The Best Soundbars (Plus Lessons from 40 Years of Audio Testing)

About this episode

If you’ve ever found yourself cranking the volume on a movie to hear the dialogue, only to be blasted by the next explosion, you’re not alone. Televisions today produce subpar sound quality. That’s why a good soundbar–basically a compact stereo system–can instantly upgrade your home television experience. Wirecutter audio expert Brent Butterworth joins us to explain how soundbars work, what you actually get when you spend more, and which features matter most for your setup. Whether you want clearer dialogue, deeper bass, or a more immersive surround-sound experience, Brent breaks down how to find the right soundbar. Plus, he shares his favorite testing stories as he retires from Wirecutter after 14 years! This episode covers: • Why TV speakers sound so bad. Modern sleek televisions don’t have enough room for large enough speakers to produce a fuller, clearer sound. • What you get from a soundbar. Even an inexpensive model can improve dialogue and bass, while pricier systems may add wireless surround speakers and more powerful subwoofers. • How to choose the right model. Consider the size of your room, how loudly you listen, what you watch, and whether you need a dialogu