External soundbar assists in improving the listening, or gaming experience at home because of the technology used in building them.
If you love to get that amazing crisp sound that even allows you to get the dialogue, you may want to invest in a soundbar.
It is highly important to get a soundbar especially if you have a modern TV. This is because these modern TVs are very slim and have no space for inbuilt speakers.
Many soundbars include impressive audio in a self-contained package that is small enough to fit right in front of your TV set.
The soundbar should be affordable, easy to connect, and easy to control. It also gives you an immersive experience, loud and pleasant enough sound regardless of where you are in the house or room.
Another important thing to consider is the budget to buy a soundbar.
Quick Comparison: Best Soundbars Under $600
Top 10 Best Soundbar Under $600 Reviews:
1. Sonos Beam Soundbar Under $600 with Amazon Alexa Built-in
The Sonos Beam Smart TV Soundbar provides a sound of high definition that is rich and pleasant regardless of where you are at home.
This affordable soundbar under $600 allows you to have easy control, that is, you can use your voice or the remote control. You will also be able to use the Sonos app to control it easily if you prefer that.
This is among the inexpensive soundbars that come in a nice compact size, easy to move around. Since it is just 25.6 inches, you will not have to deal with it hanging off your furniture or even blocking your TV set.
The process of setting it up is also very easy and only takes a few minutes to do. It only has two cords and will automatically detect the remote.
With this soundbar, you will be able to build the system using to produce great surround sound. You will therefore be able to add Sonos One SLs to get that great surround sound.
Alternatively, you can opt for the Sonos Sub for that amazing added bass. In order to enjoy a better sound, you are advised to connect it with other Sonos speakers.
Pros:
- It is compact and doesn’t block your TV
- The soundbar is easy to control
- It comes with an easy setup process
- This soundbar allows you to build it up using the Sonos One SLS or Sonos Sub
- The soundbar produces high definition sound that is rich and detailed
- It is a smart soundbar that can be used for TV and music, among others
Cons:
- The additional sub is a bit pricey should you decide to build up the system
- Somehow heavily relies on your TV’s specs
2. Klipsch 3.1 Home Theater Sound Bar Under 600
The Klipsch Cinema 600 Soundbar 3.1 Home Theatre System is a soundbar under $600 that is best in class with 600W peak power.
It stands at 45 inches, has 3.1 soundbars, and has a subwoofer. The subwoofer is 10 inches and is wireless.
This soundbar comes with a single cable as well as one remote control. These make it easier for you to control the control it without having to keep standing every other time.
It provides one of the best audio performances compared to others in its range.
It has deep, theatre-like sub-bass as well. The soundbar definitely gives a crisp sound. It also provides a virtualized surround sound owing to its 5.1 decodings.
The speakers of this soundbar are known to create great cinematic sound. Making it work involves a very simple process of just plugging in the HDMI cable that it comes with to your TV.
This soundbar weighs 30.8 pounds. For it to operate, you will need to buy some 2AA batteries. It provides a nice and balanced sound profile.
This makes it very suitable for listening to different audio types. It can also get loud enough to use in places with a lot of people, for example, crowd parties.
Pros:
- It gets loud enough to use in crowd parties and other gatherings
- The soundbar is easy to control thanks to the single remote control
- It provides virtualized sound
- This soundbar provides clear sound
- It has an adjustable feature that enhances dialogue
- You can adjust the subwoofer level
Cons:
- It has no treble or bass adjustments
- The soundbar does not support Dolby Atmos
3. SAMSUNG Dolby Atmos and Alexa Built-In Soundbar Under $600
The Samsung HW-Q800T Soundbar is a soundbar under $600 that excellently captures every single sound above and around the room it has been placed in.
The subwoofer easily syncs with your Q-series speakers. It also syncs very well with Samsung QLED TV speakers to produce a sound that is highly immersive.
This soundbar under 600 dollars comes with three channels. They include 1 subwoofer channel and 2 up-firing channels that are powerful, producing the highest quality loud sound.
To make your work easier while you are using it, it has a built-in Alexa voice assistant. With this, you will enjoy all the benefits that come with Alexa.
The soundbar is also able to optimize sound regardless of different scenes making it easy to listen to dialogue at low sounds such as whispers.
The soundbar has a sleek design which means it will add to your room’s aesthetic. This soundbar also allows for customization thanks to its features.
Generally, the sound reproduction it offers is pretty neutral and also has a good balance.
Pros:
- It comes in a nice sleek design that fits in with most room décor styles
- The soundbar has a built-in Alexa voice assistant to make it easy for you to control it
- It can optimize sounds for different scenes
- The soundbar comes with a dialogue enhancement feature
- It gives a neutral and well-balanced sound profile
- This soundbar gets loud enough in different crowd environments
Cons:
- It lacks an auto- volume feature
- The soundbar doesn’t give the most immersive experience
4. LG SPD75A 400W Soundbar Under 600 USD With Dolby & HDR10
The LG SPD75A 3.1.2 is a great soundbar under 600 dollars that has a 400W total output power. The soundbar has an easy set-up process.
If you have an LG TV, you will notice just how well this LG soundbar compliments it. With these two, every single design element was carefully considered to ensure your interior has a nice finish.
This LG soundbar is also very easy to control thanks to the LG magic remote it comes with. It also features a soundbar mode control.
The TV sound mode share ensures that you are able to properly use the processing power of the TV as well as the AI sound pro.
These will make everything sound even clearer. It also makes the sounds more consistent with the different content sources you have.
This LG soundbar provides HDMI connectivity technology. The soundbar has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity as well. It also has a resolution of 4K. The wattage is 400 watts and it also features surround sound audio output mode.
Pros:
- The set-up process for this soundbar is fast and easy so you can install it by yourself
- It has an easy control process because of its remote control
- This soundbar has a great design adding to your aesthetics and looks especially great when used alongside an LG TV
- It has a high 4K resolution sound
- The soundbar produces a clear sound that can be well heard from any corner of the room or even home
- It features meridian sound technology
Cons:
- It is only available in the color black
- Its compatibility mostly limits you
5. Denon Compact Soundbar Under $600 with 3D Audio and Dolby Atmos
The Powerful Denon Home Sound Bar is a great compound soundbar under 600 dollars. It enables you to get that great and upgraded movie and music experience.
This is because of its 4.0 driver configuration that is found in the 26-inch design.
Its size enables you to save on space while it provides a well-balanced sound to any corner of your room. The soundbar comes with an impactful 3D surround sound.
It, therefore, delivers this surround sound in high-resolution formats that include DTS:X and Dolby Atmos.
With this soundbar on a budget, you will get a cinematic experience while using your 4K HD TV. It features HDR 10 and Dolby Vision support.
This midrange soundbar has built-in HEOS. With it you will easily be able to access audio of the highest resolution from your most preferred streaming sources.
You will also be able to effortlessly control it using voice commands. Similarly, you will be able to easily adjust the volume and audio levels as well as the modes with the built-in Alexa.
This soundbar also comes with versatile connection options that will allow you to play music from a variety of sources. It also allows you to build it up into a home theatre system.
Pros:
- It features versatile connection options enabling you to play music from a variety of sources
- It is compound making it easy to move around and it doesn’t cause obstructions
- It provides a cinematic immersive experience when used alongside a 4K HD TV
- Provides easy control thanks to the voice commands
- It provides audio of the highest quality
- The soundbar allows you to build it up in a home theatre system
Cons:
- The volume ramping can lead to an unbalanced presentation
- It’s expensive to add the speakers that build it up further
6. Bose Smart Soundbar with Bluetooth and Alexa Voice Control
The Bose Smart 300 is a powerful soundbar with an elegant design for TV, music, games, and movies. It delivers a strong, amazing sound with exceptional clarity.
This good soundbar under $600 comes with a built-in Alexa and Google Assistant that enable you to have hands-free control of the soundbar.
It is a wireless soundbar that allows you to stream music and sounds via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, Spotify Connect, or even Apple Airplay. You will enjoy an easy set-up process with it.
All you have to do is connect it to your TV using an optical cable that it comes with. Alternatively, you could use an HDMI cable but this comes separately. You will have to purchase the HDM cable.
As part of its sleek design, it is just over 2 inches tall so you can easily place it in front of your TV set without obstruction.
It can also be built up into a more powerful home system and is compatible with other Bose products.
As such, you will be able to add the Bose Bass Module 500 or even the 700. Additionally, you can choose to add the Bose Surround Speakers 700.
Pros:
- It has an elegant and sleek design
- This mid-range soundbar comes with an in-built Alexa and Google Assistant
- It comes with a variety of options for connectivity
- The soundbar allows for excellent voice control
- It allows you to build and expand it
Cons:
- You would have to purchase the HDMI cable separately
- Its compatibility is highly limited to Bose products
7. LG SP8YA 3.1.2CH Sound Bar
The LG SP8YA is a great soundbar under 600 USD in the Dolby atmos soundbar category. It is a 3.1.2 inch soundbar that gives a 440W power output in total. It allows for Dolby Atmos as its name suggests as well as DTS:X.
This soundbar incorporates Meridian Auto Technology.
This is also very easy to operate or control. This is because it has Alexa, Google Assistant, Spotify Connect, Chromecast, and Apple AirPlay. It comes with the classic LG soundbar design.
This includes the curved corners as well as the low-form factor.
It also features a plastic molded chassis alongside a wrap-around mesh kind of grille. This Dolby Atmos soundbar has a great brushed metal top as well as an overall black finish.
It produces excellent sound quality that you will appreciate. The soundbar comes with upward-firing speakers as well as front-firing ones. In general, it produces amazing sound for its size.
Pros:
- The soundbar has a very extensive feature set
- It provides a sound that is good enough to fill an entire room
- You can easily expand it with a surround speaker
- It has a great metallic finish that blends easily in the room
- Alexa and other Google Assistant tools make it easy to control
- It is a product from a reputable brand
Cons:
- The sub does not have a definition as well as the impact
- It lacks an element of height precision
8. Sony HT-G700 Soundbar with Bluetooth Technology
The Sone HT- G700:3.1CH Dolby Atmos is another among the great mid-range TV speakers. You can count on it to deliver a sound of great quality when you’re watching a movie or listening to music.
It seamlessly complements Sony TVs giving an immersive experience. The powerful soundbar comes with a wireless subwoofer, meaning it produces a very powerful bass.
As the owner of this powerful soundbar, you will be able to customize it according to your preference. This will improve your experience while listening to music or watching movies.
Connecting it is easy considering it has options when it comes to connection methods and points. You will have it up and running within a very short time.
This soundbar with good bass is also great for watching movies with 4K HDR pass through. It provides for Bluetooth connection.
You can also do the connecting with a one-cable HDMI ARC. It is also a Dolby Atmos soundbar that you can easily use to stream your favorite music from different streaming sites.
Pros:
- It provides for multiple connection options
- The wireless subwoofer it comes with will give you a powerful bass
- You can customize its sound modes to get a more personalized
- It allows for wireless connectivity
- This soundbar is compact and has a great design
- It allows you to enjoy high-quality movies
Cons:
- It does not come with dedicated surround drivers
- It limits you to using it alongside Sony TVs
9. Klipsch Cinema 400 Sound Bar with 8Inch Wireless Subwoofer
The Klipsch Cinema 400 Soundbar is a 40” 2.1 soundbar that comes together with an 8-inch wireless subwoofer. The soundbar allows for easy control using the single remote control it comes with.
You can also connect it very easily using HDMI. Since it has 5.1 decodings, it gives a more virtualized sound.
Generally, the sound profile of this subwoofer is very neutral. It works well with movies and with TV. You can count on it to deliver clarity when it comes to dialogue, thumps, or rumbles in action films.
With this mid-range soundbar, you can get the loud sound you need.
The soundbar also has to downmix the surround sound into stereo. This makes it less immersive as it stands in the way of Dolby Atmos’ kind of content.
Pros:
- It comes with a wireless subwoofer for extra power
- The soundbar can easily be controlled with just a single remote control
- With an HDMI you can easily connect it
- It also allows for wireless connection
- The soundbar allows for subwoofer level adjustment
- It gives a great virtualized sound
Cons:
- You will experience some compression at maximum volume
- In stereo, it downmixes surround sound
10. ECOXGEAR SoundExtreme Soundbar Under $600 with LED Lighting
The ECOXGEAR SoundExtreme SE26 is a powerful soundbar under the 600 dollar mark that is waterproof and dustproof.
The soundbar comes with a rear that faces the LED Light Bar and the party lights that are multi-mode.
It has an amplifier that powers marine-grade speakers. The soundbar comes with a multi-colored backlit speaker. The speakers are in red, green, white, or blue and have a music sync.
This amazing mid-range soundbar is very easy to operate, requiring just the push of a button. With it, you can use Siri or OK Google as it is compatible.
The soundbar allows for wireless connection via Bluetooth from up to 100 feet. It has a built-in waterproof AUX-OUT jack to daisy chain for use to optional speakers or other subwoofers that are sold separately.
It has several mounting options and brackets as well as the hardware that you can use for the process.
Pros:
- It comes with a year of warranty for the different parts of the soundbar
- The soundbar is easy to install
- It is soundproof and waterproof
- The soundbar allows for wireless connection
- With the remote control, it is easy to operate
- It produces a loud enough sound
Cons:
- The warranty is just for a year
- It only comes in black
Things to Consider before Buying a Soundbar Under $600
When you are on the hunt for a new soundbar, there are certain factors that you should consider. They include:
Number of channels
In this day and age, the number of channels is very important for that immersive sound. It is advisable to go for a voice-enhancing soundbar that has three or more channels.
This way, you can stimulate better sound. Those with just two can work, however not as efficient and they are just equal to mini stereos.
The placement of your soundbar
It is important to think about the room and the exact point where you will be placing your soundbar. Will you be hanging it or will you lay it flat on the open floor?
If you are into an aesthetically pleasing room, then you shouldn’t get a soundbar that obstructs your TV set. Ensure you look at your space so as to get the soundbar that best fits in it.
The connectivity
Today, a lot of soundbars with good bass allow for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. As such, you will have an easy time streaming music from your favorite sites or platforms.
You can do so with a phone, tablet, computer, and any other device.
However, you should still check for that as well as the HDMI switching. The HDMI switching allows for easy switching between audio sources. You will therefore not have to reroute the HDMI cables that you have.
The cost
While the soundbar is below $600, you should still check how much you actually have for it first. After that, conduct some research to determine the soundbars that fall within your budget.
After this, compare their specs and then proceed to get the one that will offer you the best value for your money. That way, you will get more use from it.
The seller
It is also important to do a background check on the vendor of the soundbar you will be buying.
Several people today sell these inexpensive soundbars and some are of great quality while others are not.
It is important to read reviews online of the place where you intend to get your soundbar from in order to get the right one for you.
The amplifiers
If you get an active soundbar, you will be able to get that 2-in-1 effect, that is, it comes with a built-in amplifier. Keep in mind that a passive soundbar will not come with this feature.
You will therefore have to get the amplifiers separately. These amplifiers will require more space.
The warranty
It is important to check the quality of the soundbar whether a premium soundbar or an affordable soundbar under $600.
However, regardless of the one you pick, check the warranty to ensure that you have that peace of mind when you carry it home.
You need the assurance that should anything go wrong with it within a short period of time then you can get it fixed or exchanged.
The installation process
It is important to get a soundbar that is easy to install. Ensure it comes with the right instruction manuals if you will be working on getting it up and running by yourself.
It should have the process straightforward and even available online so that you are not frustrated or avoid ruining a part of it.
The color and design
If you are a person who is keen on aesthetics, then you should keep in mind the design of the soundbar you are getting.
These affordable soundbars are available in different colors and designs. You should therefore get one that matches the aesthetic of the room you will be placing it in.
Compatibility
Certain soundbars on a budget are more compatible with specific TVs. For example, a Panasonic soundbar is compatible mostly with a Panasonic Viera TV.
It is highly important to keep this in mind to ensure you get a more immersive experience while watching or listening to music. It also makes the soundbar easy to use.
Our latest guide: Best Soundbars Under $250
How Much Should One Spend on a Soundbar?
Soundbars are a great addition to your room especially if you want to have an immersive, enjoyable experience. They give you that amazing home theatre system.
With many premium soundbars and inexpensive soundbars around, you may be tempted to trust that the highest-priced ones are the best.
However, that is not always the case. A great soundbar would normally cost just about $800. However, you can spend just under $600 on a soundbar and it will still deliver great sound to your room.
The loudest soundbar for a computer monitor just needs to have the right specs regardless of its cost.
However, regardless of how affordable or premium the soundbar is, you should always check the reviews from other customers who have purchased and used the models you are considering.
This will give you a genuine idea of what to expect especially if you are going for a less premium soundbar.
You should also check bits like connectivity, the price, the warranty, the installation process, design, and the make too.
What’s the Difference Between a 2 Channel and 3 Channel Sound Bar?
A 2.1 soundbar usually comes with both left and right channels. It also includes a subwoofer. A 3.1 soundbar on the other hand comes with three channels on the right, the left, and center. Just like a 2.1, it has a subwoofer.
That said, the main difference is that with a 3.1 type of subwoofer, the dialogue will be clearer than a 2.1. as a result of the center channeling primary focus on the dialogue audio.
Another difference is that the 2.1 soundbar has an easier setup process. You will be done in just a few minutes as it involves some very basic steps.
There is only the left and right channel on the soundbar and just a subwoofer. It also easily provides clear sound but may lack a dynamic sound experience.
A 3.1 soundbar is costlier. This is as a result of the center channel addition. This gives the soundbar a more dynamic sound.
With it, you will not need to add a rear speaker for any surround system. It has extra dimension and gives you a better surround sound.
A 3.1 gives a clearer sound when it comes to dialogue because of the center speaker, while the 2.1 dialogue is mixed up. It is mixed with music and other sound effects. It is therefore a lot less crisp.
The choice of what you go for between the two depends on the kind of effect you would like to have in terms of sound. This is because while both work well, the 3.1 has an edge over the 2.1 soundbars.
Soundbar Connection Types and Setup Guide
There are various connection types for soundbars whether it is a premium soundbar or inexpensive soundbars. They include:
HDMI
For you to use the HDMI connection type, you need to connect all the video sources to your soundbar first. After that, use the HDMI out port on your soundbar to connect it to your TV.
This makes sure the sound getting into the soundbar is of the highest possible quality.
You can choose to connect the system the other way around, that is through the TV then to the soundbar. However, the TV could end up doing a bit of audio processing which you wouldn’t want.
Bluetooth
Connecting your voice-enhancing soundbar to your TV via Bluetooth is easier than several other options. To do so, just:
- Turn the TV on
- Press the HOME button on the remote control
- Go to settings and pick Bluetooth settings then add the device
- Select the soundbar from the list that will appear then pair
Aux
In place of an HDMI cable, you could always use an Aux cable to connect your budget home theatre karaoke soundbar. Some TV sets will come with a 3.5mm output jack.
To connect it, you simply need to plug one of the ends of the TV and the other end into your soundbar. It’s very easy.
However, in case your TV did not come with the 3.5mm input, you could simply purchase an AUX to RCA cable right from Amazon then just split the existing stereo signal between your two RCA cables.
RCA
Older TVs are not set up with HDMI ports or wireless connectivity. They just have RCA and also coaxial inputs. For RCA cable use, the soundbar will be able to handle up to a 2-channel RCA configuration.
Remember to always confirm that the RCA ports that are on your channel are output ports as opposed to input ports.
FAQs
1. Why are Soundbars so Expensive?
In most cases, soundbars are expensive because of the technology that is used in their manufacture. These include Dolby Atmos, virtual 5.1 surrounds and so much more to provide that dynamic sound.
A soundbar for high ceilings also costs more because of the hardware, the materials used in making it, and also the proper channels. You can however get a good a/v receiver under $600.
2. Are Soundbars Better than Speakers?
Yes. However, this highly depends on what you are after. For example, a soundbar will definitely give you audio of better quality compared to a speaker that has been incorporated into your TV.
However, some feel like speaker sets give a richer sound and are preferable if you want depth.
So speakers are good for action and other heavy shows but a soundbar will give you clarity.
This is especially when it comes to music and movies with dialogue.
3. Do Watts Matter in a Soundbar?
Yes. Watts matter as they describe the output of the amplifier. When the wattage is higher, the sound is louder and way better. This is in most cases however; it is not automatically true.
After you have narrowed it down to a few voice-enhancing soundbars ensure you go listen to them yourself. This way, you choose the right one.
4. What Size Soundbar Should I Get for a 55-inch TV?
Considering a 55-inch TV usually has a width of close to 47.8 inches, it is advisable to get a soundbar that’s between 40 inches to 50 inches.
You could opt for one that’s slightly smaller but your best option would be one that at least covers your TV’s base. This recommended size will give you the best quality sound.
5. Which Soundbar is Better Sony or Samsung?
Sony and Samsung are two of the biggest brands when it comes to technology items. They are great and choosing either will ensure you enjoy certain benefits.
Sony has a unique kind of audio reproduction that enhances performance. Sony is a great choice for both videos and movies. Samsung also has a great sound profile. It gives a balanced sound with that great extra bass.
Final Thoughts
The best soundbar under $600 is the Sonos Beam Smart TV Soundbar. This is because it gives a high-quality sound that comes with great definition.
Aside from the fact that it is very affordable compared to others that give its quality that is more premium.
This is easy to control because it features the Sons app that can be used to control it. Its size is quite reasonable and its design easy to blend into the aesthetic of your home. Setting it up will also not take up too much of your time.
It’s worth getting a soundbar under $600 because these soundbars are dedicated to providing the best sound.
They work better than your in-built speakers to deliver the sound of the highest quality. You will also get more dynamic sounds with great depth.