Best Dolby Atmos Soundbar With Rear Speakers
Tired of tinny TV speakers that leave you straining to hear dialogue and missing out on the immersive movie magic? You're not alone. For first-time home theater enthusiasts, a Dolby Atmos soundbar with rear speakers offers a relatively simple and cost-effective upgrade, bringing a taste of cinematic sound right into your living room.
We're diving deep into the world of these all-in-one audio solutions, separating the hype from the reality. Our aim is to provide you, the new buyer, with the knowledge you need to choose the perfect system for your space and your budget. We'll look at top models, explore key features, and address common concerns about reliability and value.
Why Dolby Atmos Soundbars with Rear Speakers Matter
Dolby Atmos is a surround sound technology that creates a three-dimensional audio experience. Unlike traditional surround sound, Atmos adds height channels, allowing sound to move above and around you. This is especially effective in movies and games, creating a more realistic and engaging environment.
Adding rear speakers to a soundbar takes the experience even further. The soundstage broadens, wrapping you in a cocoon of audio. Effects pan more realistically, and the overall immersion becomes far more convincing.
Top 5 Dolby Atmos Soundbars with Rear Speakers: A Comparison
| Model | Price (USD) | Configuration | Total Power (Watts) | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung HW-Q990C | $1,599 | 11.1.4 | 656 | 1 Year |
| Sonos Arc + Sub (Gen 3) + One SL Surrounds | $1,947 | 5.1.2 | N/A (Sonos Doesn't Disclose) | 1 Year |
| Bose Smart Soundbar 900 + Bass Module 700 + Surround Speakers | $2,197 | 5.1.2 | N/A (Bose Doesn't Disclose) | 1 Year |
| Sony HT-A9 | $1,799 | 4.0.4 (Phantom Channels) | N/A (Sony Doesn't Disclose) | 1 Year |
| Vizio Elevate | $999 | 5.1.4 | 107dB SPL | 1 Year |
Detailed Reviews
Samsung HW-Q990C
The Samsung HW-Q990C is a powerhouse, delivering a truly immersive experience with its 11.1.4 channel configuration. It boasts excellent sound quality, with clear highs, rich mids, and a powerful bass response. The included rear speakers are substantial and contribute significantly to the surround sound effect.
However, the price point might be a barrier for some. Also, its size can be overwhelming for smaller rooms.
Sonos Arc + Sub (Gen 3) + One SL Surrounds
The Sonos ecosystem is known for its seamless integration and ease of use. The Arc soundbar delivers impressive sound quality, and the addition of the Sub and One SL surrounds elevates the experience significantly. The downside? It’s an expensive system when bought together.
Individual calibration of the speakers allows for optimal placement. Sonos ecosystem lock-in might be a drawback for those who prefer mixing brands.
Bose Smart Soundbar 900 + Bass Module 700 + Surround Speakers
Bose is a well-known brand for a reason, and the Smart Soundbar 900 doesn’t disappoint. It offers excellent sound quality and a sleek design. The Bass Module 700 adds significant depth to the low frequencies, and the surround speakers complete the immersive experience.
This system is expensive, and like Sonos, it integrates best within the Bose ecosystem. Sound output may not be as configurable as some competing products.
Sony HT-A9
The Sony HT-A9 takes a different approach with its four separate speakers. Instead of a traditional soundbar, it uses spatial sound mapping to create a phantom surround sound experience. This system offers flexibility in placement and can adapt to various room shapes.
Setting up the speakers can be a bit tricky, and the sound quality might not be as impactful as a true discrete surround sound system. Still, Sony impresses with innovation.
Vizio Elevate
The Vizio Elevate stands out with its unique rotating speakers that automatically adjust for Dolby Atmos content. It offers a good balance of features and performance at a more affordable price point. The sound quality is impressive for the price, but it might not match the performance of higher-end systems.
Some users have reported reliability issues with the rotating speakers, so buyer beware. The design is certainly unique.
Used vs. New: Weighing Your Options
Used: Pros
- Lower Cost: Save a significant amount of money compared to buying new.
- Depreciation: Someone else has already taken the initial depreciation hit.
Used: Cons
- Warranty Concerns: Warranty may be voided or limited on used products.
- Potential Issues: Risk of hidden defects or wear and tear.
- Missing Accessories: May lack original packaging, accessories, or manuals.
New: Pros
- Full Warranty: Enjoy the peace of mind of a full manufacturer's warranty.
- Pristine Condition: Receive the product in perfect, brand-new condition.
- Latest Features: Access the latest technology and features.
New: Cons
- Higher Cost: Pay a premium for the privilege of owning a new product.
- Depreciation: Value depreciates as soon as you take it home.
Reliability Ratings by Brand
Reliability is a crucial factor when investing in a sound system. While individual experiences may vary, here's a general overview of brand reliability based on common user feedback:
- Samsung: Generally reliable, but some users have reported issues with software updates and connectivity.
- Sonos: Known for its solid build quality and reliable performance. Its software ecosystem is usually bug free.
- Bose: Generally reliable, but can be expensive to repair if issues arise.
- Sony: Known for innovation, but reliability can vary depending on the specific model.
- Vizio: More affordable, but may have a higher risk of reliability issues compared to premium brands.
Keep in mind that these are general observations. Researching specific models and reading user reviews can provide valuable insights into potential reliability concerns.
Checklist: 5 Must-Check Features Before Buying
- Dolby Atmos Support: Ensure the soundbar and rear speakers fully support Dolby Atmos for true immersive sound.
- Connectivity: Check for HDMI eARC, optical input, and Bluetooth connectivity for compatibility with your devices.
- Room Calibration: Look for features like room correction or calibration to optimize the sound for your specific space.
- Speaker Configuration: Understand the speaker configuration (e.g., 5.1.4, 7.1.2) and choose a system that suits your room size and listening preferences.
- User Reviews: Read user reviews to get insights into real-world performance and reliability.
In Conclusion
Choosing the best Dolby Atmos soundbar with rear speakers involves careful consideration of your budget, room size, and desired features. We have compared top models like the Samsung HW-Q990C, Sonos Arc system, Bose Smart Soundbar 900 system, Sony HT-A9, and Vizio Elevate.
We've also highlighted the pros and cons of buying used versus new, and explored brand reliability ratings. Don't forget the 5 key features to check before making your final decision.
By weighing these factors, you can confidently select a system that will transform your home entertainment experience.
Ready to Upgrade Your Sound?
Now that you're armed with the knowledge, take the next step. Visit your local electronics store or browse online retailers to explore these models further. Read more user reviews and compare prices to find the perfect Dolby Atmos soundbar with rear speakers for your home. Happy listening!
