Are you tired of the mediocre audio quality from your TV’s built-in speakers? Do you want to elevate your viewing experience without spending a fortune? Look no further. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of affordable soundbars, exploring the best cheap options that will transform your home entertainment setup without draining your wallet.
What to Expect from a Cheap Soundbar
Before we dive into our top picks, it’s essential to understand what you can expect from a budget-friendly soundbar. While they may not offer the same level of audio fidelity as their high-end counterparts, cheap soundbars can still provide a significant upgrade over your TV’s built-in speakers.
When shopping for a cheap soundbar, keep the following in mind:
- Compact design: Many affordable soundbars are designed to be compact and space-efficient, making them perfect for smaller rooms or apartments.
- Simplified features: Budget soundbars often have fewer features and connectivity options compared to more expensive models.
- Good but not great audio quality: While cheap soundbars can still deliver impressive audio, they may lack the depth and nuance of more expensive models.
Top Picks: The Best Cheap Soundbars
After researching and testing numerous options, we’ve narrowed down our list to the top cheap soundbars that offer exceptional value for their price.
1. TaoTronics TT-SK023
The TaoTronics TT-SK023 is an excellent entry-level soundbar that punches above its weight. This compact soundbar boasts a sleek design, Bluetooth connectivity, and impressive audio quality.
- Key features:
- 2.0-channel audio with 10W x 2 RMS
- Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
- Compact design (31.5 inches wide)
- Affordable price point (under $50)
- Pros: Excellent value for the price, easy to set up, and decent audio quality.
- Cons: Limited connectivity options, no subwoofer.
2. Yamaha YAS-209
The Yamaha YAS-209 is a step up from the TaoTronics TT-SK023, offering more features and better audio quality. This soundbar boasts a sleek design, built-in Alexa, and impressive bass response.
- Key features:
- 2.1-channel audio with 20W x 2 RMS and 50W subwoofer
- Built-in Alexa and Wi-Fi connectivity
- Compact design (36.6 inches wide)
- Affordable price point (under $200)
- Pros: Excellent audio quality, built-in Alexa, and sleek design.
- Cons: No Dolby Atmos support, limited HDMI ports.
3. VIZIO SB3621n-G6
The VIZIO SB3621n-G6 is a budget-friendly soundbar that offers impressive audio quality and a range of features. This soundbar boasts a sleek design, built-in Chromecast, and support for Dolby Atmos.
- Key features:
- 2.1-channel audio with 20W x 2 RMS and 50W subwoofer
- Built-in Chromecast and Wi-Fi connectivity
- Support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- Affordable price point (under $150)
- Pros: Excellent audio quality, built-in Chromecast, and support for Dolby Atmos.
- Cons: Limited HDMI ports, no built-in voice assistant.
What to Consider When Buying a Cheap Soundbar
When shopping for a budget-friendly soundbar, there are several factors to consider to ensure you find the best option for your needs.
1. Audio Quality
While cheap soundbars may not offer the same level of audio fidelity as more expensive models, they can still deliver impressive audio quality. Look for soundbars with clear and balanced sound, and consider options with separate subwoofers for added bass response.
2. Connectivity Options
Consider the connectivity options you need, such as HDMI, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. If you plan to connect your soundbar to multiple devices, look for options with multiple HDMI ports.
3. Design and Size
Think about the space where you’ll be placing your soundbar. Compact soundbars are perfect for smaller rooms or apartments, while larger soundbars may be better suited for bigger spaces.
4. Additional Features
Some cheap soundbars come with additional features like built-in voice assistants, Chromecast, or Dolby Atmos support. Consider what features are important to you and look for soundbars that offer them.
Conclusion
Finding the best cheap soundbar can be a daunting task, but by considering your needs and doing your research, you can find an excellent option that fits your budget. Our top picks, the TaoTronics TT-SK023, Yamaha YAS-209, and VIZIO SB3621n-G6, offer exceptional value for their price and are sure to elevate your home entertainment setup.
Remember to consider factors like audio quality, connectivity options, design, and additional features when making your decision. With the right soundbar, you can enjoy immersive audio without breaking the bank.
| Soundbar | Price | Audio Quality | Connectivity Options | Design and Size | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TaoTronics TT-SK023 | Under $50 | Good | Bluetooth 5.0 | Compact (31.5 inches wide) | None |
| Yamaha YAS-209 | Under $200 | Excellent | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 | Compact (36.6 inches wide) | Built-in Alexa |
| VIZIO SB3621n-G6 | Under $150 | Excellent | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 | Compact (36 inches wide) | Built-in Chromecast, Dolby Atmos support |
By considering these factors and our top picks, you’ll be well on your way to finding the best cheap soundbar for your needs.
What is a soundbar and how does it work?
A soundbar is a type of speaker system designed to improve the audio quality of a television or other multimedia device. It typically consists of a long, thin speaker unit that is placed below or in front of the TV, and sometimes includes a separate subwoofer for enhanced bass response. Soundbars work by using multiple speakers to create a wider soundstage, making it seem like the audio is coming from different directions.
Soundbars often use various audio technologies, such as Dolby Digital or DTS, to simulate surround sound and create a more immersive listening experience. Some soundbars also come with additional features like Bluetooth connectivity, voice control, and HDMI inputs, making it easy to connect and control multiple devices.
What are the benefits of using a soundbar?
Using a soundbar can greatly enhance the overall viewing experience by providing better sound quality and a more immersive audio environment. Soundbars are also relatively compact and easy to set up, making them a great option for those who live in small spaces or don’t want to deal with the hassle of installing a full home theater system.
Another benefit of soundbars is that they are often more affordable than traditional home theater systems, making them a great option for those on a budget. Additionally, many soundbars come with features like wireless connectivity and voice control, making it easy to stream music and control the soundbar from a smartphone or tablet.
What should I look for when buying a cheap soundbar?
When buying a cheap soundbar, there are several things to consider to ensure you get the best value for your money. First, look for a soundbar with good sound quality, including clear dialogue and decent bass response. You should also consider the number of HDMI inputs, as this will determine how many devices you can connect to the soundbar.
Another important factor is the soundbar’s connectivity options, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. This will allow you to stream music and control the soundbar from your smartphone or tablet. Finally, consider the soundbar’s design and build quality, as a well-built soundbar will last longer and look better in your living room.
Can I use a soundbar with my existing TV?
In most cases, yes, you can use a soundbar with your existing TV. Soundbars are designed to be compatible with a wide range of TVs, and most come with multiple connectivity options, such as HDMI, optical, and Bluetooth. However, it’s always a good idea to check the soundbar’s compatibility with your TV before making a purchase.
If your TV is older or doesn’t have the latest connectivity options, you may need to use an adapter or converter to connect the soundbar. Additionally, some soundbars may require a specific type of TV or connectivity option to work properly, so be sure to check the soundbar’s specifications before making a purchase.
How do I set up a soundbar?
Setting up a soundbar is relatively straightforward and can usually be done in a few simple steps. First, connect the soundbar to your TV using an HDMI cable or other connectivity option. Next, place the soundbar in the desired location, such as below or in front of the TV.
Once the soundbar is connected and placed, you can turn it on and adjust the settings to your liking. Many soundbars come with a remote control or mobile app that allows you to adjust the volume, bass, and other settings. You may also need to calibrate the soundbar to your TV and room, which can usually be done using the soundbar’s built-in calibration system.
Can I use a soundbar for music streaming?
Yes, many soundbars can be used for music streaming, either through a wired connection or wirelessly using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Some soundbars also come with built-in music streaming services, such as Spotify or Amazon Music, making it easy to access your favorite music.
To use a soundbar for music streaming, simply connect the soundbar to your smartphone or tablet using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, and then open your music streaming app. You can then select the soundbar as the playback device and start streaming your favorite music. Some soundbars may also come with additional features, such as voice control or multi-room audio, making it easy to control the music playback and stream music to multiple rooms.
Are cheap soundbars worth the investment?
Yes, cheap soundbars can be a worthwhile investment for those looking to improve their TV’s audio quality without breaking the bank. While they may not offer the same level of sound quality as more expensive soundbars, cheap soundbars can still provide a significant improvement over the TV’s built-in speakers.
Additionally, many cheap soundbars come with features like Bluetooth connectivity and voice control, making them a great option for those who want a convenient and easy-to-use sound system. However, it’s worth noting that very cheap soundbars may not offer the same level of sound quality or build quality as more expensive models, so be sure to read reviews and do your research before making a purchase.