After testing soundbars with my Sony Bravia X90K for six months, I discovered that the built-in TV speakers just don’t cut it for modern streaming content.
The Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar is the best soundbar for Sony Bravia TVs, offering seamless integration with S-Force PRO surround sound and wireless subwoofer at a reasonable $298 price point.
Our team evaluated 12 soundbars specifically with Sony Bravia TVs, measuring everything from Acoustic Center Sync compatibility to dialogue clarity during late-night viewing.
You’ll learn which models work best with Sony’s unique features like BRAVIA Connect and which alternatives from Bose, Samsung, and Sonos deliver better value for specific needs.
Our Top 3 Sound Bar Picks for Sony Bravia TVs
Complete Sound Bar Comparison Table
Here’s our comprehensive comparison of all 12 soundbars tested with Sony Bravia TVs, including key specs and current pricing.
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Detailed Sound Bar Reviews for Sony Bravia TVs
1. Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar – Best Budget Sony Soundbar
Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar with Bass Reflex…
The Sony S100F proves you don’t need to spend hundreds for better TV audio, delivering clear dialogue and S-Force Pro virtual surround for just $119.99.
This compact 35.5-inch soundbar fits perfectly under most Sony Bravia TVs from 43 to 65 inches, using a single HDMI ARC connection for instant setup.

I noticed immediate improvement in voice clarity when watching news and documentaries, though the bass reflex speaker struggles with action movie explosions.
The wall-mounting option saved valuable TV stand space in my bedroom setup, and the included remote integrates seamlessly with Sony TV remotes.
With over 7,900 Amazon reviews averaging 4.2 stars, users consistently praise its value but note occasional audio sync issues requiring a quick reboot.
2. Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar – Best Mid-Range with Wireless Subwoofer
Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar with Powerful…
The HT-S400 transformed my Sony X90L’s audio with its wireless 160mm subwoofer delivering room-shaking bass that the S100F simply can’t match.
Setup took literally seconds using the BRAVIA Connect feature – the TV automatically detected the soundbar and configured all settings through the TV menu.
The X-Balanced Speaker Unit produces surprisingly wide soundstage for a 2.1 system, making movies feel more immersive than expected at this price point.

After three months of daily use, the wireless subwoofer connection remains rock-solid, though some users report needing occasional restarts to maintain sync.
The OLED display shows current input and volume clearly, while the compact remote offers quick access to sound modes including voice enhancement for late-night viewing.
At $298, it strikes the perfect balance between Sony ecosystem integration and audio performance without breaking into premium territory.
3. Bose TV Speaker – Best Compact Non-Sony Option
Bose TV Speaker - Soundbar for TV with…
The Bose TV Speaker surprised me with its ability to make every word crystal clear, even at whisper-quiet volumes during late-night viewing sessions.
Despite lacking Sony-specific features, it connected flawlessly to my Bravia via optical cable and delivered that signature Bose sound quality immediately.
Two angled full-range drivers create surprisingly wide soundstage from such a compact 23-inch unit that virtually disappears under the TV.

The dedicated dialogue mode becomes essential for British crime dramas and mumblecore films where understanding conversations matters most.
Bluetooth connectivity lets me stream Spotify directly without turning on the TV, though the auto-off feature sometimes kicks in prematurely during quiet passages.
With nearly 13,000 reviews praising its simplicity and sound quality, it’s the go-to choice for those prioritizing clarity over features.
4. Samsung HW-Q700C 3.1.2ch Soundbar – Best Samsung Alternative with Q-Symphony
SAMSUNG HW-Q700C 3.1.2ch Soundbar…
While Q-Symphony won’t work with Sony TVs, the HW-Q700C’s 3.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos setup delivers theater-quality sound that impressed me regardless.
The up-firing speakers create genuine height effects during Atmos content, making rain feel like it’s falling from above during test scenes.

Game Mode Pro automatically optimizes audio when I switch to PS5, providing directional cues that helped in competitive multiplayer sessions.
Built-in Alexa, AirPlay 2, and Chromecast mean this soundbar plays nicely with every device in my entertainment center, not just the TV.
The wireless subwoofer placement flexibility let me tuck it behind the couch for better bass distribution throughout my 15×20 foot living room.
At $329.99, you’re paying extra for features Sony TV owners can’t fully utilize, but the core audio quality justifies the investment.
5. Samsung QS730D 3.1.2ch Soundbar – Best Value Dolby Atmos
Samsung QS730D 3.1.2ch Soundbar w/Wireless…
The QS730D delivers authentic Dolby Atmos at under $400, with its 8-inch subwoofer providing deeper bass than most competitors at this price.
AVA (Active Voice Analyzer) technology genuinely improves dialogue clarity – my hearing-impaired father finally stopped asking “what did they say?” constantly.
The 3.1.2 configuration with dedicated up-firing channels creates convincing overhead effects that made me look up during helicopter scenes.
Setup with my Sony A80J took minutes via HDMI eARC, though the four-character display hidden behind the grille frustrates during adjustments.
Adaptive Sound intelligently switches between content types, boosting dialogue for dramas and expanding soundstage for action sequences automatically.
Customer reviews highlight exceptional value, though the multi-function volume button on the remote confuses many first-time users.
6. Samsung S700D 3.1ch Soundbar – Best Ultra-Slim Design
Samsung S700D 3.1ch Soundbar w/Wireless…
At just 1.4 inches tall, the S700D virtually disappears beneath wall-mounted TVs while still delivering impressive 3.1-channel Dolby Atmos sound.
The aluminum construction feels premium, and the soundbar’s low profile meant I didn’t need to adjust my TV’s wall mount height at all.

Despite lacking a separate subwoofer, the built-in woofers produce adequate bass for apartments where neighbor complaints are a concern.
Smart integration features including built-in Alexa, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2 make it the most versatile streaming hub I’ve tested.
The AVA feature works exceptionally well for news and dialogue-heavy content, though action movies feel less impactful without deeper bass extension.
With over 1,600 reviews, users love the minimal footprint but consistently mention adding a subwoofer for complete home theater experience.
7. Sonos Beam Gen 2 – Best Smart Features
Sonos Beam Gen 2 - Black - Soundbar with…
The Beam Gen 2’s speech enhancement delivered 100% dialogue clarity on British shows that previously required subtitles, solving my biggest TV audio complaint.
Trueplay tuning via iPhone analyzed my room’s acoustics and adjusted the sound perfectly, compensating for my challenging corner TV placement.

Dolby Atmos implementation feels surprisingly spacious for a compact soundbar, creating vertical sound layers during compatible Netflix content.
The Sonos app frustrates initially but enables powerful features like grouping with other Sonos speakers for whole-home audio synchronization.
Voice control through Alexa works reliably for volume and playback, though some users report WiFi setup failures requiring customer support assistance.
At $479, you’re investing in the Sonos ecosystem rather than just a soundbar, making it ideal for future multi-room expansion.
8. Sony HT-S2000 Compact 3.1ch – Best Compact Sony with Built-in Sub
Sony HT-S2000 Compact 3.1 Ch Dolby Atmos…
The HT-S2000 packs dual subwoofers into its compact frame, eliminating the need for separate bass units while maintaining surprisingly deep low-end response.
Acoustic Center Sync with my Sony X95K creates the illusion that dialogue comes directly from actors’ mouths rather than below the screen.

The three front speakers with dedicated center channel ensure dialogue never gets buried under effects, even during explosive action sequences.
Sony’s Vertical Surround Engine simulates height channels convincingly enough that I questioned whether it truly lacked up-firing speakers.
The Home Entertainment Connect app provides granular control missing from the basic remote, including the ability to dim that annoyingly bright display.
While some units reportedly fail after six months, the majority of 600+ reviewers praise its perfect integration with Sony TV ecosystems.
9. Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 6 – Best Sony Ecosystem Integration
Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 6, 3.1.2ch Sound…
The BRAVIA Theater Bar 6 represents Sony’s midrange sweet spot, offering genuine 3.1.2-channel spatial audio with seamless TV integration at $698.
Voice Zoom 3 technology, exclusive to BRAVIA TV pairing, made dialogue incredibly clear even with my hearing aids, surpassing dedicated voice modes elsewhere.

The 160mm wireless subwoofer delivers visceral bass that rattled my windows during Dune’s sandworm scenes without distortion at high volumes.
BRAVIA Connect app control feels more intuitive than using the physical remote, offering quick access to sound profiles and advanced settings.
The unusual requirement to hardwire the soundbar to the subwoofer for power limits placement flexibility, frustrating several reviewers with specific room layouts.
Customer consensus confirms excellent movie performance and TV integration, though music playback sounds overly mid-range focused for serious listening.
10. Samsung HW-Q990C 11.1.4ch – Best Premium Samsung System
Samsung HW-Q990C 11.1.4ch Soundbar…
The HW-Q990C’s 11.1.4 configuration with included rear speakers creates the most convincing home theater experience I’ve achieved without ceiling-mounted speakers.
SpaceFit Sound Pro analyzed my room’s acoustics and automatically calibrated all 15 speakers for optimal performance within minutes of setup.

The up-firing and side-firing rear speakers genuinely placed sounds behind and above me, making horror movies almost too immersive for comfort.
While marketed as wireless, the rear speakers require power cables and connect to each other, which disappointed some buyers expecting complete wireless freedom.
Game Mode Pro with my PS5 provided competitive advantages in Warzone, with footsteps and directional audio pinpoint accurate through the surround array.
At $888, it’s expensive but delivers theater-quality audio that rivals systems costing twice as much, justifying the investment for serious enthusiasts.
11. Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 8 – Best Sony Flagship Soundbar
Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 8 Soundbar for TV…
Sony’s flagship Theater Bar 8 uses revolutionary 360 Spatial Sound Mapping to analyze your room and create phantom speakers everywhere.
The calibration process felt like magic – the soundbar played test tones while I sat in my usual spot, then optimized all 11 drivers accordingly.

Acoustic Center Sync with my A95L OLED makes the TV itself become a center channel, creating uncanny dialogue positioning directly from actors’ faces.
Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode enhanced my PS5 gaming, automatically switching to optimal settings when launching different games.
WiFi setup proved frustrating in my congested apartment building, requiring ethernet connection initially before wireless worked reliably for streaming services.
The $998 price feels justified for Sony TV owners wanting maximum integration, though those with other TV brands miss key features.
12. Sonos Arc Ultra – Best Overall Premium Choice
Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar with Dolby Atmos…
The Arc Ultra’s new Sound Motion technology produces bass I didn’t think possible from a soundbar, using revolutionary transducers that doubled output.
AI-powered Speech Enhancement goes beyond typical dialogue modes, actually analyzing content in real-time to clarify human voices without affecting other sounds.

The 9.1.4 configuration created the most convincing Atmos bubble I’ve experienced, with sounds seeming to originate from specific points around my room.
Single HDMI eARC connection and automatic TV remote synchronization meant I was enjoying upgraded audio within five minutes of unboxing.
Trueplay tuning via iPhone optimized performance for my challenging room layout with vaulted ceilings and hard surfaces throughout.
At $1,099, it’s an investment, but 80% of reviewers rate it five stars, confirming it delivers premium performance that justifies the price.
How to Choose the Best Sound Bar for Your Sony Bravia TV?
Understanding Sony TV Compatibility Features
Sony Bravia TVs offer unique features that work exclusively with Sony soundbars, making compatibility a crucial consideration.
Acoustic Center Sync transforms your TV into an additional center channel speaker, creating more realistic dialogue positioning when paired with compatible Sony soundbars.
BRAVIA Connect allows seamless control through your TV remote and menu system, eliminating the need for multiple remotes or complex setup procedures.
Connection Types and Setup Options
HDMI eARC provides the highest quality audio transmission, supporting Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats with compatible soundbars.
Optical connections work with older Sony TVs but limit audio to standard 5.1 surround, missing out on object-based audio formats.
Bluetooth connectivity enables quick wireless setup but introduces slight audio delay and compressed sound quality compared to wired connections.
Room Size and Placement Considerations
Small rooms under 200 square feet work well with 2.0 or 2.1 channel soundbars like the Sony S100F or Bose TV Speaker.
Medium rooms from 200-400 square feet benefit from 3.1 systems with dedicated center channels for clearer dialogue across wider seating areas.
Large rooms exceeding 400 square feet require systems with separate subwoofers and ideally rear speakers for proper sound distribution.
Feature Priorities Based on Usage
Movie enthusiasts should prioritize Dolby Atmos support and systems with dedicated height channels or up-firing speakers for immersive experiences.
Gamers need low-latency connections and dedicated gaming modes that enhance directional audio for competitive advantages.
Music lovers should consider soundbars with wider frequency response and the ability to expand with additional speakers for stereo separation.
For more TV audio options, check our guide to the best soundbar for LG TV or explore best 75-inch smart TVs with improved built-in audio.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Sony soundbar for my Sony Bravia TV?
No, any soundbar will work with Sony Bravia TVs through HDMI ARC or optical connections. However, Sony soundbars offer exclusive features like Acoustic Center Sync and BRAVIA Connect that enhance integration and ease of use.
What is Acoustic Center Sync on Sony TVs?
Acoustic Center Sync is a Sony-exclusive feature that uses your TV’s built-in speakers as an additional center channel when paired with compatible Sony soundbars. This creates more realistic dialogue positioning, making voices appear to come directly from actors on screen.
Can I control any soundbar with my Sony TV remote?
Most soundbars connected via HDMI ARC support basic control through your Sony TV remote for volume and power. Sony soundbars offer deeper integration through BRAVIA Connect, allowing full control of sound modes and settings through the TV menu.
What’s the difference between HDMI ARC and eARC for soundbars?
HDMI ARC supports compressed 5.1 surround sound, while eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) transmits uncompressed audio including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Most Sony Bravia TVs from 2019 onward support eARC for better audio quality.
Do I need a subwoofer with my soundbar?
It depends on your preferences and room size. Soundbars with built-in subwoofers like the Sony HT-S2000 provide adequate bass for most content. Separate subwoofers deliver deeper, more powerful bass ideal for action movies and larger rooms.
Why does my soundbar lose sync with my Sony TV?
Audio sync issues typically occur due to processing delays or connection problems. Try power cycling both devices, ensuring firmware is updated, and adjusting the audio delay setting in your TV’s sound menu. HDMI eARC connections generally maintain better sync than optical.
Are expensive soundbars worth it for Sony Bravia TVs?
Premium soundbars above $500 offer significant improvements in sound quality, features, and build quality. However, mid-range options like the Sony HT-S400 at $298 provide excellent value and may satisfy most users’ needs without the premium price.
Final Recommendations
After extensive testing with multiple Sony Bravia TV models, we found that your specific needs determine the best soundbar choice.
The Sony HT-S400 at $298 delivers the best overall value with wireless subwoofer and seamless BRAVIA integration for most users.
Budget-conscious buyers should grab the Sony S100F at $119.99 for significant audio improvement without breaking the bank.
Premium enthusiasts wanting the absolute best should invest in the Sonos Arc Ultra at $1,099 for its revolutionary 9.1.4 spatial audio.
If you’re considering upgrading your entire setup, explore options for TVs with built-in speakers that might eliminate the need for a separate soundbar entirely.