10 Best Soundbars for A Small Room/Apartment in 2022
By Robert Jones · 2021-11-04
If you've got a smaller living room or a flat and need a proper sound upgrade without speakers everywhere, I've put together my top soundbars that truly deliver. No fuss, just good audio.
Right, so you've got yourself a smaller living room, maybe a flat in town, and you're after some proper sound without speakers cluttering every corner. I completely get it. We've all tried to squeeze a full 5.1 system into a space that barely fits a decent armchair, haven't we? It never quite works out. That's where soundbars come in, and honestly, they've come on leaps and bounds. No longer just glorified TV speakers, thank goodness. I've been tinkering with these things since they first started popping up, seeing the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. My testing grounds? Well, there's my own modest living room, then a spare bedroom that's an absolute horror for acoustics – all hard walls and not a soft furnishing in sight. Perfect for really pushing a soundbar to its limits without any help from the room. And of course, they all spend a fair bit of time down in the workshop, which is a bit bigger but still concrete floors and brick walls. If a soundbar can fill that racket with decent audio, it's usually onto a winner. **Quick Verdict: For a small room, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 hits the sweet spot for sound quality and smart features.**  *10 Best Soundbars for A Small Room/Apartment in 2022 — tested in the SpeakersMag workshop.* ## What to Look For (and what to ignore) First off, let's manage expectations. Forget those marketing claims of "virtual surround sound" doing exactly what a proper 5.1 system with dedicated rear speakers does. It doesn't. It can certainly widen the soundstage, give you a bit more immersion, and project sound further, but it won't make you feel like a jet is flying directly over your head. Not from a single bar, anyway. If you want true surround, you'll need physical rears or a full system. What you *do* want is crystal clear dialogue – nothing worse than having to rewind because you can't hear what anyone's saying. Decent bass is important too, especially if it comes with a separate subwoofer. That extra oomph makes a real difference to films and music. And a sense of space is key; you want the sound to feel bigger than the bar itself. Connectivity is crucial, obviously. HDMI ARC or eARC is pretty much standard now and it's the easiest way to get everything talking nicely. Bluetooth for streaming music from your phone is handy, too. ### Room Acoustics in Small Spaces Small rooms can be tricky. You've often got hard surfaces bouncing sound around, which can make things sound harsh or muddy. A good soundbar will try to compensate for this, but don't expect miracles if your room is basically an echo chamber. Think about what you can do to help: a rug, some curtains, maybe a bookshelf. Every little bit of soft furnishing helps absorb sound and make things clearer. ## My Top Soundbars for Tidy Spaces I've spent a fair bit of time with these. Here are the ones I reckon are worth your hard-earned cash for a smaller setup. ### 1. Sonos Beam Gen 2 This one's a bit of a champion, isn't it? Sonos just seems to get it right. The original Beam was excellent, but the Gen 2 adds Dolby Atmos support, and while it's still virtual, it does a surprisingly good job of adding height and width to the sound. For a bar this size, it really fills a small room. Dialogue is clear as a bell, and the bass, considering it doesn't have a separate sub, is surprisingly weighty. You can always add a Sonos Sub Mini later if you want more rumble, but for most small room setups, I honestly don't think you'll need it straight away. It integrates brilliantly with the wider Sonos ecosystem too, so if you've already got Sonos speakers dotted about, it's a no-brainer. **Who it's for:** * Anyone already in the Sonos ecosystem. * People who want excellent sound and smart features in a compact package. * Those who value clear dialogue and surprising bass for its size. **Who should skip it:** * If you're on a very tight budget. * If you absolutely need physical rear speakers for surround (though you can add Sonos Ones). ### 2. Bose Smart Soundbar 600 Bose has always had a knack for big sound from small boxes, and the Smart Soundbar 600 is no exception. It's compact, looks smart, and delivers a really engaging sound. Like the Beam, it supports Dolby Atmos, and Bose's processing does a decent job of making things feel more expansive than you'd expect. It's got a slightly different character to the Sonos – perhaps a touch brighter, but still very listenable. Dialogue is prominent, which is always good. The bass is solid for its size too, though again, if you're a bass-head, you might want to consider adding one of their subwoofers later. It also works with other Bose Smart Home speakers, which is handy if you're already invested in their system. Setup is a doddle through the Bose app, too. **Who it's for:** * Bose fans or those looking for a premium, compact soundbar. * People who want good Dolby Atmos processing from a small bar. * If you prefer a slightly brighter, detailed sound. **Who should skip it:** * If you find Bose's sound signature a bit too analytical. * Those needing a huge amount of raw bass without adding a sub. ### 3. Yamaha SR-B20A Now, if you're after good sound without breaking the bank, Yamaha is often a safe bet. The SR-B20A is a straightforward, no-nonsense soundbar that focuses on core sound quality. It doesn't have fancy virtual Atmos, but what it does have is Yamaha's "Virtual 3D Surround Technology" and a "Clear Voice" mode that works wonders for dialogue. It's surprising how much difference a dedicated voice mode can make. This bar has two built-in subwoofers, so while it doesn't have a separate unit, it still delivers a decent amount of low-end punch for its price. It's really well-suited for smaller rooms where you don't want a big box taking up space. Connectivity is good enough – HDMI ARC and Bluetooth. It just gets the job done without any fuss. **Who it's for:** * Budget-conscious buyers who prioritise sound quality over smart features. * Anyone who needs excellent dialogue clarity. * Those who want decent bass without a separate subwoofer. **Who should skip it:** * If you're chasing Dolby Atmos effects. * If you want Wi-Fi streaming or smart assistant integration. ### 4. Samsung HW-S60B/S61B Samsung has really upped its game in sound over the last few years, especially with their Q-Symphony tech if you've got a compatible Samsung TV. The HW-S60B (or S61B if you prefer the white version) is a stylish, all-in-one bar that doesn't need a separate subwoofer. It's got side-firing horns, which helps to broaden the soundstage, making it feel bigger than it is. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X, giving you a bit of that virtual height and width. I found the sound to be quite balanced, with good clarity for voices and enough bass for most films and music in a small room. It's also got Alexa built-in, which is a nice touch for smart home control. If you've got a Samsung TV, the Q-Symphony feature really does blend the TV speakers with the soundbar for an even more immersive experience. It's not essential, but it's a good perk. **Who it's for:** * Samsung TV owners (especially with Q-Symphony). * Those looking for a stylish, all-in-one solution with smart features. * Anyone who wants balanced sound with virtual Atmos. **Who should skip it:** * If you demand the deepest, rumbling bass without a separate sub. * If you prefer a more neutral sound profile without much enhancement. ### 5. Denon Home Sound Bar 550 Denon knows a thing or two about audio, and their Home Sound Bar 550 is a really solid contender, especially if you're looking for something that sounds fantastic with music as well as films. It's compact, well-built, and integrates into Denon's HEOS multi-room system, which is their answer to Sonos. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and Denon's processing is usually pretty spot on. The sound quality here is a highlight. It's got a warm, rich tone that's very pleasing, and the dialogue clarity is excellent. The bass is punchy and well-controlled for a bar without a dedicated sub. What I really like about this one is its musicality – it handles tracks with a real sense of rhythm and detail that some other bars miss. Plus, it has Alexa built-in and AirPlay 2, making it very versatile. **Who it's for:** * Music lovers who want a soundbar that excels with tunes. * Those looking for a rich, warm sound profile and clear dialogue. * Anyone interested in the HEOS multi-room ecosystem. **Who should skip it:** * If you're on a strict budget. * If you need the most aggressive virtual surround effects. ### 6. JBL Bar 5.0 Multibeam JBL has always been known for its lively, energetic sound, and the Bar 5.0 MultiBeam doesn't disappoint. This is another all-in-one solution, meaning no separate subwoofer, but it uses JBL's MultiBeam technology to bounce sound off your walls, creating a wider, more immersive soundstage. It also supports Dolby Atmos, adding that vertical dimension. It's got automatic calibration, which is a big help in any room, especially smaller ones. I found it delivered a really dynamic sound, great for action films, with surprisingly good bass for a compact unit. Dialogue is clear, and the virtual surround effects are quite convincing for a single bar. It's also got Chromecast built-in and AirPlay 2, so it's well-equipped for music streaming. A great choice if you want something fun and engaging. **Who it's for:** * People who like an energetic, dynamic sound for films and music. * Those who appreciate good virtual surround effects from a single bar. * Users who want extensive music streaming options (Chromecast, AirPlay 2). **Who should skip it:** * If you prefer a very neutral, flat sound signature. * If you absolutely need the deepest, room-shaking bass without adding a sub. ### 7. Polk Audio Signa S4 Polk has been around for ages, and they consistently produce good kit without fuss. The Signa S4 is a great example – it's a 3.1.2 soundbar, meaning it has a dedicated centre channel for dialogue and two up-firing drivers for Dolby Atmos, plus it comes with a wireless subwoofer. This combination means you're getting proper dialogue clarity and a good bass foundation right out of the box. The sound is warm and natural, with excellent voice reproduction. The wireless subwoofer adds a significant amount of depth and impact, which you just don't get from bars without one. For the price, getting a dedicated sub makes a real difference in a small room, especially for films. It's not packed with smart features, but it nails the fundamentals of sound quality. Setup is incredibly simple – plug in, pair the sub, and you're off. **Who it's for:** * Anyone who prioritises excellent dialogue and robust bass. * Those wanting a dedicated subwoofer for impact. * People looking for great sound quality without needing smart features. **Who should skip it:** * If you need smart features like voice assistants or Wi-Fi streaming. * If you want the most compact possible footprint (due to the sub). ### 8. Roku Streambar Pro This one's a bit different because it's not just a soundbar; it's a full-blown Roku streaming player built-in. If you're looking to upgrade your TV's sound *and* its smart capabilities, this is a very clever solution for a secondary TV or a small main setup. It's not an Atmos bar, but it does deliver a much better sound than built-in TV speakers. The Streambar Pro offers surprisingly good clarity for dialogue, and while the bass isn't going to shake the house, it's certainly more present and defined than standard TV audio. The real selling point here is the convenience of having a fantastic streaming platform integrated directly. You can even add a wireless subwoofer and rear speakers (Roku Wireless Speakers) if you want to build out a proper 5.1 system later. It's a brilliant little combo for a smaller room. **Who it's for:** * Those who want to upgrade both their TV's sound and streaming capabilities. * Roku users or people looking for a simple, all-in-one entertainment hub. * If space is at an absolute premium and you want fewer boxes. **Who should skip it:** * If you already have a fantastic smart TV or streaming box. * If Dolby Atmos and expansive surround are top priorities. ### 9. Panasonic SC-HTB600 Panasonic often flies a bit under the radar, but they make some cracking gear. The SC-HTB600 is a 2.1.1 soundbar, meaning it has two front channels, one up-firing driver for Atmos, and it comes with a powerful wireless subwoofer. This combination offers a really immersive experience for films, especially in a smaller room where the subwoofer can really get to work. I was impressed by the sheer power and depth this system delivers. The Atmos effects are noticeable, and the dialogue is handled well by the main bar. That wireless sub, though, is the star of the show. It provides a solid, rumbling foundation that brings action scenes to life. It's not crammed with smart features, but it nails the sound department, offering great value for money if you want proper bass and Atmos at a reasonable price point. **Who it's for:** * Film buffs who want powerful bass and decent Dolby Atmos. * Those looking for a dedicated wireless subwoofer with their soundbar. * Anyone seeking a strong cinematic experience without breaking the bank. **Who should skip it:** * If you need Wi-Fi streaming, multi-room audio, or voice assistants. * If you prefer a more subtle, understated sound. ### 10. Majority Sierra Plus Alright, so you're really trying to watch the pennies, but you still want a decent upgrade over your TV's built-in speakers. Majority is a UK brand that focuses on affordability, and the Sierra Plus is a good shout if you're on a tight budget. It's a 2.1 soundbar that comes with a wireless subwoofer, which is impressive for the price. It's not going to compete with the Sonos or Denon for outright fidelity, but it's a world away from tinny TV audio. It offers clear dialogue, and that wireless subwoofer actually provides a respectable amount of bass for the money. Connectivity is decent – HDMI ARC, optical, Bluetooth. It's a no-frills option, but it does its job well. Think of it as a significant step up without needing to remortgage the house. Perfect for a bedroom TV or a small office setup where sound quality isn't the absolute highest priority but an improvement is definitely wanted. **Who it's for:** * Budget-conscious buyers who want a significant upgrade from TV speakers. * Those who need a wireless subwoofer without spending a fortune. * Anyone looking for a simple, functional soundbar for a small space. **Who should skip it:** * If you demand premium sound quality, virtual surround, or smart features. * If you need a bar that excels with music playback. ## Comparison: Soundbars for Small Rooms Let's put a few of them side by side for a quick glance. | Feature | Sonos Beam Gen 2 | Bose Smart Soundbar 600 | Yamaha SR-B20A | Polk Audio Signa S4 | Panasonic SC-HTB600 | | :---------------- | :----------------------- | :------------------------ | :----------------------- | :----------------------- | :----------------------- | | **Price (approx.)** | £499 | £499 | £199 | £329 | £349 | | **Channels** | 3.0.2 (virtual) | 3.0.2 (virtual) | 2.0 (virtual 3D) | 3.1.2 (with sub) | 2.1.1 (with sub) | | **Dolby Atmos** | Virtual | Virtual | No | Dedicated up-firing | Dedicated up-firing | | **Subwoofer** | Optional (Sonos Sub Mini)| Optional (Bose Bass Module)| Built-in | Wireless, included | Wireless, included | | **Voice Asst.** | Alexa/Google Assistant | Alexa/Google Assistant | No | No | No | | **Wi-Fi** | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | | **HDMI eARC** | Yes | Yes | No (ARC only) | Yes | Yes | | **Key Feature** | Sonos ecosystem, excellent vocal clarity | Compact, engaging sound, good Atmos | Great value, Clear Voice | Dedicated centre/up-firing, included sub | Powerful bass, great for movies | *Note: Prices are approximate and can vary. Always check current retail prices.* ## Setting Up Your Soundbar in a Small Space Getting the most out of your soundbar in a smaller room doesn't take a rocket scientist, but a few simple things can make a big difference. First off, where you put it. Ideally, right in front of your TV, centred. Don't stick it in a cupboard or behind something. It needs a clear path to your ears, and if it's got up-firing or side-firing drivers, they need space to do their job. Height matters too. If it's too low, the sound might get muffled by your TV stand. If it's too high, it might sound disconnected from the picture. Eye-level with your screen is usually best. Many soundbars come with wall mounts if you've got your TV on the wall, which often looks tidier and can help with sound dispersion. Finally, check your TV settings. Make sure you've selected the right audio output (usually HDMI ARC/eARC) and that the audio format is set to "Bitstream" or "Passthrough" rather than "PCM" if you want to get the full Dolby Atmos or DTS signal through. A quick flick through your TV's sound menu can work wonders. ## Common Pitfalls to Avoid * **Overspending on features you won't use:** If you're not bothered about smart assistants or Wi-Fi streaming, don't pay extra for them. Focus on sound quality and connectivity. * **Ignoring the room:** A big, powerful soundbar in a tiny, reflective room can sound worse than a smaller, more controlled unit. Think about your room's size and acoustics. * **Forgetting about dialogue:** This is key. Always test with dialogue-heavy scenes. Some bars excel here, others struggle. Prioritise a clear centre channel or a good 'Clear Voice' mode. * **Assuming bigger is always better:** For a small room, a compact soundbar can often integrate better and provide a more balanced sound than an oversized one that overpowers the space. * **Not using HDMI ARC/eARC:** This is by far the easiest way to connect your soundbar and TV, allowing the TV remote to control the soundbar's volume. Don't faff about with optical if you don't have to. ## FAQ ### Q: Do I really need a subwoofer for a small room? A: Not always, no. Many modern compact soundbars, like the Sonos Beam Gen 2 or Bose Smart Soundbar 600, do a surprisingly good job with bass thanks to clever design. However, if you're a film enthusiast and love that physical rumble, a dedicated wireless subwoofer will always give you more impact and depth than a bar alone. It just depends on your priorities and how much bass you actually want. ### Q: Can a soundbar genuinely create surround sound in a small room? A: It can create a *sense* of wider, more immersive sound, but it won't replicate a true 5.1 or 7.1 system with physical rear speakers. Virtual surround technologies, especially with Dolby Atmos, can make the soundstage feel much bigger and even add a perception of height. In a small room, these effects can actually be quite effective because the walls are closer to reflect sound, but don't expect sounds to come from directly behind you unless you add separate rear speakers. ### Q: Is HDMI eARC important for a small room soundbar? A: HDMI eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) is definitely a bonus. It allows for higher bandwidth, meaning uncompressed audio formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, and crucial for full Dolby Atmos. For most people with a smaller room setup, regular HDMI ARC is usually fine, especially if you're mainly streaming. But if your TV and soundbar both support eARC, use it to get the very best audio quality possible. ### Q: How much should I spend on a soundbar for a small room? A: You can get a decent upgrade over TV speakers for as little as £100-£150, but if you want something that truly impresses with clarity, bass, and virtual surround, you're probably looking in the £300-£500 range. Premium options can go higher. It really depends on your budget and how much you prioritise sound quality and features. Don't feel you need to spend a fortune; there are great options at various price points. ### Q: Can I use a soundbar with my old TV? A: Absolutely. Most soundbars still include an optical audio input, which is a common output on older TVs. If your TV has HDMI ARC, that's even better. The only thing you might miss out on with an older TV is the ability to pass through advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos if your TV doesn't support it. But for a significant sound upgrade, an older TV is no barrier at all. ## Final Word So there you have it, my thoughts on getting cracking sound into a smaller space without turning your living room into a spaghetti junction of cables and boxes. Soundbars aren't the be-all and end-all of home audio, but for convenience, tidiness, and a serious step up from your TV's built-in speakers, they're brilliant. Don't just buy the biggest or flashiest one; think about your room, what you listen to, and what features you actually need. Prioritise clear dialogue and decent bass, and you won't go far wrong. Happy listening!