gen 3): Sonos is renowned for its high-quality audio products, and the Beam soundbar paired with the Sub (Gen 3) delivers impressive sound performance. With support for voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, it offers a seamless smart home integration experience.
b. Vizio SB36514-G6: Vizio's 5.1.4 Dolby Atmos soundbar system provides an immersive audio experience with upward-firing speakers that bounce sound off the ceiling for a three-dimensional effect. It also includes a wireless subwoofer and two rear satellite speakers, offering excellent value for the price.
c. JBL Bar 5.1: The JBL Bar 5.1 soundbar comes with a detachable wireless subwoofer and two battery-powered wireless surround speakers. It delivers powerful audio performance and supports Dolby Digital and DTS decoding. The removable satellite speakers can be placed around the room for true surround sound.
Can I connect a 5.1 soundbar to my existing TV or streaming devices?
Yes, most 5.1 soundbars under $500 offer various connectivity options to connect to your existing TV or streaming devices. The common connection methods include HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel), optical audio, and Bluetooth. HDMI ARC is the preferred option as it allows for high-quality audio transmission and simplifies control by using a single remote for both the TV and soundbar. Ensure that your TV or device supports the desired connection method before making a purchase.
How easy is it to set up a 5.1 soundbar system?
Setting up a 5.1 soundbar system is generally straightforward, although the complexity may vary depending on the model. Most soundbars come with clear instructions and labeled cables to help with the setup process. Wireless subwoofers and satellite speakers make it easier to position them in your room without worrying about long cables. Some soundbars even include automatic calibration features that optimize the audio output based on your room's acoustics. If you prefer a hassle-free setup, consider choosing a soundbar that offers easy installation and user-friendly features.
It happens frequently that the quantity and quality of what you receive rise while the cost stays the same. This isn't always the case, though, as market price shifts are happening more frequently and dramatically. I noticed price hikes even as I was writing this article, making it impossible to choose some soundbars. You may still purchase a high-tech solo soundbar, a soundbar plus subwoofer combo, or even an Atmos-compatible system that consists of a soundbar, subwoofer, and satellite speakers with a soundbar with a 5.1 soundbar or lower price tag. Money waste is not something I enjoy doing. If you wait too long to purchase the Best 5.1 soundbar under 500, its price can increase once more.
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