Session token to be used to authenticate requests on behalf of an anonymous user. Session tokens are linked to a client ID (see clientId) The Stage V2 has connection options aplenty, too. Optical, HDMI ARC and AUX connections are all supported, while a USB-C port allows you to hook the bar up to your PC and use it as a desktop soundbar. Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth is also available for those wanting to stream content from external devices. Used to ensure user session remains with the same AWS instance to improve performance and stability. The soundstage is pleasingly wide thanks to the soundbar’s side-firing speakers and the dedicated centre channel ensures dialogue remains clearly intelligible. Alexa built-in provides a decent level of smart functionality to complement the HW-Q990B’s first-rate sound, while the new design of the bar, sub and rear speakers mean it looks a lot better than its 2021 predecessor. We would have liked to have seen a couple of additional HDMI inputs and support for 4K/120 and Variable Refresh Rate passthrough, but the HW-Q990B is a roaring success regardless. There’s a newer model available – the HW-Q990C– but given the price difference, we’re still recommending last year’s model. If you want a premium, immersive listening experience you’ll want to be sure you have an HDMI connection to use from your soundbar and an HDMI ARC (that's audio return channel) port on your TV for it to connect to.

It may not be the biggest or most powerful soundbar, but in terms of music performance, we found that the Sonos Beam captures a balance musically that makes it perfect for music. You’ll also want to consider whether you need a Dolby Atmos speaker or not. Dolby Atmos is surround sound technology, placing sounds and voices all around you so that whatever you’re watching or listening to is more immersive. The thing is, Dolby Atmos-enabled soundbars tend to be more expensive. You’ll need to weigh up whether Dolby Atmos sound is worth it for you. Otherwise, consider a capable but cheaper option, like the Yamaha SR-C30A, our choice for best cheap soundbar.Audio is just as important as visuals when watching TV, but a lot of manufacturers overlook sound quality when producing televisions. By buying one of the best soundbars, you will significantly enhance your audio experience while watching movies, sports and TV shows. Dialogue will sound clearer, sound effects more impactful and music much richer.

You generally have two options when it comes to soundbar placement: wall-mounting it, or placing in below your TV on your TV cabinet. If your soundbar is quite tall, wall-mounting may be the best option, as it could obscure the IR receiver on your TV, rendering your remote control useless. You might be wondering how there can be a best soundbar for gaming; let us explain. If you're a gamer and find yourself with both the PS5 and Xbox Series X, on a large number of TVs you will often find you only have two HDMI 2.1 ports. One of these will be dedicated to eARC, the HDMI audio channel, leaving you with just one HDMI port for both consoles if you want the full 4K 120Hz experience. Soundbars are one of most effective way to enhance your TV’s sound quality. They are affordable and simple and eliminates the frustrating wires and cables that come with a full surround-sound system. Most may not sound as great as real speakers, especially when it comes to music, but if you want better sounds with TV shows and movies, they’re far better than the built-in speakers that come with your TV. Sports mode is one of four EQ presets available, with movie, music and night modes also on offer. They all do a good job at enhancing your audio experience when watching the content they’re designed to cater to, while Polk’s Voice Adjust technology allows you to increase how prominent dialogue is in the audio and works very well.The HT-A7000 also has excellent, clear dialogue levels that will suit any dialogue heavy video games and movies and features 360 Reality Audio music, which gives a room-filling sound when listening to music that we said in our review gives a "clear idea of where all the instruments are located." However, you will still get quality audio and an optical connection does work with soundbars and surround sound systems. What size soundbar should I get? Ease of use: Any sound bar that’s easy to use is a good long-term investment. Make sure the remote of the device is not fiddly as this often have buttons that are tiny and hard to press plus it can be easily lost. A sound bar remote with a built-in infra-red or IR is a good choice to avoid signal problem between your TV and the soundbar’s remote. Most soundbars today come with a LED display for adjusting sound settings and switching audio sources.

The Q990C also brings with it a couple of extra unique features, with the main being an update to the Q-Symphony technology. This enables Samsung-compatible soundbars and TVs to communicate (even wirelessly) and work together to use all the available speakers between both systems to create an even bigger, bolder sound – which it succeeds in doing. Design: Your sound bar should be designed really well or choose one with a well-thought out style that will not be a distraction on your TV set or décor. Lookout for sand bars with easy to reach buttons as well.If you’re using a 3.5mm aux cable to connect to your soundbar, this is likely the culprit. First, ensure both ends of the cable are fully and securely inserted into your TV and soundbar.