Advancements in Soundbar Technology

From unparalleled spatial sound technology to AI-driven innovations and seamless integration with TVs, discover how the latest Soundbars are the most preferred Audio Systems.

Creating unwinding environs with music is a regular practice in most homes. It is observed that homeowners do not think twice when it comes to investing in Audio Systems this is specifically true in the case of Soundbars. There are many market research reports indicating that Soundbars continues to dominate the audio consumer product category, outpacing receivers and traditional passive speaker systems. 

As mentioned earlier, the soundbar market in India is experiencing robust growth driven by several key factors. Prominent amongst them is the rising demand for home entertainment systems and the slimming down of TVs affecting built-in speakers, soundbars have become popular for providing enhanced audio quality. The compact and aesthetically designed soundbars are a popular choice for most urban homes, especially compact homes. With a plethora of International and National brands offering unlimited choice in terms of design, and competitive pricing, coupled with the convenience of wireless connectivity, it is no surprise that more and more people are opting for Soundbars. 

Modern interior with white sofas and lamp 3D

Apart from the sleek and compact design of Soundbars, tech-savvy homeowners are looking for Smart features, integration with voice assistants, and compatibility with smart home ecosystems. Plus, the growing demand for gaming and sports content is also one of the factors that is fueling the demand for soundbars with immersive audio capabilities. Aggressive marketing strategies, e-commerce availability, and continuous product innovation are driving the growth of the soundbar market, making it a dynamic and thriving segment in India. 

Features and Components

A soundbar comprises essential components that collectively contribute to an enriched audio experience. Multiple speaker drivers, including tweeters, mid-range drivers, and woofers, are integrated to cover the full spectrum of frequencies. These devices are powered by built-in amplifiers, ensuring optimal volume and clarity. Crossover networks divide the audio signal, directing specific frequency ranges to the appropriate speaker drivers. Sound processing technology, often through digital signal processing (DSP), enhances audio quality by offering features like virtual surround sound and equalization. Some soundbars include an integrated subwoofer for deep bass reproduction, while others have a separate wireless or wired subwoofer. Various connectivity ports, such as HDMI, optical, and analog options, facilitate connections with TVs and other audio sources. 

Wireless connectivity options like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi enable seamless audio streaming from compatible devices. Control mechanisms include remote controls or smartphone apps, offering flexibility in managing settings and volume levels. Soundbars may also incorporate smart features like voice assistants. Mounting options, such as wall brackets or adjustable stands, cater to different installation preferences. LED displays or indicator lights provide visual feedback on settings and volume levels, ensuring user-friendly operation. Altogether, these components create a versatile and immersive audio solution, making soundbars a popular choice for home entertainment systems.

Latest Advancement

Recent advancements in soundbar technology have brought about a host of features designed to elevate the audio experience. One notable trend is the support for immersive audio formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, providing a three-dimensional sound environment. Object-based audio processing technology allows for precise sound placement, contributing to a more realistic auditory experience. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms enables soundbars to analyze and optimize audio output based on the content being played and the room’s acoustics. Voice control features have seen improvements, with many soundbars now compatible with popular smart assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, offering hands-free operation. High-resolution audio support caters to audiophiles, delivering superior sound quality and detailed audio reproduction. Enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity facilitates seamless streaming from various online sources, while HDMI eARC ensures high-quality audio transmission. Advanced digital signal processing and equalization algorithms contribute to fine-tuned audio settings, allowing for a more personalized listening experience. Soundbars also feature compact and aesthetically pleasing designs, integrating seamlessly with modern home decor. Gesture controls, multi-room audio capabilities, and upgradable firmware options make soundbars a popular choice amongst further contribute to the evolving landscape of soundbar technology.

Different Types of Soundbars (box) 

2.0 channel: The most basic soundbar configuration with left and right speakers. Delivers stereo sound and is fine for casual music/TV use.

2.1 channel: Includes a wired/wireless subwoofer along with left and right speakers. Most popular configuration for impactful home theatre audio.

5.1 channel: Includes a soundbar, subwoofer, and surround left/right speakers. Provides an immersive cinematic experience through multi-channel surround sound.

Dolby Atmos: High-end soundbars that support 3D Dolby Atmos audio for an ultra-realistic soundstage. Require Dolby Atmos source content.

Smart Soundbars: Premium soundbars with built-in streaming apps and voice assistants. Let you stream music and control smart home devices.

With so many brands and models in the market, finding a suitable soundbar can be a time-consuming effort. Smart Home World has made this job easy for you by curating a list of the best soundbar in India. 

Loewe, a distinguished German manufacturer renowned for crafting high-end audio and visual solutions, boasts an impressive lineup of soundbars that are designed to elevate the audio quality of home entertainment systems. Among their offerings, the Loewe Klang Bar 5 stands out as a pinnacle of sophistication, delivering impeccably clear and potent Dolby Atmos sound. Its wireless capabilities seamlessly integrate with streaming services and Google Chromecast, enhancing its versatility. Exhibiting premium craftsmanship, the Klang Bar 5 MR, is a Dolby Atmos and DTS: X-capable soundbar system, solidifying its status as a high-end audio solution. Boasting 5.1.2 channels and a wireless subwoofer, it offers 440 watts of total music power, supporting various audio technologies like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS Virtual: X.

Designed for a captivating 3D cinema sound experience, the Klang Bar 5 MR ensures compatibility with multiple connectivity options, including three HDMI ports, 4K upscaling, and 4K pass-through. With its premium materials, sleek design, and advanced audio technologies, the Loewe Klang Bar 5 MR emerges as a top-tier choice, seamlessly blending aesthetics and cutting-edge functionality for any space.

Tech Specification:

* This soundbar offers expandability, transforming into a 5.1.2 system through wireless multi-channel (WDAL 2.0) or multiroom audio with Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in™, and DTS Play-Fi. 

* With a slim profile measuring less than 3 inches in height, the Klang Bar 5 MR combines elegance with a clear design language and employs high-quality materials. 

* Supporting a variety of streaming services, including Spotify, Amazon Music, Tidal, Deezer, and Internet radio.

Wisdom Audio’s Insight Series P9m-LCR Soundbar is specifically designed to avoid the compromises inherent in other conventional soundbars. They offer “custom length” designs, that offer the best sound quality that will match the width of any television. 

The P9m-LCR is available in custom lengths from a minimum of 65.42′′ (1661mm) and a maximum of 90.8′′ (2306mm). It contains (3) Spherical PMDs for the high frequencies playing down to an amazing 900 Hz and (6) 4.5′′ Woofers to do the low-frequency heavy lifting. Insight P9m series loudspeakers are specifically designed to avoid the compromises inherent in conventional speaker designs. P9m Series speakers are customized to fit the width of your specific TV.  This model is available through AV Nirvana Distribution.

Tech Specifications: *

Dual Woofer + Spherical PMD LCR “MTM x3” Designed for 75” to 100” nominal diagonal TV sizes

• Absolute minimum width is 65.42” (1661mm)

• Absolute maximum width is 90.8” (2306mm) Spec/Performance

• Sensitivity: 86dB, 2.83V@1m

• Frequency Response (+/-3dB): 90Hz-20kHz

• Low Frequency Bandwidth (-10dB): 54Hz

• Recommended Minimum Amplifier: 75 Watts

• Maximum Power Handling: 200 Watts

• Impedance: 4 ohms 

Polk’s MagniFi Max AX SR is a flagship 7.1.2 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X soundbar system designed to bring movies, TV, music, and games to life like never before. The heart-pounding cinematic thrills delivered by a sophisticated 11-driver array, featuring built-in height drivers and two wireless surrounds, are all enhanced by Polk’s patented SDA technology for an expansive soundstage.

Some of the highlight features are the complete Wireless Entertainment for Your Home Streaming high-quality music wirelessly from your phone, tablet, or computer using Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, or any Works with Alexa compatible music service. Additionally, it connects effortlessly via Bluetooth. With these services, you can synchronize multiple MagniFi AX Series soundbars for a seamless multi-room music listening experience.

This model includes a robust 10” down-firing subwoofer, delivering the deep, effortless bass for which Polk is renowned. The wireless connection allows for flexible placement, and with BassAdjust, you can fine-tune the subwoofer to achieve the perfect balance of power and precision.

It also provides a total Immersion Wireless Surround Speakers Experience with the inclusion of wireless surround speakers. These speakers contribute to a complete surround sound setup, enhancing your audio immersion and creating an authentic home theater experience. This model can support audio formats like PCM, Dolby Mono, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos True HD, DTS Digital Surround, DTS-HD, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X and DTS Virtual X.

Tech Specification: 

• Enjoy immersive, SDA-optimized 7.1.2 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound.

• Stream music via Wi-Fi (Chromecast, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect) or Bluetooth

• Experience the deep bass you can feel with the included 10 wireless subwoofer

• Two wireless surround speakers included for total immersion

• Streamline your setup with 3-in/1-out 4K HDMI-switching with eARC

The Yamaha SR-X50A+WS-1XA (True X) one of the premier ranges from the brand offers connectivity options abound with optical, Bluetooth, HDMI eARC, Wi-Fi, and Airplay 2, ensuring seamless compatibility with a wide range of devices. The Yamaha SR-X50A+WS-1XA boasts key features such as Dolby Atmos for a captivating audio experience, Airplay 2 functionality for enhanced connectivity, and the convenience of wireless surround.

Tailored for optimal sound delivery in living rooms, bedrooms, and guest rooms, the channel configuration of this audio system is designed to elevate your audio experience. Available in a sleek black colour, this model seamlessly integrates into any living space.

Offering the flexibility of wireless connectivity for both the subwoofer and surrounds, the Yamaha SR-X50A+WS-1XA (True X) delivers not only powerful sound with a 100W output from the subwoofer but also a stylish addition to your entertainment setup. 

Tech Specifications: 

 Power Rating: 280W

Configuration: Soundbar, Wireless Subwoofer, Wireless surrounds

Connectivity: Optical, Bluetooth, HDMI eARC, Wi-fi, Airplay 2

Key features: Dolby Atmos, Airplay 2, Wireless surrounds

Application area: Living room, Bedroom, Guest room

Sizes and colours: Black

Wired or Wireless: Wireless Subwoofer & surrounds

Output: 100W(Subwoofer)

Devialet Dione, the Dolby Atmos Soundbar in a sleek dark grey finish delivers a premium home entertainment experience with key performance features. With a sound pressure level of 101 dB SPL at 1 meter, 5.1.2 multichannel audio channels, and a frequency response ranging from 24Hz to 21kHz, the Dolby Atmos Soundbar ensures immersive and dynamic sound reproduction. This soundbar boasts a total amplification power of 950 Watts RMS, driven by advanced audio technologies that include SPACE®, a proprietary up-mixing algorithm for mono and stereo content, and ORB®, a patented central sphere design adaptable to both flat surfaces and wall-mounted setups. The ADE® technology ensures optimal speaker placement with digital filters, contributing to a three-dimensional immersion experience. AVL® provides real-time dynamic equalization for harmonized sound levels, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Equipped with the Devialet Intelligence Processor, this soundbar integrates Devialet’s award-winning technologies, including ADH® and SAM®. The speaker setup comprises 17 neodymium drivers, featuring 9 full-range aluminum drivers and 8 aluminum long-throw subwoofers. The digital-to-analog converter (DAC) embedded in the processor supports 24-bit/96kHz audio.

Constructed with premium materials, the central core is made of anodized aluminum, while the external and sides feature acoustic fabric. The rear protective panel is crafted from PC-ABS. The Dark Grey color adds a touch of sophistication to your audio setup. In terms of dimensions, the soundbar measures 1200 mm in width, 77 mm in height (88 mm with the sphere), and 165 mm in depth, with a weight of 12 kg. The power supply is custom-built by Devialet, supporting a range of 100-240 V~50/60Hz.

Connectivity options include 1x HDMI 2.1 with eARC/ARC and CEC compatibility, 1x Optical TOSLINK S/PDIF, and support for AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth 5.0, and UPnP. The Devialet Operating System 2 (DOS 2) powers the soundbar, and it is compatible with the Devialet Application, offering room calibration, SPACE™ audio mode control, volume control, and regular updates.

Network capabilities include dual-band Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n/ac 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz), Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45, and Bluetooth 5.0. The soundbar supports a variety of audio formats, including PCM/LPCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, and Dolby Atmos.

Included in the package are the Devialet Dione soundbar, a High-Speed HDMI cable supporting Dolby Atmos, a TOSLINK Optical cable, a power cable, documentation, and a wall-mount guide with accessories. 

Sonos Arc is a premium smart soundbar designed to elevate the home cinema experience with immersive sound for TV, music, and more. Powered by Sonos’ advanced software platform, the Arc brings a new level of cinematic audio sophistication to entertainment spaces. The Sonos Arc delivers a rich, realistic 3D sound experience with support for Dolby Atmos surround. Its acoustic design creates an ultra-wide soundstage with impressive bass, providing dramatic clarity, detail, and depth. It provides adaptive, software-driven sound that is perfectly tuned to your space and setup with Trueplay. The Arc dynamically adjusts its tuning based on the other speakers in your home cinema setup and the type of content you’re enjoying, whether it’s music or TV.

The Arc’s elongated shape and seamless 270-degree curved grille enable multi-directional sound while fitting elegantly into your room. Whether placed in front of a standing TV or wall-mounted using a custom-designed mount the setup is simple with an HDMI eARC or ARC connection for high-quality audio playback.

This model provides seamless control through the Sonos app, your existing TV remote, voice commands with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, Apple AirPlay 2, and more. It also has eleven Class-D digital amplifiers, eight elliptical woofers for faithful playback of mid-range and vocal frequencies, three silk-dome tweeters for crisp high frequencies and clear dialogue, and four far-field microphone arrays for effective voice assistant response.

Tech Specification: 

Dimensions: 3.4 x 45 x 4.5 inches (87 x 1141.7 x 115.7 mm)

Finish: Black with matte finish / White with matte finish

Weight: 13.78 lb (6.25 kg)

Power supply: Auto-switching 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz AC universal input.

Ethernet Port: 1 10/100 Mbps ethernet port. Wire directly to your router if WiFi is unreliable.

WiFi: Connects to your home WiFi network with any 802.11b/g, 2.4 GHz broadcast-capable router.

Idle energy usage: 4.3 watts of power in idle mode.

Infrared (IR) receiver: Syncs with your TV remote for streamlined control.

Contents: Arc, Power Cable, HDMI Cable, Optical Audio Adapter, QuickStart Guide, Legal & Warranty Information

Krix subwoofer The LX-7 was recently awarded the StereoNet Product of the Year Award 2024. The LX-7 is a stylish, high-performance passive loudspeaker, custom-built in Australia for screen sizes 75 inches and above. Featuring left, center and right channels, it can be combined with surround speakers and an AVR/Processor to create a genuine, immersive cinema soundscape without the need for virtual or ‘bouncing’ effects. The sleek design requires minimal space above or below your screen. The LX-7 is intended to be combined with a Krix subwoofer(s) to accurately reproduce the lowest frequencies for the very highest level of home cinema performance.

Tech Specification: 

Power Rating:  50-250 Watts RMS recommended amplifier power – per channel 

Configuration: 2-way  

Three 90 x 90 Krix short-throw waveguides

Suitable for mounting below or above your screen

Included bracket to be mounted flush or at adjustable angles up to 15 degrees

Cinema Black with grille and bracket LX-7 75 75 to 84 220mm high  x 1670mm wide x 142mm deep 25kg, LX-7 85 85 to 97 220mm high  x 1892mm wide x 142mm deep 27kg and LX-7 100 98 to 115 220mm high x 2180mm wide x 142mm deep 30kg

LG S95 is a flagship model of the 2023 lineup of soundbars is a complete package and an ideal solution for home cinema buffs, offering an 810W output, 9.1.5 channels and center up-firing speakers. It has a total of five up-firing channels – three on the soundbar itself, and two in the wireless rear speakers – to create an expansive, dynamic soundscape that surrounds users and draws them deeper into the onscreen action and to make Meridian, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and IMAX enhanced content even more immersive. One of the key highlights of the model is the Triple Level Spatial Sound. The virtual mid-layer provides more immersive 3D surround sound. The front & top channel synthesis and HRTF-based 3D engine creates a virtual speaker in the middle layer.

The Smart Up-Mixer converts any audio source, including two-channel audio, into stunning surround sound utilizing every available audio channel. The AI Room Calibration Pro optimizes audio output according to the dimensions of the room. It covers the front and center channel bands to improve the balance and loudness of the voice. With the seamless correlation analysis of L/R channels, the product delivers a more realistic center and center top channel. 

 Tech Specification:

 * WOW Orchestra provides rich surround effects by using TV speakers resulting in the TV and Sound Bar working as a single product.

* The product also comes with an improved volume UI design for external audio device connection. 

* WOW interface Provide additional Sound Modes that are made available to the TV through the Sound Bar (with a new software update).

 Perfect for Gaming

In addition, variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode (ALLM), which help make console gaming more immersive by perfectly syncing the sound with the gameplay on screen. The soundbar is also equipped with 4K/120Hz pass-through, which will provide the best image quality by reducing or eliminating lag and frame tearing. 

Centre up firing speaker

LG designed the world’s 1st center up-firing speakers in which the voice clarity and surround effect are further improved. The center up-firing speaker moves the position of the dialogue to the center of the TV screen. 

LG’s latest high-end models support IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X, allowing movie buffs to enjoy authentic cinematic experience. 

LG’s soundbar models also welcome MERIDEAN support, which delivers a new level of audio three-dimensionality when playing compatible content. 

JBL Bar 1300 features MultiBeam™ and six up-firing drivers— four in the bar and two in the detachable battery-powered surround speakers — that deliver massive Dolby Atmos® and DTS:X 3D surround sound enhancing your music, movies, and gaming experiences. 1170W of total output power and thrilling bass from a 10” subwoofer is more than enough to make the room shake. Though, you’ll never miss a word due to our PureVoice technology, which makes sure the dialogue is clear even when other sounds are at their loudest. When you want to enjoy your favourite tunes choose streaming via either AirPlay, Alexa Multiroom Music (MRM), or Chromecast built-in that gives you over 300 music streaming options. A powerful 10″ wireless subwoofer’s thrilling, precise bass adds excitement to action movies and emotion to music. The detachable surround speakers can also work as Individual Portable Speakers or can connect with each other to form a stereo pair.

Tech Specification: 

  • Power Rating 1170 W RMS
  • Configuration HDMA eARC with 4K Dolby Vision Passthrough

* Connectivity works with voice assistant-enables speaker like Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant

● 11.1.4 Channels with 6 up-firing drivers

● 1170W power output

● Dolby Atmos®, DTS:X 3D surround sound and MultiBeam™ technology

● 10’’ Wireless Subwoofer

● HARMAN PureVoice technology

● Compatible with JBL One App

* Channel Configuration: 11.1.4

* Application area: Approx 400 sq ft.

* Sizes and colours: Black

* Wired or Wireless: 10” wireless subwoofer

* Output: 1170W

Future Prospects 

The future of soundbar technology holds exciting developments in both audio quality and smart home integration. Emerging audio technologies promise a more immersive experience, with advancements in spatial audio processing, object-based audio, and superior acoustic technologies. Soundbars are expected to deliver studio-quality sound, utilizing innovative signal processing algorithms and materials. Concurrently, soundbars are evolving into central components of smart home ecosystems. With seamless integration with popular virtual assistants, such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, soundbars will not only enhance audio experiences but also serve as hubs for controlling various smart devices in connected homes. This dual evolution positions soundbars at the forefront of audio innovation, offering users a harmonized blend of cutting-edge audio technologies and intelligent home connectivity.

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