10 Best Soundbars 2025 in the United States

The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar offers a solid audio upgrade for your TV setup, especially if you're looking for a compact and easy-to-install solution. It features a 2.0 speaker system, meaning it has two channels which can provide clearer dialogue and fuller sound but does not include a dedicated subwoofer. However, the DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio technologies help create an immersive surround sound experience, making up for the lack of additional speakers in the setup.

Connectivity is straightforward with HDMI eARC/ARC and Bluetooth options, allowing easy integration with smart TVs and streaming media players. The compact design (24” x 3.5” x 2.5”) ensures it fits well in most entertainment setups without taking much space. While it excels in convenience with a single remote control compatible with Fire TV, its performance might not match higher-end soundbars with more channels and built-in subwoofers for deeper bass.

The included modes for movies, music, and dialogue are useful for optimizing sound based on content, but might be limited for audiophiles seeking more customization. Additionally, the sustainability aspect of using recycled materials is a nice touch. This soundbar is a good fit for users looking for ease of setup, solid sound quality, and integration with Fire TV, but may not fulfill the needs of those seeking top-tier audio precision and deeper bass.

The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus is designed for users who want an easy-to-set-up sound upgrade that improves TV audio without adding complexity. Its 3.1 channel setup includes a built-in subwoofer, which means you get balanced sound with decent bass without needing extra speakers. The soundbar supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, offering immersive 3D audio that enhances movies and shows. A dedicated center channel helps make dialogue clearer, which is great for catching every word in movies or sports.

Connectivity is straightforward with HDMI eARC/ARC, optical, USB-A, and Bluetooth, allowing you to easily connect to your TV and stream music from your phone. The size is moderate at 37 inches wide, fitting well under most TVs without being obtrusive. It also offers several sound modes like Movie, Music, Sports, and Night, letting you customize audio depending on what you watch. Fire TV integration means you can control both TV and soundbar with one remote, simplifying use if you’re already in the Amazon ecosystem.

A potential downside is that while the built-in subwoofer is convenient, it may not deliver the deep bass some users expect from a separate subwoofer unit. Also, the soundbar is optimized for TVs with HDMI eARC/ARC ports, so older TVs without these might not experience full feature support. This soundbar is well suited for those looking for a stylish, straightforward upgrade to their TV audio with smart features and solid surround sound effects, especially if they use Fire TV devices.

The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar is designed to deliver an impressive audio experience, especially for those looking for high-quality sound in their home entertainment setup. With a robust 9.1.4 channel layout and Dolby Atmos support, it creates a rich and immersive spatial audio experience that enhances movies and music alike. The innovative Sound Motion technology is a standout feature, providing precise sound placement throughout the room, making it enjoyable in various listening environments.

In terms of usability, the Arc Ultra offers flexible connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and HDMI, allowing for easy integration with most TVs and streaming devices. The straightforward setup process is a plus, as users can quickly get started with guidance from the Sonos app. Additionally, the soundbar includes features like Speech Enhancement, which improves dialogue clarity, making it a great choice for watching films or shows with intricate plots.

The sleek design of the Arc Ultra adds to its appeal, blending seamlessly into modern home decor without drawing attention away from the screen. Voice control capabilities through Sonos Voice Control and Amazon Alexa make it convenient to manage playback without needing to reach for a remote. The soundbar is relatively expensive compared to other options on the market, which might not fit every budget. Also, while it delivers excellent sound on its own, the full potential of the Dolby Atmos experience can only be realized by adding additional Sonos components, like the Sub or rear speakers, which further increases the cost. The Arc Ultra is also not waterproof, limiting its placement options to indoor environments only.

If you're seeking a premium soundbar and are willing to invest in a more comprehensive sound setup, the Sonos Arc Ultra could be a fantastic addition to your home audio system, especially for movie lovers and music enthusiasts.