Best Soundbars Under $500 In 2023: Rich Powerful Audio
If you’re looking to enhance your home theater experience, but don’t want to spend a fortune on a sound system, then a soundbar is a perfect solution for you. Soundbars are designed to deliver high-quality audio without the hassle of multiple speakers and complex setups. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best soundbars under $500, so you can enjoy immersive sound at an affordable price.
We’ve scoured the market to find the top-performing soundbars that provide excellent sound quality, easy setup, and versatile connectivity options. Whether you’re watching your favorite movie or streaming music, these soundbars deliver a clear, dynamic sound that will bring your entertainment to life. So sit back, relax, and enjoy our picks for the best soundbars under $500.
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Quick Peek: Our Top-Ranked Selections
Last update on 2023-11-29
We have meticulously sifted through many options to come up with a list of the best top soundbar under $500 that offer exceptional value at this price point or less. Our choices are distinguished by a host of impressive features that set them apart from the rest. Our goal is to provide you with a comprehensive selection that will help you pinpoint the ideal model that caters to your unique needs and preferences.
Compare Key Features: Soundbar Under $500
- 3.1ch Dolby Atmos DTS: X and Vertical Surround Engine.Bluetooth version : Version 5.0, 360 Reality Audio : No, Subwoofer(Reference) : 100W.
- Immersive AE (Audio Enhancer) upscale audio closes to 7.1.2 each sound
- Wireless subwoofer delivers powerful bass sound
- Sound modes to customize listening to movies and music
- Multiple easy connections so you can enjoy all your media
- Enjoy high quality movies with 4K HDR pass through
- 45 inches 3.1 Soundbar With 10 inches Wireless Subwoofer
- Best-In-Class 600W Peak Power
- HDMI-ARC: Single Cable, Single Remote Control
- 5.1 Decoding for Virtualized Surround Sound
- Powerful audio performance with deep, theater-like sub-bass and crisp high-end definition
- DOLBY ATMOS / DTS:X – Theater-quality sound that fires from the front, side and above for true audio immersion.
- TRUE 3.1.2CH SOUND – The complete audio entertainment experience with 3 channels, 1 subwoofer and 2 up-firing channels.
- Q-SYMPHONY – Perfectly synchronized, fully immersive QLED TV and soundbar audio.
- BUILT-IN VOICE ASSISTANT – Control your soundbar and stay connected with Alexa.
- SPACEFIT SOUND – Automatically calibrated sound and enhanced clarity to adapt to your space.
- A FULL SOUND SYSTEM IN A BOX – Elevate your traditional home theater experience with Polk True Surround III that includes a sound bar, a wireless subwoofer, and L &…
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE 5.1 CH HOME THEATER – With a performance-tuned driver array, the sound bar features (2) 1.75″ x 4.5″ full-range drivers and (2) 3/4″ tweeters, the…
- MAKE VIIRTUALLY ANY TV SOUND GREAT – Features Dolby Digital Surround Sound Decoding that delivers rich, room-filling audio. Hear every word clearly with Polk’s…
- MULTIPLE CONNECTION OPTIONS – With built-in Bluetooth, pair your compatible iOS/Android devices and wirelessly stream music from your music library or popular…
- SIMPLE, QUICK SETUP – Connect the sound bar to virtually any TV with the included cable and sync the surround speakers and the subwoofer with the sound bar by just…
- POLK’S UNWAVERING COMMITMENT, RELIABILITY, AND CRAFTSMANSHIP has made it one of the most trusted names in home audio. Bring out the best in surround sound systems…
- TRANSFORM ANY TV INTO A HOME THEATER SYSTEM – With (2) 1″ tweeters, (2) 4.7” x 1.6” midranges, (1) 1″ center-channel driver & (2) up-firing speakers, the Denon…
- UNIVERSAL CONNECTIVITY – Experience exceptional sound clarity from your TV through a single HDMI connection. Connect your TV, Blu-ray and other devices via HDMI…
- HEAR EVERY WORD WITH DIALOGUE ENHANCER – Denon brings to you an intelligent way of enhancing dialogue, making it sound crisp without adjusting the overall volume….
- UNLIMITED WIRELESS MUSIC STREAMING – Enjoy your favorite tracks at your fingertips with the DHT-S517 that allows you to connect your Bluetooth-enabled smart device…
- EASY SETUP – With all cables in the box, a Quick Start Guide, and a straightforward user concept, the DHT-S517 is easy to install and use. Just under 3″ tall, it…
- CUSTOMIZED AUDIO FOR ANY OCCASION – With three different sound modes – Movie, Night, and Music, you can choose the perfect mode for all your entertainment. The Denon…
- POWERFUL SOUND FROM AN ULTRA COMPACT SOUND BAR – Featuring an advanced five-speaker array and Polk’s SDA technology, the MagniFi Mini AX delivers certified Dolby…
- COMPLETE WIRELESS HOME ENTERTAINMENT – Experience high-quality music streaming from your phone, tablet or computer via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and…
- HEAR EVERY WORD CLEARLY – Polk’s patented VoiceAdjust speech-clarifying technology works with MagniFi’s integrated center channel speaker to bring up the voice…
- INCLUDES A PLUG-AND-PLAY WIRELESS SUB that connects automatically with the soundbar the moment you power it on. A 10″ DOWNWARD FIRING DRIVER fills the room with…
- EASY SETUP AND UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY – Allows easy, one-cable set-up with any TV via HDMI eARC/ARC (HDMI cable included), optical, or AUX inputs. The MagniFi is…
- EXPAND YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM – Upgrade to the complete MagniFi Mini AX experience by adding Polk SR2 wireless surround speakers (sold separately), and experience…
- FULL IMMERSION FOR ALL ENTERTAINMENT: Smart Soundbar 600 is a Dolby Atmos soundbar that also features proprietary TrueSpace technology and two upward firing…
- TRUESPACE ELEVATES IT ALL: No matter what you’re watching, Bose TrueSpace technology intelligently analyzes signals other than Dolby Atmos, like stereo or 5.1, and…
- PACKED WITH TECHNOLOGY: The acoustic architecture squeezes 5 speakers (including 2 upward firing) into a small, 27.5” wide soundbar to spread sound across the…
- WIRELESS SOUNDBAR FOR STREAMING: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Chromecast built-in compatibility let you stream content anyway you want.
- TOTAL CONTROL: Amazon Alexa voice control is built in. Or you can access Works With Google Assistant capabilities with a compatible Google device. There’s also the…
- VOICE CONTROL SOUNDBAR: Exclusive Voice4Video technology expands your Alexa voice capabilities like only a Bose soundbar can. In addition to your Bose smart…
Last update on 2023-11-29
Key Takeaways:
If you’re in the market for a soundbar that costs around $500 or less, here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:
Reasons To Buy:
- Improved sound quality: A soundbar can significantly enhance the audio experience of your TV.
- Space-saving: Soundbars are slim and can be mounted on the wall or placed in front of the TV, which makes them a great option for those who don’t want to take up too much space.
- More affordable than traditional home theater systems: Soundbars are generally less expensive than traditional home theater systems and can still provide high-quality sound.
Points of Concern:
- Limited connectivity options: Some soundbars in this price range may not have as many connectivity options as higher-end models, which could limit the types of devices you can connect to it.
- Limited soundstage: While a soundbar can improve the sound quality of your TV, it may not provide the same immersive experience as a multi-speaker home theater system.
- Limited bass response: Some soundbars may not have the same level of bass response as a traditional home theater system or separate subwoofer.
What You Need to Know Before Buying a Soundbar
Soundbars are an excellent way to improve your home audio experience. They provide clear, immersive audio that brings movies, music, and games to life. This simple yet comprehensive buyer’s guide will help you navigate the world of soundbars and choose the best one for your needs.
1. Budget
First, determine how much you’re willing to spend on a soundbar. There are options at various price points, with more expensive models typically offering better audio quality and additional features.
2. Size and Design
Consider the size of your TV and the space available in your room. Soundbars come in different sizes and designs to fit various setups.
- Compact Soundbars: Suitable for small rooms and TVs up to 42 inches.
- Standard Soundbars: Ideal for mid-sized TVs (43-55 inches) and average-sized rooms.
- Larger Soundbars: Perfect for larger TVs (56+ inches) and spacious rooms.
3. Audio Quality
When choosing a soundbar, look for features that enhance audio quality, such as:
- Channels: A higher number of channels (e.g., 3.1 or 5.1) provides a more immersive sound experience.
- Subwoofer: Integrated or external subwoofers help produce deeper bass.
- Dolby Atmos: This feature creates a three-dimensional audio effect, making it feel like sound is coming from all around you.
4. Connectivity
Soundbars offer various connectivity options, including:
- HDMI: Most soundbars have HDMI ports, which allow for high-quality audio and video transmission. Look for HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) compatibility for easier setup and control.
- Bluetooth: With Bluetooth, you can wirelessly connect your soundbar to other devices, such as smartphones or tablets.
- Wi-Fi: Some soundbars offer Wi-Fi connectivity, which can be useful for streaming music and integrating with smart home systems.
5. Additional Features
Consider soundbars with additional features that cater to your specific needs, such as:
- Voice Assistant Integration: Some soundbars have built-in voice assistants, like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, enabling voice control and smart home integration.
- Adaptive Sound: This feature adjusts the soundbar’s audio output based on the content you’re watching, providing an optimal listening experience.
- Night Mode: This mode reduces bass and volume levels for quieter listening during nighttime hours.
6. Brand and Reviews
Research soundbar brands and read customer reviews to find a reliable and reputable product. Brands like Sonos, Samsung, Bose, and LG are known for their high-quality soundbars.
7. Warranty and Support
Choose a soundbar that comes with a good warranty and customer support. A longer warranty period and responsive customer support can provide peace of mind when making your purchase.
In conclusion, consider your budget, room size, desired audio quality, connectivity options, and additional features when choosing the perfect soundbar for your home entertainment system.
More Top Rated Soundbars
Last update on 2023-11-15
Answers to Your Frequently Asked Questions
Can a soundbar under $500 really improve my TV’s sound quality?
Absolutely! A good soundbar can make a significant difference in your TV’s sound quality. Most TVs come with built-in speakers that are often small and lackluster, leading to a less immersive viewing experience. A soundbar can enhance the audio by providing better clarity, deeper bass, and more balanced sound. Plus, they’re typically easy to set up and use.
What should I look for when choosing a soundbar under $500?
When shopping for a soundbar under $500, it’s important to consider a few key features. Look for one with at least two channels (left and right) for stereo sound, and ideally, a separate subwoofer for better bass response. Consider the size of the soundbar in relation to your TV, and ensure that it has the right connections to work with your TV and other devices. Lastly, read reviews and check for any additional features that might interest you, such as built-in voice assistants or HDMI inputs.
Are soundbars under $500 suitable for music playback as well?
Yes! Many soundbars under $500 are designed not just for TV use but for music playback as well. Look for soundbars with high-quality drivers and a dedicated music mode for the best listening experience. Some soundbars also offer Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to stream music from your smartphone or tablet.
Can a soundbar under $500 be used for gaming?
Definitely! A soundbar under $500 can enhance your gaming experience by providing clearer and more immersive sound. Look for soundbars with a gaming mode or features that prioritize voice clarity and sound effects. Some soundbars also come with built-in virtual surround sound, which can help you pinpoint the location of in-game sounds more accurately.
About Author
Gary Adams is a soundbar enthusiast with a passion for all things related to home audio. He spends his free time researching and testing the latest soundbar models and accessories and loves sharing his expertise with others. With years of experience in the field, Gary is an expert in soundbar technology and is dedicated to helping others find the perfect sound system for their home. When he’s not testing new soundbars, Gary enjoys hiking and playing guitar.
