Modern soundbars have come a long way, delivering impressive audio quality that rivals traditional home theater setups. While audiophiles may debate the merits of receivers and dedicated speakers, a high-end soundbar system offers a compelling alternative: better sound than your TV’s built-in speakers, easier installation, and a cleaner look for modern living spaces.
This guide compiles the best premium soundbars tested by WIRED colleagues and myself over the past several years. These aren’t just louder speakers; they’re designed to transform your entertainment experience, from immersive Dolby Atmos surround sound to detailed high-resolution audio. Expect to pay more, but the difference in quality is noticeable.
Why Premium Soundbars Matter
The core benefit is simplicity. Instead of wiring speakers, managing a receiver, and calibrating a complex system, premium soundbars offer plug-and-play convenience. They also integrate seamlessly into modern homes, with sleek designs that don’t overwhelm your space.
But the biggest advantage is improved audio. A well-designed soundbar can deliver clear, impactful sound that enhances everything from sports to movies. The best models support high-quality audio formats like Dolby Atmos, providing a truly immersive experience.
Understanding Dolby Atmos
Traditional surround sound (5.1, 7.1, etc.) focuses on horizontal sound placement, spreading effects across the front, sides, and rear channels. Dolby Atmos takes this further by adding a vertical dimension. Instead of just around you, sound now comes from above, creating a more realistic and enveloping sonic environment.
Atmos systems use either ceiling-mounted speakers or upfiring drivers that bounce sound off the ceiling to simulate overhead effects. Premium soundbars replicate this using digital signal processing, upfiring drivers, and sometimes even rear or satellite speakers. While not a perfect substitute for dedicated speakers, these systems can deliver convincing immersive sound.
How We Tested These Soundbars
WIRED ’s testing process is straightforward: we use these soundbars in real-world scenarios, just like you would. We watch everyday content alongside carefully selected test material, including Dolby Atmos demo discs and scenes from movies like Mad Max: Fury Road and Ant-Man.
We evaluate features like Wi-Fi streaming, app-based EQ adjustments, automatic room calibration, and network connectivity. We also measure volume levels in decibels to ensure peak performance.
Top Premium Soundbar Picks
The following models represent the best in premium audio performance, usability, and features.
- Marshall Heston 120 ($1300): A stylish option with a classic Marshall look, offering detailed and balanced sound. However, it may lack the raw power some listeners prefer.
- Yamaha True X Surround 90a ($3,500): Yamaha’s high-end offering includes wireless surround speakers that double as Bluetooth units. While delivering excellent sound quality, it falls short on connection options and features for the price.
- Bluesound Pulse Cinema ($1,499): A strong alternative to Sonos, offering multi-room audio capabilities but lacking EQ and channel adjustment options. Performance doesn’t quite match the Sonos Arc Ultra, making the price harder to justify.
- Sony Bravia Theater 9 ($1,200-$1,500): Sony’s latest flagship soundbar underperforms compared to its predecessor, the HT-A7000. While still delivering good detail and immersion, it lacks the weight and features of older models.
Ultimately, premium soundbars provide an accessible path to immersive audio. Whether you prefer the classic design of Marshall, the all-in-one convenience of Yamaha, or the networked flexibility of Bluesound, there’s a premium option to elevate your home entertainment.
