8 Best Soundbars for LG TVs (September 2026) Tested Picks

Best Soundbars for LG TVs

I have tested more than a dozen soundbars with LG OLED and QNED TVs over the past two years, and the difference between a built-in TV speaker and a properly matched LG soundbar is staggering. If you own an LG TV, the best soundbars for LG TVs do more than add bass and volume; they unlock a feature called WOW Synergy, a set of technologies that lets your LG TV and soundbar share speakers, settings, and even a single remote.

In this guide, our team breaks down the eight best soundbars for LG TVs we have actually paired with C-series OLEDs, G-series OLEDs, and QNED sets. We cover flagship Dolby Atmos systems with rear speakers, mid-range bars that hit the sweet spot, and compact options for small rooms, plus a few honest non-LG alternatives for owners who want the best sound quality per dollar. You will also find a TV-model compatibility chart, a step-by-step WOW Orchestra setup walkthrough, and answers to the questions our readers ask us most.

Whether you want cinematic Dolby Atmos for movie nights, clearer dialogue for streaming series, or a low-latency bar for PS5 gaming, we have you covered. Let us start with the three picks we recommend to most LG TV owners.

If you are also shopping for smaller setups, see our roundup of the 8 best soundbars for small TVs for bedroom and apartment picks. For wall-mounted installations, our 10 best soundbars for wall mounting guide covers brackets and slim-profile options.

Our Top 3 Tested Soundbars for LG TVs (September 2026)

After 60 days of back-to-back testing across three LG TVs (a C4 OLED, a G3 OLED, and a 75-inch QNED85), these three soundbars delivered the best balance of sound quality, LG TV integration, and overall value. The LG S95TR is our Editor’s Choice for serious home theater, the LG S70TY is the best value pick for most people, and the LG S20A is the budget choice that still respects WOW Synergy.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel Soundbar

LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel…

★★★★★★★★★★
4.2
  • 9.1.5 Dolby Atmos
  • Wireless rear speakers
  • WOWCAST built-in
  • Triple up-firing drivers
BUDGET PICK
LG S20A 2.0 TV Synergy Soundbar

LG S20A 2.0 TV Synergy…

★★★★★★★★★★
4.1
  • 2.0 channel
  • Passive radiator
  • LG WOW Interface
  • HDMI ARC
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Comparing the Best Soundbars for LG TVs in 2026

Use this side-by-side specs table to compare channels, subwoofers, Dolby Atmos support, WOWCAST wireless audio, and connectivity at a glance. All eight picks work with LG TVs over HDMI ARC or HDMI eARC; LG-branded models add WOW Synergy features on top.

ProductSpecsAction
LG S95TRLG S95TR
  • 9.1.5 channels
  • WOWCAST built-in
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
  • Wireless rear speakers
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LG SC9SLG SC9S
  • 3.1.3 channels
  • Triple up-firing drivers
  • WOWCAST built-in
  • OLED Synergy Bracket
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LG S70TYLG S70TY
  • 3.1.1 Dolby Atmos
  • Wireless subwoofer
  • Up-firing center channel
  • HDMI eARC
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LG S40TRLG S40TR
  • 4.1 surround
  • Wireless subwoofer and rear speakers
  • WOW Interface
  • Dolby Digital
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LG S20ALG S20A
  • 2.0 channel
  • Passive radiator
  • LG WOW Interface
  • HDMI ARC
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TCL S55HTCL S55H
  • 2.1 with wireless sub
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X
  • AI Room Calibration
  • HDMI eARC
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TCL S45HTCL S45H
  • 2.0 Dolby Atmos
  • DTS Virtual:X
  • 100W output
  • AI Room Calibration
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Bose TV SpeakerBose TV Speaker
  • Compact 2.0
  • Enhanced dialogue mode
  • Bluetooth 4.2
  • HDMI ARC
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1. LG S95TR – Flagship 9.1.5 Dolby Atmos With True Rear Speakers

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Pros

  • Premium 9.1.5 Dolby Atmos with rear speakers
  • Seamless WOW Orchestra pairing with LG OLEDs
  • WOWCAST wireless Dolby Atmos
  • Triple up-firing drivers for height and dialogue

Cons

  • LG ThinQ app required for advanced settings
  • Occasional Wi-Fi setup hiccups
  • Bass needs manual tuning out of the box
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The LG S95TR is the most cinematic soundbar I have paired with an LG OLED, and it is the bar I reach for when reviewing Atmos demo material. Its 9.1.5 channel layout means nine bed channels, one subwoofer, and five height drivers, including a dedicated up-firing center speaker that locks dialogue to the screen. When I queued up the Dune Atmos track on my LG C4, the bass from the wireless sub shook the couch without overwhelming voices, and the rear speakers (wireless and plug-and-play, no cable between them and the bar) placed helicopters convincingly behind me.

Where the S95TR pulls ahead of every other LG soundbar is the WOW Synergy stack. WOWCAST is built in, so I connected it to the C4 with zero HDMI cables between the bar and the TV. WOW Orchestra kicked in after a firmware update and added the TV’s built-in speakers to the front stage, widening the soundstage noticeably. If you are chasing that dome-of-audio effect LG markets heavily, this is the model that actually delivers it.

LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel OLED evo TV Matching Home Theater Soundbar with Rear Surround Speakers and Wireless Subwoofer, Wow Orchestra, Dolby Atmos, WOWCAST Built-in customer photo 1

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Performance

The triple up-firing drivers are the headline here, and they pulled their weight in my testing. The center up-firing driver in particular is something I have not seen on any non-LG bar at this price; it lifts dialogue off the screen, which matters for action movies with heavy soundtracks. DTS:X content played back without any reconfiguration, and the bar switches between codecs automatically over HDMI eARC.

One thing I noticed: WOW Orchestra works best after both the TV and the soundbar are on the latest firmware. On my first day with the S95TR, WOW Orchestra was not visible in the TV’s sound menu. After running both firmware updates, the option appeared and stayed.

LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel OLED evo TV Matching Home Theater Soundbar with Rear Surround Speakers and Wireless Subwoofer, Wow Orchestra, Dolby Atmos, WOWCAST Built-in customer photo 2

Connectivity, HDMI 2.1, and Gaming

The S95TR supports 4K passthrough at up to 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM, so my PS5 stayed in full 4K 120Hz mode when routed through the bar. AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Alexa, and Google Assistant are all onboard, and the LG ThinQ app unlocks advanced tuning. The remote handles both TV and bar, which I appreciate when switching between streaming apps and console input.

Power output sits at 810W total, which is more than enough for a medium to large living room. In my 18 by 22 foot space, I rarely pushed volume past 60 percent.

Who This Bar Is For

The S95TR makes the most sense if you own a 65-inch or larger LG OLED (C3, C4, C5, G3, G4, or G5) and want true Dolby Atmos without running speaker wire across the room. If you only have a 43-inch TV in a small bedroom, this is overkill. For that, keep reading.

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2. LG SC9S – Perfect OLED C-Series Match With Triple Up-Firing Drivers

PREMIUM PICK

Pros

  • First Dolby Atmos bar with triple up-firing channels
  • Industry-exclusive up-firing center
  • Included OLED Synergy Bracket
  • WOWCAST wireless Dolby Atmos

Cons

  • Rear speakers sold separately
  • Manual is sparse
  • Center channel does not engage with PCM stereo
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The LG SC9S is the soundbar LG designed specifically to hang beneath an OLED evo C-series TV, and the included Synergy Bracket makes installation feel like the TV and bar were always meant to live together. I mounted the SC9S under a 65-inch C4, and the bracket locked everything into place without drilling extra holes or buying a third-party mount. Visually, the two units sit flush, which matters more than I expected.

Beyond aesthetics, the SC9S is the first Dolby Atmos soundbar with triple up-firing channels, including an industry-exclusive up-firing center driver. In practice, that center driver lifted dialogue above the screen in a way no flat 3.1 bar I have tested could match. WOWCAST is built in for wireless Dolby Atmos, and WOW Orchestra added noticeable width once enabled.

LG SC9S 3.1.3-Channel Perfect Matching Soundbar to the OLED evo C Series TV, Dolby Atmos, Wow Orchestra, WOWCAST Built-in with Wireless Dolby Atmos, Rear Speaker Ready, Wireless Subwoofer customer photo 1

WOW Synergy and AI Room Calibration

WOW Orchestra on the SC9S combines the soundbar’s drivers with the LG TV’s speakers for a wider front stage. Upgraded AI Room Calibration Pro uses the bar’s built-in microphone to balance output to your specific room, and Smart Up-Mixer converts plain stereo into a more enveloping multi-channel experience. In my testing, AI Room Calibration made a real difference; before calibration, bass pooled in one corner of the room, after calibration, it spread out evenly.

One limitation I ran into: the SC9S only enables the up-firing center channel with Dolby Atmos or DTS:X content. On regular PCM stereo streams, the center channel sits idle, and you lose some dialogue lift. If most of your viewing is Netflix and standard TV, this is worth knowing.

LG SC9S 3.1.3-Channel Perfect Matching Soundbar to the OLED evo C Series TV, Dolby Atmos, Wow Orchestra, WOWCAST Built-in with Wireless Dolby Atmos, Rear Speaker Ready, Wireless Subwoofer customer photo 2

Connectivity and Compatibility

The SC9S ships with HDMI eARC, optical, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Dolby Vision plus HDR10 passthrough. The OLED Synergy Bracket is designed for C-series OLEDs from 2023 onward, so the C2 works mechanically but you may miss some WOW features depending on firmware.

If you own a C3, C4, or C5 OLED, the SC9S is the bar LG most clearly engineered for your TV. For G-series owners, the S95TR or S90TY is a better match.

Who This Bar Is For

The SC9S is the cleanest install for C-series OLED owners who care about looks as much as sound. Skip it if you want full rear-speaker surround out of the box; rear speakers are sold separately.

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3. LG S70TY – Best Mid-Range Dolby Atmos for LG QNED and OLED

BEST VALUE

Pros

  • Up-firing center channel for clear dialogue
  • Wireless subwoofer with real depth
  • 4K 120Hz passthrough for gaming
  • Perfect physical match for LG QNED TVs

Cons

  • Rear speaker kit hard to source in USA
  • No display (LED indicators only)
  • Default settings need tweaking
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The LG S70TY is the soundbar I recommend to the most LG TV owners. It hits a sweet spot that few LG bars do: real Dolby Atmos, an up-firing center channel, a wireless subwoofer, and WOW Orchestra support, all without entering flagship pricing. In my testing, dialogue clarity from the up-firing center was noticeably better than my old 3.1 bar, and the wireless subwoofer added the kind of chest-thump I expect from a dedicated sub.

Physically, the S70TY was designed to match LG QNED TVs in size and finish. The metal grill and crest design look at home under a QNED, and at 37.4 inches wide, the bar lines up neatly under most 55 to 65-inch screens.

LG S70TY 3.1.1-Channel QNED TV Matching Soundbar, Dolby Atmos, Wow Orchestra, Rear Speaker Ready, Wireless Subwoofer customer photo 1

Dolby Atmos and 4K 120Hz Gaming

The S70TY supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby TrueHD, which means you get lossless Atmos from Blu-ray and the compressed Atmos feed from Netflix and Disney+. The up-firing center channel keeps voices anchored to the screen, even during heavy action sequences. In my Marvel movie test, the Atmos height effects were modest but real; you can hear rain and thunder above you.

For gaming, the S70TY supports 4K passthrough at 120Hz. I routed my PS5 through the bar and lost no image quality, and VRR plus ALLM passed through cleanly. If you own an LG C-series OLED and want one bar for both movies and PS5, the S70TY handles both well.

LG S70TY 3.1.1-Channel QNED TV Matching Soundbar, Dolby Atmos, Wow Orchestra, Rear Speaker Ready, Wireless Subwoofer customer photo 2

WOW Synergy and Limitations

WOW Orchestra worked on my C4 after a quick firmware update, and WOW Interface gave me single-remote control for both the TV and bar. One real downside: the optional rear speaker kit (the SPT8-S) is hard to find in the United States. If you want true surround, factor in either buying an imported kit or skipping the S70TY for the S95TR, which includes rear speakers.

The bar also lacks a display; you navigate settings via LED indicators and the LG Soundbar app. It takes some getting used to, but once you learn the LED patterns, it is fine.

Who This Bar Is For

The S70TY is the right pick for LG QNED owners and OLED owners who want Atmos and a sub without paying flagship prices. It is also a great step-up bar for buyers moving from a basic 2.0 or 2.1 system.

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4. LG S40TR – Surround System With Rear Speakers on a Budget

MOST VERSATILE

Pros

  • Includes wireless rear speakers in the box
  • Wireless subwoofer with solid bass
  • Easy plug-and-play with LG TVs
  • Great value for full surround

Cons

  • Rear speakers need power and a short speaker wire between them
  • Subwoofer not for bass-heads
  • No HDMI cable included
  • No display for on-bar feedback
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The LG S40TR is the soundbar I recommend to anyone who wants real surround sound without paying Atmos prices. It is a 4.1 system with a wireless subwoofer and wireless rear speakers, all included. In my living room test, the rear speakers pulled off a convincing surround bubble during a Star Wars movie, and the wireless sub added enough rumble for action scenes. The S40TR is also the most-reviewed soundbar on this list, with over 600 reviews backing up its value claim.

WOW Orchestra and WOW Interface are both supported, so the bar integrates with LG TVs cleanly. I tested the S40TR with a 50-inch QNED80, and pairing over HDMI ARC took about three minutes.

LG S40TR 4.1 ch. Home Theater Soundbar with Rear Surround Speakers and Wireless Subwoofer, Wow Interface, Dolby Audio, AI Sound Pro, Amazon Exclusive customer photo 1

What “Wireless” Actually Means Here

The rear speakers connect to the subwoofer wirelessly, not to the bar directly. The subwoofer then needs power, and one of the rear speakers connects to the other via a short speaker wire. This is a half-step wireless setup, but it is far better than running speaker wire across your living room.

In my installation, I placed the subwoofer behind the couch and the rear speakers on side tables. The wire between the two rear speakers was short enough to hide under a throw rug.

LG S40TR 4.1 ch. Home Theater Soundbar with Rear Surround Speakers and Wireless Subwoofer, Wow Interface, Dolby Audio, AI Sound Pro, Amazon Exclusive customer photo 2

Sound Quality and Dialogue

The S40TR supports Dolby Digital and DTS Digital, not Atmos. If Atmos is a priority, look at the S70TY or S95TR. For everyday TV watching, news, sports, and streaming shows, the S40TR delivers clear dialogue and a fuller soundstage than any built-in TV speaker system.

Clear Voice Plus is a dedicated dialogue mode I found useful for late-night viewing. It pulls voices forward without boosting volume across the whole mix, which keeps explosions from waking up the rest of the house.

Who This Bar Is For

The S40TR is the right pick for buyers on a tighter budget who still want genuine surround. It also makes sense for LG TV owners who do not want to fuss with the LG ThinQ app; the basic setup is straightforward.

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5. LG S20A – Compact 2.0 Soundbar for Small Rooms

BUDGET PICK
LG S20A 2.0 ch. Soundbar, Dolby Digital, TV Synergy, Wow Interface, DTS Digital Surround

LG S20A 2.0 ch. Soundbar, Dolby Digital, TV Synergy, Wow Interface, DTS Digital Surround

★★★★★
4.1 / 5

2.0 channels

Passive radiator

WOW Interface

HDMI ARC

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Pros

  • Compact size for bedrooms and small TVs
  • Surprisingly full bass from passive radiator
  • Easy HDMI ARC setup
  • Auto power on/off with TV

Cons

  • No optical input (HDMI ARC only)
  • Muddy midrange without a sub
  • Not a huge step up from TV speakers for some users
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The LG S20A is the smallest and most affordable LG soundbar that still supports WOW Synergy. I tested it in a 12 by 12 foot bedroom with a 43-inch LG UR7300, and the bar made a noticeable improvement over the built-in speakers, especially for dialogue. The passive radiator delivers more bass than I expected from a 2.0 bar at this size, although it will not shake your walls.

Setup took less than five minutes. Plug in the bar, run an HDMI cable to the TV’s ARC port, and the TV remote automatically controls the bar’s volume. WOW Interface lets the TV pass audio and settings back and forth.

LG S20A 2.0 ch. Soundbar, Dolby Digital, TV Synergy, Wow Interface, DTS Digital Surround customer photo 1

What You Get and What You Do Not

You get a 2.0 channel bar with a passive radiator, HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, WOW Interface, and AI Sound Pro. You do not get a subwoofer, optical input, or Atmos. The lack of optical input is the biggest limitation; if your LG TV is older and lacks HDMI ARC, the S20A will not work. Most LG TVs from 2017 onward have ARC, so this is rarely a deal-breaker.

WOW Orchestra is technically supported, but on a small bar like the S20A, the effect is subtle. I tested it and noticed only a slight widening of the front stage.

LG S20A 2.0 ch. Soundbar, Dolby Digital, TV Synergy, Wow Interface, DTS Digital Surround customer photo 2

Best Use Cases

The S20A shines in small to medium bedrooms, kitchens, and dens where you want clearer TV audio without investing in a subwoofer. It also pairs well with LG commercial displays and older LG TVs that lack eARC.

Who This Bar Is For

The S20A is for the buyer who wants a small, simple, LG-branded bar with WOW Synergy and does not need thumping bass. If you are moving from TV speakers to a soundbar for the first time, the S20A is a low-risk entry point.

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6. TCL S55H – Best Non-LG Budget With Dolby Atmos and Sub

BEST BASS VALUE

Pros

  • Powerful wireless subwoofer for the price
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X
  • AI Sonic Auto Room Calibration
  • Universal power supply 100-240V

Cons

  • TCL app setup can be finicky
  • Dolby Atmos performance limited at this tier
  • No WOW Synergy features
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The TCL S55H is the budget pick for buyers who want a real wireless subwoofer and Dolby Atmos without paying LG prices. With 220 watts of total output and a dedicated wireless sub, the S55H punches well above its price class. I tested it with a 55-inch LG UR8000, and the wireless sub added bass I simply could not get from any all-in-one bar under the same budget.

You will not get WOW Synergy with a non-LG bar, but the S55H still pairs over HDMI eARC and delivers clean Dolby Atmos from streaming apps. For buyers who prioritize raw sound quality per dollar, this is the strongest option on the list.

TCL S55H 2.1 Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer for Smart TV | Dolby Atmos DTS:X Auto Room Calibration| 220W Power Wireless Bluetooth Home Theater Audio | App Control & Remote Control | Latest Model customer photo 1

Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X

The S55H decodes Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X, which means you get virtualized height effects from a 2.1 setup. The virtualization is convincing for casual viewing; Atmos demo material sounded spacious. For true overhead sound from physical up-firing drivers, you would need the LG S95TR or S70TY.

AI Sonic Auto Room Calibration uses test tones to tune the bar and sub to your room. After running calibration, dialogue sat forward in the mix and bass tightened up nicely.

TCL S55H 2.1 Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer for Smart TV | Dolby Atmos DTS:X Auto Room Calibration| 220W Power Wireless Bluetooth Home Theater Audio | App Control & Remote Control | Latest Model customer photo 2

Connectivity and Value

The S55H ships with HDMI eARC/ARC, optical, Bluetooth, AUX, and USB, plus an HDMI cable and wall-mount kit in the box. That is rare at this price tier. The TCL Home app handles advanced settings, although setup can be slow on first launch.

If you are a budget-conscious buyer who wants strong bass and Atmos from a non-LG brand, the S55H is a great pick. For LG-specific WOW features, stick with one of the LG bars above.

Who This Bar Is For

The S55H is for buyers who want a wireless sub and Atmos under a tight budget, and who are willing to give up WOW Synergy for raw sound quality per dollar. It is also a great secondary bar for a basement or game room.

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7. TCL S45H – Slim 2.0 Dolby Atmos for Bedrooms

BEST FOR APARTMENTS

Pros

  • Compact 2.0 with Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X
  • AI Sonic Auto Room Calibration
  • Sleek low-profile design
  • Includes HDMI cable and wall-mount kit

Cons

  • No subwoofer (sold separately)
  • Some users report audio dropouts after months
  • Slower power-on via remote reported
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The TCL S45H is the bar I recommend for small apartments, bedrooms, and tight living rooms where a subwoofer is not practical. At 31.89 inches wide and just over 2 inches tall, the S45H slides under most TVs without blocking the screen. With 100 watts of output and Dolby Atmos plus DTS Virtual:X support, it is louder and more immersive than most 2.0 bars in this price range.

I tested the S45H in a small guest room with a 43-inch LG UP7500, and dialogue clarity was the standout improvement over TV speakers. For news, talk shows, and casual streaming, it does the job well.

TCL S45H 2.0 Sound Bar for Smart TV | Dolby Atmos DTS:X Auto Room Calibration| 100W Power Wireless Bluetooth Home Theater Audio | App & Remote Control | Latest Model customer photo 1

Atmos and Virtual Surround

The S45H does not have physical up-firing drivers, but DTS Virtual:X virtualizes height and surround effects convincingly. In my testing, Atmos demo clips sounded wider than the bar’s physical size suggested. If you want real overhead sound, step up to the LG S70TY or S95TR.

AI Sonic Auto Room Calibration helps dial the bar in to your space, although the TCL Home app setup can be sluggish.

TCL S45H 2.0 Sound Bar for Smart TV | Dolby Atmos DTS:X Auto Room Calibration| 100W Power Wireless Bluetooth Home Theater Audio | App & Remote Control | Latest Model customer photo 2

Connectivity and Setup

HDMI eARC/ARC, optical, Bluetooth, AUX, and USB cover most setups. The bar ships with an HDMI cable and a wall-mount kit, which is uncommon at this price. There is no subwoofer output, so if you decide later you want bass, you would need to upgrade to the S55H or a different system.

Who This Bar Is For

The S45H is for renters, apartment dwellers, and anyone who wants Dolby Atmos in a compact, no-sub package. It is also a solid secondary bar for a kitchen or office.

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8. Bose TV Speaker – Compact Bar for Clearer Voices

BEST DIALOGUE CLARITY

Pros

  • Industry-leading dialogue clarity
  • Compact all-in-one design
  • Easy plug-and-play setup
  • Compatible with Bose Bass Module 500 or 700

Cons

  • Short and awkwardly placed power cord
  • No HDMI cable included (optical only)
  • Bluetooth 4.2 is dated
  • Only works with Bose subwoofers
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The Bose TV Speaker is the most popular soundbar on this list by a wide margin, with over 14,000 reviews. Its standout feature is dialogue clarity, and after testing it with an LG UN7300, I understand why. Bose tuned the TV Speaker specifically for voices, with two angled full-range drivers and a dedicated dialogue mode that brings speech forward without boosting the whole soundtrack.

It is a simple, no-fuss bar for buyers who care more about clear voices than about Atmos or surround. If your parents or anyone in your household constantly asks “what did they say?”, this is the bar to buy.

Bose TV Speaker - Soundbar for TV with Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC Connectivity, All-in-One Compact Soundbar, Includes Remote Control, Black customer photo 1

Dialogue Mode and Sound Quality

The Enhanced Dialogue mode on the remote is what sets this bar apart. Press it once and voices jump forward in the mix. Press it again for “Bass boost” mode and you get a fuller sound for movies. The bar handles stereo content cleanly and natural-sounding, with enough bass to feel weighty on small TV speakers.

For Atmos content, the Bose TV Speaker downmixes to stereo and loses the height effects. If Atmos matters, look at the LG S70TY or S95TR.

Bose TV Speaker - Soundbar for TV with Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC Connectivity, All-in-One Compact Soundbar, Includes Remote Control, Black customer photo 2

Connectivity and Compatibility Notes

The Bose TV Speaker includes HDMI ARC, optical in, AUX in, and Bluetooth 4.2. There is no HDMI cable in the box; you get an optical cable. For LG TV owners, HDMI ARC is the recommended connection, so you may need to buy an HDMI cable separately.

One quirk: the bar only supports Bose-branded subwoofers (the Bass Module 500 or 700), so you cannot add a third-party sub later. For most buyers, the bar alone is plenty.

Who This Bar Is For

The Bose TV Speaker is for buyers who prioritize dialogue clarity above all else, want a simple plug-and-play bar, and do not need Atmos or WOW Synergy. It is the right pick for older parents, casual viewers, and anyone who watches a lot of news or talk shows. For a wider view of budget-friendly options, check our guide to the 10 best soundbars under 500.

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How to Choose the Best Soundbar for Your LG TV

Choosing the best soundbar for your LG TV comes down to four big decisions: how much you want to spend, what TV model you own, whether you care about WOW Synergy features, and whether Dolby Atmos matters to you. Our team has helped hundreds of readers match LG TVs to soundbars, and these are the criteria that consistently matter most.

Match the Soundbar to Your LG TV Model

LG TV model year affects which WOW Synergy features you can actually use. Here is a quick compatibility guide:

  • LG C5, G5 (2025) OLED: Full WOW Orchestra and WOWCAST support with any compatible LG soundbar.

  • LG C4, G4 (2024) OLED: Full WOW Synergy support after firmware update. WOWCAST works with S95TR, S95AR, SC9S.

  • LG C3, G3 (2023) OLED: WOW Orchestra and WOWCAST supported on most current LG soundbars; update firmware first.

  • LG C2, G2 (2022) OLED: WOW Interface works; WOW Orchestra and WOWCAST support is limited. Check LG’s compatibility tool before buying.

  • LG QNED (2023 and newer): WOW Synergy supported on most current LG soundbars.

  • LG B-series and older LCD TVs: WOW Synergy supported on newer bars; older TVs without HDMI ARC need a bar with optical input.

If you want to see how LG compares to Samsung specifically, our 8 best soundbars for Samsung TVs guide has detailed alternatives, but most LG OLED owners lean LG for the WOW ecosystem.

Decide Whether WOW Synergy Matters to You

WOW Synergy is the umbrella term for LG’s integration features. WOW Orchestra combines your LG TV’s built-in speakers with the soundbar for a wider front stage. WOWCAST sends Dolby Atmos wirelessly between the TV and bar. WOW Interface unifies control into a single remote and on-screen menu. If you own an LG OLED or recent QNED, these features genuinely improve the experience. If you own an older LG TV or a different brand, you can skip them.

Match Channel Count to Room Size

Channel counts matter, but bigger is not always better. A 2.0 or 2.1 bar is plenty for a small bedroom. A 3.1.1 or 3.1.3 bar like the S70TY or SC9S is ideal for medium living rooms. A 9.1.5 bar like the S95TR shines in large rooms with 65-inch or larger TVs. For more on smaller-room setups, see our roundup of small TV soundbars.

HDMI ARC vs HDMI eARC

HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) carries compressed Dolby Atmos from streaming apps. HDMI eARC (enhanced ARC) carries lossless Dolby Atmos and DTS:X from Blu-ray and high-bitrate sources. If you want the best audio quality from a 4K Blu-ray player or a high-end streaming box, make sure your LG TV and soundbar both support HDMI eARC. All current LG OLEDs have at least one HDMI eARC port.

Step-by-Step: Enable WOW Orchestra

WOW Orchestra is the feature most LG TV owners want to use, and it is the one that frustrates buyers when it does not show up. Here is the workflow that has worked on every LG OLED I have tested:

  1. Connect the LG soundbar to the LG TV using HDMI eARC or WOWCAST (wireless).

  2. Update the TV firmware: Settings, General, About This TV, Check for Updates.

  3. Update the soundbar firmware via the LG Soundbar app or LG ThinQ app.

  4. On the TV, go to Settings, Sound, Sound Out, and confirm the LG soundbar is selected.

  5. Go to Settings, Sound, Advanced, and enable WOW Orchestra.

  6. If the menu is greyed out, restart both the TV and the soundbar and try again.

If WOW Orchestra still does not appear, your LG TV may be too old to support the feature, even with a compatible soundbar. Reddit users on the r/LGOLED forum have reported that pre-2025 LG OLEDs sometimes cannot run WOW Orchestra, even with newer LG soundbars. In that case, a firmware update from LG is the only fix.

Gaming Features to Look For

If you plan to plug a PS5 or Xbox Series X through your soundbar, look for HDMI 2.1 passthrough with 4K 120Hz, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode). The LG S95TR, S70TY, and SC9S all support these features. The LG S40TR and S20A do not, so route your console directly to the TV for the best gaming experience on those bars.

Where to Place the Soundbar

Most LG soundbars can sit on a TV stand in front of the TV or mount on the wall. The LG SC9S comes with the OLED Synergy Bracket for C-series OLEDs, which mounts the bar flush with the TV. For other LG OLEDs and QNEDs, third-party soundbar mounts from Sanus or Vogel’s work well. The S95TR and S70TY are wide enough to pair naturally with 55-inch and larger screens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which soundbar is suitable for an LG TV?

Any soundbar with HDMI ARC or HDMI eARC will work with an LG TV, but LG-branded soundbars unlock WOW Synergy features like WOW Orchestra and WOWCAST. For most LG OLED and QNED owners, the LG S95TR, S70TY, or SC9S deliver the best pairing because they support Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and wireless WOWCAST audio.

Can you use any soundbar with an LG TV?

Yes. LG TVs work with virtually any soundbar through HDMI ARC, HDMI eARC, optical, or Bluetooth. You will only miss LG-specific WOW Synergy features if you choose a non-LG soundbar, but mainstream brands like Samsung, Sony, Bose, Sonos, TCL, and JBL all pair cleanly over HDMI.

Which LG soundbar is best overall?

The LG S95TR is the best LG soundbar overall. It is a 9.1.5 system with rear surround speakers, a wireless subwoofer, triple up-firing drivers, WOWCAST built in, and full WOW Orchestra support. For smaller rooms, the LG S70TY is the best value pick, and the LG S20A is the best budget choice.

Which LG soundbars support WOW Orchestra?

The LG S95TR, S95AR, SC9S, S90TY, S80TR, S70TY, S65Q, S60TR, S40TR, and S20A all support WOW Orchestra when paired with a compatible LG TV (most 2023 and newer OLED and QNED models). Older LG OLEDs from 2022 may have limited WOW Orchestra support even with newer soundbars.

How do I set up WOW Orchestra with my LG TV and soundbar?

Connect the LG soundbar to your LG TV using HDMI eARC or WOWCAST, update both devices to the latest firmware, then go to Settings, Sound, Sound Out and confirm the LG soundbar is selected. Next, go to Settings, Sound, Advanced and enable WOW Orchestra. If the option is greyed out, restart both devices and update firmware again.

What is the best soundbar for an LG C5 OLED TV?

The LG SC9S is the best soundbar for an LG C5 OLED TV because it ships with the OLED Synergy Bracket designed for C-series OLEDs, supports WOWCAST wireless Dolby Atmos, and has triple up-firing drivers including an up-firing center channel. For larger rooms or buyers who want rear speakers included, the LG S95TR is also an excellent match.

Who makes better sound bars, LG or Samsung?

Both LG and Samsung make excellent flagship soundbars. LG’s S95TR and S95AR compete directly with Samsung’s HW-Q990F and HW-Q930D in raw sound quality. LG wins on WOW Synergy integration with LG TVs; Samsung wins on price-to-performance and broader compatibility with non-Samsung TVs.

Is WOWCAST better than HDMI eARC?

WOWCAST is wireless and removes the HDMI cable between the TV and soundbar, which is great for clean wall-mounted installs. HDMI eARC is wired and supports lossless Dolby Atmos and DTS:X with the lowest latency. In practice, both deliver excellent audio; WOWCAST is a convenience feature, while eARC is the technical benchmark for lossless playback.

Final Verdict: Which Soundbar Should You Buy for Your LG TV?

The right soundbar for your LG TV depends on your room, your TV model, and your priorities. After 60 days of testing across multiple LG OLED and QNED TVs, here is our verdict for each buyer profile.

Buy the LG S95TR if you want the best LG pairing overall and own a 65-inch or larger OLED. Its 9.1.5 channels, rear speakers, wireless sub, and full WOW Synergy stack make it our Editor’s Choice. For C-series OLED owners who prioritize looks, the LG SC9S with the included OLED Synergy Bracket is a close second.

Buy the LG S70TY if you want Dolby Atmos and a wireless sub at a mid-range price. It is our Best Value pick and the right bar for most LG QNED and OLED owners. For shoppers on a tighter budget who still want a full surround system, the LG S40TR delivers wireless rear speakers and a sub without breaking the bank.

Buy the LG S20A if you have a smaller TV in a bedroom or kitchen and just want clearer dialogue and a compact bar. It is our Budget Pick and the easiest entry into WOW Synergy. For buyers willing to leave the LG ecosystem for better bass per dollar, the TCL S55H brings a wireless sub and Dolby Atmos at a similar price, and the Bose TV Speaker is unbeatable for pure dialogue clarity.

Whichever bar you choose, run a firmware update on both your LG TV and the soundbar before judging sound quality. Most WOW Synergy features need the latest software to work, and our tests showed a meaningful jump in Atmos immersion after every update. Your LG TV is one of the best displays on the market; pair it with the right soundbar and you have a home theater that holds its own against setups costing twice as much.

By Josh

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