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The Best Dolby Atmos soundbars can immerse you in a dome of 3D audio, providing an experience that standard soundbars cannot equal. Dolby’s renowned spatial audio format enhances the home theater experience by whirling sound around and above the listening location. Soundbars that support this technology employ a combination of targeted speakers and smart algorithms to bounce audio effects off your ceiling while playing Dolby Atmos material.
After years of testing and living with the greatest Dolby Atmos soundbars, we’ve compiled our top five recommendations for different budgets and locations. The Sony HT-G700 has our top recommendation. It’s a high-end system with several speakers that provides an immersive 11.1.4-channel experience. On the other end of the spectrum is VIZIO Elevate SoundBar, a stand-alone bar that provides immersive performance in a more cheap, compact footprint.
Whether you’re just getting started with Atmos or investing in a premium soundbar system, our well-rounded list has you covered with the best alternatives in several categories. If you’re still new to Dolby Atmos, scroll down to see our list of commonly asked questions to help you make your selection.
Quick List
Whether you’re just getting started with Atmos or investing in a premium soundbar system, our well-rounded list has you covered with the best alternatives in several categories.
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Sony HT-G700 BEST OVERALL
- 3.1ch Dolby Atmos DTS: X and Vertical Surround Engine.Bluetooth version : Version 5.0, 360...
- Immersive AE (Audio Enhancer) upscale audio closes to 7.1.2 each sound
- Wireless subwoofer delivers powerful bass sound
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Big weighty sound
- Impressive Atmos effect
- Solid and Stylish
Cons
- Lack of crispness and clarity
- No streaming functionality
Specifications
| Dimensions: | 6 x 98 x 11cm (bar); 39 x 19 x 40cm (subwoofer) |
| Streaming: | Bluetooth |
| Connections: | 1 x HDMI (eARC), 1 x HDMI input |
| Audio formats: | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X |
| Weight: | 7.5kg (16.5lbs) with subwoofer |
SONY HT-G700 – Overview
If you’re on a limited budget, the Sony HT-G700 might be the perfect fit. It may not be the most tiny bar available (our recommendation for small bars is the Sonos Beam Gen 2), but it is definitely big on sound and value, with a wireless subwoofer, dedicated HDMI input, and compatibility for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
Sony’s proprietary Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force Pro Front Surround technology produce a believable Dolby Atmos experience, while the massive subwoofer (39cm tall) lends gravitas to large explosions.
Of course, being an entry-level Dolby Atmos soundbar, it doesn’t compare to the far more expensive Dolby Atmos soundbars featured further up this list, but that’s not to be expected for the price. It has an HDMI port and Bluetooth, but lacks the sophisticated streaming capabilities of, instance, the Sonos speakers here.
Still, if you want a specialized piece of home cinema equipment on a budget, the attractive and powerful-sounding HT-700 delivers a really cinematic performance at a reasonable price.
Sonos Arc BEST STANDALONE
- Connectivity technology: HDMI
- Included components: Product & warranty documentation
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Smooth and detailed sound
- Dolby Atmos and multi-room audio support
- Ability to add speakers later
Cons
- Tall and stout design
- No spare HDMI inputs
- No DTX:S support
Specifications
| Dimensions: | 3.4″ (H) x 45″ (W) x 4.5″ (D) |
| Channel: | 5.0.2-channel soundbar |
| Connections: | HDMI eARC |
| Audio formats: | Dolby Atmos, DTS |
| Subwoofer: | Separate subwoofer not included |
| Digital Assistant: | Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant built-in |
SONOS ARC – Overview
The Sonos Arc is the best Dolby Atmos soundbar for you. From the minute you press play, this multi-channel system defies expectations with its warm and clear sound, amazing immersion, and startling bass response for a single-unit soundbar.
Sonos Arc Soundbar has packed a sophisticated assortment of speakers inside one tubular bar, featuring up-firing and side-firing drivers, strong woofers, and precise tweeters. The result is a broad yet clearly welcoming soundscape with more punch than you’d anticipate, allowing the system to demonstrate its abilities across several formats and genres with surprising ease. More costly single-unit soundbar versions, such as the Sennheiser Ambeo Max, provide higher performance.
As a Sonos speaker, the Arc is more than simply a standalone soundbar; it can potentially be part of a broader wireless speaker ecosystem. The Sonos S2 app allows you to access a selection of add-on Sonos speakers across your home or combine them with the bar in a multi-piece surround arrangement. With new add-ons such as the Sonos Era 100 and the Atmos-blasting Era 300 speaker, the Arc may be the centerpiece of a costly but impressive system.
Sonos being Sonos, the Arc offers several unusual characteristics for a soundbar in this price range. Sonos allows you to easily play material from many of the greatest music streaming providers and supports Spotify Connect and Apple AirPlay 2, but it lacks basic Bluetooth functionality. The bar is also unusual for its massive height (it stands over three inches tall) and absence of physical inputs, with only a single HDMI connector for connecting to your TV. Unlike similarly priced rivals from Samsung and LG, the Arc does not offer DTS:X, Dolby’s principal 3D audio rival, but it does support conventional DTS 5.1 audio.
On the other hand, if you’re satisfied to stay completely inside the Sonos family, there are few more adaptable systems available, even at prices far higher than the Arc. The Arc is an intriguing Atmos device that effortlessly integrates with your TV and outperforms the display’s inbuilt sound.
VIZIO Elevate BEST MIDRANGE
- America's #1 Sound Bar* VIZIO has been filling homes with truly immersive audio for over 10...
- 18 high-performance speakers for unrivaled cinema-quality.
- Adaptive Height Speakers that automatically rotate upwards for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content...
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Cinematic Dolby Atmos and DTS:S immersion
- Unique rotating speakers
- Bluetooth and WiFi
Cons
- No voice assistant built-in
- Rear speakers and larger subwoofer require more space
- Sometime aggressive sound profile
Specifications
| Dimensions: | 2.64 (H) x 48 (W) x 6.5 (D) inches |
| Channels: | 5.1.4-channel soundbar system with rear satellites |
| Connections: | HDMI eARC, two HDMI inputs, 3.5mm input, Digital Optical input |
| Audio formats: | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X |
| Subwoofers: | 8-inch wireless subwoofer |
| Digital Assistant: | None built-in |
VIZIO ELEVATE – Overview
Vizio is no new to our best soundbar recommendations, due to its ability to wring out impressive performance from compact units at reasonable pricing. The Vizio Elevate 5.1.4 system perfectly reflects this idea, with some fascinating mechanical tricks thrown in for good measure.
The Elevate gets its name from the fact that its front speakers rotate upward to generate the “height” portion of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio tracks, then roll forward for stereo or standard surround sound mixes. Why have extra speakers that are only used for certain types of content, according to Vizio’s engineers? The design pays off with impressively strong and dramatic sound and, when necessary, rousing spatial audio immersion.
Editor’s Choice
The Elevate might sound harsh in lighter speech or brighter music, but there are several options to tailor the sound to your preferences, including the ability to modify EQ and specific surround channels. To do so, you’ll need to become acquainted with Vizio’s distinctive interface, which incorporates several functions and even a digital interface into the system’s convenient remote.
Connecting the bundled subwoofer and surround speakers needs traditional physical wiring, which may limit placement possibilities in some configurations. However, most “wireless” subwoofers and surround speakers still require a power outlet, so you’re essentially swapping one limitation for another. If your home doesn’t have many outlets, Vizio’s design may be a better alternative.
On the downside, the Elevate eschews Apple AirPlay support (Chromecast streaming is supported) and has no built-in microphones for integrated digital assistant support. But there are still many ways to connect components, including dual HDMI inputs, an analog audio port, and even a USB input for hi-res audio files. Support for DTS:X (among other formats) completes the package for a well-rounded Dolby Atmos system that’s big on sound and easy on your wallet.
Bose Smart Soundbar 600 BEST BUDGET
- FULL IMMERSION FOR ALL ENTERTAINMENT: Smart Soundbar 600 is a Dolby Atmos soundbar that also...
- TRUESPACE ELEVATES IT ALL: No matter what you’re watching, Bose TrueSpace technology...
- PACKED WITH TECHNOLOGY: The acoustic architecture squeezes 5 speakers (including 2 upward...
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Built-in Alexa support
- Clear dialogue
- Compact design
- Dolby Atmos with up-firing drivers
Cons
- Minimal inputs
- Lacks separate subwoofer
- Doesn’t support DTS
Specifications
| Dimensions: | 2.2″ (H) x 27.3″ (W) x 4.1″ (D) |
| Channels: | 3.0.2 soundbar |
| Connections: | HDMI eARC, Digital Optical |
| Audio formats: | Dolby Atmos |
| Subwoofers: | Separate subwoofer not included |
| Digital Assistant: | Amazon Alexa |
BOSE SMART SOUNDBAR 600 – Overview
Bose’s fashionably simple Smart Soundbar 600 may not appear to be much of a player at first glance, but there’s some magic happening behind its perforated grille. The system delivers clear and focused sound for everything from music to conversation, even in the midst of frenetic action sequences. The bar provides immersive Dolby Atmos audio despite its small size, employing a combination of focused speakers and great algorithms to surround you with subtle effects such as buzzing insects or strafing starships.
The Smart Soundbar 600 can connect to your local network and interact with other Bose speakers, allowing you to construct a multi-room audio setup or add additional speakers for real surround sound. Unlike the identical Sonos Beam, Bose’s variant uses specialized up-firing drivers to bounce sound off the ceiling, resulting in a more effective and spacious Dolby Atmos soundscape.
The 600 is simple to manage with your TV remote via HDMI eARC/ARC and offers app support for fine-tuning audio and other settings while streaming music from multiple providers. Wireless streaming via Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth is also supported. Built-in microphones let you to manage basic playing and smart instructions with your voice thanks to Amazon Alexa integration, and if you couple the bar with another device, you can also use Google Assistant.
Without a wireless subwoofer, the sound character is weak on bass and overall impact, so the Bose Smart Soundbar 600 isn’t ideal for bass heads or those wishing to blast music over big listening rooms. You can add a separate Bose Bass Module, but this will treble the price of the system. The bar also has only one HDMI and optical connector, and it does not support Dolby’s major format rival, DTS, though the latter is unlikely to be used much unless you have a substantial Blu-ray library.
The Smart Soundbar 600 is ideal for modest settings. You won’t find a Dolby Atmos bar with the same level of composure, clarity, immersion, and elegance without paying more money.
Samsung HW-Q990B BEST FOR GAMING
- WIRELESS DOLBY ATMOS: Now, thanks to Samsung, enjoy a Dolby Atmos experience that doesn’t...
- TRUE 11.1.4ch SOUND: Now you can flood the room with surround sound from all angles and hear...
- Q-SYMPHONY: Perfectly synchronized, fully immersive audio floods your room all at once, using...
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Class-leading Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersion
- Quick and snappy setup
- Rugged, minimalist design
Cons
- No Chromecast or HDMI 2.1 support
- Spoity Connects quirks with iPhone
- Only minor upgrades compared to 2022 model
Specifications
| Dimensions: | 48.5 x 2.7 x 5.4 inches |
| Channels: | 11.1.4-channel soundbar system with rear satellites |
| Connections: | HDMI eARC, Optical |
| Audio formats: | Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X, high-resolution support |
| Subwoofers: | 8-inch subwoofer cone |
| Digital Assistant: | Alexa or Bixby built-in |
SAMSUNG HW Q990B – Overview
Samsung’s HW-Q990B is the newest in the brand’s outstanding series of Atmos soundbars, each of which has risen to the top of their respective categories. This system is an obvious option for the finest Dolby Atmos soundbar due to its immersive audio performance and seamless fluidity between its 22 speakers, which include four up-firing and four side-firing drivers to bounce sound about your listening environment.
But more crucially, this 11.1.4-channel arrangement sounds great for whatever you listen to, not just Dolby Atmos movies and shows. You’ll notice incredible complexity and depth in conversation across genres, from sitcoms to prestige dramas. When listening to music, you’ll notice rich resonance in intermediate instruments like guitar and horns, lots of wallop in the bass register, and lyrical treble above, which makes floating effects and instruments gleam as intended.
The Samsung HW-990B with four separate components, including the bar, subwoofer, and two satellite surround speakers, the system takes some effort to set up but is surprisingly easy to use. Once linked to your network, you can effortlessly manage the bar with the included remote or Samsung’s SmartThings app.
On the feature front, you’ll find pretty much everything here, including compatibility for several codecs (including Atmos rival DTS:X), real-time sound optimization, and multiple HDMI ports with 4K HDR passthrough to connect components like a streaming box or Blu-ray player. The system’s lone missing feature is HDMI 2.1 compatibility, which means it can’t pass through modern gaming capabilities like a 120Hz signal or variable refresh rate (VRR) when linked with a console like a PlayStation 5.
Those wishing to save money may also want to explore Samsung’s earlier version of this system, the Q990C, which is frequently on sale for a lower price than the Q990B. Both versions are comparable, however the newer Q990B has more bass and software upgrades.
Other Dolby Atmos Soundbar We Liked
- Sony HT-A3000: In terms of price and functionality, the Sony HT-A3000 is comparable to the Sonos Beam Gen 2. Its detail and dynamics will improve the sound from many TVs, but the biggest disadvantage is that it struggles to compete with the Sonos in terms of Dolby Atmos audio.
- Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Plus: This soundbar brings the popular Sony HT-A7000 closer than any of its competitors. Dolby Atmos sounds fantastically expansive and immersive; it’s easy to use, and the Sennheiser is packed with handy features like as two HDMI connections.
- LG S95QR: Unlike the others on our list, the LG includes wireless surround speakers and a subwoofer in the package. It lacks the accuracy and overhead impressiveness of the Sony HT-A7000 or Sonos Arc, but the connectivity choices and functions it provides are impressive.
How to Choose the Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar
How We Test Dolby Atmos Soundbars
FAQs: The Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar
- Are Dolby Atmos soundbars worthwhile?
We believe Dolby Atmos soundbars are worthwhile, particularly if you watch a lot of audio-based material. The greatest examples, such as the Sony HT-A7000, Sonos Arc, and Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Max, will provide a far more immersive experience than just playing material over your TV’s speakers. They also have the ability to provide a 3D soundfield that regular soundbars cannot, particularly if they contain upfiring speakers. - Can all soundbars support Dolby Atmos?
All soundbars can handle a Dolby Atmos signal; it’s what they do with it that counts. Those that do not officially support it will simply remove the regular surround audio off the signal and treat it like a conventional 5.1 surround sound track, but a real Dolby Atmos soundbar will take all of the information from the audio track and process it differently in order to fit the additional. - Does Netflix support Dolby Atmos?
In one word, yeah. A wide range of streaming services currently support the format, including Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Netflix. However, make sure the device from which you’re streaming it supports Atmos and can output the format to your Dolby Atmos speaker. Additionally, Dolby Atmos functionality is typically only available with particular membership tiers. For example, only the top tiers of Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Netflix support the streaming format.
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