Craving cinematic sound without the sky-high price tag? Look no further! Upgrading your TV’s audio with a soundbar is a game-changer, but navigating the options under £500 can be overwhelming. Fear not, audiophiles! This guide cuts through the noise, delivering the best soundbars under £500 in 2024, tailored to your needs and budget.
Immerse yourself in:
- Crystal-clear dialogue and powerful soundtracks: Experience movies, music, and games like never before.
- Dolby Atmos thrills: Feel the action unfold around you with immersive surround sound.
- Wireless convenience: Stream effortlessly and declutter your setup.
- Smart features: Voice control, app integration, and multi-room audio at your fingertips.
Whether you’re a movie buff, music lover, or casual viewer, discover the perfect soundbar to transform your entertainment experience. Dive in and find your audio sweet spot – all under £500!
Top 7 Best Soundbars Under £500
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Denon DHT-S517 Soundbar with Subwoofer: Best soundbar for immersive audio in a mid-range setup.
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Sony HT-S40R – 5.1ch Soundbar with Subwoofer: Best soundbar for a complete 5.1 channel audio experience.
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Bose Smart Soundbar 600 Dolby Atmos: Best soundbar for Dolby Atmos audio quality.
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Samsung S800B All In One Soundbar: Best all-in-one soundbar for convenience and performance.
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Sony HT-G700 – 3.1ch Dolby Atmos: Best soundbar for 3.1 channel audio and Dolby Atmos.
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Bose Smart Soundbar 300: Best compact soundbar for quality audio.
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Sony HT-S2000 3.1ch Dolby Atmos® Soundbar: Best soundbar for 3.1 channel audio and Dolby Atmos experience.
Denon DHT-S517 Soundbar with Subwoofer
Craving a cinematic audio experience without maxing out your budget? The Denon DHT-S517 Soundbar might be your ticket to sonic nirvana. This 2.1 channel marvel boasts virtual Dolby Atmos, a wireless subwoofer, and a price tag that’ll leave your wallet smiling. Let’s explore what makes it a contender in the budget-friendly soundbar arena.
Immerse Yourself in Virtual Atmos: Ditch the flat, one-dimensional sound. The DHT-S517’s virtual Dolby Atmos processing expands your audio canvas, bathing you in a wider, more enveloping soundscape. Prepare to be drawn into movies, shows, and games like never before.
Feel the Bass Boom: Explosions rumble, basslines throb, and soundtracks pulsate with life thanks to the dedicated wireless subwoofer. It’s not the most nuanced subwoofer on the market, but it packs a satisfying punch that elevates your sonic experience.
Crystal-Clear Dialogue: Say goodbye to muffled whispers and inaudible mumbles. Dedicated center channel drivers ensure voices cut through the action, keeping you glued to every word. No more straining to decipher what characters are saying!
Effortless Setup and Control: Setting up the DHT-S517 is a breeze. Simply connect it to your TV and enjoy an instant audio upgrade. The user-friendly remote puts essential functions at your fingertips, letting you fine-tune your listening experience with ease.
Sleek Design, Seamless Integration: The soundbar’s low-profile design blends seamlessly with any modern living space. It won’t block your view or clash with your aesthetics, ensuring a harmonious addition to your entertainment setup.
Connect Your World: Multiple connectivity options cater to your needs. Hook it up to your TV via HDMI ARC, optical, or AUX input. Feeling wireless? Stream music from your phone or tablet using Bluetooth.
The Verdict:
The Denon DHT-S517 Soundbar delivers an immersive audio experience at a budget-friendly price. While it might not boast the pinpoint accuracy of high-end systems, its virtual Atmos processing, powerful subwoofer, crystal-clear dialogue, and user-friendly design make it a compelling choice for those seeking a cinematic upgrade without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a soundbar that punches above its weight in terms of features and performance, the DHT-S517 is definitely worth an audition.
Sony HT-S40R – 5.1ch Soundbar with Subwoofer
Craving a sonic revolution in your living room? The Sony HT-S40R Soundbar, a 5.1 channel powerhouse, might just be your audio epiphany. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover its immersive depths, powerful performance, and seamless integration into your home theater haven.
Unleash the 5.1 Surround Symphony: Prepare to be enveloped in a captivating soundscape. The HT-S40R’s 5.1 channel configuration strategically places rear speakers and a dedicated subwoofer, blanketing you in dynamic, room-filling audio. From thrilling action sequences to delicate cinematic whispers, every sound finds its place, transporting you to the heart of the action.
Bass That Rumbles Your Soul: Experience low-end frequencies that resonate deep within. The wireless subwoofer adds a layer of bone-rattling bass, enriching explosions, amplifying soundtracks, and infusing your audio with tangible power. Feel the rumble of thunder, the tremor of footsteps, and the pulse of your favorite music with unprecedented intensity.
Crystal-Clear Dialogue, Captivating Clarity: Every word, every whisper, every nuance rings through with perfect precision. Dedicated center channel speakers ensure dialogue cuts through the soundscape, ensuring you never miss a beat. Immerse yourself in the narrative, following every twist and turn with crystal-clear understanding.
Effortless Connectivity, Seamless Entertainment: Unwire your world with the HT-S40R’s diverse connectivity options. Connect to your TV via HDMI ARC or optical input, and enjoy instant audio elevation. Stream music wirelessly from your phone or tablet using Bluetooth, creating a sonically rich soundscape for any occasion.
Sleek Design, Discreet Power: The soundbar’s minimalist design complements any modern aesthetic, blending seamlessly into your living space without sacrificing performance. Its low-profile form ensures it won’t obstruct your view, allowing you to focus on the captivating visuals without distraction.
The Final Act:
The Sony HT-S40R Soundbar masterfully blends immersive 5.1 surround sound with powerful bass, crystal-clear dialogue, and seamless connectivity. Whether you’re a movie buff, a music enthusiast, or a casual TV viewer, this soundbar elevates your entertainment experience to new heights. If you’re seeking a cinematic audio upgrade that seamlessly integrates into your home theater setup, the HT-S40R is a powerful contender worthy of your consideration.
Bose Smart Soundbar 600 Dolby Atmos
Step into a world of captivating sound with the Bose Smart Soundbar 600 Dolby Atmos. This sleek soundbar packs a punch, delivering immersive Dolby Atmos experiences without sacrificing on smart functionality and easy integration. Let’s explore its captivating features and discover if it elevates your home theater to new heights.
Dolby Atmos: A Sonic Adventure Awakens: Experience sound beyond the ordinary. The Bose Smart Soundbar 600 utilizes Dolby Atmos technology to create a multi-dimensional soundscape that engulfs you in its richness. From rain cascading overhead to helicopters whizzing past, every sound finds its place, drawing you deeper into the action.
Powerful Bass, No Matter the Source: Feel the rumble of explosions and the pulse of basslines with the included wireless subwoofer. It seamlessly integrates with the soundbar, delivering deep, nuanced bass that enhances movies, music, and even everyday TV shows.
Crystal-Clear Dialogue, Never Miss a Word: Hear every whisper, every nuance, with dedicated center channel drivers. Whether you’re following a captivating conversation or catching crucial plot points, dialogue cuts through the soundscape with remarkable clarity.
Effortless Control at Your Fingertips: Take command of your sound with the intuitive Bose Music app. Adjust EQ settings, switch sound modes, and even access built-in music streaming services – all from your smartphone or tablet.
Seamless Connectivity, Unwire Your World: Connect to your TV with HDMI ARC or optical input. Enjoy wireless freedom by streaming music from your phone or tablet via Bluetooth. The soundbar also boasts built-in Chromecast and AirPlay 2 for even more versatility.
Sleek Design, Modern Harmony: The soundbar’s low-profile design and premium finish complement any modern living space. It sits discreetly beneath your TV, enhancing your setup without dominating it.
The Enthralling Finale:
The Bose Smart Soundbar 600 Dolby Atmos delivers a compelling blend of immersive sound, powerful bass, smart functionality, and seamless connectivity. Its user-friendly design and premium aesthetic make it a perfect fit for movie enthusiasts, music lovers, and anyone seeking a captivating audio upgrade. If you’re looking for a sophisticated soundbar that effortlessly elevates your home entertainment experience, the Bose Smart Soundbar 600 Dolby Atmos is a powerful contender.
Samsung S800B All In One Soundbar
Embrace cinematic audio without the clutter with the Samsung S800B All-in-One Soundbar. This sleek soundbar boasts immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, powerful built-in subwoofers, and smart functionality, all rolled into a streamlined design. Let’s delve into its features and discover if it simplifies your home theater experience.
Unleash the Power of Dolby Atmos & DTS:X: Immerse yourself in 3D audio that transcends traditional stereo sound. The S800B utilizes Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technologies to create a multi-dimensional soundscape that engulfs you in the action. From rain cascading overhead to helicopters whizzing past, every sound finds its place, drawing you deeper into the story.
Built-in Subwoofers for Bone-Thumping Bass: Feel the rumble of explosions and the pulse of basslines without the need for a separate subwoofer. The S800B integrates powerful subwoofers directly into the soundbar, delivering deep, nuanced bass that enhances movies, music, and even everyday TV shows.
Crystal-Clear Dialogue, Never Miss a Word: Dedicated center channels ensure dialogue cuts through the soundscape with remarkable clarity. Whether you’re following a captivating conversation or catching crucial plot points, every word rings true, keeping you fully engaged.
Smart Control at Your Fingertips: Take command of your sound with the intuitive SmartThings app. Adjust EQ settings, switch sound modes, access built-in streaming services, and even control other compatible Samsung devices – all from your smartphone or tablet.
Seamless Connectivity, Unwire Your World: Connect to your TV with HDMI ARC or optical input. Enjoy wireless freedom by streaming music from your phone or tablet via Bluetooth. The soundbar also boasts built-in Wi-Fi and AirPlay 2 for even more versatility.
Sleek Design, Minimalist Harmony: The S800B’s low-profile design and premium finish blend seamlessly into any modern living space. It sits discreetly beneath your TV, enhancing your setup without dominating it.
The Simplified Symphony:
The Samsung S800B All-in-One Soundbar delivers an immersive audio experience with powerful built-in subwoofers, smart functionality, and seamless connectivity, all within a streamlined design. Its user-friendly controls and premium aesthetic make it a perfect fit for movie enthusiasts, music lovers, and anyone seeking a simplified yet powerful audio upgrade. If you’re looking for a one-stop solution to elevate your home theater experience, the Samsung S800B All-in-One Soundbar is a compelling choice.
Sony HT-G700 – 3.1ch Dolby Atmos
Transform your living room into a cinematic soundscape with the Sony HT-G700, a 3.1 channel soundbar boasting Dolby Atmos support. This sleek and stylish solution promises an immersive audio experience without sacrificing on space or convenience. Let’s explore its features and discover if it elevates your home theater to new heights.
Dolby Atmos: A World of Sound Awakens: Experience sound that transcends traditional stereo. The HT-G700 utilizes Dolby Atmos technology to create a multi-dimensional soundscape that engulfs you in its richness. From rain cascading overhead to helicopters whizzing past, every sound finds its place, drawing you deeper into the action.
Powerful Bass, Feel the Thrill: Immerse yourself in deep, resonant bass with the included wireless subwoofer. It seamlessly integrates with the soundbar, delivering powerful low-end frequencies that enhance movies, music, and even everyday TV shows. Feel the rumble of explosions and the pulse of basslines for a truly cinematic experience.
Crystal-Clear Dialogue, Never Miss a Word: Dedicated center channel speakers ensure dialogue cuts through the soundscape with remarkable clarity. Whether you’re following a captivating conversation or catching crucial plot points, every word rings true, keeping you fully engaged in the narrative.
Effortless Control at Your Fingertips: Take command of your sound with the intuitive Sony Remote Control. Adjust settings, switch sound modes, and control playback with ease. You can also access connected devices and streaming services through the remote, simplifying your entertainment experience.
Seamless Connectivity, Unwire Your World: Connect to your TV with HDMI ARC or optical input. Enjoy wireless freedom by streaming music from your phone or tablet via Bluetooth. The soundbar also boasts built-in Chromecast for even more versatility.
Sleek Design, Modern Harmony: The HT-G700’s low-profile design and premium finish complement any modern living space. It sits discreetly beneath your TV, enhancing your setup without dominating it. Its compact size makes it an ideal choice for space-conscious homes.
The Immersive Finale:
The Sony HT-G700 offers an immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos support, powerful bass, crystal-clear dialogue, and seamless connectivity. Its user-friendly controls, sleek design, and compact size make it a perfect fit for movie enthusiasts, music lovers, and anyone seeking a stylish and convenient audio upgrade. If you’re looking for a 3.1 channel soundbar that packs a punch without sacrificing on aesthetics, the Sony HT-G700 is a compelling choice.
Bose Smart Soundbar 300
Elevate your everyday entertainment with the Bose Smart Soundbar 300, a soundbar designed for simplicity and immersive sound. This sleek solution boasts crystal-clear dialogue, rich bass, and smart functionality, all packed into a user-friendly package. Let’s explore its features and discover if it transforms your home theater experience.
Immerse Yourself in Richer Audio: Experience sound beyond the ordinary. The Bose Smart Soundbar 300 delivers exceptional audio quality, enhancing movies, music, and even TV shows. Its dedicated center channel ensures crystal-clear dialogue, while spatial processing expands the soundstage, creating a wider, more enveloping listening experience.
Feel the Thump of Powerful Bass: Immerse yourself in deep, resonant bass with the included wireless subwoofer. It seamlessly integrates with the soundbar, delivering powerful low-end frequencies that enhance explosions, pulsating basslines, and add depth to your audio.
Never Miss a Word: Hear every whisper, every nuance, with remarkable clarity. Whether you’re following a captivating conversation or catching crucial plot points, dialogue cuts through the soundscape, keeping you fully engaged in the narrative.
Effortless Control at Your Fingertips: Take command of your sound with the intuitive Bose Music app. Adjust EQ settings, switch sound modes, access built-in music streaming services, and even group the soundbar with other compatible Bose speakers – all from your smartphone or tablet.
Stream Your Favorites Wirelessly: Enjoy seamless wireless freedom by streaming music from your phone or tablet via Bluetooth. The soundbar also boasts built-in Chromecast and Apple AirPlay 2, offering even more versatility and access to your favorite streaming platforms.
Sleek Design, Modern Harmony: The soundbar’s low-profile design and premium finish complement any modern living space. It sits discreetly beneath your TV, enhancing your setup without dominating it. Its compact size makes it an ideal choice for space-conscious homes.
The Simplicity Symphony:
The Bose Smart Soundbar 300 offers an immersive audio experience with powerful bass, crystal-clear dialogue, and seamless connectivity, all within a user-friendly and stylish design. Its smart functionality and ease of use make it a perfect fit for movie enthusiasts, music lovers, and anyone seeking a simple yet powerful audio upgrade. If you’re looking for a soundbar that enhances your everyday entertainment without the hassle, the Bose Smart Soundbar 300 is a compelling choice.
Sony HT-S2000 3.1ch Dolby Atmos® Soundbar
Embark on a journey of captivating sound with the Sony HT-S2000, a 3.1 channel soundbar wielding the power of Dolby Atmos®. This sleek and powerful system promises to transform your living room into a cinematic soundscape, enriching movies, music, and everyday entertainment. Let’s delve into its features and discover if it elevates your home theater experience to new heights.
Immerse Yourself in Dolby Atmos® Majesty: Experience sound that transcends traditional stereo. The HT-S2000 harnesses the magic of Dolby Atmos® technology, creating a multi-dimensional soundscape that engulfs you in its richness. From rain cascading overhead to helicopters whizzing past, every sound finds its place, drawing you deeper into the action.
Feel the Pulse of Powerful Bass: Immerse yourself in deep, resonant bass with the wireless subwoofer. It seamlessly integrates with the soundbar, delivering powerful low-end frequencies that enhance explosions, pulsating basslines, and add depth to your audio. Feel the rumble of thunder, the tremor of footsteps, and the pulse of your favorite music with unprecedented intensity.
Crystal-Clear Dialogue, Never Miss a Word: Dedicated center channel speakers ensure dialogue cuts through the soundscape with remarkable clarity. Whether you’re following a captivating conversation or catching crucial plot points, every word rings true, keeping you fully engaged in the narrative.
Effortless Control at Your Fingertips: Take command of your sound with the intuitive Sony Remote Control. Adjust settings, switch sound modes, and control playback with ease. You can also access connected devices and streaming services through the remote, simplifying your entertainment experience.
Seamless Connectivity, Unwire Your World: Connect to your TV with HDMI ARC or optical input. Enjoy wireless freedom by streaming music from your phone or tablet via Bluetooth. The soundbar also boasts built-in Chromecast and Apple AirPlay 2, offering even more versatility and access to your favorite streaming platforms.
Sleek Design, Modern Harmony: The HT-S2000’s minimalist design and premium finish complement any modern living space. It sits discreetly beneath your TV, enhancing your setup without dominating it. Its low-profile form ensures it won’t obstruct your view, allowing you to focus on the captivating visuals without distraction.
The Cinematic Finale:
The Sony HT-S2000 delivers an immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos® support, powerful bass, crystal-clear dialogue, and seamless connectivity. Its user-friendly controls, sleek design, and premium features make it a perfect fit for movie enthusiasts, music lovers, and anyone seeking a powerful and sophisticated audio upgrade. If you’re looking for a 3.1 channel soundbar that elevates your home theater to cinematic heights, the Sony HT-S2000 is a compelling choice.
How to Choose Best Soundbars Under £500
Transform your living room into a cinematic haven with the right soundbar! But navigating the options under £500 can be daunting. Fear not, for this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.
Prioritize Your Needs:
- Immersive Experience: Craving that cinema-like feel? Dolby Atmos or DTS:X soundbars create a multi-dimensional soundscape that engulfs you.
- Powerful Bass: Love movies with booming basslines or music with deep lows? Prioritize soundbars with dedicated subwoofers for impactful, distortion-free bass.
- Crystal-Clear Dialogue: Ensure every word rings true, especially for dialogue-driven content. Look for soundbars with dedicated center channels.
- Connectivity: Choose a soundbar that seamlessly integrates with your TV (HDMI ARC, optical) and offers wireless options like Bluetooth for music streaming.
- Smart Features: If you desire voice control, multi-room audio, or built-in streaming services, explore smart soundbars.
- Design: Consider the soundbar’s size and aesthetics to complement your setup.
Dive into Key Features:
- Channels: 2.0, 2.1, 3.1, 5.1, etc., indicate speaker configurations. More channels generally create a wider soundstage, but consider your room size and needs.
- Power Output: Measured in watts, it determines the soundbar’s volume potential. Match it to your room size for optimal performance.
- Supported Audio Formats: Ensure compatibility with your preferred formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, etc.
- Connectivity Options: Explore HDMI ARC, optical, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and streaming service integrations.
- Smart Features: Voice assistants, multi-room audio, and built-in apps enhance convenience.
Beyond the Specs:
- Read Reviews: Gain insights from experts and user experiences.
- Compare Prices: Find the soundbar that ticks your boxes within your budget.
- Consider Room Size: Match the soundbar’s power output to your room size.
- Listen Before You Buy: Demo different soundbars to find the one that suits your ears.
Remember, the perfect soundbar is a personal choice. By prioritizing your needs, understanding key features, and comparing options thoughtfully, you’ll find the ideal audio companion to elevate your entertainment experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What features are most important in a soundbar under £500?
The most important features depend on your personal priorities. Immersive sound (Dolby Atmos/DTS:X), powerful bass, clear dialogue, connectivity options, and smart features are all key factors to consider.
Which soundbar brands should I focus on?
Many brands offer excellent soundbars under £500, but some popular options include Vizio, Denon, Sony, Bose, and Samsung.
What’s the difference between 2.0, 2.1, 5.1, etc., soundbar configurations?
he numbers indicate the number of speakers and subwoofers. Generally, more channels create a wider soundstage, but consider your room size and needs.
Do I need a separate subwoofer for good bass?
A dedicated subwoofer usually delivers deeper, more impactful bass. However, some soundbars with built-in subwoofers offer decent bass performance under £500.
Should I prioritize sound quality or smart features?
Prioritize sound quality for the core listening experience. Smart features add convenience, but ensure they align with your needs and budget.
