LG’s soundbar lineup includes Dolby Atmos, Meridian Audio, and DTS:X, as well as AI Sound Pro auto-calibration and immersive, three-dimensional, and hi-res audio technology.
LG, as a major participant in home theater, has a lot to prove in the field of high-end soundbars. LG has clearly put a lot of effort into honing its new 2021 range, which will doubtless mean a plethora of deals on its older models. It may not have achieved the hit rate of Sonos (with the Sonos Arc and Sonos Beam, both happy recipients of What Hi-Fi? 2020 Awards) or Yamaha yet, but it has clearly put a lot of effort into honing its new 2021 range – which will doubtless mean a plethora of deals on its
But how good are LG soundbars? Should you buy an LG soundbar if you come across a good deal? We’ll give you all the expert assistance you need to make an informed choice with product reviews.
Table of Contents
LG SP11RA 7.1.4ch High Res Audio Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos and Surround Speakers
- Includes FULL LG USA Protection
- LG 7.1.4 ch High Res Audio Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos and Surround Speakers
- MERIDIAN Technology | AI Sound Pro | Dolby Atmos/DTS:X | HDMI eARC |...
LG SP11RA is the best LG soundbar. This premium 7.1.4 dolby atmos soundbar supports Dolby Atmos content and includes an AI Space Calibration feature that optimizes the sound of the setup based on the acoustics of the room it’s situated in. The sound quality has a somewhat boomy, but overall neutral sound profile with this function enabled, resulting in clear and present vocals and lead instruments with a hint of extra emphasis in the bottom range. It has two rear satellites that provide immersive surround sound.
As a result, sound objects such as helicopters flying overhead appear to originate from a precise, pinpoint position, and you feel as if you’re in the middle of one of your favorite movies. Do you own an LG television? You can use its 2021 LG TV AI Processor to sync it to the bar’s speakers, which harnesses the TV’s processing skills to generate a more immersive sound. To make sure your LG TV model is compatible, go to the manufacturer’s website.
Overall, this home entertainment surround sound system provides a diverse performance. However, it is not without flaws. There is slight distortion present while playing the bar at maximum level, which audiophiles would identify as hurting the purity of their audio content. In addition, unlike premium versions from other manufacturers, there is no built-in voice assistant capability. You’ll need to buy a third-party voice assistant device like a Google Home separately and pair it with the bar if you want to control it with your voice. This is the Best LG Soundbar in 2023.
LG SP9YA 5.1.2 ch Sound Bar
- LG USA AUTHORIZED - Includes Full LG USA Protection
- Meridian Audio Technology | Up to 520W of Total Power | High Resolution...
- IN THE BOX: Magic Remote Control - 2 AA Batteries - Optical Cable - Wall...
The LG SP9YA is the greatest 5.1 LG soundbar. This LG soundbar has certain extra capabilities that you can use with other LG items in your ecosystem. For example, you may use the bar’s 2021 LG TV AI Processor to combine your compatible LG TV’s increased processing with the bar’s speakers for a more immersive sound experience. Even if you don’t have an LG TV, you can still get a good picture. It provides a neutral, balanced sound with its AI Room Calibration feature activated on, so voices and lead instruments are clear and accurate. There’s also a little extra boom in the bass area, as well as a slew of sound customizing options.
The LG SP9YA is a great music player. The home theater experience includes an AI Room Calibration feature that enhances audio reproduction based on your room’s acoustic parameters. It offers a highly neutral, balanced sound profile with this connectivity options turned on, appropriate for listening to a wide range of music genres. It also has a variety of sound modification options, such as EQ presets and bass and treble controls.
The LG SP9YA is a good movie watcher. Its balanced sound profile correctly reproduces dialogue, and its extended low-bass allows you to feel the deep rumble in action-packed scenes. Unfortunately, while it supports Dolby Atmos and surround content, it lacks discrete speakers, resulting in a less immersive listening experience. This is the Best LG Soundbars in 2023.
LG SP8YA 440w Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos
- LG USA AUTHORIZED - Includes Full LG USA Protection
- Meridian Audio Technology | Up to 440W of Total Power | High Resolution...
- IN THE BOX: Magic Remote Control - 2 AA Batteries - Optical Cable - Wall...
The LG SP8YA is the best LG soundbar with a 3.1 configuration. The LG SN8YG has been upgraded to version 3.1.2. It also has a 2021 LG TV AI Processor, allowing you to connect it to a compatible LG TV for a more immersive audio experience. However, you don’t need an LG TV to enjoy the AI Space Calibration feature, as it employs a microphone embedded into the bar to tune its audio reproduction based on the acoustics of your room. It features a slightly bass-heavy sound profile when this function is enabled. Voices and lead instruments are still audible and present in the mix, but bass-heavy genres like EDM have more punch and rumble. There are numerous customization options, as well as support for Dolby Atmos content.
The LG SP8YA is a 2021 3.1.2 configuration. It’s the newest edition of the LG SN8YG, with more EQ presets and a 2021 LG TV AI Processor that’s said to sync the bar with compatible LG TV speakers for more immersive sound, though we didn’t test this function. Additionally, its AI Room Calibration feature may automatically modify audio reproduction based on the room’s unique acoustic characteristics. It offers a bass-heavy sound profile that adds thump and impact to your audio using this feature. It also has the ability to play Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content.
However, as compared to the LG SP11RA and LG SP9YA, this bar’s movie performance falls short. It can play surround sound, but it must be downmixed to stereo. The sound isn’t as immersive, and it appears that audio is coming from speakers in front of you rather than all around you. However, LG offers compatible SPK8 satellites separately, so you may still improve its performance.
LG Eclair QP5 Sound Bar 3.1.2ch
- Dolby Atmos & DTS:X
- Meridian Audio Technology
- Compact Design with Vibration Damping Subwoofer
Don’t have much room in your setup? The LG Eclair QP5 is the best small LG soundbar. It’s just under 12 inches wide, so it’ll fit under your TV without blocking your view. Despite its diminutive size, the Sound Field Expander technology, which pushes audio well beyond the bar’s boundaries, gives it a decent soundstage performance. It’s one of the tiniest bars we’ve tested with Dolby Atmos support, and it features the LG TV AI Processor 2021, which means it can work in collaboration with a compatible LG TV for a more immersive sound experience.
This bar is perfect for listening to dialogue-heavy content such as TV shows and podcasts, as it has a balanced mid-range that can clearly reproduce voices. Despite having a dedicated subwoofer, it struggles to reproduce low-bass, and its recessed treble results in a murky and muted sound. When you watch movies or listen to music, there’s a distinct lack of emphasis in the bass range, and action-packed moments don’t have a deep thump and rumble. Its surround sound performance is weak due to the fact that it must be downmixed to stereo in order to play music streaming options and surround sound formats. However, if you’re short on space, it’s still a viable option.
LG Soundbars Buying Guide: Navigating the World of Premium Sound
Identifying Your Audio Needs
The first step in any buying guide is identifying your needs. Assess the room size where the soundbar will be placed, the kind of audio experiences you desire, and your budget. This will help you narrow down the vast selection of LG Soundbars to those that suit your specific requirements.
Key Features to Look For in LG Soundbars
Audio Quality
When selecting an LG Soundbar, pay close attention to the audio quality. LG Soundbars are renowned for their high-resolution audio, with some models offering advanced features like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technologies for a three-dimensional sound experience.
Design and Size
The design and size of the soundbar should complement your space. LG offers a wide range of sizes and designs, from compact models perfect for smaller spaces to larger, more powerful soundbars for expansive living areas.
Connectivity
Consider the connectivity options. Most LG Soundbars offer multiple ways to connect, such as HDMI, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. Some models also offer Optical and USB inputs. The more connectivity options, the more flexibility you have in connecting various devices to your soundbar.
Smart Features
If you’re keen on integrating your soundbar with your smart home system, look for LG Soundbars that come with built-in voice assistants like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are wireless subwoofers as good as wired subwoofers?
In most cases, yes. The wireless subwoofers that come with LG soundbars are just as potent and expressive as their wired counterparts, despite the possibility of sporadic static or wireless interference with any wireless speaker.
Do soundbars sound as good as multi-speaker systems?
Almost. Several soundbars replicate surround effects by using up-firing speakers and echolocation technology, making it appear as though sound is coming from behind you or moving around the room. Simulated surround will, however, sound better in some spaces than others because every viewing area has a different acoustics. The bottom conclusion is that a full surround-sound speaker system will likely be required if your viewing area is larger. Yet, a soundbar will be more than sufficient to provide a theater-like experience if you’re watching in a standard living room or bedroom.
Can I connect a turntable to a soundbar to play my vinyl records?
If your turntable has an integrated preamp, you can. Turntables often need to be plugged into “phono” ports since they demand more amplification than regular audio sources do. Although LG soundbars lack phono connectors, many contemporary turntables come equipped with built-in preamps that allow them to be used with any speaker or amplifier that has a standard RCA input. You can get a separate preamp and utilize it to correctly connect your record player to your LG soundbar if your turntable doesn’t already come with one. Make sure to choose a soundbar with RCA inputs if your soundbar arrangement will include a record player.
What is the benefit of having a LG soundbar?
A soundbar significantly enhances your audio experience. It delivers high-quality, immersive sound that is often far superior to the built-in speakers of a TV. LG Soundbars, in particular, boast features like High-Resolution Audio, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X technologies, providing an unparalleled audio experience.
Can LG Soundbars connect to any TV?
Yes, LG Soundbars are designed to be compatible with most TVs. They offer multiple connectivity options, including HDMI, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, enabling them to connect with a variety of devices.
Do all LG Soundbars support Dolby Atmos?
Not all LG Soundbars support Dolby Atmos. This advanced feature is available in specific models, like the LG SN11RG. Always check the specifications of the individual model to see if it supports Dolby Atmos.
Can LG Soundbars be used with other devices apart from TVs?
Absolutely. LG Soundbars can connect with a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and even USB drives, thanks to their advanced connectivity options. This makes them versatile and suitable for all your audio needs, not just TV.
Do LG Soundbars come with a subwoofer?
Many LG Soundbars come with a separate subwoofer to deliver deep, powerful bass. However, not all models include a subwoofer—this depends on the specific model and its features. Always check the product details before purchasing.
Can I control an LG Soundbar with voice commands?
Certain models of LG Soundbars have built-in voice assistants like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, which allow you to control the soundbar using voice commands. This feature turns your soundbar into a smart device, further enhancing its functionality and convenience.
How do I set up an LG Soundbar?
Answer: Setting up an LG Soundbar is designed to be straightforward. The package includes detailed instructions for installation. Usually, it involves connecting the soundbar to your TV or other devices using the appropriate cables or via Bluetooth/Wi-Fi, and then adjusting the settings to suit your preferences.
Where should I place my LG Soundbar?
The ideal place for your LG Soundbar is directly under your TV or mounted on the wall beneath the TV. This placement ensures optimal sound projection and integration with your TV’s audio. However, the exact placement might vary based on your room’s acoustics and your personal preference.