6 Reasons You DON’T Need a TV Soundbar (Read First)

While soundbars can offer better audio than built-in TV speakers, there are several reasons why they might not be necessary for everyone.

We’ll dive into better alternatives that will save you the money!

Let’s dive in.

#1 Built-In TV Speakers Are QUICKLY Improving

Higher Audio Quality

As technology advances, built-in TV speakers are becoming better at producing higher audio quality. The sound emitted from modern television speakers is often clearer and has richer tones than in the past. Innovations such as improved speaker placement, better materials, and advanced audio processing technologies contribute to the enhancement.

One example is the use of the screen as a speaker on select Sony OLED TVs. Aktuators are placed on the rear of the screen, allowing it to vibrate and produce sound, leading to an immersive audio experience.

Latest TV Models

The latest TV models often adopt innovative designs to improve built-in speaker performance, catering to the demand for better audio quality without the need for additional equipment like soundbars. For instance, some modern TVs embed speakers on the left and right side edges to facilitate better stereo sound.

Others place speakers on the back of the TV, so the sound bounces off the wall, creating a more spacious audio environment.

To summarize, built-in TV speakers are continuously being enhanced in terms of audio quality, and the latest TV models adapt to cater to consumers’ demand for better audio performance. As a result, it is becoming less necessary for many users to invest in a separate soundbar.

#2 Budget-Friendly Alternatives

Affordable Soundbars

There are many affordable soundbars available in the market that can significantly improve TV audio without breaking the bank. For instance, the Creative Stage v2 and the Hisense HS205 are great options to consider.

These budget-friendly soundbars not only deliver quality audio performance but also offer various features such as Bluetooth connectivity, multiple input options, and virtual surround sound, making them fantastic alternatives to more expensive soundbars.

External Bluetooth Speakers

Another budget-friendly alternative to a TV soundbar is using external Bluetooth speakers. These speakers can be connected with your TV via Bluetooth or Aux input, providing better audio quality than your TV’s built-in speakers.

Some of these Bluetooth speakers come with advanced features such as stereo sound, deep bass, and long battery life, enabling a more immersive TV viewing experience.

#3 Surround Sound Systems

Quality Home Theater Experience

Surround sound systems can deliver high-quality audio that matches, and sometimes even surpasses, that of a soundbar. They are able to handle a wider range of sound frequencies, allowing for a richer audio experience. Surround sound systems are especially beneficial for movie lovers who seek an authentic, theater-like experience in the comfort of their own homes.

With separate speakers and subwoofers, a surround sound system provides greater flexibility when it comes to optimizing the audio for a particular room or setup.

Now, it’s important to consider the limitations of a surround sound system.

For instance, they require more space and a more complex setup process than a soundbar, which might be a drawback for those with limited living areas or who prefer a minimalist design. Additionally, a surround sound system can be more expensive, especially when it comes to high-end models.

Keep this in mind when deciding on the most suitable audio solution for your needs.

However, if you prioritize the quality and depth of your home theater audio experience, a surround sound system offers a richer, more immersive soundscape over a soundbar.

#4 Minimalist Home Design

Reduced Clutter

A minimalist home design aims to create a clean and visually appealing living space with minimal objects and furniture. By emphasizing simplicity and functionality, it allows homeowners to enjoy a clutter-free environment.

One key aspect of minimalist design involves eliminating unnecessary items, such as a TV soundbar, when the built-in speakers in a smart-TV can suffice for a minimalist’s auditory needs.

In addition to saving space, forgoing a soundbar can also be a financially responsible decision. High-quality soundbars can be expensive, and minimalist homeowners may prefer to invest in other budget-friendly and space-efficient products.

Visual Continuity

Minimalist design focuses on creating a sense of harmony and continuity throughout the home, and the absence of a soundbar can contribute to this effortless flow. By removing visual interruptions, such as the sleek lines of a soundbar below a smart TV, the overall aesthetic remains balanced, spacious, and uncluttered.

Embracing a minimalist lifestyle can also lead to a reduction in energy consumption, as fewer electronic devices mean lower energy usage. This approach can be beneficial for the environment and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.

#5 Soundbars Are Not Always Compatible

TV Brands and Models

Some soundbars might not be compatible with specific TV brands or models. The compatibility usually depends on the connection options available on both the soundbar and the TV. Different TVs and soundbars offer varying interfaces, such as HDMI ARC, optical, or 3.5mm AUX inputs, which affect compatibility between the two devices.

For example, to connect a soundbar to a TV using HDMI, both devices must support ARC (Audio Return Channel) compatibility. If either the TV or the soundbar does not have this feature, they cannot be connected using HDMI.

Moreover, not all soundbars are universally compatible with Wi-Fi enabled smart TVs.

To connect a soundbar to a smart TV via Wi-Fi, the soundbar must support wireless connectivity and work seamlessly with the specific TV’s Wi-Fi settings.

#6 Wireless Headphones

Private Listening Experience

Wireless headphones offer an excellent alternative to TV soundbars, providing a private listening experience, especially during late-night viewing sessions. With wireless headphones, users can enjoy TV shows or movies without disturbing others in the room.

Additionally, wireless headphones eliminate audio latency or syncing issues often experienced with soundbars.

To connect wireless headphones to your TV, first, check if your TV has built-in Bluetooth support. If it does, switch on your wireless headphones and put them into pairing mode. Then, go to your TV’s settings to select Bluetooth options and initiate pairing. If your TV doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth, you can use a Bluetooth adapter as an alternative solution.

A popular choice for wireless headphones compatible with TVs is the Sennheiser RS 195 RF. These headphones use a 2.4-2.48 GHz line-of-site radio-frequency-style connection, ensuring a reliable audio transmission without the need for complicated installations or settings adjustments.

Some streaming devices, such as the Amazon Fire TV, also support pairing with wireless headphones. This allows users to enjoy streaming content with high-quality audio directly through their wireless headphones, all without the need for additional equipment or setup.

For those who don’t have a compatible TV or streaming device, companies like Phiaton offer wireless headphones with built-in Bluetooth adapters at an affordable price, making it easy to connect headphones to any TV.