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10 Best Soundbars without Subwoofer in 2023 | All-in-one Solutions

Article By: Salman Sharif Published On: April 3, 2023 , Last updated on : November 13, 2023 | Reviewed by : Editorial Board
Best Soundbars without Subwoofer

Installing a soundbar in your living room is the quickest way to get a home theater system. But do the best soundbars without subwoofers produce good-quality sound? Good-quality sound depends on several factors, including the type of soundbar, the size of your room, and, ultimately, your personal preferences. To simplify, we have compiled a range of soundbars we have tested to prove that subwoofers are only sometimes mandatory.

Things to consider before buying the best soundbars without a subwoofer

Soundbars without external subwoofers are an excellent choice for those who want enhanced sound output from their television. In addition, they spare you from taking up too much space or dealing with wires. There are some key factors you should look for when purchasing the best soundbars without a subwoofer.

The number and type of drivers

Drivers are speakers that produce sound in a soundbar. The more drivers a soundbar has, the better it can reproduce different frequencies and create a fuller sound. Some soundbars have dedicated tweeters or center channels for more precise dialogue and high notes. Consider looking for a soundbar with at least four drivers, preferably some tweeters or a center channel.

The connectivity options

Connectivity refers to connecting your soundbar to your TV and other devices. Most soundbars have an optical input, a simple way to connect your TV using an optical cable. However, some newer TVs do not have an optical output, so you might need a different option, such as HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel), which allows you to use one HDMI cable for video and audio. Some soundbars also have Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities, which let you stream music from your phone or other devices wirelessly.

Sound modes and features

Sound modes and features are the settings that allow you to customize your soundbar’s performance according to your preferences and content. Some standard sound modes are movies, music, news, sports, etc., which adjust the bass, treble, surround effect, etc. Some features that you might find helpful are dialogue enhancement (which boosts the clarity of voices), night mode (which reduces loud noises), adaptive EQ (which adjusts the sound according to your room acoustics), etc.


Panasonic SoundSlayer

Panasonic SoundSlayer

The Panasonic SoundSlayer is a compact soundbar that delivers immersive 3D sound for your gaming sessions. It has three audio modes, supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and outputs clear and balanced sound. It’s easy to set up and use, and the dialogue enhancer makes voices more audible.
JBL BAR5.0

JBL BAR5.0

The JBL Bar 5.0 supports Virtual Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam technology for immersive 3D sound. It has a boxy sound profile with punchy bass and well-balanced musicality. It also passthrough 4K HDR via eARC and has an Automatic MultiBeam Calibration feature.
Sony HTX8500

Sony HTX8500

The Sony HTX8500 soundbar is a great way to improve the sound on any TV. It’s sleek, with a minimalistic design that’s easy to set up. The soundstage is wide, with lovely wraparound sound processing courtesy of Sony’s clever Vertical S, and that internal subwoofer is a proper beast.
VIZIO V20-J8

VIZIO V20-J8

The VIZIO V20-J8 soundbar is an excellent choice for anyone who wants immersive sound quality without breaking the bank. It features a sleek design, easy setup, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice control. Whether you’re watching movies, playing games, or listening to music, the VIZIO V20-J8 soundbar will enhance your audio experience.
Sonos Arc

Sonos Arc

The Sonos Arc is a powerful device that delivers immersive sound. It will immerse you in the action whether you listen to music, watch movies, or play games. With easy setup, intelligent features, and voice control, the Sonos Arc soundbar is fantastic for your smart home.
Bose Smart Soundbar 300

Bose Smart Soundbar 300

The Bose Smart Soundbar 300 is designed for various applications, including movies, music, and games. Its powerful sound system can fill a large room with clear and balanced audio. The soundbar also has several features that make it easy to use, including a built-in voice assistant and a remote control.
Hisense HS214

Hisense HS214

The Hisense HS214 soundbar is a budget-friendly and reliable device that delivers rich and crisp sound for home entertainment. It also has innovative features and an intuitive setup procedure for any room environment.
SAMSUNG S61A

SAMSUNG S61A

The Samsung S61A soundbar delivers powerful surround sound for home entertainment. The implementation of Dolby Digital technology creates a virtual surround sound experience, so you can feel in the middle of the action. Its sleek design and compact size make it easy to place anywhere in your home.
TCL Alto TS6100

TCL Alto TS6100

The TCL Alto TS6100 is a budget-friendly soundbar that offers good sound quality for the price. It’s perfect for small to medium-sized rooms and has a compact design. Moreover, it supports HDMI-ARC, optical, AUX, and Bluetooth for wireless streaming and has two built-in speakers.
YAMAHA SR-C20A

YAMAHA SR-C20A

The Yamaha SR-C20A soundbar is a flexible sound bar for your space. It has a built-in subwoofer and passive radiators for surprising bass. It also has Clear Voice technology for enhanced dialogue clarity and Bluetooth streaming for your music and podcasts.

Best soundbar without subwoofer | Top 10

Soundbars are sleek devices that can deliver rich and balanced sound, making your viewing experience more immersive and enjoyable. Yet not all soundbars are created equal. If you need help determining which soundbar suits you, we have sorted a list of the best soundbars without a subwoofer.

List of the best soundbars without subwoofer

  1. Panasonic SoundSlayer
  2. JBL BAR5.0
  3. Sony HTX8500
  4. VIZIO V20-J8
  5. Sonos Arc
  6. Bose Smart Soundbar 300
  7. Hisense HS214
  8. SAMSUNG S61A
  9. TCL Alto TS6100
  10. YAMAHA SR-C20A

Panasonic SoundSlayer

Panasonic SoundSlayerChannels: 2.1

Dimensions: 17 x 5.25 x 2.06 inches

Special Features: Dolby Atmos

The Panasonic SoundSlayer soundbar is a compact, gaming-focused speaker that delivers a punchy sound for its size. It has three audio modes: RPG, FPS, and Voice, supported by Dolby Atmos and DTS:X virtual surround sound. In our test, it managed to output clear and balanced sound quality.

The SoundSlayer can produce crisp highs, detailed mids, and decent lows without distortion or harshness. We found the dialogue enhancer feature noticeably made voices more audible. Panasonic also makes the setup process much more manageable. You only need to connect it to your PC or TV via HDMI or an optical cable and select the desired audio mode with the remote control.

Pros:

  • Compact size
  • Dedicated sound modes for gaming
  • Intense audio with a large sound field
  • Bluetooth, HDMI, and optical connectivity
  • Surprisingly varied, rich, and punchy sound

Cons:

  • Sub-par remote

Overall, the Panasonic SoundSlayer soundbar is an excellent option for gamers who want a compact speaker to deliver immersive 3D sound without taking up much space. Its limited connectivity options may turn off potential buyers, but our test has proven it is capable of being one of the best all-in-one compact soundbars on the market.

Quantitative Measurement

Sound Quality: 10/10
Design: 10/10
Durability: 9.5/10
Connectivity: 10/10

JBL BAR 5.0

JBL BAR5.0Channels: 5.0

Dimensions: 27.9 x 3.9 x 2.3 inches

Special Features: Dolby Atmos

If you’re looking for a soundbar to fill your room with immersive and realistic sound without breaking the bank or cluttering your space, look no further than the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam soundbar. This fantastic speaker has everything you need to enjoy your favorite games, movies, shows, and music in stunning virtual surround sound. We guarantee that the JBL Bar 5.0 will immerse you in action, whether playing a fast-paced shooter, watching a thrilling action film, or listening to a relaxing playlist.

The JBL Bar 5.0 is different from your ordinary soundbar. It has five drivers that use JBL’s MultiBeam technology to create a wide and enveloping sound field that covers every corner of your room. It also supports Virtual Dolby Atmos, which can decode and reproduce sounds from above and behind you, giving you a more realistic and immersive experience.

This soundbar is also designed to fit seamlessly into any home entertainment setup. It has a sleek, compact design that can be easily placed under most TVs or monitors without blocking the screen or remote signals. It also has a metal grille and rubber feet, giving it a premium look and feel. And if you want to stream audio wirelessly from your phone, tablet, laptop, or other devices, you’ll love the JBL Bar 5.0’s wireless playback options. In addition, Bluetooth 4.2, Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Alexa Multi-Room Music Group support let you enjoy your favorite tunes with just a tap.

Pros:

  • Decent connectivity options
  • Sleek design with a discreet LED display
  • Expansive soundstage with MultiBeam technology
  • The automatic calibration feature optimizes the sound for your room
  • It delivers impressive bass without a subwoofer thanks to its four passive radiators

Cons:

  • It does not support DTS formats or HDR10+ pass-through

The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam soundbar is a single-unit speaker that delivers big on performance and features. It’s perfect for gamers who want to enhance their gaming immersion with virtual surround sound without sacrificing sound quality or space. Although it may have limited connectivity options, that does not stop it from being one of the best soundbars without a subwoofer.

Quantitative Measurement

Sound Quality: 10/10
Design: 10/10
Durability: 9.5/10
Connectivity: 9.5/10

Sony HTX8500

Sony HTX8500Channels: 2.1

Dimensions: 6.75 x 37.25 x 6.25 inches

Special Features: Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, Digital Upscale

Sony is one of the leading brands in the soundbar industry, with many models receiving positive reviews from experts and customers alike. The HTX8500 is one of our top picks for soundbars without a subwoofer because of its features, design, and performance.

At its core, the HTX8500 is a 2.1-channel soundbar that uses digital signal processing to create a virtual surround sound effect that rivals 7.1.2-channel systems. It also has a built-in subwoofer that supports Dolby Atmos and DTS: X formats for immersive audio. We also found the seven sound modes compelling enough to adapt to various sources.

Pros:

  • Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats for immersive sound effect
  • A built-in subwoofer that delivers powerful bass and saves space
  • The sleek and compact design fits well with most TVs
  • Two HDMI ports that are compatible with HDR, Dolby Vision, and eARC sources
  • Plug-and-play installation and a simple remote control

Cons:

  • It lacks up-firing drivers

According to our test results, the HT-X8500 creates an expansive front soundstage with good width and height. It also handles low frequencies well, thanks to its built-in subwoofer. Furthermore, the bass is surprisingly deep and punchy for such a slim unit.

The HTX8500 soundbar has a sleek design that complements any TV. It also features digital sound enhancement to deliver rich and immersive audio. If you have a compatible Sony TV, you can connect the HTX8500 wirelessly and enjoy a clutter-free setup. For more options, check out our guide on the best soundbars for Sony TVs.

Quantitative Measurement

Sound Quality: 9.5/10
Design: 10/10
Durability: 9/10
Connectivity: 9/10

VIZIO V20-J8

VIZIO V-Series 2.0Channels: 2.0

Dimensions: 24 x 2.28 x 3.20 inches

Special Features: DTS Virtual: X

The VIZIO V-Series 2.0 soundbar is a compact and affordable option for enhancing your TV audio. It features DTS Virtual: X technology, which creates a virtual surround sound effect from two speakers. You can also use Bluetooth to stream music from your smartphone or tablet. The soundbar has a sleek, minimalist design that fits nicely under most TVs. It has a remote control lets you adjust the volume, bass, treble, and sound modes. You can either wall-mount the soundbar or place it on a table.

The quality of the VIZIO V-Series 2.0 soundbar is excellent for its price range, but it is not comparable to a premium soundbar. It delivers clear dialogue and balanced midrange frequencies but lacks some bass and high-end details. The DTS Virtual: X mode adds some spaciousness and depth to the soundstage but can also make some sounds too loud or distorted. The soundbar performs better with movies and TV shows than with music genres requiring more dynamic range and fidelity.

Pros:

  • Great audio quality
  • Easy setup
  • Simple design
  • Inexpensive
  • Virtual assistant support

Cons:

  • Low bass without subwoofer

In conclusion, the VIZIO V-Series 2.0 soundbar is a good choice for people looking for a low-cost way to improve their TV audio. It offers a noticeable upgrade over the built-in speakers of most TVs. Still, it may not compete with more expensive, powerful soundbars with dedicated subwoofers or rear speakers.

Quantitative Measurement

Sound Quality: 9.5/10
Design: 9/10
Durability: 9.5/10
Connectivity: 9.5/10

Sonos Arc

Sonos ArcChannels: 5.0.2

Dimensions: 45 x 4.5 x 3.4 inches

Special Features: Dolby Atmos, Trueplay tuning technology

The Sonos Arc is a premium soundbar that offers versatile performance for different types of audio content. It supports Dolby Atmos and eARC, which allow it to deliver immersive and spacious sound with compatible devices. It also has HDMI ports and can be controlled by voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant.

On top of that, its sleek, minimalist design fits well with most TVs and decor. It can also be easily placed on a flat surface or wall-mounted. Sonos also includes a touch-sensitive control panel and an LED status light for convenience.

Regarding sound performance, it has a balanced and neutral sound profile that suits most genres of music. Thanks to its dedicated center channel and speech enhancement feature, it can reproduce clear and accurate dialogue. It can also produce deep and punchy bass, although it may lack some rumble for action movies or EDM tracks.

Pros:

  • Stellar sound for music and TV with Dolby Atmos support
  • Utilizes seamless streaming ecosystem
  • Alexa and Google Assistant built-in
  • An all-in-one unit
  • eARC support

Cons:

  • Trueplay Tuning is for iOS only

The Sonos Arc’s main strength is its ability to create a wide and enveloping soundstage with Dolby Atmos content. It uses upward-firing speakers to reflect sound off the ceiling, giving a sense of height and overhead effects. It also uses side-firing speakers to widen the soundstage beyond the edges of the bar, creating a more realistic and immersive experience. You may get more information from our Sonos Arc soundbar review.

Overall, the Sonos Arc is one of the best soundbars you can buy today if you want a premium and versatile device that can easily handle Dolby Atmos content. It delivers excellent sound quality across different types of audio content, and it integrates well with other Sonos products and smart devices.

Quantitative Measurement

Sound Quality: 9/10
Design: 9/10
Durability: 9/10
Connectivity: 9/10

Bose Smart Soundbar 300

Bose Smart Soundbar 300Channels: 3.0

Dimensions: 27.5 x 2.25 x 4 inches

Special Features: Bose Voice for Video technology

The Bose Smart Soundbar 300 is a compact, versatile soundbar offering decent mixed-use performance. It has a sleek design and simple remote control. It also supports voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant and wireless streaming via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect.

The soundbar has a v-shaped sound profile emphasizing bass and treble, making it suitable for rock or pop music and dialogue-heavy content like TV shows. However, it lacks a dedicated subwoofer and surround speakers, so it may not deliver the deep rumble and immersive soundstage that some movie fans may prefer. It also doesn’t support Dolby Atmos or DTS:X formats.

Pros:

  • Expansive and rich sound
  • Choice of Alexa or Google Assistant
  • Private headphone listening
  • AirPlay 2 and Chromecast Built-in
  • Sleek and stylish design

Cons:

  • Expensive for a small soundbar

The Bose Smart Soundbar 300 is a good choice for small to medium-sized rooms with limited space. It can easily handle being a living room soundbar as well. However, if you want more bass or surround effects, add optional accessories like the Bose Bass Module 500 or the Bose Surround Speakers.

Ultimately, the Bose Smart Soundbar 300 is a solid option for those who want a simple and smart soundbar to enhance their TV audio and music listening experiences. It has a balanced and clear sound quality that can be adjusted with presets or an app. It also has many connectivity options and features that make it easy to use and control.

Quantitative Measurement

Sound Quality: 8.5/10
Design: 9/10
Durability: 8.5/10
Connectivity: 8.5/10

Hisense HS214

Hisense HS214Channels: 2.1

Dimensions: 25.6 x 3.7 x 2.3 inches

Special Features: Dolby Digital Plus

The Hisense HS214 is a straightforward 2.1-channel all-in-one soundbar that delivers decent performance for its price range. Its sleek and compact design, with a black metal grille, can go with any room’s aesthetic. It also has a remote control and all the necessary cables for easy setup.

The soundbar features two front-firing full-range drivers and a downward-firing woofer mounted in the cabinet’s base, producing clear dialogue and balanced sound effects. The bass unit adds a low-end punch but could be more powerful and profound. The soundbar also supports the Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and PCM audio formats, resulting in a more immersive surround sound experience.

Pros:

  • Decent low-end with a built-in subwoofer
  • Clear vocal projection
  • Compact size that fits TVs up to 55 inches
  • Easy to set up with HDMI ARC and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Affordably priced

Cons:

  • The quality of the woofer unit could be better

The soundbar has multiple connectivity options, including HDMI ARC, optical, AUX, Bluetooth 5.0, and USB. It also has four preset sound modes: Standard, Movie, Music, and News. The HDMI ARC port lets you control the soundbar with your TV remote, while Bluetooth 5.0 enables wireless streaming from your smartphone or tablet.

The Hisense HS214 is a good choice for anyone looking for an affordable, simple soundbar to enhance their TV audio quality. It has a solid build quality, easy installation and operation, and decent sound performance. However, it may not satisfy those wanting more bass or advanced features such as subwoofer output or voice assistant support.

Quantitative Measurement

Sound Quality: 8/10
Design: 8.5/10
Durability: 8.5/10
Connectivity: 7.5/10

SAMSUNG S61A

SAMSUNG 5.0ch S61AChannels: 5.0

Dimensions: 30.1 x 4.9 x 2.7 inches

Special Features: Built-in center speaker and voice assistant

The Samsung S61A soundbar is a compact and stylish device offering expansive and immersive sound for movies and music. It features a new center channel for more precise dialogue, a built-in Alexa voice assistant, AirPlay 2 support, and Adaptive Sound technology that optimizes the sound based on the content. The soundbar also has a sleek Kvadrat fabric design that comes in grey or black and can be wall-mounted or placed on a table.

The soundbar delivers a powerful performance with its side-firing horn speakers that create a surround sound effect. The bass is decent for its size but could be more profound and punchy. The sound modes include Standard, Surround Sound Expansion, Adaptive Sound Lite, Game Pro, and Music. The Music mode is especially impressive with its rich and detailed sound quality. The soundbar also supports Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS Virtual:X formats.

Pros:

  • Wide, expansive sound with side-firing horn speakers
  • Great with music and supports Spotify Connect, Deezer, and TuneIn
  • Tweaked design over the older model with Kvadrat fabric and LED indicator
  • AirPlay 2 support and Alexa built-in
  • New center speaker to handle dialogue

Cons:

  • It does not have Atmos support

The soundbar has several connectivity options, including HDMI ARC, optical, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, and USB. It also works with Samsung’s SmartThings app, allowing you to control the settings, access streaming services like Spotify Connect and TuneIn, and integrate with other smart devices like Philips Hue lights. The remote control is simple and intuitive but lacks a display or feedback for some functions.

The Samsung 5.0ch S61A soundbar is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile soundbar to enhance their TV-watching and music-listening experiences. It offers many features and technologies in its price range. Still, if it does not match your preference, try one from our pick of best soundbars for music lovers.

Quantitative Measurement

Sound Quality: 8.5/10
Design: 9/10
Durability: 8.5/10
Connectivity: 8.5/10

TCL Alto TS6100

TCL Alto TS6100-NAChannels: 2.0

Dimensions: 31.5 x 2.4 x 4.2 inches

Special Features: Specialized sound modes

The TCL Alto TS6100 soundbar is a budget-friendly device that aims to improve your TV audio without breaking the bank. It has a simple and compact design that can be easily mounted or placed under your TV. It supports HDMI-ARC, optical, AUX, and Bluetooth for wireless streaming. The soundbar has two built-in speakers that deliver 120W of power. It also features Dolby Digital audio processing for enhanced sound quality. The soundbar lacks a subwoofer, so it lacks some bass and depth. However, it does a decent job of producing clear and balanced sound for most content types.

The TCL Alto TS6100 soundbar is ideal for small to medium-sized rooms where you don’t need loud volume or surround sound effects. It can make dialogue more audible and add richness to your TV audio. It can also play music from your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth with good clarity and loudness.

Pros:

  • A powerful sound system on a budget
  • Features a decent and balanced sound profile that can be customized with three EQ presets
  • Loud enough to fill a crowded room
  • Supports Bluetooth for easy audio streaming from your devices
  • Seamless design

Cons:

  • The lack of a discrete center channel sometimes makes dialogue intangible

However, compared with other premium soundbars, it is not for audiophiles who want a sophisticated and immersive sound system. It has no advanced features like voice control, EQ settings, night mode, or wireless subwoofer compatibility. It also does not support Dolby Atmos or DTS:X formats that create a 3D sound field.

The TCL Alto TS6100 soundbar is great value for money. It is an all-in-one soundbar with Dolby Digital audio processing and two built-in speakers. It doesn’t come with an external subwoofer, but with the help of Dolby Digital, the audio is well-balanced, and speech is crisp and clear. Although the TCL TS6100 soundbar isn’t designed to fill a massive cinema room, it has a pretty impressive volume range. It’s a solid option for anyone looking for the best soundbar without a subwoofer.

Quantitative Measurement

Sound Quality: 8/10
Design: 9/10
Durability: 8.5/10
Connectivity: 8.5/10

YAMAHA SR-C20A

.YAMAHA SR-C20AChannels: 2.1

Dimensions: 23.6 x 2.5 x 3.75 inches

Special Features: Compact

If you’re looking for a compact and affordable soundbar to enhance your TV or computer audio, consider the YAMAHA SR-C20A. This soundbar is compact, yet, it delivers a surprisingly rich and clear sound thanks to its two full-range drivers, integrated subwoofer, and dual passive radiators.

The SR-C20A has four sound modes: Stereo, Game, Movie, and Clear Voice, which let you adjust the sound according to your preference and content. It also uses Yamaha’s Virtual Surround Technology to create a more immersive soundstage without adding extra speakers. The soundbar supports Dolby Audio decoding for better compatibility with streaming services and Blu-ray discs.

Pros:

  • Focused, clear presentation
  • Rich tone
  • Slim and compact design that fits in small spaces
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Plenty of connection options for such a small device

Cons:

  • No streaming capability or smart features

The SR-C20A is easy to set up and use, with a simple remote control and an LED display on the front panel. It has multiple connection options, including HDMI ARC, optical x2, analog audio, and Bluetooth 5.0. With a preamp, you can connect it to your TV, set-top box, gaming console, or turntable. The Bluetooth feature lets you stream music wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet.

The only drawbacks of the SR-C20A are that it lacks a subwoofer output for deeper bass, doesn’t support DTS audio format for some DVDs, and faces stiff competition from other soundbars in its price range that offer more features or better performance. However, if you value simplicity, compactness, and quality over bells and whistles, the SR-C20A might be a good fit.

Quantitative Measurement

Sound Quality: 8/10
Design: 9/10
Durability: 8/10
Connectivity: 8/10

Final thoughts

Soundbars without subwoofers can still deliver high-quality sound for your home theater system, depending on your preferences and needs. Some soundbars have built-in woofers or bass drivers to produce deep, rich sound without a separate subwoofer. Others have virtual surround sound technology to create a spacious and immersive soundstage. All in all, we hope this guide has helped you find the best soundbar without a subwoofer for your living room. If you are a console gamer, check out our take on the best soundbars for PS5 that offer immersive sound, low latency, and easy setup.