Sound Bars: Reviews

If you want better sound than you get from your television's speakers and like the look of a one-piece sound bar system, critics say the Sony HT-CT150 is a good choice. Reviewers say the Sony sound bar does a better job… expandproducing a simulated surround-sound field than many of its competitors, but it isn't as good as some higher-priced sound bars or, obviously, a full five-speaker (or more) surround-sound system. Sound quality is very good -- better than the speakers in even the best HDTVs -- and is given presence by the inclusion of a small but reasonably powerful subwoofer. The three HDMI inputs can pass along all 3D video formats, while the single HDMI output can also accept audio from a TV that supports the latest audio return channel feature. collapse

The Vizio VHT510 mixes the sleek simplicity of a sound bar with the expansive audio field of a true 5.1 home theater system, thanks to the addition of two small rear surround speakers. While the additional speakers may… expandput off some sound bar buyers, critics say that setup is quick and simple, and you'll still get a clean, wire-free appearance up front because the rear speakers connect to the VHT510's wireless subwoofer rather than the sound bar itself. Those extra speakers give the VHT510 a sonic leg up on sound bars in its price range, and reviewers say other sound bars' simulated surround sound feel lacking in comparison to this unit's real deal. Music and movie playback is very good overall, although hectic action scenes and deep-voiced males could lead you to readjust settings. The input options are scant, however; you get only a single optical digital port and an analog stereo connection. User complaints that the LED display has a tendency to fail are troubling, but reports say that the issue has been corrected. collapse

While most sound bars are designed to be wall mounted if desired, there's only one place that the Zvox IncrediBase 575 can go -- underneath a stand-mounted TV as large as 65 inches. If that works for your home-theater… expandsetup, reports say the IncrediBase 575 is tough to beat. The surround-sound field is subtle but satisfying, seeking to envelop the listener in an expansive sound-stage rather than placing every effect. Sound quality is terrific, including base response that's good enough that most will be perfectly happy even without adding a subwoofer. The company offers a 30-day "home audition," and that could be important as some reviews say that it could take a couple of weeks of break in to get the IncrediBase 575 sounding its best. collapse

Although it is one of the most expensive sound bars available, experts agree that the Yamaha YSP-4100 sets the standard for its competitors. One reason is sound projection technology that does a good job of creating a… expandsurround-sound effect in most rooms and an outstanding job in some. Under the hood are 40 separate drivers. Audio quality is good, though like most sound bars, adding a subwoofer (not included) makes it better. The feature lineup is excellent and includes an automatic setup system, FM radio tuner, HDMI inputs, decoders for high-definition audio formats used on Blu-ray Discs and a wireless link for those who want to add a subwoofer. The downside is obvious: This sound-bar system costs more than many TVs. collapse