10 Best Sony Soundbars 2025 in the United States

The Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar is a solid choice for those looking to enhance their home audio experience, especially in small living spaces like a home office or a cozy living room. Its sleek design and compact size make it easy to integrate into any decor without taking up too much space. One of its standout features is the Bass Reflex speaker, which provides deeper sound, making TV shows and movies more immersive. Additionally, the built-in tweeter helps deliver clear highs, ensuring dialogues are easy to understand, which is particularly beneficial for content with quieter conversations or in conference calls.

Setting up the S100F is straightforward, thanks to the HDMI ARC connection and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing users to connect to their TV or smartphone effortlessly. The remote control adds convenience, and the ability to wall-mount it can help save space. The S-Force Pro Front Surround technology simulates surround sound, offering a more engaging audio experience.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The soundbar features a 2.0 channel configuration, which means it lacks a dedicated subwoofer for deeper bass, which might disappoint users seeking a richer low-end sound. Additionally, while the sound performance is good for its category, audiophiles might find it less satisfying compared to higher-end models with more channels and advanced sound technologies. The maximum output power of 120 Watts is adequate for small to medium rooms, but larger spaces may require a more powerful system.

The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 Soundbar is designed to offer a rich audio experience for movie and music lovers, making it a strong choice for home theaters. One of its standout features is the 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, which creates an immersive three-dimensional sound field, making you feel part of the action. With support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced, it delivers cinema-quality sound right in your living room, enhancing your viewing experiences. The Sound Field Optimization feature further tailors the audio to suit your room, ensuring clearness and fullness in sound reproduction.

Another highlight is its potential for expansion; you can enhance your setup by adding a compatible wireless subwoofer and rear speakers for an even more immersive sound experience. Its connectivity options, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, make it easy to connect to various devices, which is a bonus for modern smart homes.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While it delivers powerful sound with a maximum output of 585 watts, its large size (51.2 inches wide) may not fit well in all spaces. The soundbar itself is not water-resistant, which means it should be kept in dry areas to avoid damage. Additionally, the price point may be on the higher side compared to other soundbars in the market, especially when factoring in the cost of optional accessories like the subwoofer and rear speakers.

The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 is an excellent choice for those who prioritize high-quality, immersive audio in their home entertainment systems. It's particularly suited for users who want to replicate a theater-like experience at home, although they should ensure that they have the space and budget for this comprehensive setup.

The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 Sound Bar is designed for those looking to enhance their home theater experience with powerful surround sound. With 13 speakers and support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, it delivers a rich audio experience. The inclusion of the SA-SW5 wireless subwoofer significantly boosts the sound quality by adding depth and impact, making action movies and music truly immersive. The wireless capabilities of the subwoofer allow for flexible placement, which is a big plus for users who may want to avoid messy wires.

One of the standout features of this setup is the 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology, which uses the SA-RS5 wireless rear speakers to create a more enveloping sound environment, simulating multiple audio sources around the room. This can make watching movies or listening to music feel like you're in a live concert or cinema.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The substantial size and design of the soundbar and subwoofer may not fit well in smaller living spaces or aesthetic preferences. Additionally, while the sound quality is excellent, setting up the system could be a bit challenging for someone who isn’t tech-savvy. It comes at a premium price point, which might not be justifiable for casual users or those on a tighter budget.

For consumers seeking a high-end soundbar experience with advanced features and immersive surround sound, the Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 setup is an impressive choice. It's ideal for cinephiles and music enthusiasts who appreciate the nuances of high-quality audio, but it may be more than what a casual viewer requires.