Where the Surround sound system upgrades itself every day, the Soundbar comes with a new technology.
In the era of immersive sound technology, can a soundbar replace surround sound?
Before making any final decision, we need to understand the usability, and where you want to install this type of sound system.
According to your need and usability, a Soundbar may be enough. For the user who needs a proper sound setup for the Cinema or large room, a surround sound system is non-replaceable.
Key Takeaways:
- A soundbar can’t replace surround sound when it comes to sound quality.
- But a sound bar can replace a surround sound in many things like Price, Space, easy installation, etc.
- Both of them are capable of providing high-end sound quality.
- Few Soundbar comes with surround sound technology, and it comes with a bundle of speakers.
Situations where Soundbar Can Replace Surround Sound
These are the situations where a Soundbar can replace a Surround Sound system:
1. Small Room:
For a small room where you want to set up your TV, invest in a soundbar than a surround sound system. You don’t need a sound system like 5.1.2 or 7.1.2 to experience Dolby sound quality.
In this case, a sound bar can easily replace a surround sound system. Many highly modified soundbars are available, and those are enough for a small size room. The soundbar is always ideal for smaller rooms, apartments, or areas.
2. Installation or Setup:
A soundbar comes with wires and wirelessly, and both are easy to set up. After placed below your TV, connect via HDMI or Bluetooth. So, a soundbar setup is easier than surround sound.
Where a surround sound needs a professional for installation, you can set a soundbar effortlessly. Also, a surround sound professional can charge you $300-$1500 for the installation.
3. Cost Effectiveness:
If you have a low budget and want to set up the sound system, a soundbar must be your first choice. A good quality soundbar will cost much less than a Surround sound system.
Here in this situation, a soundbar can replace a costly surround sound system. On average Soundbar can cost you $50 to $1500, but a surround sound will cost you around $300 to $50000.
Because of surround sound system comes with multiple speakers and woofers, avoid it if you have a low budget.
Situations where soundbar is unable to replace Surround Sound
1. Sound Quality:
When it comes to the Sound quality a Soundbar can’t replace a proper surround sound system. Multiple speakers are placed strategically around the room to deliver unmatched audio detail and a broad sound field.
A surround sound system, like a 5.1, 5.1.2, 7.1, or 7.1.2 setup can give you immersive audio quality, which is impossible for a soundbar.
2. Customization:
The basic Surround sound system comes from 2.1 to 7.1.2, so you have a huge option to choose from. Also, you can customize the sound system you choose or set up before.
If you want to shift your sound system from a medium-sized room to a bigger hall or theatre, you have the option to add more speakers to it. Also, for the Dolby experience, add overhead speakers as an option.
Having a Soundbar will not allow you to add or remove speakers. In this case surround sound is non-replaceable.
3. Using Purposes:
A surround sound system will be the first choice, for a personal theatre or cinema. Here a soundbar will not be able to produce that much sound, which a theatre requires.
If you’re looking for a place where a loud sound system is required, the soundbar will not fulfill your sound requirements. In this case, you need a customized surround sound system.
Definition of Soundbar and Surround Sound:
Soundbar is a single device containing multiple speakers, intended for placement below the TV. A surround sound system is an audio technology that aims to replicate the spatial environment using a bundle of speakers.
Soundbars have emerged as a popular choice for home audio solutions due to their design, easy installation, and compact size. But a surround sound system is famous because of its sound quality.
Both are evolving every day, so always choose according to your needs.
Best soundbar to replace surround sound system
Few soundbars come with multiple speakers and separate woofers, that claim to provide surround sound quality. Most of the surround soundbar comes with two aditional speakers and a Sub-woofer.
This sound system will fit in your small to medium-sized room. Here are the top 3 best soundbars to replace surround sound systems:
1. SAMSUNG HW-Q990C
[11.1.4ch Soundbar w/ Wireless Dolby Audio, Rear Speakers Included w/ Q-Symphony, SpaceFit Sound Pro, Adaptive Sound, Game Mode Pro, Airplay 2, AVA, Alexa Built-In]
- Connectivity: You can connect this Sound system through Bluetooth or HDMI cables.
- True Dolby Atmos Sound: With multiple speakers and woofers, capable of providing Dolby Atmos sound.
- Voice Assistant: After activating the hands-free navigation of your Soundbar, operate your TV and control other smart devices with only the sound of your voice.
- Gaming Mode: Powerful speakers, acoustic beam, and strong woofers will help to enhance your gaming experience,
2. Klipsch Cinema 1200
[5.1.4 Dolby Atmos Sound Bar and Surround Sound System]
- Connectivity: Connect the soundbar with HDMI-eARC and both speakers have wireless systems to connect with the soundbar.
- Surround Sound: This 5.1.4 soundbar is capable of providing Surround Sound.
- Power Output: You can expect 1200w in pick use.
- Wireless subwoofers: Klipsch Sound Bars has the largest wireless subwoofers on the market.
3. Sony HT-S40R
[Real 5.1ch Dolby Audio Soundbar for TV with Subwoofer & Wireless Rear Speakers, 5.1ch Home Theatre System (600W, Bluetooth & USB Connectivity, HDMI & Optical Connectivity, Sound Mode)]
- Connectivity: The option this system has Bluetooth, USB, Optical, and HDMI.
- Surround Sound: A three-channel bar speaker, rear speakers, and a subwoofer work together to provide surround sound.
- Power Output: Total power output is 600W.
- Free Installation: The brand will contact you for installation (After Delivery) for this model, installation or demo is free.
Although there are many similar soundbars available with the same configurations, you have to choose the right one.
A large amount of investment is needed for a surround sound system, so a soundbar system can help you save money. For small to mid-size rooms/spaces, a soundbar with wireless speakers are ultimate solution for you.
Final Word:
A soundbar could be your ideal choice if you’re looking for an affordable, space-saving, and easy-to-install audio solution. But it can’t replace a surround sound system in sound quality.
As an audio enthusiast who craves an immersive, theatre-like sound experience and doesn’t care about extra space, installation effort, charges, and cost of buying, a customized surround sound speaker system will be your first choice.
I’m sourav, a music lover and sound enthusiast. After experiencing multiple sound qualities, I thought many people searching regarding this topic, but there is not enough detailed information on it. That’s the main reason why I created this blog.
