A soundbar not only improves the sound quality of the TV but also helps to add more boxes to your TV cabinet. The best soundbars allow you to integrate a voice assistant, stream music, and even stream videos. You don’t have to pay an arm and a leg to get the best, prices start around $130.
Before I show you your options, it’s important to differentiate between a smart soundbar and a smart TV. While a smart TV usually means that the screen has built-in apps, a smart soundbar usually means that the speaker has a voice assistant – usually either Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. The main exception here is Roku Streambar and Streambar Pro (originally with Smart Soundbar), which has software updates and constant support.
Of course, all soundbars are designed for use with most TVs, whether the device is smart or not. But if you’re looking for an all-in-one speaker and sound assistant, these are the soundbars to buy.
Read more: The Best Smart Speakers of 2023: Alexa, Google and More
The integrated Roku Streambar plugs into your TV’s HDMI ARC port and functions as a 4K streamer and soundbar. We found the Streambar to be easy to set up, and it sounds great for its size, especially with conversations. To make the sound even better, the $30 Voice Remote Pro adds an always-on voice assistant that can find new shows, even from a distance away.
Polk React with DTS Virtual Surround Sound is a one-way sound changer for one of my favorite speakers, the Polk Command Bar. Although it lacks a subwoofer, you can buy an additional one, as well as the rear. The 3D surround sound technology provides excellent sound quality, and the onboard Alexa is responsive. But the Yamaha YAS-209 is worth considering for its subwoofer and additional HDMI port, and it’s usually available for the same price or less than the Polk.
The Yamaha YAS-209 offers excellent sound in a compact audio bar with Amazon Alexa voice controls. The mics work better than the speakers, and you can use them when you download music. The sound system offers DTS Virtual:X surround sound processing and a wireless subwoofer. The YAS-209 doesn’t use the company’s MusicCast system, so you can’t sync it with other Yamaha speakers. It is currently on sale for $230.
