Why buy a soundbar? 5 advantages and how to choose it

The best of technology has now entered our homes and what was previously accessible to a few is now within reach of most, thanks to affordable prices and truly high-performance solutions. Today we are talking about soundbars, for music and cinema fans, but not only. Specifically, we will answer the question ‘why buy a soundbar’ and, most importantly, guide you in your choice!

First of all, what is a soundbar? An audio device that can greatly enhance the sound output of the television; thin and compact, it fits perfectly in small spaces, under and in front of the television, or on a shelf. In short, it does nothing more than discreetly fill an empty space, giving you an amazing auditory experience, whether it is a film, a video game, or your favourite music.

Let's cut to the chase: why buy a soundbar? Or, even better, why give one as a gift?

It is not a question of liking or not liking, of serving or not serving. A soundbar gives something extra, always and in any case. In fact, it is a choice that is becoming more and more popular; the latest generation of TV sets are getting thinner and thinner and the built-in speakers tend to offer limited sound quality. A soundbar is a simple and compact solution for superior sound quality without the complexity of a home theatre system. In other words: bring the cinema into your home.

Why buy a soundbar? 5 advantages

1. Improved sound: Soundbars offer significantly better sound quality than TV speakers. Thanks to dedicated drivers, you get clearer dialogue, deeper bass and an immersive experience. Many models include technologies such as Dolby Atmos for three-dimensional sound.
2. Compactness: Compared to conventional surround sound systems, soundbars take up less space. They can be placed in front of or under the TV, or mounted on the wall, fitting into any environment.
3. Ease of installation: No complex configurations are required. With a simple HDMI ARC or optical connection, the soundbar is ready to use.
4. Versatility: Many models support Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or AirPlay, allowing music to be streamed directly from mobile devices.
5. Affordable cost: While offering quality audio, soundbars are a cost-effective solution compared to complex sound systems.

How to choose a soundbar

First of all, choose a soundbar that fits the length (and compatibility) of your TV and the available space. Of course, longer soundbars are ideal for large screens, while compact ones suit smaller rooms.

Here are all the elements to take into consideration:

Channels

As a second step, consider the number of channels. Below, we outline the most common choices:

• 2.0: Two speakers (left and right); greatly improves TV sound but has no subwoofer.
• 2.1: Includes a subwoofer for deeper bass.
• 3.1: Includes left, right and centre channel for dialogue, with a subwoofer.
• 3.1.2: Adds two vertical channels for 3D audio, e.g. for Dolby Atmos.
• 5.1: Offers a full surround sound experience with front, rear and centre speakers, with a subwoofer.

Vertical channels in a soundbar are dedicated to reproducing sounds that appear to come from above, creating a three-dimensional sound effect. They are essential to support technologies such as Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, which we will discuss in a moment.

Soundbar with or without subwoofer

The difference between a soundbar with a subwoofer and a soundbar without a subwoofer concerns the reproduction of low frequencies:

• With subwoofer: Offers deep and powerful bass, enhancing the sound experience in films, music and games, especially for film special effects and soundtracks. The subwoofer can be integrated or separate (often wireless).
• Without subwoofer: Rich bass is missing, the sound is less full-bodied and immersive, but the design is more compact and easier to install. Suitable for those who are not looking for particularly powerful sound or do not want to run an external subwoofer, also for space reasons.

Audio technology

Here is an overview of the most popular audio technologies:

• Dolby Digital: Standard for multi-channel audio used in cinemas and home reproductions such as Blu-ray discs. It enjoys wide compatibility and discrete sound (can be heard even if the medium does not handle it natively), but compresses the audio quality compared to lossless formats.
• Dolby Atmos: Adds vertical channels for 3D audio for unique immersion and a realistic spatial effect. Requires advanced soundbars and compatible content.
• Dolby Digital Plus: Advanced version of Dolby Digital, with improved audio and more channels (up to 7.1).
• Dolby TrueHD: Lossless audio (without compression). Represents the highest quality of audio, but requires higher bandwidth and compatible sources such as Blu-ray.
• DTS Digital Surround: Dolby Digital's competitor for 5.1, is similar but with less compression. It is a less widespread standard.
• DTS Virtual:X: Simulates 3D audio without vertical speakers; is a cheaper 3D solution but also less realistic than Atmos.
• DTS:X: Similar to Dolby Atmos, with object audio (tied to specific spatial coordinates, thus untied to right or left channels) and vertical channels. It boasts a flexible configuration but lower adoption - and consequently lower content compatibility.
• LPCM (Linear PCM): Uncompressed audio. The audio quality is pure and direct, but requires a very high bandwidth.

Each technology offers different levels of quality and immersion, influenced by the compatibility of the soundbar and the audio source. Now it's up to you to assess what your needs are and choose the best solution for you!

Additional functions

Easier to evaluate are the additional functions. Our catalogue makes life easier for you, as, in addition to the technologies mentioned above, you can ensure the presence of:

• Gaming sound mode
• Night mode
• Cinema sound mode
• 3D audio
• Auto power off
• Auto power on
• Automatic volume adjustment

Consideration should also be given to power, placement, connectivity (Bluetooth and Wifi) and inputs (HDMI, USB , AUX, optical digital audio).

Now you have everything you need to select the perfect soundbar for you, or win the award for best gift of the year! Surprise your friends or relatives with a unique and truly original gift that will give your home environment an extra edge that will be unlike a cinema. And as always, for any advice or curiosity, do not hesitate to contact us: our Team is always ready to guide you in the best possible way!

Until next time!
Your Vieffetrade Team