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Surround Sound Systems Comparison - September 2025
| 1 Best Choice  9.8Exceptional | 2 Best Value  9.7Exceptional | 3  9.6Exceptional | 4  9.4Excellent |
| View DealOn Amazon | View DealOn Amazon | View DealOn Amazon | View DealOn Amazon |
ModelJBL Bar 9.1 - Channel Soundbar System with Surround Speakers and Dolby Atmos, Black | Model ULTIMEA 7.1ch Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer, Virtual Surround Sound System for TV, App Control, 410W Peak Power, Sound bar for TV, 4 Wired Surround Speakers, Home Theater Sound System Poseidon D70 | Model VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE, Wireless Subwoofer, Surround Sound w/Dolby Atmos & DTS:X, Bluetooth Speaker, QuickFit™ Compatible – SV510X-08 (New, 2024 Model) | Model ULTIMEA 5.1 Virtual Surround Sound Bar, 320W Home Theater Surround System with Adjustable Speakers & Subwoofer, TV Speaker Soundbar, Sound Bar for Smart TV, Bluetooth 5.3, Easy Setup, Poseidon D50 |
BrandJBL | Brand ULTIMEA | Brand VIZIO | Brand ULTIMEA |
Reviews | Reviews | Reviews - | Reviews  |
Tech Specs | |||
recommended uses for productFor Surround Sound Systems | recommended uses for product For Surround Sound Systems, For Televisions, For Computers, For Smartphones or Tablets, For DVD Players | recommended uses for product For Televisions | recommended uses for product For Surround Sound Systems, For Gaming Consoles, For Televisions, For Computers, For Smartphones or Tablets, For Music Players |
colorBlack | color black or silver | color Black | color Black |
compatible devicesHome Theater | compatible devices Smartphone, Tablet | compatible devices Television, Smartphone | compatible devices Projector, Gaming Console, Desktop, Television, Home Theater |
controller typeRemote Control | controller type App, Remote Control Batteries Not Included | controller type Not included. Control with TV remote or VIZIO Mobile app. | controller type Remote Control |
number of items1 | number of items 1 | number of items 1 | number of items 1 |
included components1x Main Soundbar 2x Detachable wireless surround speakers 1x Wireless subwoofer Remote control with 2 x batteries Power cords up to 8pcs depending on region SKUs HDMI cable x1 2 x L-shape Wall-mount bracket Main Bar + 2 x U-shape Wall-mount bracket for Surround Speakers kit with screws Quick start guide Warranty card Safety sheet | included components Soundbar, 1x Subwoofer, 4x Surround Speaker, Power Adaptor, Subwoofer Power Cable, Stereo 3.5mm to RCA Audio Cable, Wall Mounted Kit, Wall Bracket, Mounting Screws, Stereo RCA to RCA Cable 20 feet , HDMI Cable, Digital Optical Cable, Remote Control Batteries Not Included , User Manual | included components 2 Surround Speakers, Power Cord, Compact Wireless Subwoofer, HDMI Cable, Soundbar, QuickFit mounting screws for compatible VIZIO TVs | included components Power Adaptor, Subwoofer Power Cable, Stereo 3.5mm to RCA Audio Cable, Wall Mounted Kit, Wall Bracket, Mounting Screws, Remote Control, User Manual, Stereo RCA to RCA Cable 20 feet , HDMI Cable, Digital Optical Cable, Soundbar, 1x Subwoofer, 2x Surround Speaker |
control methodRemote | control method App | control method App | control method Remote |
power sourceCorded Electric | power source Corded Electric | power source Corded Electric | power source Corded Electric |
speaker size10 Inches | speaker size 6.5 Inches | speaker size 5.25 Inches | speaker size 2.25 Inches |
is waterproofFALSE | is waterproof FALSE | is waterproof FALSE | is waterproof False |
mounting typeFloor Mount, Wall Mount | mounting type Wall Mount | mounting type Wall Mount, QuickFit | mounting type Wall Mount |
subwoofer diameter10 Inches | subwoofer diameter 6.5 Inches | subwoofer diameter - | subwoofer diameter 5.25 Inches |
surround sound channel configuration9.1 | surround sound channel configuration - | surround sound channel configuration 5.1 | surround sound channel configuration 5.1 |
wireless communication technologyBluetooth, Wi-Fi | wireless communication technology - | wireless communication technology Bluetooth | wireless communication technology Bluetooth |
customer reviews4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 1, 525 ratings 4.4 out of 5 stars | customer reviews 4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 16 ratings 4.5 out of 5 stars | customer reviews - | customer reviews 4.0 4.0 out of 5 stars 1 rating 4.0 out of 5 stars |
unit count1.0 Count | unit count - | unit count 1.0 Count | unit count 1.0 Count |
connectivity protocolWi-Fi | connectivity protocol - | connectivity protocol Bluetooth | connectivity protocol Bluetooth |
product dimensions34.8D x 34.8W x 2.4H | product dimensions - | product dimensions 3.23D x 33W x 2.28H | product dimensions 15.75D x 3.54W x 2.76H |
item weight8 pounds | item weight - | item weight 16.2 pounds | item weight 11.68 pounds |
Available On   | Available On | Available On  | Available On |
Our Top 3 Picks
Here are the top 3 recommended products with more information to help you find the right product for you
9.8
1JBL16% OffJBL Bar 9.1 - Channel Soundbar System with Surround Speakers and Dolby Atmos, Black
Why we love it
Wireless, detachable speakers for easy setup.
Powerful 820W audio output.
Deep bass with 10-inch subwoofer.
Main highlights- With detachable, battery powered surround speakers you can enjoy real surround sound without the wires
- Wireless Communication Technology: Wi-Fi
- Use the built-in calibration to ensure the best possible sound no matter what the room
- Ultra HD 4K Pass-through with Dolby Vision
- Power Source Type: Corded Electric
- Included Components: Main Soundbar, Detachable Wireless Surround Speakers (2), Wireless Subwoofer Remote Control, Power Cords, Hdmi Cable, (2)L-Shape Wall-Mount Bracket (Main Bar), (2) U-Shape Wall-Mount Bracket (For Surround Speakers), Kit With Screws
- Experience deep bass with a 300W, 10" powered subwoofer
- Connector Type: Optical
- Built-in Dolby Atmos and DTS: X decoding
- 820W Output power
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9.7
2ULTIMEA40% Off
ULTIMEA 7.1ch Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer, Virtual Surround Sound System for TV, App Control, 410W Peak Power, Sound bar for TV, 4 Wired Surround Speakers, Home Theater Sound System Poseidon D70
Why we love it
Immersive 7.1 surround sound experience.
Customizable audio via app control.
Versatile setup with wired and wireless options.
Main highlights- Ultimea Smart App Control: Ultimea is dedicated to making life more intelligent through the Ultimea Home. Not only can Ultimea Smart App meet all your needs, but it also allows you to customize your own favorite styles. Stay ahead with regular OTA upgrades to ensure a seamless premium audio experience of this sound bar with subwoofers.
- Optimized Audio Settings: Enhance your audio by setting your TV's Digital Audio Out to PCM. For Netflix, navigate to "Audio & Subtitles", select "English Original" or "Other languages Original" for the best sound quality tailored to your content.
- 7.1ch Virtual Surround Sound System: Upgraded from the 5.1ch Poseidon D50, the Poseidon D70 meets more needs with enhanced surround sound. Enjoy crystal-clear dialogue from three main channels, 4 wired surround speakers, and a 6.5" wireless subwoofer for a wider sound field. (Note: Not compatible with Dolby Audio/Atmos.)
- 4 Adjustable Wired Surround Speakers: This tv sound bar features 2 rear and 2 front speakers, ensuring precise sound projection from the front, back, and sides, enhancing audio spatiality and immersion. With 13 adjustable surround levels that elevate your surround sound experience, this soundbar for tv takes your audio to the next level. 2 rear speakers connect to subwoofer with 20-foot cable, which allows for versatile layouts and enhances space utilization.
- 121 Preset Equalizer Matrices: For the ultimate audio connoisseur, ULTIMEA App presents 121 meticulously crafted preset equalizer matrices. Explore four distinct styles: Bass, Pop, Classical, and Rock, and immerse yourself in the art of precision tuning, where every adjustment brings you closer to your ideal soundscape.
- 10-Band Equalizer Settings: Elevate your audio experience with 6 tailored EQ modes: Movie, Music, Voice, Sport, Game, and Night, each finely tuned for optimal performance. Plus, use the ULTIMEA App's "Customize" feature to fine-tune your sound for a perfect, personalized experience.
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9.6
3VIZIO
VIZIO 5.1 Soundbar SE, Wireless Subwoofer, Surround Sound w/Dolby Atmos & DTS:X, Bluetooth Speaker, QuickFit™ Compatible – SV510X-08 (New, 2024 Model)
Why we love it
Immersive 3D audio experience.
Easy setup and app control.
Great value for the price.
Main highlights- When watching Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content, this soundbar puts you at the center of your entertainment, creating an immersive audio experience
- Use your existing TV remote to control volume on your soundbar when connected through your TV's HDMI eARC port. (HDMI eARC Output ONLY.) No TV HDMI port? No problem! Contact VIZIO customer support 844-254-8087 or visit support.VIZIO.com if your TV requires optical connection.
- Three full-range speakers inside the soundbar, two surround speakers, and one wireless compact subwoofer deliver 96dB of detailed and dynamic high-impact sound that’s perfect for medium to large-sized rooms.
- Soundbar remote control sold separately.
- Receive the latest product updates and adjust advanced soundbar settings by downloading the VIZIO mobile app for your Android or iOS device (A VIZIO Account is required.)
- QuickFit, only from VIZIO, eliminates the gap between this soundbar and select VIZIO TVs for a seamless setup. Use the included thumbscrews to attach this soundbar to your VIZIO TV in three simple steps, no tools needed!
Surround Sound Systems Buyer's Guide
Written by Jim WilliamsIntroduction to Surround Sound System
Surround sound systems are an excellent way to take your entertainment experience to a whole new level. They can provide an immersive listening experience that is truly second to none. Whether you’re looking to create a home theater, or just want to upgrade your current sound system, surround sound systems are a great option. In this buying guide, we’ll go over the different types of sound systems available, as well as their features, so you can make an informed decision when it comes to buying.
Features of a Surround Sound System
A surround sound system typically consists of a receiver, speaker system, and audio source. The receiver is the core of the system and is responsible for amplifying the audio signal. It also allows you to connect different audio sources, such as TVs, CD players, and other audio devices. The speaker system consists of several components, including satellites, subwoofers, and center speakers. Each speaker is responsible for producing a specific range of frequencies, which creates a multi-dimensional sound experience. Finally, the audio source is the device that the system is playing audio from. This could be a TV, computer, CD player, etc.
Types of Surround Sound Systems
There are several different types of surround sound systems available. The two most common types are 5.1 and 7.1 systems. A 5.1 system consists of five speakers and one subwoofer, while a 7.1 system consists of seven speakers and one subwoofer. Both systems provide an immersive listening experience, but the 7.1 system can provide an even deeper level of immersion. Additionally, there are also Dolby Atmos systems, which utilize up to 64 speakers to create a truly immersive experience. For most people, a 5.1 or 7.1 system should be sufficient, but if you’re looking for the ultimate sound experience, then a Dolby Atmos system is the way to go.
Subwoofers
Subwoofers are an important component of any surround sound system. They are responsible for the lower frequencies of the audio signal and can provide a level of bass that you can’t get from the other speakers. When buying a surround sound system, make sure to pay attention to the type of subwoofer included. Some systems come with powered subwoofers, while others come with passive subwoofers. Powered subwoofers are more powerful and provide a deeper level of bass, while passive subwoofers are less powerful and provide a more subtle bass. Additionally, make sure to pay attention to the size of the subwoofer, as larger subwoofers can provide a more powerful bass.
Speaker Placement
Where you place your speakers is just as important as the type of speakers you buy. The speakers should be placed in the correct positions in order to create a surround sound experience. Generally speaking, the front left and right speakers should be placed equidistant from the listening area. The center speaker should be placed directly in front of the listening area. The surround speakers should be placed slightly behind the listening area and angled slightly towards it. Finally, the subwoofer should be placed in the corner of the room or close to the listening area. Proper speaker placement is key to getting the most out of your surround sound system.
Conclusion
Surround sound systems are a great way to take your entertainment experience to the next level. They provide an immersive listening experience that can’t be matched. When buying a surround sound system, make sure to pay attention to the features, types, and placement of the speakers. Doing so will ensure that you get the most out of your system and have the best possible listening experience. With the right system, you can turn your living room into a home theater and take your entertainment experience to a whole new level.
Our ranking system
At BestChoice.com, our team curates a selection of top products from a vast array available online, using a sophisticated ranking system based on carefully defined criteria.While traditional hands-on testing has its merits, our use of AI technology offers distinct advantages. AI allows us to process and analyze vast amounts of data from multiple sources, providing a comprehensive view that goes beyond what manual testing can achieve. This approach enables us to deliver insights that are aligned with current trends and consumer preferences, ensuring our reviews are both relevant and up-to-date.
Features
Our AI-driven analysis examines key attributes, capabilities, and other critical factors tailored to each product category. This method allows us to assess effectiveness from various perspectives, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation.
Consumer Reviews
We aggregate and evaluate consumer feedback from across the internet, giving weight to ratings and reviews that reflect the most reliable insights. AI enhances this process by filtering and prioritizing data, offering a balanced view without the need for direct personal endorsements.
Popularity
Our system also considers the popularity of products, analyzing factors such as market presence, reputation, and user satisfaction. By leveraging AI, we capture a comprehensive picture of a product's standing in the market, which may not always be evident through traditional testing.
Value for money
AI allows us to compare products based on attributes like price, specifications, and user feedback, helping to determine their value for money. This data-driven approach offers an efficient and reliable way to assess how products stack up against one another in terms of cost-effectiveness.
