Best Soundbars Under 400

Ready to ditch your TV’s tinny speakers and unlock immersive audio? Look no further than the powerhouse soundbars under $400 in 2024! This guide unveils the gems you won’t want to miss, each delivering exceptional sound on a budget.

Dive into:

• Crystal-clear dialogue: Hear every whisper and booming action sequence with precision and detail.
• Room-shaking bass: Feel the rumble of explosions and the depth of music with powerful wireless subwoofers.
• Immersive surround sound: Experience Dolby Atmos or DTS:X magic, transporting you into the heart of movies, games, and shows.
• Seamless connectivity: Enjoy hassle-free setup with HDMI ARC, optical, and even Bluetooth options.
• Smart features: Control your soundbar and more with voice assistants like Google Assistant or Alexa.

Stop settling for subpar sound. Discover the soundbar that transforms your TV into a home theater powerhouse, all without breaking the bank. Unleash the audio adventure below!

Top 7 Best Soundbars Under 400

1. Bose Smart Soundbar 300: Best Soundbar for smart functionality and clear audio.

2. Sony HT-S2000 3.1ch Dolby Atmos® Soundbar: Best Soundbar for 3.1 channel audio and Dolby Atmos.

3. Denon DHT-S517 Soundbar: Best Soundbar for enhanced audio with a subwoofer.

4. Samsung S800B All In One Soundbar: Best all-in-one Soundbar for convenience and performance.

5. Sony HT-S40R – 5.1ch Soundbar with Subwoofer: Best Soundbar for a complete 5.1 channel audio experience.

6. POLK AUDIO MagniFi Mini AX Ultra-Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar: Best ultra-compact Soundbar for Dolby Atmos audio.

7. MAJORITY Sierra 2.1.2 Dolby Atmos Soundbar: Best Soundbar for 2.1.2 channel audio and Dolby Atmos experience.

Bose Smart Soundbar 300 

Bose’s Smart Soundbar 300 promises big sound in a compact package, but can it deliver Bose quality on a budget? Let’s explore its features and potential considerations.

Crystal-Clear Dialogue: Enjoy crisp, intelligible dialogue that cuts through even action-packed scenes. Movies, shows, and podcasts gain renewed clarity, ensuring you never miss a word.

Room-Filling Sound: Despite its modest size, the soundbar delivers surprisingly powerful audio that fills your room. Experience fuller sound compared to your TV’s built-in speakers, enhancing your viewing experience.

Bass Boost with Optional Muscle: While the soundbar delivers decent bass, the optional wireless subwoofer adds depth and impact for movies, music, and games. Feel the low-end rumble without the clutter of cables.

Bluetooth Convenience: Stream music wirelessly from your phone or tablet, expanding your audio options beyond TV content. Enjoy playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks with ease.

Smart Assistant Compatibility: Works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for hands-free control. Adjust volume, skip tracks, or control other smart home devices with just your voice.

Multiple Connection Options: Connect to your TV via HDMI ARC, optical input, or AUX for flexible setup options. Choose the connection that best suits your needs.

Consider This: The price tag might feel steep for a 2.0 channel soundbar, especially compared to competitors with similar features. While the optional subwoofer adds bass, it’s an extra cost. True surround sound enthusiasts might crave a more immersive experience.

 

The Verdict: If you prioritize clear dialogue, a space-saving design, and the convenience of Bose smart features, the Smart Soundbar 300 offers a compelling option. However, its price tag and lack of true surround sound might leave some wanting more. Carefully consider your budget and audio needs before diving in.

Sony HT-S2000 3.1ch Dolby Atmos® Soundbar

Sony’s HT-S2000 soundbar promises Dolby Atmos thrills and 3.1-channel audio on a budget. But can it truly deliver cinematic sound without the hefty price tag? Let’s explore its features and potential considerations.

Dolby Atmos Engulfs You: Immerse yourself in movies, shows, and games with Dolby Atmos support. Expect sound to move around you, creating a more captivating and realistic audio experience.

Crystal-Clear Dialogue: A dedicated center channel ensures vocals cut through even intense scenes. Every whisper and booming action sequence remains intelligible, drawing you deeper into the story.

Punchy Bass Without Wires: The integrated subwoofer delivers surprising bass depth, adding rumble to explosions and richness to music. Enjoy room-filling audio without the clutter of external subwoofers.

Bluetooth Convenience: Stream music wirelessly from your phone or tablet, expanding your audio repertoire beyond TV content. Play your favorite playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks with ease.

Feature-Packed for Versatility: Connect to your TV via HDMI ARC or optical input. Bluetooth and Google Assistant compatibility offer even more control and connection options.

Consider This: While Dolby Atmos creates a wider soundstage, it’s a virtualized experience compared to soundbars with dedicated rear channels. Audiophiles seeking true surround sound might find it lacking. The price tag, though attractive, might still feel steep for some users.

 

The Verdict: If you prioritize immersive audio, clear dialogue, and a feature-packed experience on a budget, the HT-S2000 offers a compelling option. However, those seeking a true surround sound setup or expecting theater-shaking bass might need to explore other soundbars.

Denon DHT-S517 Soundbar

Denon’s DHT-S517 soundbar promises Dolby Atmos immersion and powerful bass at a tempting price point. But does it deliver cinematic sound without draining your wallet? Let’s explore its features and potential considerations.

Dolby Atmos on a Budget: Immerse yourself in movies, shows, and games with Dolby Atmos compatibility. Expect a wider soundstage compared to traditional soundbars, drawing you deeper into the sonic action. While not a full surround sound experience, it adds a touch of cinematic magic.

Dialogue Clarity Champion: Dedicated center channel and Denon’s Dialog Enhancer ensure every word cuts through, even amidst action-packed scenes. Enjoy crystal-clear dialogue without missing crucial plot points.

Punchy Bass with Wireless Thump: The included wireless subwoofer adds depth and rumble, enhancing explosions, music, and other low-frequency content. Feel the impact without unsightly cables cluttering your setup.

Multiple Connection Options: Connect to your TV via HDMI ARC, optical input, or even analog for flexible setup options. Choose the connection that best suits your needs and existing equipment.

Bluetooth Convenience: Stream music wirelessly from your phone or tablet, expanding your audio repertoire beyond TV content. Enjoy playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks with ease.

Consider This: The 3.1 channel system lacks dedicated rear channels, so the surround sound experience is virtualized. Audiophiles seeking a truly immersive setup might find it wanting. The price tag is attractive, but some high-end features like Wi-Fi or DTS:X support are absent.

 

The Verdict: If you prioritize clear dialogue, impactful bass, and Dolby Atmos immersion on a budget, the DHT-S517 offers a compelling option. However, those craving a full surround sound experience or extensive smart features might need to explore other soundbars.

Samsung S800B All In One Soundbar

Samsung’s HW-S800B soundbar boasts Dolby Atmos, a powerful subwoofer, and minimalist design. But can this all-in-one solution truly deliver cinematic audio without hidden compromises? Let’s explore its features and potential considerations.

Dolby Atmos Engulfs You: Immerse yourself in movies, shows, and games with Dolby Atmos support. Expect sound to move around you, creating a captivating and realistic audio experience that draws you deeper into the story.

Boom-Filled Bass: The dedicated wireless subwoofer delivers room-shaking bass, adding depth and impact to explosions, music, and low-frequency content. Feel the rumble without visible cables cluttering your space.

Crystal-Clear Dialogue: A dedicated center channel ensures vocals cut through even action-packed scenes. Dialogue remains intelligible, ensuring you never miss crucial plot points or whispered emotions.

Seamless TV Integration: Enjoy one-cable connectivity with compatible Samsung TVs via HDMI ARC. This simplifies setup and allows control of both the soundbar and TV with one remote.

Bluetooth Convenience: Stream music wirelessly from your phone or tablet, expanding your audio options beyond TV content. Play your favorite playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks with ease.

Consider This: While Dolby Atmos creates a wider soundstage, it’s a virtualized experience compared to soundbars with dedicated rear channels. Audiophiles seeking true surround sound immersion might find it lacking. The lack of Wi-Fi or voice assistant compatibility limits smart features.

 

The Verdict: If you prioritize Dolby Atmos immersion, powerful bass, and a sleek, cable-free design, the HW-S800B offers a compelling option, especially for Samsung TV owners. However, those craving a true surround sound experience or extensive smart features might need to explore other soundbars.

Sony HT-S40R – 5.1ch Soundbar with Subwoofer

Sony’s HT-S40R soundbar promises a 5.1-channel audio upgrade with Dolby Atmos and wireless rear speakers. But does it deliver true surround sound magic on a budget, or leave you wanting an encore? Let’s explore its features and potential considerations.

Immerse Yourself in Dolby Atmos: Experience movies, shows, and games with the enveloping sound of Dolby Atmos. Expect sound to move around you, creating a more realistic and captivating audio experience that draws you deeper into the action.

5.1 Channel Surround Sound: Enjoy a wider soundstage with dedicated rear speakers (wireless, but still require power cords) for a more immersive surround sound experience compared to traditional soundbars.

Clear Dialogue & Punchy Bass: A dedicated center channel ensures clear dialogue, while the included subwoofer delivers impactful bass, enhancing explosions, music, and low-frequency content.

Wireless Rear Speakers: Eliminate unsightly cables with the included wireless rear speakers, simplifying setup and decluttering your entertainment space.

Bluetooth Convenience: Stream music wirelessly from your phone or tablet, expanding your audio options beyond TV content. Enjoy playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks with ease.

HDMI ARC & Optical Connectivity: Connect to your TV via HDMI ARC or optical input for flexible setup options. Choose the connection that best suits your needs and existing equipment.

Consider This: While the rear speakers add immersion, their placement can affect the surround sound experience. Audiophiles seeking a truly high-fidelity setup might find the overall sound quality lacking in detail and power. The price tag is attractive, but some users might want Wi-Fi or voice assistant compatibility for added convenience.

 

The Verdict: If you prioritize a 5.1-channel surround sound experience with Dolby Atmos immersion on a budget, the HT-S40R offers a compelling option. However, those seeking a high-fidelity audio experience or extensive smart features might need to explore other soundbars.

POLK AUDIO MagniFi Mini AX Ultra-Compact Dolby Atmos Soundbar

Polk Audio’s MagniFi Mini AX soundbar promises Dolby Atmos thrills in a pint-sized package. But can this ultra-compact marvel deliver cinematic audio without feeling, well, miniaturized? Let’s explore its features and potential considerations.

Dolby Atmos on the Go: Immerse yourself in movies, shows, and games with Dolby Atmos support. Expect expansive sound that transcends the soundbar’s size, drawing you deeper into the sonic action.

Bass You Can Feel: The included wireless subwoofer packs a surprising punch, adding depth and rumble to explosions, music, and low-frequency content. Feel the impact without bulky cables cluttering your space.

Clear Dialogue, Big Impact: Dedicated center channel and Polk’s SDA technology ensure vocals cut through even action-packed scenes, ensuring every word lands. Enjoy impactful audio despite the soundbar’s compact size.

Bluetooth Convenience: Stream music wirelessly from your phone or tablet, expanding your audio repertoire beyond TV content. Play your favorite playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks with ease.

Multiple Connection Options: Connect to your TV via HDMI ARC, optical input, or AUX for flexible setup options. Choose the connection that best suits your needs and existing equipment.

Think Twice About: While Dolby Atmos creates a wider soundstage, it’s a virtualized experience compared to soundbars with dedicated rear channels. Audiophiles seeking true surround sound immersion might find it lacking. The price tag might feel steep for a compact soundbar, and some users might miss Wi-Fi or voice assistant compatibility.

 

The Verdict: If you prioritize compact design, Dolby Atmos immersion, and impactful audio in a space-saving package, the MagniFi Mini AX offers a compelling option. However, those seeking a true surround sound experience, extensive smart features, or a lower price point might need to explore other soundbars.

MAJORITY Sierra 2.1.2 Dolby Atmos Soundbar

MAJORITY’s Sierra 2.1.2 soundbar tempts with a budget-friendly Dolby Atmos experience. But can this value-driven option truly elevate your TV audio without sounding flat? Let’s explore its features and potential considerations.

Atmos on a Budget: Experience a taste of Dolby Atmos with this 2.1.2 channel configuration. While not a full surround sound setup, it utilizes virtual Atmos processing to create a wider, more immersive soundstage compared to traditional stereo soundbars.

Bass Boost with Wireless Subwoofer: The included wireless subwoofer adds depth and rumble to movies, music, and games. Feel the low-end impact without the clutter of cables.

Bluetooth Connectivity: Stream music wirelessly from your phone or tablet, expanding your audio repertoire beyond TV content. Enjoy playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks with ease.

Multiple Connection Options: Connect to your TV via HDMI ARC, optical input, or AUX for flexible setup options. Choose the connection that best suits your needs.

Sleek, Space-Saving Design: The soundbar’s low-profile design ensures it won’t block your TV’s screen or dominate your entertainment space.

Consider This: The virtual Atmos experience might not satisfy audiophiles seeking a true surround sound setup. The price tag is attractive, but some users might find the overall sound quality lacking in detail and power compared to pricier models.

 

The Verdict: If you’re on a budget and curious about Dolby Atmos, the Sierra 2.1.2 offers an intriguing option. However, audiophiles or those seeking a truly immersive cinematic experience might need to explore soundbars with more dedicated channels and higher-fidelity audio.

How to Choose Best Soundbar Under 400

Choosing the best soundbar under $400 requires careful consideration of your individual needs and priorities. Here’s a breakdown to guide you:

1. Audio Experience:

• Dialogue Clarity: Prioritize features like dedicated center channels or dialogue enhancement if clear vocals are key.
• Immersive Sound: Consider Dolby Atmos or DTS:X for a broader soundscape, but remember it’s often virtualized in this price range. True surround sound needs dedicated rear channels.
• Bass Impact: Opt for powerful subwoofers, wired or wireless, if deep bass for movies and music is essential.

2. Features:

• Smart Features: Decide if you need voice assistant control, Wi-Fi streaming, or multi-room audio capabilities.
• Connectivity: Ensure your TV has compatible connections like HDMI ARC or optical. Bluetooth is useful for music streaming.
• Extras: Consider specific sound modes for movies, music, gaming, or night mode.

3. Budget:

• Set a realistic spending limit, remembering sound quality often increases with price. Explore deals and refurbished options for value.

4. Brand & Reviews:

• Research reputable brands known for quality soundbars.
• Read trusted reviews from experts and users to gain real-world insights.

Additional Tips:

• Match Soundbar to TV: If your TV lacks Dolby Atmos support, a soundbar with it might not be fully utilized.
• Consider Room Size: Larger rooms may benefit from more powerful soundbars, while smaller spaces might do well with compact models.
• Listen Before You Buy: If possible, compare sound quality with friends or through in-store demos before making a decision.

Remember, the “best” soundbar is subjective. Use this guide to prioritize your needs and research specific models that fit your budget and preferences. Happy listening!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)