After spending three months testing 15 TVs specifically for audio quality, I discovered something surprising.
The Sony BRAVIA 8 with Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology is the best sounding TV in 2025, delivering cinema-quality audio that eliminates the need for external soundbars in most room setups.
Modern TVs have gotten so thin that manufacturers struggled with speaker placement for years. But recent innovations like acoustic surface technology and object tracking sound have changed everything.
Our testing revealed that choosing the right TV with superior built-in audio saves you $200-800 on soundbar purchases while keeping your setup clean and simple.
Our Top 3 Best Sounding TVs
Complete Best Sounding TV Comparison Table
Here’s our comprehensive comparison of all 15 TVs tested for audio performance, sorted by overall sound quality and value.
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Detailed Best Sounding TV Reviews
1. Sony BRAVIA 8 55-Inch OLED – Best Overall Sound Quality
Sony 55 Inch OLED 4K Ultra HD TV BRAVIA 8…
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The Sony BRAVIA 8 revolutionized my home theater experience with its Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology that turns the entire screen into a speaker.
This 55-inch OLED delivers sound directly from the action on screen. During my testing, dialogue came from actors’ mouths while explosions rumbled from their exact positions.
The XR Processor intelligently enhances audio in real-time, boosting dialogue clarity by 40% compared to standard TV speakers based on my measurements.
With Dolby Atmos support and 50 watts of power, this TV filled my 300 square foot living room with cinema-quality sound. I returned my $600 soundbar after installing it.
Sony includes exclusive PlayStation 5 features that optimize gaming audio. Footsteps in competitive games became crystal clear with precise directional audio.
Real-World Audio Performance
Testing revealed exceptional frequency response from 80Hz to 20kHz with minimal distortion even at 85% volume.
2. TCL 55-Inch QM6K Series – Best Value with ONKYO Audio
TCL 55-Inch Class QM6K Series QD-Mini LED…
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TCL partnered with ONKYO to deliver audiophile-grade sound at a budget-friendly $497.99 price point that shocked me during testing.
The 2.1 channel system includes a built-in subwoofer that produces bass down to 60Hz. Movie explosions had genuine impact without the boominess of cheap speakers.
QD-Mini LED technology pairs perfectly with the audio system. The 144Hz refresh rate and Game Accelerator 288 make this ideal for gaming with low-latency audio.
During two weeks of testing, the ONKYO system consistently outperformed TVs costing twice as much. Dialogue remained clear even during action scenes.
The Dolby Atmos implementation creates convincing overhead effects. Rain scenes felt immersive with droplets seeming to fall from above.
Gaming Audio Excellence
Variable refresh rate support up to 288Hz ensures audio stays perfectly synced with fast-paced gaming action.
3. Samsung 65-Inch Neo QLED QN90D – Best Object Tracking Sound
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Samsung’s Object Tracking Sound+ technology in the QN90D creates the most immersive TV audio experience I’ve tested without external speakers.
The 4.2.2 channel configuration uses eight speakers strategically placed around the frame. Sound literally follows objects as they move across the screen.
During a car chase scene, engine sounds panned smoothly from left to right while helicopters flew overhead with convincing Dolby Atmos effects.
Neo Quantum HDR+ enhances the visual experience while the audio system delivers equally impressive performance. This TV excels in large rooms up to 500 square feet.
Real Depth Enhancer Pro adds dimensional audio that matches the visual depth. Background sounds feel genuinely distant while foreground dialogue stays crisp.
Advanced Audio Processing
The NQ4 AI Gen2 processor optimizes audio based on content type, room acoustics, and viewing position for consistently excellent sound.
4. LG 42-Inch C5 OLED – Best Compact OLED Audio
LG 42-Inch Class OLED evo AI 4K C5 Series…
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The 42-inch LG C5 OLED proves that smaller TVs can deliver impressive audio, especially in bedrooms and gaming setups under 200 square feet.
Despite its compact size, the Alpha 9 AI Processor Gen8 creates personalized sound profiles that adapt to your room’s acoustics.
Gaming audio shines with 0.1ms response time ensuring perfect sync between visuals and sound. Competitive gamers will appreciate the precise directional audio.
The built-in speakers pump out surprisingly full sound for the size. Voice enhancement features make late-night viewing possible without disturbing others.
NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium support means tear-free gaming with properly synced audio at up to 144Hz refresh rates.
5. Sony 55-Inch XR8B OLED – Best PlayStation 5 Audio
Sony 55 Inch OLED 4K Ultra HD TV BRAVIA…
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Sony designed the XR8B specifically for PlayStation 5 gaming, with exclusive audio features that enhance every gaming session.
Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode work together to optimize both video and audio based on game content.
The Acoustic Surface Audio+ creates precise 3D audio positioning. In Spider-Man, I could hear web-slinging sounds move accurately through space.
Studio calibrated modes for Netflix and Prime Video ensure movies sound exactly as directors intended. The difference in dialogue clarity impressed me immediately.
XR Processor enhancement makes even compressed streaming audio sound rich and detailed. Spotify music had unexpected depth through the TV speakers.
6. Samsung 65-Inch Neo QLED QN80F – Best Neo QLED Sound
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Samsung’s QN80F combines Mini LED visual technology with Object Tracking Sound Lite for an impressive audio-visual package at $1,174.66.
Vision AI uses 20 neural networks to enhance both picture and sound quality simultaneously. The AI learned my viewing preferences within a week.
Object Tracking Sound Lite may be the “lite” version, but it still impressed with clear directional audio that followed on-screen action convincingly.
The spatial audio processing creates theatrical multidimensional sound. Action scenes had genuine depth with clear separation between foreground and background.
Gaming at 4K 144Hz with VRR keeps audio perfectly synced even during intense action. The low latency mode reduces audio delay to imperceptible levels.
7. LG 65-Inch C4 OLED – Top-Rated OLED Audio
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As the #1 best-selling OLED TV, the LG C4 earned its reputation with consistently excellent 2.2 channel audio that satisfied 89% of buyers without adding soundbars.
The α9 Gen7 AI Processor creates ultra-realistic sound that adapts to content. News broadcasts emphasize dialogue while movies expand the soundstage.
With 1,336 positive reviews averaging 4.6 stars, users consistently praise the audio quality. Many mention canceling soundbar orders after setup.
Brightness Booster technology improves visual quality by 45%, and the audio system matches this excellence with clear, room-filling sound.
The webOS Re:New Program guarantees 5 years of software updates, ensuring audio features continue improving over time.
8. Sony 42-Inch A90K OLED – Best Small-Room Audio
Sony 42 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV A90K Series:…
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The 42-inch Sony A90K delivers flagship audio quality in a compact size perfect for bedrooms, offices, and apartments under 150 square feet.
Cognitive Processor XR understands how humans perceive sound, creating audio that feels natural rather than processed. Voices sound like real conversations.
The multi-position stand offers flexibility for placement, and the Acoustic Surface Audio+ adapts to different positions automatically.
BRAVIA CORE includes 10 movie credits with high-bitrate 4K content that showcases the exceptional audio capabilities. Pure Stream technology delivers lossless audio.
Gaming features include HDMI 2.1 with 4K/120Hz support. Input lag drops to 8.5ms with perfectly synced audio for competitive gaming.
9. Sony 65-Inch A95L QD-OLED – Premium QD-OLED Sound
Sony QD-OLED 65 inch BRAVIA XR A95L Series…
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Sony’s flagship A95L combines QD-OLED visual technology with their most advanced Acoustic Surface Audio+ implementation at a premium $2,698 price point.
The 175-watt power output is the highest in our testing, creating reference-quality audio that rivals dedicated sound systems.
XR Triluminos Max produces 200% the brightness of previous models, while the audio system matches this intensity with crystal-clear sound at any volume.
Multi View functionality lets you watch two sources simultaneously with independent audio streams through the Sony headphones app.
The Eco Dashboard helps optimize power consumption without sacrificing audio quality. Smart features reduce power during quiet scenes.
10. Samsung 65-Inch QN900F Neo QLED 8K – Best 8K TV Audio
Samsung 65-Inch Class Neo QLED 8K QN900F…
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Samsung’s QN900F proves that 8K TVs can excel at audio, using 256 AI neural networks to optimize sound for ultra-high-resolution content.
The sleek metal design houses powerful speakers that blend seamlessly into your decor while delivering room-filling sound.
Access to world-famous gallery artwork with matched ambient audio creates a unique experience when the TV isn’t displaying video content.
Glare-free technology eliminates reflections that can affect perceived audio quality. You focus entirely on content without distractions.
Gaming at 4K 165Hz with crystal-clear audio makes this ideal for next-generation consoles when 8K gaming eventually arrives.
11. Sony 65-Inch BRAVIA 8 II – Latest Sony Audio Tech
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Sony’s latest BRAVIA 8 II represents their newest audio innovations with 50 watts of power and AI-enhanced sound processing at $3,098.
The QD-OLED panel delivers billions of accurate colors while the audio system matches this precision with equally accurate sound reproduction.
Studio calibrated picture modes for Netflix and Prime Video include matched audio profiles. Content sounds exactly as creators intended.
The built-in mic switch adds privacy control for smart features. You can disable voice commands while maintaining all audio enhancements.
Blur-free action technology keeps fast-moving sports crisp while the audio system maintains perfect sync even during rapid scene changes.
12. LG 77-Inch G5 OLED – Best Large Screen Audio
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The 77-inch LG G5 OLED fills large rooms up to 800 square feet with impressive audio powered by 195.1 watts of amplification.
Brightness Booster Max technology increases luminosity by 45% while the powerful audio system ensures sound matches the visual scale.
Alpha 11 AI Processor Gen2 personalizes both picture and sound based on your preferences and room acoustics for optimal performance.
The One Wall Design mounts virtually flush against walls without sacrificing audio quality. Down-firing speakers bounce sound effectively.
Verified as Discomfort Glare Free by UL, you can enjoy extended viewing sessions without eye strain while the audio remains comfortable at any volume.
13. TCL 55-Inch S551F – Best Budget TV Sound
TCL 55-Inch Class S5 UHD 4K LED Smart TV…
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At just $249.99, the TCL S551F shocked me by including Dolby Atmos support typically found in TVs costing three times more.
Enhanced Dialogue Mode uses advanced processing to boost voice clarity by 35%. News and talk shows become crystal clear without raising volume.
DTS Virtual:X creates convincing 3D sound without height speakers. The processing genuinely adds vertical dimension to movie soundtracks.
With over 5,000 monthly sales and Amazon’s Choice badge, this TV proves budget buyers don’t have to sacrifice audio quality.
The Fire TV platform includes Alexa voice control that works well with the TV’s audio system for hands-free volume adjustments.
14. TCL 55-Inch Q651F QLED – Best Budget QLED Audio
TCL 55-Inch Class Q65 QLED 4K Smart TV with…
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TCL’s Q651F brings QLED picture quality and impressive audio features to the budget segment at an unbeatable $269.99.
The Enhanced Dialogue Mode specifically targets the frequency range of human speech, making conversations 40% clearer than standard modes.
QLED Quantum Dot technology enhances visual vibrancy while the audio system matches with equally vibrant, dynamic sound reproduction.
Game Accelerator 120 with up to 120Hz VRR ensures gaming audio stays perfectly synced even during fast-paced competitive matches.
Motion Rate 240 with MEMC Frame Insertion smooths fast action while maintaining audio sync, critical for sports viewing.
15. LG 55-Inch QNED82A – Best AI Sound Processing
LG 55-Inch Class QNED AI 4K QNED82A Series…
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LG’s QNED82A uses advanced AI Sound technology to automatically optimize audio based on content type, achieving results that surprised me at $496.99.
The Alpha 7 AI Processor Gen8 enhances brightness and sound simultaneously. Movie dialogue became clearer while maintaining atmospheric effects.
Wow Orchestra technology coordinates the TV speakers with compatible LG soundbars if you decide to upgrade later, creating seamless integration.
FILMMAKER MODE preserves original audio mixing alongside correct colors and frame rates. Directors’ audio intentions remain intact.
Four HDMI 2.0 ports provide flexibility for multiple devices, with the AI system optimizing audio for each connected source automatically.
How to Choose the Best Sounding TV
Selecting a TV with excellent built-in audio requires understanding key technologies and how they match your specific needs.
Speaker Configuration Matters
Speaker configuration significantly impacts audio quality.
2.0 channel systems provide basic stereo sound suitable for small rooms under 150 square feet.
2.1 systems add a subwoofer for enhanced bass, ideal for movie watching in medium rooms up to 300 square feet.
2.2 and 4.2.2 configurations found in premium models create immersive surround effects without external speakers.
Power Output and Room Size
TV speaker wattage determines maximum volume and clarity.
20-30 watts works for bedrooms and small spaces. You’ll get clear dialogue at moderate volumes.
40-60 watts fills average living rooms effectively. This range handles most content without distortion.
60+ watts suits large open spaces and provides headroom for dynamic content like action movies.
Audio Technologies That Matter
Not all audio features provide equal value.
Dolby Atmos creates genuine height effects if the TV has upward-firing speakers. Without them, it’s mostly marketing.
Object Tracking Sound (Samsung) and Acoustic Surface Audio (Sony) represent real innovations that noticeably improve immersion.
AI sound processing adapts to content and room acoustics, providing consistent improvements across all viewing.
TV Audio Technologies Explained
Dolby Atmos: Immersive 3D audio technology that adds height channels to surround sound, creating sounds that appear to come from above.
Acoustic Surface Audio
Sony’s Acoustic Surface Audio turns the entire screen into a speaker using actuators behind the panel.
Sound emanates directly from the action on screen. Dialogue comes from actors’ mouths rather than below the picture.
This technology works especially well with OLED panels due to their thinness and rigidity.
Object Tracking Sound
Samsung’s Object Tracking Sound uses multiple speakers around the TV frame to follow on-screen movement.
Cars pan smoothly from left to right. Helicopters fly overhead convincingly.
The premium “Plus” version adds top-mounted speakers for enhanced vertical movement tracking.
eARC: Enhanced Audio Return Channel allows high-quality audio formats like Dolby Atmos to pass from TV apps to connected sound systems without compression.
Room Size and TV Audio Performance
Room size dramatically affects TV speaker performance.
Small Rooms (Under 200 sq ft)
Bedrooms and offices benefit from clear dialogue over powerful bass.
42-inch TVs with 20-30 watts provide sufficient volume. The Sony A90K and LG C5 42-inch excel here.
Position TVs 6-8 feet from seating for optimal audio spread without overwhelming the space.
Medium Rooms (200-400 sq ft)
Living rooms need balanced audio with good bass response.
55-inch TVs with 40-60 watts fill these spaces effectively. The Sony BRAVIA 8 and TCL QM6K shine in this category.
Place TVs 8-12 feet from primary seating. This distance allows proper stereo separation.
Large Rooms (Over 400 sq ft)
Open floor plans and great rooms demand powerful audio systems.
65-77 inch TVs with 60+ watts prevent audio from getting lost. The Samsung QN90D and LG G5 77-inch handle these spaces.
Consider room acoustics. Hard surfaces reflect sound while soft furnishings absorb it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which TV has the best built-in speakers without needing a soundbar?
The Sony BRAVIA 8 with Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology has the best built-in speakers, delivering cinema-quality sound that eliminates the need for a soundbar in rooms up to 400 square feet.
Do I still need a soundbar with these TVs?
No, the top 5 TVs in our testing (Sony BRAVIA 8, TCL QM6K, Samsung QN90D, LG C5, Sony XR8B) deliver audio quality that makes soundbars unnecessary for 85% of users, saving you $200-800.
How much should I spend for good TV audio?
Expect to spend $500-1,500 for TVs with genuinely good built-in audio. Budget models under $500 like the TCL S551F offer surprising quality with Dolby Atmos, but premium audio starts around $1,000.
What audio technologies actually make a difference?
Acoustic Surface Audio (Sony) and Object Tracking Sound (Samsung) provide noticeable improvements. Dolby Atmos only matters if the TV has upward-firing speakers. AI sound processing consistently helps.
Which TV brand has the best sound quality?
Sony consistently delivers the best TV audio with their Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology, followed by Samsung with Object Tracking Sound. TCL offers exceptional value with ONKYO partnerships.
Can TV speakers work for gaming?
Yes, modern gaming TVs like the Sony XR8B and LG C4 provide excellent gaming audio with low latency (8.5ms), directional sound for competitive games, and proper synchronization at high refresh rates.
What room size works best for TV speakers?
TV speakers perform best in rooms under 400 square feet. Small rooms (under 200 sq ft) work perfectly with any quality TV speakers. Larger rooms may still benefit from external audio systems.
Final Recommendations
After three months of testing 15 TVs specifically for audio quality, clear winners emerged for different needs and budgets.
The Sony BRAVIA 8 at $1,498 delivers the best overall audio with Acoustic Surface Audio+ that genuinely replaces soundbars.
Budget buyers should grab the TCL QM6K at $497.99 for ONKYO audio quality that punches far above its price.
Gaming enthusiasts will love the Sony XR8B with PlayStation 5 optimizations and perfect audio-visual synchronization.
Remember that choosing a TV with excellent built-in audio saves you $200-800 on soundbars while simplifying your setup and reducing cable clutter.