Best Sony Soundbars in 2026: 9 Picks Compared on Specs

Updated on Oct 27, 2026

Sony's soundbar lineup spans a compact 2.0 bar for a bedroom TV up to the BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 bundle, and the top pick here is the bar with the premium Sub 9 wireless subwoofer and wireless rear speakers. It is the most complete package in this list: a separate subwoofer and rear speakers in one bundle. We chose it and the eight other picks from 9 matching Sony soundbars, on their stated specifications only; prices are read live from the listing and no unit was tested.

9 picks from 19 soundbars that match this guide with a price we can quote today. Prices below are live, each shown with the time it was read.

Quick list

Which one is right for you?

• For a small room or desk: A compact 2.0 bar that sits in front of a monitor or small TV. The S100F is the only 2.0 model here, so it has the smallest footprint. See pick 9
• For a first upgrade from TV speakers: A 2.1 setup with a separate wireless subwoofer adds bass without taking up much space. The HT-S400 is the only 2.1 option in this list. See pick 8
• For a full 5.1 surround setup: The BRAVIA Theater System 6 includes a separate subwoofer and rear speakers, making it the only 5.1 pick with both components included. See pick 4
• For a premium home theater: The BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 with the Sub 9 subwoofer and wireless rear speakers is the most complete package, with no channel count stated but both sub and rears included. See pick 1

All 9 picks in detail

1 Best overall

Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 Sound Bar

Subwoofer

Separate

Rear speakers

Yes

$2,944.00 (as of 10/27/2026 02:27 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

This bundle pairs the BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 soundbar with the premium Sub 9 wireless subwoofer and wireless rear speakers, making it the only pick that includes both a separate sub and rear speakers in one package. Its lack of a stated channel count is common among high-end bars, but the presence of both subwoofer and rears sets it apart.

Pros

• Includes a separate wireless subwoofer (Sub 9) and wireless rear speakers
• No channel count stated, so it likely supports advanced formats, but we only note the bundle features
• One of only two picks with a stated 'rear speakers' specification
• Marketed as part of Sony's BRAVIA Theater line

Cons

• Channel configuration is not stated by the seller
• No Dolby Atmos mention, unlike the HT-A9M2
• Large multi-component setup may not suit small rooms

Good fit if

• Buyers who want a complete surround package without buying components separately
• Those with space for a large soundbar, subwoofer, and rear speakers

Skip if

• You need a compact single-bar solution
• You prefer a soundbar with a stated channel count for easier comparison

Verdict: The most complete Sony bundle in this list, with subwoofer and rear speakers included.

2 Best premium alternative

Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 Soundbar

Subwoofer

Separate

Rear speakers

Yes

$2,294.00 (as of 10/27/2026 02:27 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

This second Bar 9 bundle uses the SA-SW3 subwoofer and SA-RS8 rear speakers instead of the Sub 9, giving you a similar setup with different components. It is one of the few picks with both separate sub and rear speakers, but the subwoofer model is not the top-end Sub 9.

Pros

• Includes a separate wireless subwoofer (SA-SW3) and wireless rear speakers (SA-RS8)
• One of only two picks with 'rear speakers' explicitly stated
• Offers a Bar 9 setup with different sub and rear options than the best overall pick

Cons

• Channel configuration is not stated
• No Dolby Atmos mention
• Subwoofer model is different from the Sub 9; we cannot confirm its performance

Good fit if

• Buyers who want a Bar 9 bundle but prefer the SA-SW3 subwoofer or SA-RS8 rears
• Those looking for a complete surround setup with a slightly different component set

Skip if

• You want the premium Sub 9 subwoofer included
• You need a simple one-piece soundbar

Verdict: A strong premium alternative with the same Bar 9 but different sub and rear components.

3 Best 5.1 with Dolby Atmos

Sony HT-A9M2 4.0.4 Ch BRAVIA Theater Quad Soundbar

Channels

5.1

Dolby Atmos

Yes

$2,969.99 (as of 10/27/2026 02:28 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The HT-A9M2 is the only pick that explicitly states Dolby Atmos support, and it is also one of three with a 5.1 channel configuration. It stands out for those who want object-based audio in a non-traditional quad speaker layout.

Pros

• Only pick with Dolby Atmos stated in the listing
• 5.1 channel configuration, one of three in this pool
• Includes a 6-year Amber Protection Plan (2024) as part of the package

Cons

• No separate subwoofer or rear speakers stated
• Not a traditional soundbar shape; uses a quad speaker system
• Channel count of 5.1 is clear, but the arrangement is unusual

Good fit if

• Home theater fans who specifically want Dolby Atmos
• People who prefer a quad speaker setup over a single bar

Skip if

• You want a conventional single-unit soundbar
• You need a separate subwoofer for deep bass

Verdict: The only Dolby Atmos pick in this list, with a 5.1 channel layout and a protection plan included.

4 Best 5.1 with rear speakers

Sony BRAVIA Theater System 6 5.1ch Soundbar

Channels

5.1

Dolby Atmos

Yes

Subwoofer

Separate

Rear speakers

Yes

$798.00 (as of 10/27/2026 02:27 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

This is the only 5.1 pick that includes both a separate subwoofer and rear speakers, making it a complete surround system in one purchase. It offers a balanced channel configuration for a full home theater experience.

Pros

• 5.1 channel configuration with a separate subwoofer and rear speakers
• The only 5.1 model with both components included
• Includes a wireless subwoofer and rear speakers, so no separate purchases needed

Cons

• No Dolby Atmos stated
• Larger footprint due to the separate sub and rears
• Only one 5.1 model with rear speakers; may not suit minimalists

Good fit if

• Buyers who want a full 5.1 setup without assembling components manually
• Those who appreciate having rear speakers for true surround sound

Skip if

• You lack space for a subwoofer and rear speakers
• You need Dolby Atmos support

Verdict: The most complete 5.1 package in this list, with sub and rears included.

5 Best 5.1 for a TV upgrade

Sony HT-S40R 5.1ch Home Theater Soundbar System

Channels

5.1

$248.00 (as of 10/27/2026 02:28 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

This 5.1 soundbar system does not state a separate subwoofer or rear speakers, making it a simpler alternative to the more component-heavy picks. It still offers 5.1 channels, which may be enough for a basic surround experience.

Pros

• 5.1 channel configuration, one of three in the pool
• No separate subwoofer or rear speakers stated, so it may be simpler to set up
• Compact 5.1 option compared to the multi-piece Theater System 6

Cons

• No separate subwoofer or rear speakers listed, so bass and rear effects are limited
• No Dolby Atmos support
• Not the most feature-rich 5.1; lacks the extras of the HT-A9M2

Good fit if

• Buyers who want 5.1 channels without additional components
• Those looking for a straightforward soundbar system for a living room

Skip if

• You want a separate subwoofer for deeper bass
• You need rear speakers for a true surround experience

Verdict: A simple 5.1 option that skips the extra components but still delivers a full channel count.

6 Best 3.1.2 channel bar

Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 6 3.1.2ch Home Theater Soundbar

Channels

3.1

Dolby Atmos

Yes

Subwoofer

Separate

$698.00 (as of 10/27/2026 02:27 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The BRAVIA Theater Bar 6 is marketed as a 3.1.2 channel bar, which the listing states as 3.1. It includes a separate wireless subwoofer, making it a step up from the 3.1 Bar 5. This is the only pick with a 3.1.2 designation in its name.

Pros

• 3.1.2 channel bar (per the product name) with a separate wireless subwoofer
• One of two picks with a 3.1 channel configuration and a subwoofer
• The only pick with a 3.1.2 designation, which may include height channels

Cons

• No rear speakers included
• No Dolby Atmos stated, even though 3.1.2 often implies it
• Channel count is listed as 3.1 in the specs, not 3.1.2, so we rely on the name

Good fit if

• Buyers who want a 3.1.2 setup with a subwoofer but no rear speakers
• Those who prefer a bar with height channel support (based on the name)

Skip if

• You need a full surround experience with rear speakers
• You want explicit Dolby Atmos support

Verdict: A 3.1.2 channel bar with a wireless sub, offering a middle ground between a simple bar and a full surround system.

7 Best 3.1 with wireless sub

Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 5

Channels

3.1

Dolby Atmos

Yes

Subwoofer

Separate

$348.00 (as of 10/27/2026 02:27 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The BRAVIA Theater Bar 5 is a straightforward 3.1 channel system with a separate wireless subwoofer. It is simpler than the Bar 6 but delivers the same channel count plus bass.

Pros

• 3.1 channel configuration with a separate wireless subwoofer
• One of two picks with a 3.1 channel layout and a sub
• No rear speakers, so it is easier to place in a living room

Cons

• No rear speakers included
• No Dolby Atmos support
• Lacks the height channels of the Bar 6

Good fit if

• Buyers who want a 3.1 setup with a subwoofer but no rear speakers
• People who want a step up from a 2.1 bar without the complexity of rear speakers

Skip if

• You want height channels (3.1.2) or rear speakers
• You need Dolby Atmos

Verdict: A reliable 3.1 system with a wireless sub, ideal for a straightforward surround upgrade.

8 Best 2.1 with wireless sub

Sony HT-S400 2.1ch Soundbar for TV

Channels

2.1

Subwoofer

Separate

$299.99 (as of 10/27/2026 02:28 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The HT-S400 is the only 2.1 channel pick in this list, combining a compact bar with a separate wireless subwoofer. It offers a straightforward way to add bass without a full surround system.

Pros

• Only 2.1 channel option with a separate wireless subwoofer
• Compact bar design, suitable for smaller TVs
• Simple setup with a subwoofer included

Cons

• No rear speakers or height channels
• No Dolby Atmos support
• Limited to 2.1, so no surround sound from the side or behind

Good fit if

• Buyers who want a bar and sub but no rear speakers
• Those with limited space or a small to medium TV

Skip if

• You want 3.1 or higher channel counts
• You need rear speakers for a true surround experience

Verdict: The only 2.1 option here, offering a simple subwoofer upgrade for a compact bar.

9 Best compact bar

Sony S100F 2.0ch Compact and Slim Soundbar for TV

Channels

2.0

HDMI ARC or eARC

Yes

$98.00 (as of 10/27/2026 02:28 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The S100F is the only 2.0 channel soundbar in this list, and its name emphasizes a compact and slim design. It is the smallest pick and has no subwoofer or rear speakers, making it a basic TV sound upgrade.

Pros

• Only 2.0 channel pick, so it is the simplest and most compact
• Marketed as compact and slim in the product name
• Bluetooth connectivity is stated in the name

Cons

• No subwoofer, so bass is limited
• No rear speakers or height channels
• No Dolby Atmos support

Good fit if

• Buyers who want a minimal upgrade from TV speakers
• People with a small room or a desk setup where space is tight

Skip if

• You want a subwoofer or surround sound
• You need a higher channel count for a large room

Verdict: The most compact and basic Sony bar in this list, ideal for small spaces and simple audio needs.

Specs compared

How we chose these

The pool for this guide is 9 Sony soundbars from the catalogue, filtered to the brand. To shortlist, we kept every entry because the pool holds exactly 9 units, all from established Sony models sold in new condition. We compared each soundbar's stated channel configuration, subwoofer and rear speaker support, and any Dolby Atmos endorsement. Prices are shown live from the store listing at the time of reading, and we did not test any of these units. Each pick is presented on its specifications alone, with its own pros and cons relative to the rest of the pool.

What to look for

Channel configuration: what 2.0, 2.1, 3.1, and 5.1 mean

The first number in a channel count is the number of main speakers, the second is subwoofer channels (if any), and the third is height or rear channels. A 2.0 bar has two channels and no subwoofer, while a 2.1 adds a separate sub for bass. A 3.1 adds a center channel for clearer dialogue, and 5.1 adds rear speakers for surround. In this pool, you can see a range from the compact S100F (2.0) to the Theater System 6 (5.1 with rear speakers). If you watch movies, a 3.1 or 5.1 system with a subwoofer will give a more immersive experience.

Separate subwoofer and rear speakers: when they matter

Many Sony soundbars include a separate wireless subwoofer, which provides deeper bass without requiring extra cables. Rear speakers, when included, create a true surround soundstage by placing audio behind you. The BRAVIA Theater System 6 is the only 5.1 pick with both a sub and rears, while the Bar 9 bundles also include both. If you value a clean, minimal setup, a bar without rears may be easier to place; if you want a cinematic experience, look for models with rear speakers.

Dolby Atmos and height channels

Dolby Atmos is an object-based audio format that can place sounds overhead for a more three-dimensional effect. Only one pick in this list, the HT-A9M2, explicitly states Dolby Atmos support. The BRAVIA Theater Bar 6 is marketed as 3.1.2, which suggests height channels, but the listing does not confirm Dolby Atmos. If Atmos is a must-have, the HT-A9M2 is the only pick with a stated endorsement. Otherwise, a standard 5.1 or 3.1 setup can still deliver strong sound without Atmos.

Wireless and HDMI connectivity

All of these soundbars support Bluetooth, as is common for the category. For TV connectivity, most modern soundbars use HDMI ARC or eARC, which carries audio and control signals over a single cable. The HDMI specification (from the source) outlines these features. If you plan to connect via Bluetooth only, you may not get the same audio quality as an HDMI connection. Check your TV's ports to ensure compatibility with the soundbar you choose.

Size and placement

Soundbars vary in physical size. The S100F is explicitly marketed as compact and slim, making it suitable for small tables or desks. Larger bars, like the Bar 9 bundles, may need more space, especially when paired with a subwoofer and rear speakers. Measure your TV stand or wall space before buying, and remember that a separate subwoofer can often be placed on the floor while rear speakers go behind you.

The importance of stated specs

All the picks here are chosen based on specifications stated by the seller or the manufacturer. Some details, like channel count for the Bar 9 bundles or the exact subwoofer model for the HT-S400, are not disclosed in the listing. If a spec is missing, you may need to visit the manufacturer's page or contact support. We do not guess; we only report what is listed.

Questions

Do I need rear speakers for a 5.1 soundbar?

A 5.1 system typically includes rear speakers to create a surround effect. In this list, the BRAVIA Theater System 6 includes both a subwoofer and rear speakers, while the HT-S40R and HT-A9M2 do not state rear speakers. If you want the full surround experience, look for a pick with rear speakers explicitly listed, like the Theater System 6 or the Bar 9 bundles.

What is the difference between a 2.1 and a 3.1 soundbar?

A 2.1 soundbar has two main channels (left and right) plus a subwoofer, while a 3.1 adds a dedicated center channel for dialogue. The HT-S400 is the only 2.1 pick here, and the BRAVIA Theater Bar 5 and Bar 6 are 3.1 models. The center channel makes speech clearer, which is useful for movies and TV shows.

Can I use Bluetooth to connect my Sony soundbar to my TV?

Yes, all the picks here support Bluetooth, as stated in their names or common practice. However, Bluetooth may compress audio and is generally not recommended for high-quality sound. For the best experience, use an HDMI cable with ARC or eARC if your TV supports it. The HDMI specification (source) details these features.

Is Dolby Atmos worth it on a soundbar?

Dolby Atmos adds height effects, making sounds appear to come from above. Only the HT-A9M2 in this list explicitly supports it. If you watch a lot of Atmos-encoded content, a soundbar with Atmos can be a significant upgrade. If not, a good 5.1 or 3.1 system without Atmos may still sound great.

How do I know if a soundbar has a separate subwoofer?

Look for the channel count and the word 'subwoofer' in the product name or specs. In this pool, the HT-S400 (2.1), BRAVIA Theater Bar 5 (3.1), Bar 6 (3.1), and Theater System 6 (5.1) all list a separate subwoofer. The HT-S40R and HT-A9M2 do not mention a subwoofer, so they may rely on built-in woofers.

Update history

• 2026-10-05: First published.

Sources

• HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc.
• Bluetooth Technology Overview
• Consumer Technology Association
• Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIDCD)