Will soundbars replace traditional speaker systems in 2025?

Soundbars provide a more simple solution for most users, offering easy setup and space-saving benefits. While soundbars continue to improve in 2025, they may complement rather than replace full speaker setups.

What advancements in audio technology will impact speaker and soundbar use ?

Technologies like Dolby Atmos and DTS X have become more refined, enabling a more dynamic and immersive surround sound experience in both soundbars and traditional speakers.

Which is easier to set up: a speaker system or a soundbar?

Setting up a TV soundbar is generally much easier than setting up a traditional speaker system. Soundbars typically require fewer components and can be connected with just one or two cables, such as HDMI or optical connections, making the process quick.

Are soundbars truly capable of replicating the immersive experience of a surround sound speaker system?

Soundbars, while offering virtual surround sound through advanced technology like Dolby Atmos, still need the help of additional subwoofers and rear speakers to deliver a full immersive entertainment experience.

Which is Better, a Speaker or a Soundbar For TV Audio in 2025?

Many times, users who are looking to upgrade their TV sound get confused between speakers and soundbars. Let’s solve that issue by going through their features and top models so that the final decision is informed and confident.

By : Rythum Chauhan
Last Updated on Jul 17, 2025 18:53 IST

Speaker Vs Soundbar

Soundbars and speakers are two of the best music systems for home theatres, but how to figure out which is most suitable for your TV? That seems to be a question that is asked by many but never answered, as the decision depends on your individual needs. If you simply want to tune your TV sound for better voice clarity, then a sound bar for TV is a popular choice, while for a deeper bass and thumping sound effects, a speaker system would make for a better pick. While that is true, newer models of home theater systems in 2025 that combine a soundbar with woofer have made the choice a bit more difficult, as you can get both aspects, voice clarity and boosted bass. To make the final decision, you need to know what you want before you start looking for a new sound system for TV. Other than that, you also need to set a budget to narrow down your picks so you can see which music system would fit perfectly with your needs and entertainment without draining your savings. To make it easier, how about going through the top 5 models from brands like Sony, boAt, JBL, and more, and seeing their features in more depth?

Top Speakers and Soundbar Systems For TV Audio

Before getting into the models for your gadget zone, you should be in the know about each sound system.

TV soundbars are compact and sleek, which makes them suitable for most TVs. They come with integrated center channels, which makes the voice clearer, making them suitable for movie enthusiasts. Along with that, new home theatre systems allow users to enjoy a surround sound that makes the sound more immersive.

TV Speakers are mostly designed for creating the best home cinema experience for viewers with multiple channel configurations and many satellite speakers. A common one would be 5.1 surround sound, which includes a center channel speaker (for dialogue), two front speakers (left and right), two surround speakers (left and right), and a subwoofer for bass.

Let’s see some of the finest models of soundbar home theatre and speaker systems, so you’re aware of your options.

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Sony HT-S40R Real 5.1ch Dolby Audio Soundbar for TV with Subwoofer
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Offering a sound experience like no other, this Sony 5.1 home theatre is ideal for entertainment and music listening while ensuring that every frequency is delivered with maximum clarity. What makes it so great is the fact that it is a set of a soundbar, a subwoofer, and 2 rear speakers, which you can place around the room for a captivating experience. The addition of Dolby Audio adds another layer of richer sound, which makes the whole entertainment experience more interesting. Through the 3.1 soundbar, it provides you with multi-dimensional audio, which helps in enjoying the content even more. It has a total sound output of 600 Watts, which is ideal for bigger rooms and makes sure the sound isn’t distorted even at the highest volumes. Another point to note is the wireless rear speaker which removes the hassle of wires.
Specifications:
- Brand: Sony
- Total Power Output: 600W
- Channels: 5.1 (Soundbar, Subwoofer, Wireless Rear Speakers)
- Connectivity: HDMI ARC, Optical, Bluetooth, USB
- Audio Tech: Dolby Audio
Pros:
- Various Sound Modes For Movies, Music, and Games
- Wireless Rear Speakers For An Easy Set Up
- 600 Watts of Power Output For Loud And Clear Audio
Cons:
- No Major Cons
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Sony SA-D40M2 All in One 4.1ch Home Theatre System
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Moving to a Sony speaker system for TV, the SA-D40M2, which comes with a 100W power output, is ideal for smaller rooms and a deeper bass. The multiple connection options include Bluetooth, AUX, and USB, which are perfect for every user. With a 4.1 channel configuration, it offers a clear sound that fills the room with a rich sound. Through the 4 rear speakers, you can easily experience every effect and high-frequency sounds. Other than that, there is a large subwoofer which allows you to experience a deeper and boosted bass, perfect for jamming to music and action-packed movies. Perfect for TVs, PCs, and smartphones, you can easily connect to this system through USB and Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, the matte finish adds an elegant touch to the whole set-up and helps in elevating the look of the TV unit.
Specifications:
- Model Name: SA-D40M2
- Speaker Type: Multimedia
- Compatible Devices: Television, Mobile
- Subwoofer Diameter: 12 Inches
- Channel Configuration: ‎4.1
- Control Method: ‎Remote
- Wireless Communication: ‎Bluetooth
- Speaker Size: ‎12 Inches
Pros:
- 100 Power Output Medium-Sized Rooms
- USB Connectivity For Flexible Connection
- Big Subwoofer For Powerful Bass
Cons:
- Not 5.1ch
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JBL Cinema SB590 Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer
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Delivering 440 Watts of power output, this JBL soundbar comes with a promise of clarity and a room-filling immersive sound. Being a Dolby Atmos soundbar system, this ensures that you get the most cinematic experience without sacrificing voice clarity with a dedicated center channel. With this combination, you can clearly hear the dialogues and the effects, which make for a more memorable entertainment. Other than that, there is a wireless subwoofer that takes the bass to the next level without any hassle of wires. The size of teh subwoofer stacks up to 6.5 inches, which makes it ideal for a modern TV set-up, working as an interior design item and upgrading the TV audio simultaneously. The 3.1 home theater configuration makes it an affordable sound solution for those who are looking to experience cinema on a budget.
Specifications:
- Brand: JBL
- Speaker Maximum Output Power: 440 Watts
- Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
- Audio Output Mode: Surround
- Mounting Type: Wall Mount
- Channel Configuration: ‎3.1
Pros:
- HDMI eARC Port for Supporting High Quality Content
- Wireless Subwoofer For Simple Installation
- Sounbar With Dolby Atmos For 3D Sound
Cons:
- No Rear Speakers
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PHILIPS Audio MMS2625B 2.1 Channel Wired Multimedia Speaker
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Perfect for small rooms, this PHILIPS speaker system with a subwoofer and 2 rear speakers has the power to expand the bass level and make the scenes look more immersive. Through the 15mm subwoofer, it can easily fit below or on the side of the TV, and you can also connect it to other devices like TV, PC, and MP3 Player, so there is no need to get different speakers for everything. If you are not looking for a premium sound system with advanced features, just something to elevate your movie-watching experience, this would work just fine. You can easily control it through the remote, also allowing you to change the settings without having to get up from where you are sitting. It has an LED display, which further eases the control.
Specifications:
- Model Name: ‎Philips Audio Mms
- Compatible Devices: ‎MP3 Player, Television, Personal Computer
- Subwoofer Diameter: ‎15 Millimeters
- Controller Type: ‎Remote Control
- Channel Configuration: ‎2.1
- Colour: Black
Pros:
- Affordable Speaker System
- Wide Connectivity For Multiple Devices
- Can Play Radio
Cons:
- No Voice Clarity Feature
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boAt Aavante Bar 3600/3500 Bluetooth Sound Bar, Home Theatre Soundbar Speaker
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Lastly, this boAt soundbar Aavante Bar 3600 offers fast and easy Bluetooth connectivity so that you can bypass the hassle of wires. Having the channel configuration of 5.1ch, which makes sure that every high and low is delivered with more flair. Through the various connectivity options like BT, AUX, USB, optical, and HDMI eARC, so that you can choose which is your preferred method. It allows you to personalize the sound with many EQ modes that are preset with movies, news, and other content in mind. Along with this, you can easily control the settings through a remote. There is also an option to change the bass and treble settings, which would make every content come to life on your terms. Moreover, the sleek design would fit easily under any TV or you can easily install it on the wall for a more modern and contemporary look.
Specifications:
- Model Name: ‎Aavante Bar
- Speaker Type: ‎Soundbar
- Compatible Devices: Tablet, Smartphone
- Subwoofer Diameter: ‎16.51 Centimetres
- Controller Type: ‎Remote Control
- Channel Configuration: ‎5.1
- Maximum Output Power: 500 Watts
Pros:
- Sound Customisation With Multiple EQ Modes
- 5.1 Home Theatre Sound For a Theatrical Feel
- Trendy Design To Elevate The TV Set-up
Cons:
- Mixed Opinion On Bluetooth Connectivity
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Which is right for your TV, speaker vs soundbar?

If affordability and space-saving are your top priorities, and you mainly want to improve your TV's sound for dialogue and casual listening, a TV soundbar is a good choice for budget and performance.

On the other hand, if you're seeking the most immersive and highest quality audio experience for movies, music, and gaming, and you have the budget and space to place it on a TV unit, a multi-speaker system, or a home theatre system is the way to go.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences, budget, and the specific needs of your home environment. One of the most popular choices is definitely a home theater system with a 5.1 channel, so that you are able to enjoy everything with a simple set-up.

Disclaimer: At HerZindagi, we prioritize providing the up-to-date information on the latest trending commodities and goods. This Article is written and vetted by our in-house category authors in sync with the Google guidelines on product reviews and shoppable content. HerZindagi is in an associate partnership, so we may earn a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.

Faq's

Will soundbars replace traditional speaker systems in 2025?
+
Soundbars provide a more simple solution for most users, offering easy setup and space-saving benefits. While soundbars continue to improve in 2025, they may complement rather than replace full speaker setups.
What advancements in audio technology will impact speaker and soundbar use ?
+
Technologies like Dolby Atmos and DTS X have become more refined, enabling a more dynamic and immersive surround sound experience in both soundbars and traditional speakers.
Which is easier to set up: a speaker system or a soundbar?
+
Setting up a TV soundbar is generally much easier than setting up a traditional speaker system. Soundbars typically require fewer components and can be connected with just one or two cables, such as HDMI or optical connections, making the process quick.
Are soundbars truly capable of replicating the immersive experience of a surround sound speaker system?
+
Soundbars, while offering virtual surround sound through advanced technology like Dolby Atmos, still need the help of additional subwoofers and rear speakers to deliver a full immersive entertainment experience.