What are the various levels of soundbars?
- well even a single speaker can act as a sound bar, if clearer or louder diction is all you require
- two speakers allows stereo output, and some make sure of these to generate a pseudo-surround by adding time delays
- three speakers is the beginning of a real soundbar. This allows clearer dialogue from a dedicated centre channel
- 5 channels gives you side surround and either reflections from side walls or a real side surround speaker can really up the surround experience
- most soundbars won't get you 7 ear level surround speakers, so 7 channels usually means 5 plus a pair of upfiring Atmos speaker
- if there are nine channels, the soundbar either goes for more upfiring Atmos channels or occasionally 7 ear level channel
To these channels one can add a sub to make the sound more robust and the tactile feel is very important for movies
Now placement of these speakers is vital. The surround channels need to be at least in line with the sitting position or slightly behind it. Check the manual for the specific model for what the manufacturer suggests
Then if the soundbar allows levels adjustment, that will be great.
Having a distance level adjustment is also important
Some have their own calibration tools, and this really helps, and others just hope for the best. The higher end ones usually feature this.
