The very best Bose soundbars of 2023

Based in 1964 by Massachusetts-based sound engineer and professor Amar Bose, the Bose Company has grown from a way for its namesake to fabricate and promote a greater multi-speaker stereo system to a maker of the whole lot from noise-canceling headphones to soundbars. Right this moment, Bose has constructed on its psychoacoustics analysis to turn into a serious participant within the audio market and a number one producer of among the greatest sensible audio system. The very best Bose soundbars vary from extremely compact, streamlined designs to premium expandable methods with cutting-edge options like Dolby Atmos, wi-fi multi-device connectivity, and adaptive calibration. 

How we selected the very best Bose soundbars 

When compiling this record, we in contrast totally different fashions and checked out key standards to find out the very best Bose soundbars accessible. Many trendy soundbars provide HDMI ARC or eARC help, optical audio inputs, and a few wi-fi compatibility to make them as versatile and helpful as attainable. We checked out connectivity, expandability, and audibility (Bose’s soundbars notably shine in dialogue readability). We culled by way of knowledgeable evaluations and on-line consumer impressions and mixed them with our personal in-house experiences to find out the very best choices from a extremely revered model.

The very best Bose soundbars: Evaluations & Suggestions

So, you’ve received that beautiful new OLED TV, have found out the place greatest to position it, and have learn our information on what to do when it’s time to attach a soundbar—all that continues to be is shopping for one. Whether or not you want a fundamental improve on your tv’s sound or wish to add a strong, immersive spatial audio expertise to your house, this record of the very best Bose soundbars is certain to suit the wants of each audiophile underneath the solar on the lookout for the very best sound you will get with out an intensive, costly wi-fi encompass sound system.

Greatest total: Bose Good Soundbar 900

Why it made the reduce: The Bose Good Soundbar 900 is a top-of-the-line sensible speaker that packs Dolby Atmos, voice assistants, and wi-fi streaming in a compact, trendy bundle.

Specs

• Width: 41.14 inches
• Channels: 5.0.2
• Connectivity: HDMI eARC, Optical, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Execs

• Premium, minimalist end with glass high
• Options immersive Dolby Atmos audio and in depth wi-fi connectivity
• Highly effective drivers and ADAPTiQ room calibration provide excessive audio readability

Cons

• Smartphone app required to entry all features
• Value provides up when including encompass modules or subwoofer
• Lacks the deep, cinematic low-end response a woofer would supply

The Bose Good Soundbar 900 is the very best Bose wi-fi soundbar, due to its first-rate mixture of construct high quality, upgradeability, connectivity, and immersive sound. Although it sits at a mere 2.3 inches tall, it packs loads underneath its glass panel-topped body, together with state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos digital encompass sound with up-firing audio system and PhaseGuide expertise, ADAPTiQ room calibration, and wi-fi connectivity by way of Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi (together with AirPlay 2 and Spotify Join) right into a single unit. As the most recent and highest-tier soundbar in Bose’s line of soundbars, the Good Soundbar 900 boasts a large, detailed soundstage; help for Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and hi-res 24-bit/192 kHz content material; and even applies Bose’s proprietary TrueSpace evaluation to transform non-Atmos sound so as to add additional dimensionality. 

The ​​Amazon Alexa- and Google Assistant-equipped sensible speaker connects to your tv by way of HDMI eARC (so don’t overlook applicable HDMI cables) and will be expanded wirelessly with Bose’s Encompass Audio system 700 and Bose Bass Module 700 so as to add additional depth and immersion to your house theater expertise. Have already got a pair of Bose Noise-Canceling Headphones 700? SimpleSync expertise lets them pair with the soundbar shortly so you possibly can watch one thing with out disturbing anybody.

As a result of the Good Soundbar 900 is Bose’s greatest soundbar accessible, it’s a bit pricier than different choices (much more so if you wish to spend money on Bose’s suitable satellite tv for pc audio system and subwoofer, which should be bought individually). Customers are additionally required to obtain Bose’s smartphone app to configure the Good Soundbar 900 and entry its extra superior options, which will be mildly inconvenient for much less tech-oriented customers. It delivers good midrange with dialogue readability, however you’ll positively wish to think about including the subwoofer in case you’re searching for immersive, cinema-like low-end. 

Greatest TV soundbar: Bose TV Speaker

Why it made the reduce: The Bose TV Speaker is the right companion soundbar for small TVs and small areas, with a stripped-down function set and good expandability, making it very user-friendly.

Specs

• Width: 23.38 inches
• Channels: 2.0 (stereo)
• Connectivity: HDMI ARC, Optical, Bluetooth

Execs

• Simple to arrange, simple to make use of
• Expandable by way of Bose bass modules
• Enhanced dialogue readability is on the market on the contact of a button

Cons

• Restricted to stereo sound; lacks encompass sound functionality
• No wi-fi expandability or sensible assistant integration
• Requires separately-sold bass modules to attain deep low finish

A lot of a soundbar’s elementary enchantment comes from its means to offer improved quantity and readability whereas taking on little or no house, and the Bose TV Speaker is an ideal instance of simply that. Delivering dialogue enhancement and good midrange element in a compact 23-inch footprint, the Bose TV Speaker is a streamlined sensible speaker that’s simple to arrange and requires no smartphone app for configuration. It’s geared up with HDMI ARC and optical audio inputs, in addition to built-in Bluetooth for wirelessly streaming audio to gas a lounge dance get together. It features a small distant management that grants one-touch entry to a speech-accentuating “dialogue mode.” 

As a facet impact of its small measurement, the Bose TV Speaker lacks vital low-mid and low-end response when working as a single unit. This may be remedied by pairing it with a individually bought Bose Bass Module 700, bringing the listening expertise nearer to that of a extra fleshed-out residence theater. Its compact footprint additionally comes at the price of extra superior options like Dolby Atmos, digital assistant integration, and wi-fi expandability, so there’s a little bit of a trade-off to make there as properly. However, in comparison with the sound attainable from the built-in audio system of a contemporary flatscreen tv, the Bose TV speaker ought to provide a giant enchancment for an approachable value.

Greatest encompass sound system: Bose Good Soundbar 900 with Bose Encompass Audio system 700

Why it made the reduce: The Bose Encompass Audio system 700 are among the most compact, best-sounding encompass audio system for soundbars available on the market, making them a versatile selection for elevating your leisure middle.

Specs

• Width: 41.14 inches (soundbar) and 1.84 inches (encompass speaker)
• Channels: 5.0.2 (soundbar), 5.0.4 (soundbar + satellites)
• Connectivity: HDMI eARC, Optical, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (soundbar)

Execs

• Encompass audio system suitable with a number of soundbars in Bose product line
• Wi-fi connectivity and compact measurement permit for versatile placement
• Sturdy metal-and-plastic development

Cons

• Expensive; audio system bought individually from soundbar
• Speaker stands and brackets bought individually
• Not suitable with lower-end Bose soundbars

One nice facet of the Bose ecosystem is the way it grants customers the power to assemble sound methods piece by piece. Whereas this provides some further work and generally is a bit setup-intensive, this presents customers some flexibility to combine and match fashions (and value factors) to their liking. Plus, you possibly can improve digital encompass to precise bodily encompass audio system, which is a noticeably totally different expertise. And the Bose Encompass Audio system 700 are the very best Bose encompass sound audio system for pairing with the Bose Good Soundbar 900 (scroll up for extra particular specs on that) so as to add dimensionality, quantity, and immersion to your house theater expertise. Plus, they match the Bose aesthetic. 

These audio system are additionally suitable with the Bose Soundbar 700, Bose Soundbar 500, and Bose Soundbar 300, so that you received’t need to miss out in case you’re contemplating any of these less-expensive alternate options. All soundbar-to-speaker pairing takes place wirelessly and requires no lengthy cable runs (only a energy outlet every). These are a really versatile and handy selection for including encompass sound to virtually any house with little problem.

Whereas the Encompass Audio system 700 can be found for buy in a bundle with the Good Soundbar 900, they’re technically bought individually, which drives up the value considerably. So as to add to this value, you’ll additionally want to purchase mounting brackets or flooring stands on your audio system, which might add as much as an extra $300 to the full invoice. The Encompass Audio system 700 are a part of a dependable and high-quality ecosystem with a repute for clear and immersive sound, that is one thing of a given, however the associated fee remains to be necessary to notice. You’ll additionally must buy at the least the Soundbar 500 to benefit from these encompass audio system; they aren’t suitable with extra stripped-down fashions just like the Bose TV Speaker.

Greatest with subwoofer: Bose Good Soundbar 900 with Bass Module 700

Why it made the reduce: A strong 10-inch driver, wi-fi connectivity, and compact footprint make the Bose Bass Module 700 supreme for including theater-like sub-bass to your Bose soundbar system.

Specs

• Width: 41.14 inches (soundbar) and 11.6 inches (subwoofer)
• Channels: 5.0.2 (soundbar), 5.1.2 (soundbar + subwoofer)
• Connectivity: HDMI eARC, Optical, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (soundbar)

Execs

• Wi-fi sub permits for versatile placement
• Delivers detailed and immersive bass response in a small footprint
• Suitable with a variety of Bose soundbars

Cons

• Expensive
• High-quality management of bass quantity requires smartphone app
• Susceptible to wi-fi interference in some settings

Similar to Bose’s encompass audio system, the Bose Bass Module 700 is a separate element that may pair with the Good Soundbar 900 (scroll up for extra particular specs on that) and is made to ship probably the greatest Bose soundbar + subwoofer combos available on the market (the 2 are bought bundled). The Bass Module 700 pairs wirelessly to the primary soundbar (as much as 30 ft), eliminating the necessity for further cables whereas including deep, prolonged low-end response (right down to 25 Hz) from its 10-inch driver for improved immersion and a film theater-like rumble that listeners can really feel. Contemplating its cheap energy and low-end element, the Bass Module 700 is a reasonably compact subwoofer, measuring underneath 13 inches tall with an 11.6-inch footprint underneath its enticing glass panel. Just like the Encompass Audio system 700, the bass module can also be backward-compatible with Bose’s mid-tier soundbars—the Bose Soundbar 700, Bose Soundbar 500, and Bose Soundbar 300—in addition to the Bose TV Speaker.

In line with the fact of Bose’s piecemeal soundbar methods, the Bass Module 700 prices practically the identical value because the Good Soundbar 900 itself. Whereas this value is greater than mirrored within the system’s high quality and sound, customers who want to save a bit of cash (and house) may think about the $500, 5.25-inch driver Bose Bass Module 500 in the event that they’re prepared to sacrifice optical audio connectivity, DTS compatibility, and a little bit of the room-shaking sub-bass that the Bass Module 700 can ship. 

Customers ought to notice that the Bass Module 700’s devoted quantity management is barely adjustable by way of the Bose smartphone app. Additionally, the unit has been reported as vulnerable to selecting up slight wi-fi interference when positioned alongside routers and different wi-fi units, however this may be remedied by utilizing the subwoofer in wired mode utilizing the equipped cable.

Greatest price range: Bose Good Soundbar 300

Why it made the reduce: The Good Soundbar 300 is probably the most inexpensive solution to step into the Bose soundbar ecosystem.

Specs

• Width: 26.58 inches
• Channels: 3.0
• Connectivity: HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Execs

• Compact, all-in-one design
• Wi-fi help for streaming and enlargement
• Good for dialogue enhancement

Cons

• Lacks EQ, Dolby Atmos 
• Lacks prolonged lows and encompass help

For those who’re simply wanting so as to add pleasure, slightly than whole immersion, to your leisure system, the Bose Good Soundbar 300 is a wonderful selection. It’s a 5-driver 3.0 system, so that you get left/middle/proper channels, and you may develop it to five.1 with the identical Bose Bass Module 700 and Bose Encompass Audio system 700 supported by the Bose Good Soundbar 900. You get the identical Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Voice for Video management applied sciences, plus AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Spotify Join over Wi-Fi. The Bose Good Soundbar 300, nonetheless, prices half as a lot because the 900. However you additionally get half the options, because the 300 has far fewer drivers and no EQ, no room correction, no Atmos help, and so forth. You do nonetheless get well-sculpted stereo sound, with a V form (boosted bass/treble) that’s good for rock, pop, and giving motion pictures slightly little bit of punch—although don’t count on rumble except you spend money on a subwoofer.

For those who’re wanting so as to add enhanced quantity and dialogue readability to your leisure middle with out breaking the financial institution, the Solo 5 is technically the most cost effective Bose “soundbar,” if yow will discover one. It’s even smaller than the Bose TV Speaker, measuring 21.5 inches extensive, and includes a easy 2.0-channel configuration designed for streamlined, no-frills listening. It features a common distant from which customers can interact the soundbar’s dialogue mode for an much more pronounced midrange response. Whereas the Bose Solo 5 lacks the HDMI and Wi-Fi connectivity that’s usually present in mid- to high-end soundbars, it does embrace Bluetooth compatibility to permit customers to stream audio wirelessly from their units. Nevertheless, it lacks the frequency response and expandability of the remainder of the Bose soundbar vary, sitting properly beneath the Soundbar 300.

Issues to think about when shopping for a Bose soundbar

What measurement is your tv?

Soundbars are available a variety of sizes and widths, and, within the case of Bose’s soundbars, these widths scale immediately with value and total performance. If the tv is wall-mounted, soundbar measurement isn’t fairly as necessary. Nevertheless, in case your svelte flatscreen makes use of a tabletop stand, make sure you measure the house beneath and cross-reference the width of the Bose soundbar to make sure it suits (and, particularly if you’re on the lookout for Atmos compatibility, you need sufficient depth to make sure the soundbar is in entrance of, in a roundabout way underneath, the TV). For fast width reference, the Bose Good Soundbar 300 is 26.6 inches extensive, the Bose Good Soundbar 500 is 31.5 inches extensive, the Bose Good Soundbar 700 is 38.5 inches extensive, the Bose 900 is 41.14 inches extensive, whereas the Bose TV Speaker is 23.38 inches extensive and the Bose Solo 5 measures 21.5 inches extensive.

Do you want a subwoofer or satellite tv for pc audio system?

The hallmark of a soundbar is its small body, however there’s a restrict to the quantity, frequency response, and stereo unfold that may be produced within the soundbar format alone. Including a subwoofer just like the Bose Bass Module 700 can add substantial sub-bass info and add cinematic realism to audio whereas including elements just like the Bose Satellite tv for pc Audio system 700 can bump up dimensionality and immersion to new heights. Bose’s subwoofers and satellite tv for pc audio system are all wireless-compatible, so no cable runs are required to pair them together with your soundbar.

Do you require Dolby Atmos?

Dolby Atmos is a cutting-edge encompass sound expertise that provides vertical dimensionality to audio for a extra cinematic, immersive impact. Atmos dramatically modifications the fundamental strategy to how sound methods “place” audio (and is the underlying expertise fueling Apple’s Spatial Audio. As a substitute of merely assigning sounds to channels—normally 5, generally seven, sometimes organized in a horizontal aircraft round a viewing station—an Atmos-enabled system defines properly over 100 particular person sounds as “objects” that may be exactly directed in what quantities to an audio bubble. 

For those who’re on the lookout for the Dolby Atmos expertise from a Bose soundbar, the Bose Good Soundbar 900 is the one product within the line that presently presents Atmos virtualization (​​utilizing upward-firing audio system to bounce hold forth the ceiling/partitions to simulate bodily overhead audio system). As a bonus, the Soundbar 900 options Bose’s proprietary TrueSpace evaluation, which converts non-Atmos audio into digital encompass sound.

Do you utilize AirPlay or Chromecast?

All of Bose’s soundbars besides the Bose TV Speaker and Bose Solo 5 are AirPlay- and Chromecast-compatible. Happily, these units function Bluetooth performance, however you received’t be capable to entry the higher-quality audio streaming that Apple and Google’s protocols present.

FAQs

Last ideas on the very best Bose soundbars

The Bose Good Soundbar 900 is our high choose, due to its total sound, wi-fi compatibility, and implementation of Dolby Atmos. It’s totally expandable by way of the Bose Bass Module 700 and the Bose Encompass Audio system 700, which permit customers so as to add additional immersion to their audio with out requiring hard-wired connections. For those who want a smaller soundbar and are prepared to forgo Dolby Atmos, the Good Soundbar 300, Good Soundbar 500, and Good Soundbar 700 are all secure bets, however the Bose TV Speaker remains to be the very best compact Bose soundbar accessible underneath 22 inches extensive. Lastly, in case you’re on a price range, think about the Bose Solo 5, which gives respectable midrange readability and improved quantity at the price of commonplace options like HDMI connectivity.