Soundbars vs Speakers: Which sound system should you choose? - Croma Unboxed (2024)

Long, rectangular and sleek loudspeakers are known assoundbars. Multi-speaker soundbars have multiple built-in speakers and a subwoofer, either built-in or attached, as an accessory. Soundbars tend to be best for those who prefer a hassle-free installation experience. Despite being larger in size compared to most speakers, soundbars are compact due to their all-in-one design. Soundbars are also available in a wider price segment, ranging from all low as Rs 5,000 and going up to Rs 10,000 and beyond.

ALSO READ:How to build a home theatre setup on a budget?

What are speakers?

Soundbars vs Speakers: Which sound system should you choose? - Croma Unboxed (1)

Even though soundbars provide a good listening experience, speakers usually offer a better sound experience. Aspeakersound system also allows for customisation in terms of where you want to place them. Various components make up a speaker sound system, so you can upgrad or expand the setup over time.

Soundbars vs Speakers: Which sound system should you choose? - Croma Unboxed (2)

Soundbars vs speakers: Key differences

After analysing the advantages, it is crucial charting out the difference between the soundbar and speaker for a better buying decision. Here are a few key differences between the two:

Installation:Soundbars are easier to install than surround sound speakers – it is as easy as plugging it to yourTV. In a speaker setup, you have to connect each surround sound speaker to an AV receiver and might require some expert help.

Features:Bluetooth compatibility and smart assistants are among the features offered by soundbars these days. The right AV receiver, however, will enable you to get all these features and more with surround sound speakers.

ALSO READ:What do channels mean on the soundbar?

Upgrading:Surround sound speakers give you more options for upgrading your sound system when compared to a soundbar. Over time, you can upgrade your sound system by adding a few speakers at a time, based on your budget. In contrast, soundbars are not very upgradeable.

Audio quality:A soundbar can improve your TV’s audio, but surround sound speakers are typically considered the best. The soundstage of a speaker system is usually broader than that of the most expensive soundbars. You cannot achieve this effect with a regular soundbar. Surround sound speakers allow audio to come from all around you.

Cost:A soundbar is usually cheaper than surround sound speakers. AV receivers and quality speakers are often as expensive as soundbars. However, in case your surround sound system breaks, you can upgrade it or replace one speaker. You might end up saving more money if you choose surround-sound speakers.

Soundbars vs Speakers: Which sound system should you choose? - Croma Unboxed (2024)

FAQs

Soundbars vs Speakers: Which sound system should you choose? - Croma Unboxed? ›

Even though soundbars provide a good listening experience, speakers usually offer a better sound experience. A speaker sound system also allows for customisation in terms of where you want to place them. Various components make up a speaker sound system, so you can upgrad or expand the setup over time.

What's better, a soundbar or speakers? ›

If you want to upgrade your TV's sound, the big choice is between the convenience and affordability of a soundbar, and the superior sound quality -- and extra cost -- of a dedicated surround-sound system. Both will enable you to experience high-quality sound, including Dolby Atmos, for your movies and TV shows.

What are the disadvantages of a soundbar? ›

However, the all-in-one nature of a soundbar can also be a negative because of a lack of stereo separation or larger soundstage achieved by distancing the left and right channels. Also, because soundbars tend to be low-profile, the size of the speaker drivers inside them is going to be on the smaller side.

Which is better, a soundbar or a Bluetooth speaker? ›

If you're looking for portability and flexibility, a Bluetooth speaker is the way to go. However, if you're aiming to enhance your TV watching experience and want superior sound quality at home, a soundbar is the better choice.

Do soundbars work as well as speakers? ›

A soundbar is an all-in-one solution that's designed to deliver better sound than your TV speakers without breaking the bank. You can set one up yourself in minutes, connect it to your TV via Bluetooth or HDMI cable and enjoy great sound right away.

Do you really need a soundbar with a smart TV? ›

Because TVs are so thin nowadays, the speakers have to be quite small, which compromises sound quality. To experience TV audio the way it should be experienced — with clear dialogue and a more dynamic range — one of your best options is to invest in a soundbar for your TV.

How to choose a sound system? ›

Consider your budget and ease of installation.

For the components higher on your list, keep in mind that a quality device will last longer than a budget buy. You can be more flexible on the lower priority equipment that doesn't have as great of an impact on the overall sound output.

Where should you not put a soundbar? ›

However, though you can place your soundbar above or below your TV screen, you should make sure not to place it to the left or right of the screen. For the best experience, your soundbar needs to be aligned to the centre of the TV screen.

What can go wrong with a soundbar? ›

And for this reason, soundbar problems are usually due to software bugs, bad cables, or the settings of an external video source (such as a DVD player, streaming stick, cable box, or game console).

Is a sound bar worth having? ›

If you're into console gaming, or you're a movie buff, the power and sound quality of a soundbar will make all your entertainment sound and feel more exciting than your built-in TV speakers ever could. The short answer to the question “Is a soundbar worth it?” is yes.

How much should I spend on a soundbar? ›

But a good budget for soundbar is between $500 to $1000. Don't leave your soundbar selection to chance. Make an informed decision that will transform your home audio experience.

Does a soundbar sound better with HDMI or Bluetooth? ›

Connecting your TV to your soundbar using an HDMI cable will ensure that you receive the best possible audio quality. HDMI connections transmit sound digitally and support high bitrate audio formats such as Dolby Digital Plus.

Is wifi or Bluetooth better for soundbar? ›

Wi-Fi speakers offer better sound quality as they are connected directly to a home network and don't need to go through the same compression process that music from a Bluetooth connection does. But Bluetooth speakers offer more portability as they do not need an internet connection.

What's better, a sound bar or speakers? ›

Audio quality: A soundbar can improve your TV's audio, but surround sound speakers are typically considered the best. The soundstage of a speaker system is usually broader than that of the most expensive soundbars. You cannot achieve this effect with a regular soundbar.

Is a subwoofer necessary for a soundbar? ›

Adding a subwoofer to your soundbar has a lot of benefits, but it isn't always necessary. It's possible to find a great soundbar with added bass technology that helps fill in the gap for low-pitched audio frequencies. You can also go for soundbars that have a built-in subwoofer.

Is a cheap soundbar better than no soundbar? ›

Even if it's just $100, a soundbar will drastically improve your TV's audio quality.

Does a soundbar really make a difference? ›

Some soundbars make dialogue clearer and easier to understand, while others can make voices sound more muddy and cluttered. So, how do you know which is the best soundbar for voice clarity? You'll need something with a well-balanced stereo frequency response, and having a dialogue enhancement feature can help.

Are soundbars good enough for music? ›

Soundbars are a great and compact way to enhance your music listening experience when you don't have space for a full home theater setup.

Is it worth spending money on a soundbar? ›

It depends on your personal needs, room size, desired sound quality, and budget. Whether you opt for an entry-level, mid-range, or high-end soundbar, the most important thing is that it meets your specific needs and offers good value for your money.

Which is best, a sound bar or a home theater? ›

Soundbars provide an easy and affordable audio boost in a compact package. But home theater systems offer a true cinematic experience with powerful surround sound, at the cost of a more difficult installation and higher price. Think about your goals, room layout, and budget when deciding between these two options.

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