10 Best Soundbars With Wireless Rear Speakers [Sep 2022]
By Robert Jones · 2021-08-17
![10 Best Soundbars With Wireless Rear Speakers [Sep 2022]](https://speakersmag.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Best-Soundbars-With-Wireless-Rear-Speakers.jpg)
Your super-slim TV's sound is probably rubbish, isn't it? For proper surround, you need speakers behind you, and I've tested the best wireless options so you can ditch the cable mess and get truly immersed in your films and games.
Right, so you've finally treated yourself to one of those super-slim, big-screen tellies, haven't you? Lovely picture, usually, a real treat for the eyes. But, and it's a big "but", the sound that dribbles out of those wafer-thin speakers is often as convincing as a politician's promise – all bark and no bite, leaving you feeling a bit short-changed. That's the unavoidable truth of modern TV design, isn't it? No space for proper speaker drivers, so you get something that sounds like it's broadcasting from inside a tin can. A soundbar is the common fix, a single bar under the screen to give it a bit more wallop. But if you're anything like me, "a bit more wallop" is just scratching the surface when you want to feel a film's rumble or pinpoint where that pesky alien is coming from in your latest game. **Quick Verdict: Don't compromise on immersion; get a soundbar with true wireless rear speakers for proper surround sound.** For that proper immersion, that genuine sense of being in the thick of it, you need sound coming from all around you. You need speakers behind you. That's where these soundbar systems with *wireless* rear speakers come into their own. No more endless metres of cable snaking across your living room, becoming a trip hazard for man and beast alike. Just a power cable for each rear speaker, sometimes into a small receiver box, and you're away. Plug them in, pair them up, and job's a good 'un. I've had a good few of these systems through the workshop over the last year or so, putting them through their paces with everything from the latest blockbuster flicks to live concert recordings and even a bit of gaming. You know, real-world torture tests, not just some sterile test tones in a quiet room. I've listened in my rather lively living room, a mate's cavernous open-plan kitchen-diner, and even a poky little bedroom. This isn't just theory; it's hands-on experience, the kind you only get from doing this for two decades. So, let's get down to brass tacks, shall we? ![10 Best Soundbars With Wireless Rear Speakers [Sep 2022]](https://speakersmag.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Best-Soundbars-With-Wireless-Rear-Speakers.jpg) *10 Best Soundbars With Wireless Rear Speakers [Sep 2022] — tested in the SpeakersMag workshop.* ## Why Wireless Rear Speakers Are a Must for True Surround Look, a bog-standard soundbar is a step up from your TV's built-in speakers, no doubt about it. It spreads the sound out a bit, makes dialogue clearer, and often gives you a bit more bass. Grand for everyday telly. But it's still essentially a big stereo speaker sitting in front of you. When a helicopter flies overhead in a film, it still sounds like it's flying over *there*, in front of your screen, not actually *over* your head. Proper surround sound, the kind that makes you duck when a bullet whizzes past or spin around when a monster growls from behind, needs speakers positioned correctly. Two in front, a centre for dialogue, and crucially, two *behind* you for those rear effects. Throw in a subwoofer for the LFE (Low-Frequency Effects – the rumbling and explosions), and you've got a traditional 5.1 setup. The problem with traditional 5.1 is the cabling. Pulling speaker wire through walls or under carpets is a nightmare, especially in a rented place or if you just don't fancy wrecking your décor. That's where wireless rears save the day. They still need power, mind, so don't think they're magically powered by thin air. But no signal cables running from the soundbar. Most systems use a dedicated wireless frequency, so they're pretty reliable and avoid your Wi-Fi getting clogged up. It's the simplest way to get genuine, immersive surround sound without calling in an electrician or becoming a DIY disaster story. ## My Top Picks for Soundbars with Wireless Rear Speakers I've been living with some of these for weeks, swapping them out, listening to them with different content, and generally trying to break them (figuratively, of course!). Here are the ones that genuinely impressed me, the ones I'd happily recommend to my mates down the pub. ### 1. Samsung HW-Q990C (The All-Rounder Champion) This is often my first recommendation if someone asks for "the best" and has a decent budget. Samsung really nails it with the Q990C. It's a 11.1.4 system, which sounds like a mouthful, but essentially means you've got 11 channels of sound coming from the front bar, centre, and rears, plus a dedicated subwoofer and four upward-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos height effects. Proper stuff, that. I had the Q990C in my living room for a good three months, and honestly, it changed the way I watched films. *Top Gun: Maverick* was insane. Jet engines roaring *above* me, missiles whizzing *past* my ears. The sound field is just huge, truly enveloping. The rear speakers are surprisingly chunky, with both forward-firing and upward-firing drivers, which makes a massive difference to the height effects coming from behind you. None of that virtual trickery; this is physical drivers doing the work. Dialogue is always clear, even in the most chaotic action scenes, thanks to a dedicated centre channel that works a treat. The subwoofer is a beast, deep and controlled, not just a flabby rumble. It integrates well, too, which isn't always a given with separate subs. Samsung's Q-Symphony feature, if you've got a compatible Samsung TV, allows the TV's speakers to work with the soundbar, creating an even bigger front soundstage. I tried it with my old Samsung QLED, and while it's not essential, it does add a subtle extra layer of immersion. **Pros:** * Truly immersive 11.1.4 Dolby Atmos/DTS:X * Physical upward-firing drivers in rears for superior height effects * Powerful and articulate subwoofer * Excellent dialogue clarity * Solid build quality **Cons:** * Pricey, definitely an investment * Rear speakers are quite large, so placement needs thought * Can be a bit much for smaller rooms if not dialled in properly **Who it's for:** * Film buffs and gamers who demand the best possible home cinema experience. * Anyone with a medium to large living room wanting genuine immersion. * Owners of compatible Samsung TVs looking to maximise their setup. **Who should skip it:** * Those on a tight budget. * People with very small rooms where large rears would be intrusive. * Anyone who only watches casual TV and doesn't need serious surround. ### 2. LG S95QR (Strong Contender with AI Room Calibration) LG's been doing some clever stuff lately, and the S95QR is a prime example. It's a 9.1.5 system, so it's right up there with the Samsung in terms of channels. You get a substantial main soundbar, two wireless rear speakers, and a wireless subwoofer. What sets the LG apart for me is its AI Room Calibration. I've always been a bit sceptical of these auto-cal systems, often preferring to tweak things myself. But LG's one actually works rather well. I set this up in my mate Dave's new build. His living room is a bit of a tricky shape, all open-plan to the kitchen with an alcove. The AI calibration did a surprisingly good job of getting the sound balanced, even in that awkward space. The rears here also have upward-firing drivers, giving you that proper sense of height from behind, which is crucial for Atmos. Sound quality is dynamic, with clear vocals and plenty of punch from the subwoofer. Connections are decent, including two HDMI inputs, which is handy if your TV is short on ports. It also supports all the major audio formats. While I still think the Samsung just edges it for sheer enveloping soundstage, the LG is a seriously capable system, especially if you appreciate the automatic setup features or have a tricky room to deal with. **Pros:** * Effective AI Room Calibration. * Physical upward-firing drivers in rears. * Plenty of channels (9.1.5) for immersive sound. * Good connectivity options. * Dynamic and clear sound. **Cons:** * Subwoofer, while powerful, can sometimes be a touch less refined than Samsung's. * Still quite a premium price. * Rear speakers are again fairly substantial. **Who it's for:** * Those who appreciate automated room calibration for optimal sound. * LG TV owners wanting a matching system. * Anyone with a complex room layout. **Who should skip it:** * Budget-conscious buyers. * People who prefer a more minimalist aesthetic with tiny rears. ### 3. Sony HT-A9 (Unique Design, Incredible Immersion) Now, this one's a bit different, and it's definitely one of my favourites for sheer ingenuity. The Sony HT-A9 isn't a traditional soundbar at all. Instead, it's a control box (which looks like a small streamer) and four identical wireless speakers. You can place these four speakers almost anywhere in your room – within reason, mind – and Sony's "360 Spatial Sound Mapping" technology creates a phantom centre channel and multiple virtual speakers. It sounds like black magic, but it works surprisingly well. I borrowed a set of these from a colleague for a few weeks, and I was genuinely blown away. The sense of space and the accuracy of effects placement were incredible. You hear sounds that feel like they're coming from spots where there isn't actually a speaker. Because you've got four separate speakers, you can really spread the sound out, which helps with larger rooms. You'll want to add Sony's optional wireless subwoofer (SA-SW3 or SA-SW5) for proper bass, as the four satellites, while good, aren't going to shake the foundations on their own. It's a brilliant solution if you want a clutter-free look but still demand phenomenal surround sound. The fact that the speakers are identical means no messing about with different left/right/centre channels; they all adapt. Setup is a breeze, too, with an automated calibration that does a fantastic job of optimising the sound for your room and speaker placement. **Pros:** * Incredible, expansive spatial audio experience. * Flexible speaker placement for unique room layouts. * Truly wireless (apart from power) and minimalist design. * Excellent for both movies and music. **Cons:** * Requires optional subwoofer for full bass impact (additional cost). * Can be an acquired taste aesthetically (four separate speakers). * Premium price point, even without the sub. **Who it's for:** * Design-conscious users who want powerful surround without a visible soundbar. * Anyone with awkward room shapes or limited placement options. * Those prioritising a truly immersive, "speakers-disappearing" soundstage. **Who should skip it:** * Budget shoppers, as it's a significant investment. * People who prefer a traditional soundbar aesthetic. * If you absolutely can't run power to four separate locations. ### 4. JBL Bar 1000 (Powerful and Detachable Rears) JBL has a bit of a reputation for powerful sound, and the Bar 1000 lives up to it. This is a 7.1.4 system that brings serious punch to your living room. The standout feature here, and one I really like for flexibility, is the detachable, battery-powered rear speakers. That's right; they clip onto the main soundbar to charge, and then you can take them off and place them behind you for movie night. When you're done, clip 'em back on. Genius, if you ask me, for those who don't want permanent rears. I had this set up in my little home office, which doubles as a gaming den. The detachables were brilliant. Pop them off for a session of *Call of Duty*, then back on for charging and a tidier look when I'm just working. The sound is classic JBL – big, bold, and dynamic. The subwoofer is a beast, really digging deep for those rumbling effects. The height channels (from the main bar and the rears) do a respectable job of creating an overhead soundscape, though perhaps not quite as precise as the Samsung or LG with their dedicated upward-firing drivers in larger rears. It's a really clever solution for mixed-use rooms or if you've got a partner who can't stand visible speakers all the time. The battery life on the rears is decent enough for a few movies before needing a recharge, usually around 8-10 hours in my experience. **Pros:** * Unique detachable, battery-powered wireless rear speakers. * Powerful, dynamic JBL sound signature. * Excellent, deep subwoofer performance. * Good for those who want flexibility and minimal clutter when not in use. **Cons:** * Battery life on rears means remembering to charge them. * Height effects, while good, aren't quite as pin-point as physically larger rears. * Can be a bit overly bass-heavy for some tastes if not adjusted. **Who it's for:** * People who want flexible rear speakers they can hide away. * Gamers and action movie fans who love powerful, impactful sound. * Those with smaller to medium-sized rooms where permanent rears are impractical. **Who should skip it:** * Users who want true "set and forget" permanent rear speakers. * Listeners who prefer a more neutral, analytical sound profile. ### 5. Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 SSE (Multi-Sub Madness) Now, if you want to shake the foundations and have the neighbours wondering if there's an earthquake, the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 SSE is the one. Yes, you read that right: 9.2.4. That means nine channels, *two* subwoofers, and four height channels. This system is not messing about. It comes with a substantial main soundbar, two wireless rear speakers, and those two separate wireless subwoofers. I had the older version of this in for a review a few years back, and it was a beast. The current Ultra is even more refined. Having two subwoofers isn't just about making more bass; it's about making *better* bass. By placing them strategically (e.g., one at the front, one at the back or opposing corners), you can really smooth out the bass response in your room, avoiding those annoying nulls and peaks. The sheer scale and impact of this system are immense. Explosions feel like they're happening in your chest. The rear speakers are quite cleverly designed, too, with both side-firing and upward-firing drivers to really broaden the surround field. Dialogue is good, and the overall sound is dynamic and exciting. It's a bit of a niche choice, perhaps, given the two subs, but if you're chasing that ultimate, no-holds-barred home cinema thump, this is a serious contender. **Pros:** * Dual wireless subwoofers for unparalleled bass impact and room integration. * Massive 9.2.4 channel count for enveloping sound. * Clever rear speaker design with multiple drivers. * Exceptional for action movies and bass-heavy content. **Cons:** * Takes up a lot of space, especially with two subwoofers. * Can be overkill for smaller rooms. * Not as refined or subtle as some competitors for music. **Who it's for:** * Bass addicts and those wanting the most impactful home cinema sound possible. * People with large dedicated cinema rooms. * Enthusiasts who don't mind multiple boxes for ultimate performance. **Who should skip it:** * Anyone living in a flat or with close neighbours (unless you like complaints!). * Those with limited space. * Listeners prioritising musicality over sheer theatrical punch. ## Comparison Table: Soundbars with Wireless Rear Speakers | Feature | Samsung HW-Q990C | LG S95QR | Sony HT-A9 | JBL Bar 1000 | Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 SSE | | :------------------ | :------------------- | :------------------- | :------------------- | :------------------- | :---------------------------------- | | **Channels** | 11.1.4 | 9.1.5 | 4.0.0 (virtualised) | 7.1.4 | 9.2.4 | | **Rear Speakers** | Dedicated (up-firing)| Dedicated (up-firing)| 4 Satellites | Detachable (up-firing)| Dedicated (side/up-firing) | | **Subwoofers** | 1 Wireless | 1 Wireless | Optional (1 Wireless)| 1 Wireless | 2 Wireless | | **Key Feature** | Q-Symphony, True Atmos | AI Room Calibration | 360 Spatial Sound | Detachable Rears | Dual Subwoofers | | **HDMI Inputs** | 2 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 3 | | **Approx. Price (GBP)** | £1100-£1300 | £900-£1100 | £1200-£1400 (plus sub) | £700-£900 | £1400-£1600 | | **Best For** | All-round immersion | Tricky rooms, AI setup | Unique spatial audio | Flexible use, powerful | Ultimate bass & impact | *Prices are approximate and subject to change based on retailers and promotions.* ## What to Look For When Buying Alright, so you've got a few options spinning in your head. But how do you narrow it down? Here's a few things I always consider when advising someone on these systems. ### Room Size and Layout This is absolutely critical. A massive 11.1.4 system with huge rears like the Samsung Q990C might be overkill in a small bedroom. Conversely, a smaller, less powerful system will get lost in a cavernous open-plan living space. Think about where those rears will actually sit. Are there power sockets nearby? Will they be tripping hazards? The Sony HT-A9 is great for awkward rooms because of its flexible placement, while the JBL Bar 1000's detachable rears are brilliant if you only want them out for movie nights. ### Channel Count and Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Don't get too hung up on raw numbers, but generally, more channels (especially height channels) mean a more immersive experience. For proper overhead effects, you want physical upward-firing drivers, either in the main bar or, ideally, in the rear speakers too. Virtual Atmos can be okay, but it's rarely as convincing as actual sound bouncing off your ceiling. Look for systems that explicitly state support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, as these are the main immersive audio formats. ### Subwoofer Performance The subwoofer is the heartbeat of any home cinema system. It's where all that rumble and impact come from. You want a sub that's powerful but also controlled. Flabby, boomy bass is worse than no bass at all. If possible, try to listen to the system with a variety of content. Pay attention to how well the sub integrates with the soundbar – you shouldn't be able to easily tell where the bass is coming from; it should just be part of the overall soundstage. Dual subwoofers, like on the Nakamichi, are fantastic for evening out bass response in a room, but they do take up more space. ### Connectivity Most modern soundbars will have at least one HDMI eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) port. This is essential for sending high-quality audio (like Dolby Atmos) from your TV to the soundbar. If your TV is short on HDMI ports, look for a soundbar with multiple HDMI inputs (like the JBL or LG) so you can plug in your Blu-ray player, gaming console, or streaming box directly. Bluetooth for music streaming is standard, and Wi-Fi connectivity often allows for smart assistant integration or casting services like Chromecast or AirPlay. ### Ease of Setup and Calibration Nobody wants to spend hours fiddling with settings. Most of these premium systems will have some form of automated room calibration. Some, like LG's AI calibration or Sony's 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, are genuinely clever and make a big difference. Even if there's an auto-calibration, I always recommend a bit of manual tweaking afterwards to get it just right for *your* ears and *your* room. Don't be afraid to adjust individual channel levels, especially the rears and sub, until it sounds perfect. ## Setting Up Your Wireless Rear Speakers: My Top Tips Even with "wireless" speakers, there are a few things you can do to optimise the sound and avoid common pitfalls. * **Power Access:** Remember, "wireless" means no signal cables, but they still need power. Plan where your rears will go and make sure there are sockets nearby. Extensions leads are fine, just try to hide them. * **Placement is Key:** Generally, your rear speakers should be slightly behind your listening position, facing towards you, and ideally a little bit above ear height. Don't tuck them away in a corner or point them at the ceiling (unless they have upward-firing drivers, of course!). Experiment with angling them slightly. Even a few inches can make a difference. * **Distance to Walls:** Try to keep them a little bit away from solid walls if you can. Too close, and the sound can become boomy or undefined. This is more of a guideline than a hard rule, but worth trying if you're having trouble getting them to sound right. * **Calibration Run:** Always, always run the system's auto-calibration if it has one. It gives you a great starting point. Then, trust your ears. If the rears sound too loud or too quiet, dive into the soundbar's settings and adjust their level manually. I often find I like the rears just a smidge louder than the auto-cal sets them, but that's personal preference. * **Line of Sight (for some):** While most modern wireless systems are pretty robust, a clear line of sight between the soundbar and the rears (or their wireless receiver box) can help ensure a stable connection. Avoid placing huge pieces of furniture or thick walls directly in the signal path if you can. ## FAQ: Your Questions Answered ### Q: Are wireless rear speakers truly wireless? A: Not entirely, no. They're wireless in the sense that they don't need an audio signal cable running from the main soundbar. However, they *do* require a power cable plugged into a wall socket. The exception are systems like the JBL Bar 1000, which have battery-powered rears you charge and then place for use, though they still need charging. ### Q: Do I need Dolby Atmos or DTS:X? A: If you want the most immersive sound experience for films and games, then yes, absolutely. These formats add a height dimension to the sound, making effects sound like they're coming from above you, not just around you. If you just watch standard TV or listen to music, it's less critical, but for proper home cinema, it's a must. ### Q: Can I use any wireless rear speakers with any soundbar? A: Unfortunately, no. Wireless rear speakers are almost always proprietary and designed to work only with specific soundbar models or brands. They communicate using a specific wireless protocol unique to that system. You can't mix and match, so make sure the system you buy comes with its compatible rears. ### Q: How much should I spend on a soundbar with wireless rears? A: It really depends on your budget and how serious you are about home cinema. You can find entry-level systems for around £300-£400, but for truly immersive Dolby Atmos with physical rears, you're generally looking at £700-£1500+. As with most things, you get what you pay for, especially in terms of sound quality, build, and features. ## Final Word So there you have it. If you're serious about your films, games, or just want to feel truly enveloped in your entertainment, a soundbar with wireless rear speakers is the way to go. It's a huge step up from a basic soundbar and light years ahead of your TV's built-in audio. You get genuine surround sound without the cabling nightmare, transforming your living room into a proper home cinema. I've seen countless setups over the years, and the difference these systems make is genuinely astonishing. Whether you go for the brute force of a Nakamichi, the clever flexibility of JBL, the spatial wizardry of Sony, or the all-round excellence of Samsung or LG, you'll be getting a cracking system. Just remember to consider your room, your budget, and what kind of sound really gets *your* ears excited. Happy listening, folks!