Why you need a DTS:X soundbar and the best ones to buy for your home theater setup

Soundbars are one of the best ways to get standout audio for your home theater. They're typically more affordable, and many now offer DTS:X immersive sound. Read on as we explore which DTS:X soundbars offer the best bang for your buck.

Why you need a DTS:X soundbar and the best ones to buy for your home theater setup
Soundbars provide great sound in smaller areas

When it comes to home theater audio, there are an overwhelming number of options on the market. A popular kind of home audio device is the soundbar.

DTS:X soundbars, specifically, are a phenomenal way to experience 3D sound without the need for multiple pieces of hardware spread across your living space. They’re also typically less expensive in comparison to a full-blown audio system. Of course, some of them are expandable, which is a great feature if you want to build it up over time.

DTS:X sound is among the best in class—comparable to Dolby Atmos. It’s immersive, high-quality sound that’s exactly what you want for gaming, films, tv, and music. So what are the best DTS:X soundbars you can buy in 2021? Let’s check out our top three picks and see what they’re all about!

Samsung HW-Q950T has Wi-Fi and amazing sound quality

While it’s one of the more expensive options, the Samsung HW-Q950T delivers phenomenal sound quality. It has an appealing aesthetic design with excellent channel support. HDMI inputs and outputs with ARC support are included, along with optical digital, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi.

It’s a 9.1.4 system that can handle Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio. You can even connect a phone with a simple tap against the soundbar. There’s no auto-calibrate mode, which is a drawback, but with such rich 3D sound and a slew of handy features, you can’t go wrong with this pick.

The Samsung HW-Q950T is available from the official website for $1,499.99.

Samsung HW-Q950T with additional speakers

Vizio M-Series M51a-H6 5.1 includes a 6-inch subwoofer

The Vizio M-Series packs some seriously great sound without breaking the bank. If you’ve got a smaller room and want the best sound for the most affordable price, this just might be for you. It’s a 36-inch soundbar with a 6-inch wireless subwoofer.

It’s versatile and can automatically calibrate other speakers you attach. The Vizio M-Series supports DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Atmos, plus it comes with HDMI and eARC ports. You can even plug Google Home or Alexa into it using the included auxiliary port.

The Vizio M-Series M51a-H6 5.1 is available from the official website for $329.99.

The Vizio M-Series in action

Sony HT-X8500 uses a Vertical Sound Engine and 3D sound

Not unlike the above-mentioned soundbars, the Sony HT-X8500 features DTS:X and Dolby Atmos compatibility. It has a compact design compared to many other soundbars, so it should work fine in places like small apartments.

The soundbar uses Sony’s Vertical Sound Engine and effectively delivers the feeling of fully immersive wrap-around sound. While it lacks upfiring drivers, it’s another soundbar that pairs quality with budget-friendliness.

The Sony HT-X8500 is available from Amazon for $298.

Why you need a DTS:X soundbar and the best ones to buy for your home theater setup
Sony HT-X8500 fits perfectly on your TV stand

Soundbars are a win-win that deserve consideration

Whether you’re looking to save space, money, or time setting up audio equipment, soundbars are the way to go. You can use the bar itself or add on other speakers and devices to expand their capabilities. This is great because you can build on it over time without having to invest in a whole sound system upfront.

More importantly, the soundbar itself brings incredible audio to your home without needing all the extra hardware. They’re versatile and effective, all without taking up room or slamming your wallet.

Check out these DTS:X soundbars and let us know what you think in the comments below!

Mark is a writer and podcaster who loves technology. When not writing for Gadget Flow, he enjoys passionately working on storytelling projects and exploring the outdoors.
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