Why are Soundbars So Popular?
Yamaha was one of the pioneers of the soundbar. In fact, we launched the world’s first sound-beaming soundbar, the YSP-1, letting you experience realistic 5.1 surround from a single device.
See which soundbars are the best for you.
Since then, soundbars have grown exponentially in popularity.
They have become sleek, affordable, and packed with more features than ever, with things like Network Streaming and Dolby Atmos audio coming as standard.
Clearly, many people find soundbars to be best option for their homes.
But, if you’re here reading this, it’s because.. you want more, isn’t it?
Then I’m glad you’re here, because this is where we can discover that there are many ways to get good TV audio beyond the Soundbar.
Drivers and Physics
At the end of the day, physics still rules. There will be compromises when you are trying to fit speakers into a small body. Even the best tuning and acoustic engineering can only get you so far.
This is where more ‘traditional’ speakers come into the picture.
With proper drivers and acoustic cabinets, speakers can deliver a less-compromised sound experience.
So, soundbars brought in a whole new world of awesome audio from a slim, convenient form factor, but for some, that is not enough.
Wires are still Preferable
There are 2 reasons why most audio systems still use wires: Quality, and Latency.
With wires, your TV can send audio with less compromises.
Most importantly however, is latency. Unless it’s a specialised wireless system (Like MusicCast Surround), wireless connections like Bluetooth have a high chance of adding some latency into the audio chain.
Nothing wrong with that when you’re just listening to music, but with TV and Movies? It might become a problem.
Here are some of the Best Soundbar Alternatives for Better TV Sound:
Micro-HiFi Systems and Smart Speakers
These compact all-in-one systems combine the best of many worlds; You can listen to practically anything (often with built-in CD players, Radio, Bluetooth and Streaming), take up very little space, and of course, sound pretty good!
And of course, they would have options for external inputs, letting your connect your TVs to them. The most common ones are Optical, Line-In and 3.5mm inputs.
For example, connect the 3.5mm cable from your TV’s headphone jack to Yamaha’s MusicCast 200’s AUX input, and you have a beautiful, compact Micro-HiFi system that also serves as your TV speakers.
You won’t be able to enjoy surround sound, but if that’s not as important as better music and dialogue quality, then this is an option to consider.
Stereo HiFi Receivers
Modern HiFi Receivers are Amplifiers are truly a powerhouse for audio enjoyment.
Take an old-school premium analogue amplifier, cram it with all the latest digital audio technologies, and you get a receiver like the Yamaha R-N2000A.
Stream your favourite music services, enjoy radio from all over the world with internet radio, and of course, connect to your TV via Optical or HDMI.
Match them with a another Premium HiFi Speaker from Yamaha like the NS-2000A, and what you have is a proper audiophile setup that doubles as awesome TV speakers.
Of course, there are different models to suite various sizes, tastes and budgets, but what matters is modern Stereo Receivers are an excellent way to improve your TVs with awesome HiFi Sound.
Again, no surround sound here (as it is Stereo or 2 channels only), so if HiFi quality audio is what you’re going for, then HiFi Receivers are the way to go.
Home Theatre System
For the ultimate cinematic experience, nothing beats a proper multi-channel home theatre system.
And, here’s the thing, such systems are incredibly flexible and modular, and they come in all shapes and sizes, so you can choose a setup that matches your taste, aesthetics and budget.
There are even wireless solutions for the rear speakers.
Among the alternatives, this probably creates the biggest hassle, but the payoff is huge.
There’s a reason why such systems still exist, even with the takeover of soundbars in homes around the world.
Which is Best? Only You Know.
Ultimately, knowing what you really want determines which solution is suitable for you.
If you want a having a slim, compact system with cinematic sound and you can’t stand the sight of square boxes, a soundbar might still be the better option.
If you’re more of a music enthusiast are you’re alright with putting square boxes beside your TV, you might prefer a more traditional amplifier + speaker setup.
Also, sound is incredibly subjective. Others might wax lyrical about the superiority of certain systems, but if it doesn’t suit your needs, then it wouldn’t be ‘best, for you.
As they say, ‘YMMV’, Your Mileage May Vary, and it’s always good to try in person before deciding.
Where to check out the latest in Yamaha Home Audio:
Have a look at the Yamaha Home Audio Online Catalogue
Visit the Yamaha Online Store
Find them at your favourite Yamaha Retailers
Or visit the Yamaha AV Experience Studio at Plaza Singapura, #06-02.
