This soundbar is a fantastic choice for those looking for an affordable option in the Dolby Atmos-capable speaker market. The sound quality and aesthetic design will both blow you away, and the base has just enough power to suffice for most movie scenes.
Fortunately, soundbars are becoming better quality without costing too much money. Here is a list of the best budget Dolby Atmos soundbar in 2023.
Contents
- 1 Top Best Budget Dolby Atmos Soundbars
- 1.1 Samsung HW-Q950A
- 1.2 Sonos Arc with Sub+ One SL Speakers
- 1.3 Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar
- 1.4 TCL Alto 8i
- 1.5 Sony HT-A7000
- 1.6 Sonos Beam Gen 2
- 1.7 Sony HT-ST5000
- 1.8 Sony HT-G700
- 1.9 Samsung HW-Q800A
- 1.10 Sony HT-X8500 2.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar
- 1.11 Soundcore Infini Pro Integrated 2.1 Channel Soundbar
- 1.12 Sony HT-A9 with the Bass Module
- 1.13 Bose Smart Soundbar 900
- 1.14 SAMSUNG HW-Q950T
- 1.15 Sony HT-ZF9
- 1.16 LG SP8YA
- 1.17 Samsung HW-Q90R Soundbar
- 2 Affordable Dolby Atmos Soundbar Buying Guide
- 3 FAQs
- 4 Conclusion
Top Best Budget Dolby Atmos Soundbars
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
| VIZIO M-Series All-in-One 2.1... | 3,473 Reviews |
$179.99
$160.66 | View on Amazon |
| 2 |
| VIZIO M-Series 2.1 Sound Bar... |
$179.99
$148.00 | View on Amazon | |
| 3 |
| ULTIMEA Dolby Atmos Sound Bars... | 128 Reviews |
$129.99 | View on Amazon |
| 4 |
| ULTIMEA Sound Bars for TV with... | 1 Reviews | View on Amazon | |
| 5 |
| ULTIMEA Dolby Atmos Sound Bars... | 6 Reviews | View on Amazon | |
| 6 |
| RAINEVERRY 5.1.2 Premium Sound... | 39 Reviews |
$339.99 | View on Amazon |
| 7 |
| Majority Sierra 2.1.2 Dolby... | 86 Reviews |
$264.94 | View on Amazon |
| 8 |
| VIZIO M-Series 5.1.2 Immersive... | 1,127 Reviews |
$499.99
$399.99 | View on Amazon |
| 9 |
| Polk Audio Signa S4 Ultra-Slim... |
$394.83 | View on Amazon | |
| 10 |
| Nakamichi Shockwafe Elite... | 4,067 Reviews |
$1,299.99 | View on Amazon |
Samsung HW-Q950A
The Samsung HW-Q950A soundbar is our favorite, and it is the successor to the Samsung HW Q950T. The 11.1.4 setup includes a subwoofer, two satellite speakers and is well-built. It also features an Auto EQ room correction function that adjusts the bar’s sound to suit the unique acoustics in the room.
This bar features a neutral and well-balanced sound profile that can listen to immersive audio sources. You can also customize the sound by using presets and a graphic EQ. You can use the Full HDMI In port to connect your devices. It can also get quite loud, with minimal compression at maximum volume.
This allows for precise audio during loud listening sessions. The bar comes with Alexa built-in and you have the option to mute it when you’re done listening.
It does not have an AUX port, so older devices can’t be wired to it. It doesn’t produce as much bass as its predecessor, which can disappoint fans of action-packed movies and bass-heavy music. It’s still an excellent choice if you are looking for the best budget soundbar that supports Dolby atmos content.
However, this great Samsung soundbar will deliver powerful, clear audio and great vocals.
Pros
- Amazing 3D effect
- Excellent audio quality overall
- A good range of features is also available
Cons
- Not everyone will need four boxes.
- Movies are stronger than music.
Are you want to reset the Samsung soundbar? Maybe this article is useful: https://hookeaudio.com/how-to-reset-samsung-soundbar/
Sonos Arc with Sub+ One SL Speakers
Best 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos Soundbar
We have tested the Sonos Arc and Sub + One SL speakers as the best soundbar. The 5.1.2 setup features two upfiring speakers that bounce sound off the ceiling, creating the illusion of height. The soundstage is impressive, and sound objects appear to be coming from a precise location in the excellent image.
This setup automatically optimizes audio reproduction according to the unique acoustic characteristics in your room. Although the sound profile of this setup is quite bright, you can adjust its bass and treble settings to make it more neutral. It also supports Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa voice control.
This bar does not have a graphic EQ or other premium soundbar customization options. The bar, sub, and Sonos speakers may not be available as a bundle deal. You can buy them individually or pair them together to enhance your immersive listening experience.
Pros
- Support Dolby Atmos and Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus
- Design that is sleek and well-built.
- The room correction feature.
- Great sound quality.
- Low latency
Cons
- There is no complete EQ.
Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar
The unique integrated design of the 13 speakers creates an immersive experience that is not possible with a standalone bar. This eye-catcher is a striking combination of an extensive design and high-end appearance.
Although it is not as powerful as dedicated down-firing speakers, this system still produces great surround due to its unique 3D audio mode. The room correction feature adjusts audio to the room by using an external microphone.
This will enhance your listening experience. There are many connectivity options available, including Bluetooth and Chromecast. The standby mode is activated after 20 minutes of inactivity. The fabric covering can be removed if you wish to clean the speakers.
It isn’t easy to find the right spot because it’s so large. The sound signature is also less bassy if you don’t activate AMBEO mode. Instead, it leans more bright.
The good news is that you can adjust the EQ using the companion app if this sound profile doesn’t suit you. Although it might be hard to find it at some retailers, it is still available on the Sennheiser website. This is the best option if you are looking for a standalone subwoofer that does all of this without a dedicated subwoofer.
Pros
- Support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X as well as MPEG-H and 360 Reality Audio
- Amazing surround performance
- Excellent frequency response, low to high
Cons
- It is not tall enough to fit under most TVs.
TCL Alto 8i
The best Dolby Atmos Soundbars at the Best Price
TCL Alto 8i is our favorite. The 2.1 setup includes two subwoofers, which improves bass production. This setup is Roku TV Ready so that you can pair it with your Roku TV.
It sounds excellent when set to the EQ preset ‘Music.’ However, the sound profile is loud and punchy. The mid-range is balanced so that dialogue sounds clear and present.
You can adjust the sound profile with bass, treble adjustment, and three EQ presets. The soundstage is large and can be very loud, making it suitable for large rooms. It can stream audio wirelessly via Bluetooth from your smartphone.
It doesn’t have satellite speakers, so it must downmix surround sound content to stereo music. This results in less immersive surround sound experiences. It lacks a room correction feature or dialogue enhancement, so the immersive sound can vary depending on where the soundbar is placed.
Pros
- Adjustments for bass and treble
- Three EQ presets.
Cons
- Low-bass is not available.
- Performance is affected by poor surrounds.
Sony HT-A7000
Dolby Atmos is a powerful and dynamic room-filling soundbar.
Sony soundbars are a great choice. 2023 What Hi-Fi? It is no exception. The HT-A7000, an award-winning soundbar, is no exception. It is 7.1.2 inches thick and packs five drivers in front of it, as well as a dual subwoofer.
The Sony HT-A700 produces a broad and rich soundstage that is both immersive and non-immersive. It employs a combination of driver placement and psychoacoustic methods to preserve musicality, presence, and detail.
The performance is comparable to the Arc in precision and height, but the soundstage is more comprehensive and convincing. Although it is not as good as direct audio from either the speaker to the side of the speaker above, it is practical and visually appealing, enriching your viewing experience.
The sub integrated sub is particularly impressive, with its controlled, powerful, and taut performance.
The A7000 is an excellent choice for audio formats. It includes Dolby Atmos in Dolby Digital+ and TrueHD formats, DTS:X and LPCM, hi-res wireless audio, Dolby Stereo, and Sony 360 Reality Audio.
The A7000 has as many streaming smarts as the speakers. It includes Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Google Chromecast, and integration into multi-room systems.
Two HDMI 2.1 pass-through sockets can handle 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz, as well as Dolby Vision HDR. Additionally, there are ports to connect analog, optical digital, and eARC audio inputs and USB type A.
An analog output for Sony’s Acoustic Center Sync is also available. This allows compatible Bravia TV to become part of the center channel soundbar when connected with the provided cable.
If you own a Sony Bravia TV, the Sony HT-A7000 will be an excellent, future-proofed, all-in-one performer that offers perfect integration.
Sonos Beam Gen 2
An excellent Dolby Atmos rendition complements edgy sound.
It is not easy to deliver Dolby Atmos content from such a small chassis. But 2023 What Hi-Fi? The award-winning Sonos Beam Gen 2 has a convincing and immersive experience without any vertical speakers.
Two of the five soundbars’ front-facing arrays, dedicated to reproducing surround and overhead sounds, can be used instead when viewing Atmos content. Its mighty processing power allows it to create the illusion of height without going vertical.
Although it may seem a bit too much for this tiny performer to produce overhead sounds, the virtual Atmos delivery far exceeds that of any budget soundbar comparable in price and even those more expensive. The Beam Gen 2 provides a rich, spatial soundscape that includes both tangible motion and depth.
Although soundbars of this price range don’t have networking capabilities, this Sonos product can connect to a wireless multiroom system.
You can stream to the Beam Gen 2 using Apple AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect. A future upgrade will add support for Amazon Music Ultra HD master audio. This will allow you to access lossless 24-bit/48kHz tracks and Music.
Pros
- Dolby Atmos support can be handled effectively.
- A warm, refined sound
- Streaming smarts
Cons
- No additional HDMI inputs
- Supports DTS:X
Sony HT-ST5000
This soundbar is not the most expensive Dolby Atmos soundtracks, but it does the job.
Sony’s HT-ST5000 Sony is a game-changer. If you are looking for a budget Atmos soundbar in a small package, this 2019 What Hi-Fi? Has it. Winner of the Award
Two up-firing speakers and a separate sub create cinematic sound on an enormous scale. This combination combines a great sense of height with plenty of depth and power.
It’s compact and easy-to-use, despite its complex arrangement and sophisticated sophistication. This is the perfect marriage between performance and convenience.
It’s great for movies, but it also makes a great wireless speaker due to its dynamic sound. It supports Chromecast and Sony’s hi-res audio scaling technology. This promises better sound quality from lower-quality files. Although you can’t polish Bubbles, at least you can increase the sound quality.
Although it might be expensive, the Sony soundbar offers five-star sound quality and is worth every penny. You can find it for several hundred less than the original launch price if you shop around. These are happy days.
Pros
- Amazing sound
- Detail bass
- Easy set-up
Cons
- A little too much midrange
- Expensive
Sony HT-G700
It is a good choice for an entry-level soundbar and has plenty of basses.
The Sony HT-G700 is an excellent option for those on a budget atmos Sony HT-ZF9soundbar. Although it may not be the smallest bar, it is packed with sound and value. It also features a wireless subwoofer and dedicated HDMI input.
Sony’s Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force Pro Front Surround technologies create a convincing Dolby atmos soundscape. The chunky subwoofer (39cm tall) adds weight to big explosions.
It is an entry-level Dolby-Atmos soundbar. It doesn’t have the same clarity like the more expensive Sony HT-ST5000. Sony HT-G700 lacks voice control and music streaming capabilities.
The Sony HT-G700 is an excellent soundbar on Amazon for those who want a cinematic experience at a reasonable price.
Pros
- Large, heavy sound
- Impressive Atmos effect
- Solid and fashionable
Cons
- Clarity and crispness are not present.
- No streaming functionality
Samsung HW-Q800A
The Atmos soundbar is a powerful piece of kit.
Few soundbar packages include a sub as powerful as Samsung’s Q800A. It has a robust and room-filling sound and a punchy bass, all in a small box.
The central unit houses three forward-facing channels and two upward-facing speakers that provide height channels for Dolby Atmos and DTSX formats. The system can produce 3.2.1 channels of cinematic sound with articulate and cinematic quality. You can also add Samsung’s compatible upward-firing surrounds (SWA-9500S) to increase the Q800A’s power to 5.1.4.
If you have a 2023 Samsung TV, the Samsung HW-Q800A can be enhanced with a feature called Q-Symphony. This allows the TV’s speakers to work together with the soundbar package to increase the soundfield’s height and space.
The Samsung HW Q800A is a powerful, all-around performer with a wide range of features. There are two HDMI inputs, one with eARC and an optical audio input. You can also stream via Spotify Connect or AirPlay 2 once you have connected to wi-fi. All of these can be controlled using the Amazon Alexa voice assistant.
The Samsung HW-Q800A’s price is comparable to the Sonos Arc. However, while the Sonos Arc is more precise and crisper when dealing with height elements, the Samsung provides a compelling and present listen along with an epic sense scale at the low end, which no other budget soundbars can match.
Pros
- Spacious presentation
- The substrate that is articulate and heavy
- A good range of features
Cons
- Perhaps even more insightful
- The height channel lacks precision.
Sony HT-X8500 2.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar
The Sony HTX8500 soundbar has Dolby Atmos and DTSX technology. However, it is much more affordable than you would think. It not only features the best audio technology in the business but also includes a built-in subwoofer.
Sony Soundbar features 7.1.2 channels and Vertical Sound Engine for cinematic sound. You can tune your sound to match the content with seven sound modes and voice enhancement.
The HT X8500 slim design supports Bluetooth streaming and HDMI eARC for a cabled connection.
Pros
- Amazing virtual surround system
- Support Dolby Atmos & DTS:X support
- HDMI output and input passthrough
- Excellent value
Cons
- Real Atmos can’t be compared to it.
Soundcore Infini Pro Integrated 2.1 Channel Soundbar
Although some best Dolby Atmos soundbars are in the affordable price bracket, they do not add Dolby atmos. This is due to the difficulty of creating object-based sounds with drivers that aren’t made for this task.
Which we recently reviewed, is the only soundbar that can be considered cheap compared with the rest of this list. But, the lower price comes with other costs.
Infini Pro does not include any smart speakers or voice assistant support. The Infini Pro’s Atmos performance is also lower than that of other Atmos-enabled devices.
Our reviewer described it as Atmos Lite and lacks the nuances of accurate surround sound systems due to its narrow design and lack of good verticality.
This budget purchase is not necessarily a bad thing. The specs of this device, which includes a 4K passthrough, HDMI ARC, and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, match those of the other products. The integrated subwoofer is a unique feature that makes this device an all-in-one soundbar.
It produces powerful bass and has a remarkable passthrough. The device’s non-Atmos performance was excellent for such a low price. The Infini Pro is a good choice for businesses that don’t consider Atmos a novelty.
Pros
- It is a bargain price.
- Superior sound quality overall
- Strong bass performance
- All-in-one design
Cons
- Atmos is underwhelming
- No voice support
- No discrete speakers
Sony HT-A9 with the Bass Module
The Sony HT-A9 Soundbar with Bass Module is the most immersive Dolby atmos soundbar we tested. The 4.1.4 setup features a unique design, with a small control box and four speakers. This setup uses Sony’s 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology, which creates a large soundstage that seems to be coming from everywhere.
This setup uses up-firing drivers in the control box and satellites to bounce sound off the ceiling towards you, creating the illusion of height when listening To Atmos content. It seems like sound fills the room compared to other premium setups. The Sound Field Optimization room correction feature allows for a more neutral sound profile, although slightly muddy.
This soundbar with a bass module does not have a separate center channel. Voices are not as well anchored to specific locations in the soundstage. When watching Atmos content, you may notice gaps in the soundstage. The budget atmos soundbar can be connected to a compatible BRAVIA television for Acoustic Center Sync. This uses your TV’s internal speakers to create a separate center, affecting the sound quality.
Pros
- DTS HD Master Audio. Dolby Dual mono
- Amazing soundstage
- Immersive Atmos experience.
Cons
- Doesn’t get loud.
- Graphic EQ is not available.
Bose Smart Soundbar 900
Bose Smart Soundbar 900 w/ Speakers + Bass Module is the cheapest Dolby Atmos soundbar. Bose’s PhaseGuide technology emits sound throughout the room, creating a wide soundstage that is immersive and rich. You can also enjoy Dolby Atmos sound, which seems to emanate from everywhere.
The Bose Smart soundbar 900 features an automatic room correction feature called ADAPTiQ, which calibrates the audio reproduction based upon your unique acoustics. This feature is turned on, and it produces a reasonably neutral sound profile, with some extra bass to suit many types of audio content. The discrete surround speakers enhance the focus on surround and Atmos content.
The Bose Smart soundbar 900 cannot be used as a hub for different devices without a Full HDMI In port. The bar doesn’t include an EQ. You can still adjust the sound with bass and treble controls.
Pros
- Adjustments for bass and treble
- Great soundstage
- It gets loud.
- Dolby Atmos soundtracks support.
Cons
- There is no EQ.
SAMSUNG HW-Q950T
The Samsung HW-Q950T will give you the experience of a home cinema system. It also comes in a convenient package. The system is four-box, which means you have the soundbar, subwoofer, and two rear speakers.
Although it takes a little longer to set up and position than other options, they are all wirelessly connected, so it is not too difficult. The results are pretty impressive – no soundbar is better for 3D effects of object-based audio (such Dolby Atmos content), adding surround sound and even height.
It is a 9.1.4-channel system. The front bar houses seven surround channels (using angled drivers that bounce the sound to the sides). There are also two upward-firing drivers to support Atmos height channels. This Samsung HW-Q950 bar is suitable for 55-inch TVs or larger. Each speaker at the rear has one surround channel and an upward-firing driver.
The scale is not the only thing that matters. However, the skill and quality of the sound are also top-notch. Everything, from the smallest to the essential elements of the soundtrack, is identified and presented.
If a movie requests, it can play subtle scenes gently and then immediately turn on the loud noise to create a shocking moment.
Although it struggles to deliver as much bass as other Atmos speakers, it is the most effective at what it does.
Pros
- Fantastic dome of 3D sound
- Audio that is dynamic and punchy
- Bulletproof construction quality
Cons
- Four boxes are available for storage.
- Low frequencies slightly imperfect
Sony HT-ZF9
The Dolby Atmos soundbar, which is reasonably priced, is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to listen to audio fireworks without breaking the bank. Sony has taken a different approach to this issue, as there is no dedicated upward-firing driver. Instead, the budget atmos soundbar produces a 7.1.2 surround sound with clever psychoacoustic technology. This true surround sound effect is impressive, wrapping you in three-dimensional sound.
Is this the ‘true Dolby Atmos soundbar? Purists may disagree with this definition. Let’s call it Dolby Atmos light. Although it may not be as immersive or as expensive as the Sennheiser Ambeo and the more expensive Sony, it is still compelling, tonally refined, and much more affordable.
Calibration is easy, and connectivity and features are perfect. You can expect better Bluetooth playback with the LDAC technology from Sony.
This Sony HT-ZF9 is a fantastic option if you don’t have enough space or funds for the Sennheiser or Sony.
Pros
- It’s easy to use
- A rich, balanced sound
- Good surround processing
Cons
- The Dynamics could be even sharper.
- It can be fiddly
LG SP8YA
LG’s soundbars were a mixed bag up until recently. However, the company has since redeemed itself with its 2023 line-up, and the SP8YA is no different.
The Dolby Atmos soundbar comes with a wireless sub and is priced right at the middle of the range. It also retains all the connectivity features found on the higher-end models. EARC and an additional HDMI 2.1 input with HDR10 passthrough and 4K Dolby Vision. Also, there’s an optical input and USB port. Streaming services is also possible. You can stream audio up to 24-bit/192kHz via Bluetooth or wi-fi.
The 3.1.2 package is also a winner in terms of sound quality. It has a wide, vibrant soundstage that can match larger screen sizes. You can upgrade it to 5.1.2 with the SPK8 2.0 surround package for about PS130 ($180; AU$249).
The SP8YA is an affordable Dolby Atmos soundbar that delivers rich, detailed, and good sound and high-quality specs. There are better performers, such as the Sonos Arc.
Pros
- Features extensive
- Soundscapes that fill the room with a soothing, calming soundscape
- Expandable with surrounding areas
Cons
- Sub lacks definition and impact
- Some height precision is missing
Samsung HW-Q90R Soundbar
The Samsung HW-Q90R from Harman Kardon was the flagship soundbar that could sing and dance for 2019, and it is still the best soundbar available. However, it is a little more expensive than the Sonos Arc.
It supports object-based audio, including Dolby Atmos content as well as DTS:X. Additionally, it is the only 2019 soundbar to support this format with rear speakers and four upward-firing drivers.
Few soundbars can match the Dolby Atmos or DTS:X experience. The HW-Q90 also sounds great with music. Thanks to its decent features and well-specified HDMI connections, this soundbar is almost flawless.
Pros
- Amazing sound quality
- Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS virtual
- It is easy to set up and install
- object-based audio
Cons
- Comparable to other competitors, more expensive
Affordable Dolby Atmos Soundbar Buying Guide
Many best Atmos soundbars are available, but not all of them are created equal. We have compiled a list of tips to help you choose the suitable soundbar for you.
Sound Quality
They are renowned for their sound quality. It’s also great to find speakers that have DTS technology and Atmos-worthy technology.
Although soundbars with these specifications should provide excellent sound, it is still a good idea to check reviews such as this one to verify that the product meets one standard. Immersive sound can be challenging with speakers, so knowing how the best Dolby Atmos soundbars perform on audio tests is essential.
Sound modes are another thing that can improve good quality. The best Atmos Soundbars have modes that enhance details, such as voices, which are impossible with regular TV speakers.
Design
Soundbars should be slim and sleek to match your TV. While some speakers may be better than others, design is subjective.
Design is all about size. Your TV might be bigger or smaller. Your soundbar should fit nicely under it. For example, you can see our list of the best Dolby Atmos soundbars that included 40-inch TVs.
Soundbars mounted on the wall can take up less space than others, but you still need to consider the size of your soundbar.
Channels
Channels refer to the sound emitting points on your soundbar. Five channels are standard industry practices for true surround sound. Other soundbars can reach as high as 9.2, like the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra.
Our experts recommend speakers with at least three channels. However, if you can find a soundbar with 5 or 7 channels, these soundbars are great options for true surround sound.
Subwoofer
When it comes to bass, the wireless subwoofer is an essential part of the soundbar system. An external subwoofer is necessary if you enjoy deep, thumping bass.
Although some highly-rated soundbars have wireless subwoofers, they are not as robust and reliable as speakers with more giant, more powerful wireless subs. We recommend that you get a model with an additional relief if you require serious bass.
Extras
Although you may not require extra bells or whistles for your soundbar, they can make the experience more accessible. You can also look into Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Low audio quality doesn’t necessarily have to be cheap. This is what these Atmos soundbars below fifty are proving.
FAQs
What is the cost of a Dolby Atmos speaker system?
Their systems can run into the thousands. It all depends on whether you need additional features, attachments, or more advanced technology. They are still affordable, with prices starting at 200 for the first option.
Is it worth buying a best Dolby Atmos soundbar?
They are worth the investment, especially if you value sound quality. This is the closest you can get to a cinematic experience in your own home.
Conclusion
All the above product is some of the best budget Dolby Atmos soundbars on the market. It offers all the benefits associated with this premium sound enhancement format, including immersive virtual surround sound speakers that create a sense of being in the middle of the action.
Considering that it also offers a lovely aesthetic design that is well-suited for various locations, a solid base, and a relatively inexpensive price tag, this soundbar is a fantastic choice for those looking for an affordable option in the Dolby Atmos-capable speaker market.
Thank you for reading the article about the best Dolby Atmos soundbar for your home theater. Do you have a favorite? We would love to hear from you below, don’t forget to follow Hooke Audio for more great ideas and suggestions!
Last update on 2023-09-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
