Top-10 Soundbars Under 300
Loved in the USA

The JBL Bar 9.1 is a robust soundbar system that excels in providing a cinematic audio experience, making it an excellent choice for home theater enthusiasts. One of its standout features is the 820W output power, which delivers clear and powerful sound, enhanced by the built-in Dolby Atmos and DTS: X decoding. This technology creates an immersive surround sound experience that is ideal for films and gaming. The detachable, battery-powered surround speakers are a real highlight, allowing users to enjoy true surround sound without the mess of wires, creating a more flexible setup. Additionally, the system includes a powerful 300W, 10" subwoofer that produces deep, impactful bass, enhancing the listening experience for action-packed scenes or music.

On the connectivity front, the JBL Bar 9.1 offers multiple options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, optical, and HDMI, making it easy to connect to various devices. The inclusion of Ultra HD 4K Pass-through with Dolby Vision means that it can handle high-quality video as well, which is great for modern home setups.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. The price, while under $300, might still be a stretch for budget-conscious users, especially if they are looking for a simpler audio solution. The setup can be slightly complex for non-tech-savvy individuals, particularly when dealing with multiple components and wall-mounting. The soundbar's weight at 8 pounds may pose some challenges for mounting, requiring careful installation. Additionally, while the sound quality is impressive, some users may find it lacking in water resistance, which is something to consider if you plan to use it in a more casual setting or near water.

The LG S90TR 7.1.3-Channel OLED evo TV Matching Soundbar is a high-performance option for home theater enthusiasts looking for immersive sound. It’s equipped with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technologies, providing a rich audio experience. The soundbar includes rear surround speakers and a wireless subwoofer, making setup more convenient and reducing cable clutter.

The center up-firing speaker enhances dialogue clarity, which is great for watching movies and TV shows. The WOW Orchestra feature syncs audio with LG TVs, and the WOW Interface allows control of both the soundbar and the TV with one remote, which adds to the convenience. Additionally, the soundbar supports various voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa, and features like Chromecast and AirPlay 2, making it versatile for different users.

The built-in room calibration optimizes audio settings based on room dimensions, ensuring a tailored listening experience. On the downside, the product is relatively heavy at 44.8 pounds and large in size, which might be a concern for some users regarding placement. It is also priced on the higher end of the 'under $300' category. Despite these points, the LG S90TR is ideal for users looking for a comprehensive home theater setup with advanced sound features and integration options.

The Bose TV Speaker is a compact soundbar designed to enhance your TV audio experience, making it a solid choice for those seeking better sound without the fuss of complicated setups or large equipment. One of its main strengths is its ability to clarify dialogue, thanks to its specialized design focused on elevating vocals. This feature is particularly beneficial for viewers who struggle to catch conversations in movies or shows.

The soundbar features two angled full-range drivers that deliver a wide and natural sound, which contributes to a more immersive experience. Additionally, its Bluetooth connectivity allows users to stream music or podcasts wirelessly from their devices, providing versatility beyond just TV sound. With multiple input options, including HDMI-ARC, optical, and AUX, connecting to your TV or other devices is user-friendly and straightforward.

In terms of size and design, the Bose TV Speaker is compact, measuring just over 2 inches in height, making it easy to place in front of your TV or mount on a wall. However, the soundbar does not come with a subwoofer, which might leave some users wanting more bass. While it does have a bass boost feature, it may not satisfy those looking for deeper low-end audio, especially during action scenes or music playback. The included remote control is a nice touch, offering additional functionality like a dialogue mode and bass boost, enhancing the user experience.