The sound your projector's built-in speaker can't deliver
Here's how the top-reviewed 2026 soundbars compare on channel count, Dolby Atmos support, and price.
Compare the top soundbarsQuick answer: Our top pick for soundbar is the Samsung HW-Q990F Soundbar (Best Overall). If you're looking for best premium design, the Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar is a strong alternative.
Most home theater projectors, even ones with a rated Dolby Atmos-certified speaker, use small internal drivers that can't fill a real living room or match the scale of a big projected image. A soundbar is the fastest way to close that gap without a full AV receiver and separate speaker set.
Soundbars split mainly on channel count and surround capability: simple stereo bars improve on built-in speakers but stay two-channel, while Dolby Atmos-capable bars add height channels and, on higher-end models, wireless rear surround speakers for a true multi-directional sound field. Most modern soundbars connect over a single HDMI eARC cable to the same source as the projector.
| Product | Best For | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung HW-Q990F Soundbar | Best Overall | $1,600 - $1,800 | 4.7/5 |
| Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar | Best Premium Design | $950 - $1,000 | 4.6/5 |
| Hisense AX5140Q Soundbar | Best Value | $350 - $400 | 4.5/5 |
| Sonos Ray Soundbar | Best Budget | $170 - $200 | 4.5/5 |
An 11.1.4-channel flagship soundbar with a wireless subwoofer and rear surround speakers, delivering true Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound without running a single wire across the room.
A single-bar 9.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos soundbar using Sonos's Sound Motion driver technology to fill a room with spatial audio from one unit, expandable later with a matching subwoofer or rear speakers.
A 5.1.4-channel system with a wireless subwoofer and wireless rear surround speakers, bringing real Dolby Atmos surround sound at a fraction of the price of flagship setups.
A compact, single-unit soundbar focused on clear dialogue and a noticeable step up from a TV's or projector's built-in speaker, without surround or Atmos processing.
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The Samsung HW-Q990F or the more affordable Hisense AX5140Q both include wireless rear surround speakers.
The Sonos Arc Ultra delivers convincing spatial audio from one unit, with room to expand later.
The Sonos Ray is a straightforward step up from built-in speakers at the lowest price here.