Less useful these days are analogue connections such as stereo RCA and 3.5mm inputs, and they’re becoming less common on soundbars, too. Optical digital is always preferable to coaxial digital connections, although it is possible to purchase a simple adapter that will convert from one to the other if you need it. Although optical digital can’t carry a lossless surround-sound signal such as Dolby True HD or DTS:X, it’s often the easiest way to hook up a music source, console or TV if the soundbar doesn’t support HDMI ARC. Other than this, it also may be useful to look for an optical digital (also called TOSlink or S/PDIF) connection. It’s also handy if you run out of HDMI inputs on the soundbar as it reroutes any audio that would otherwise play through the TV speakers back to the soundbar.īest budget soundbar 2023: The top cheap soundbars to buy HDMI ARC is most useful for getting audio from on-TV apps such as Netflix back to the soundbar. As ever, the more connections, the better, as it gives you more flexibility in the future.Īnother thing to look out for is HDMI ARC (audio return channel) support, which typically uses the HDMI output on the soundbar to ferry audio back from the TV. You will most often see an HDMI input (or maybe even two or three), which you connect your sources to (games console, Sky box etc) and an HDMI output, which passes the video signal to your TV. The most convenient is HDMI: this is the connection favoured by most modern soundbars, even cheap ones. Having a wide array of connection options is always a bonus as you will never know what you might want to connect to your soundbar in the future. READ NEXT: Best UK TV deals – the top TV bargains from 4K HDR TVs to Full HD smart TVs What’s the best way to connect a soundbar? If you’re not sure you want these, some bars allow you to upgrade your soundbar further down the line by adding wireless rear speakers. Certain soundbars also come with rear speakers that deliver truly enveloping 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound. Look for a wireless subwoofer, which will allow you to hide the subwoofer away, out of sight. Standalone soundbars can struggle to deliver convincing bass, which is why many are supplied with subwoofers.Ī separate subwoofer delivers more convincing bass, adds richness and body to audio in general and can deliver room-shaking low-frequency sound effects. A standalone unit is easier to set up and looks more elegant, but these bars can lack the dynamism and sense of immersion that a more complex setup can deliver. Next, consider whether you want a standalone soundbar or one with extra speakers to enhance the audio experience. You will want to be sure it’s not so high that it obscures the bottom part of the TV screen. Height is also a consideration if you’re going to be placing the bar in front of your TV on your AV cabinet. ![]() Too wide and it may not fit on your AV cabinet it might also be wider than your TV, which could look odd, especially if you plan to wall-mount the bar. The first thing to look at is the size of the bar. It’s important to pick a soundbar that suits your TV and living room. ![]() How to choose the best soundbar for you How do I choose the best soundbar? ![]()
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