Buying Guide for the Best Cheapest Dolby Atmos Soundbar
When shopping for a Dolby Atmos soundbar, it’s important to understand what makes these devices stand out. Dolby Atmos soundbars are designed to deliver a more immersive audio experience by creating a sense of height, allowing sound to move above and around you rather than just from the front or sides. Picking the right soundbar involves more than just choosing the cheapest model; you should consider how and where you'll use it, the size of your room, and what you expect in terms of performance. By focusing on the key specifications, you can find the best balance between quality and your personal needs, ensuring you won’t end up dissatisfied—even if you opt for a budget-friendly option.Number of ChannelsThe number of channels in a soundbar refers to the individual speakers or speaker outputs built into the device. Common configurations include 2.1, 3.1, 5.1, and sometimes numbers like 5.1.2 or 7.1.4, where the 'point' numbers indicate dedicated height channels for overhead sound. The higher the number, the more immersive and dynamic the sound experience can be, especially for Dolby Atmos content. Basic models (like 2.1 or 3.1) provide reasonable separation and clarity, suitable for smaller rooms or casual listening. For more convincing 3D audio, especially in larger rooms, higher channel counts (5.1.2 and beyond) are preferable. Your choice should be guided by the size of your viewing space and how enveloping you want your audio to feel.
Upfiring or Height SpeakersUpfiring or height speakers are built-in drivers in some soundbars that project sound upwards, which then reflects off your ceiling to create the illusion of overhead effects—a key part of Dolby Atmos. Soundbars might have none, some may have simulated height effects (using software), and others will have true, physical upfiring speakers. If your room has a flat, hard ceiling, upfiring speakers work well for delivering overhead effects. Rooms with high, sloped, or soft ceilings may not reflect sound effectively, so simulated height might be better in those cases. Consider the layout of your room and your desire for true overhead audio when making this decision.
Subwoofer (Included or Not)A subwoofer is responsible for reproducing deep, low-frequency sounds—think rumbles and bass in movies. Some soundbars come with a separate wireless or wired subwoofer, while others either have a built-in subwoofer or none at all. Having a subwoofer dramatically improves the impact and depth of your audio experience. For movie enthusiasts or if you like feeling the power of music and sound effects, a separate subwoofer is recommended. For small spaces, very basic listening needs, or if you prefer a cleaner look, a soundbar with an integrated or no subwoofer can suffice.
Audio Inputs and ConnectivityAudio inputs and connectivity refer to the ways you can connect your soundbar to other devices, such as TVs or smartphones. The most common and effective connection for Dolby Atmos is HDMI with eARC or ARC support. Other connections might include optical, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi. HDMI with eARC/ARC ensures the best quality and easiest compatibility for modern TVs, while Bluetooth and Wi-Fi add convenience for streaming music. When picking a soundbar, think about how you plan to use it and what devices you own—make sure your chosen model supports all the connections you need.
Dimensions and Room Size CompatibilityThe physical size of a soundbar and its output capability should match your room size and TV width. A small soundbar may not fill a large room with sound, and an oversized soundbar might overwhelm a small space or not fit under your TV. Manufacturers often suggest suitable room sizes for their products, but in general, compact soundbars work best in small rooms, while larger or more powerful soundbars better suit mid-sized to large rooms. Take measurements of your TV stand or mounting space before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
Smart Features and Audio ProcessingSome soundbars offer extra features like voice assistants (e.g., Alexa or Google Assistant), built-in streaming services, or advanced audio processing for clearer dialogue or night-time listening. While these features can add convenience and usability, they may not directly impact core audio quality. If you're looking for simplicity, you can skip these features. But if you like controlling your audio with your voice or integrating with smart home devices, seeking out models with these capabilities can enhance your overall experience.