With the growing popularity of Dolby Atmos technology in home theater systems, more and more soundbar manufacturers are releasing models with support for this advanced surround sound format. Dolby Atmos goes beyond traditional 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound by adding height channels, allowing for sound effects to be precisely placed and moved around in a three-dimensional space. This creates an immersive audio experience that makes you feel like you’re inside the action.
In this extensive guide, we will be reviewing and comparing the top 7 best Dolby Atmos soundbars in 2024 based on sound quality, features, value for money and ease of use. We will take a deep dive into the pros and cons of each model to help you pick the perfect Atmos-enabled soundbar to elevate your home entertainment experience.
Best For the money
As the successor to the hugely popular Vizio SB36512-F6, the new M512a-H6 offers better sound quality and design at an affordable price point. Priced under $500, this 5.1.2 channel soundbar delivers cinematic audio with deep bass and clear dialogue. The included wireless subwoofer and satellite speakers create an enveloping surround soundscape.
Pros:
- Excellent surround sound performance for the price
- Stream music over Bluetooth
- Easy to set up and use
- Great value for money
Cons:
- No WiFi streaming capability
- Sound quality not as refined as premium models
Overall, if you want to add Dolby Atmos height effects on a budget, the Vizio M512a-H6 is hands-down the best option out there.
Best Techy Features
The Vizio Elevate takes Dolby Atmos playback to the next level with its dynamic rotating speakers. This 5.1.4 soundbar system can automatically rotate the left and right channel speakers to point upwards or forwards to best match the type of audio content playing. So when Dolby Atmos content is detected, they will point up to bounce height effects off your ceiling.
Pros:
- Innovative auto-rotating speakers
- Powerful, room-filling sound
- Plenty of connectivity options
- Comes with rear surround speakers and sub
Cons:
- Bulky and expensive
- Set up can be complicated
While definitely on the pricey side, you get what you pay for with the clever Elevate soundbar. It delivers a truly cinema-like Dolby Atmos experience.
Best All-in-One
As the first Dolby Atmos soundbar from Sonos, the Arc represents a new standard for premium all-in-one home theater speakers. This elegantly designed bar envelops you in rich, multidimensional sound thanks to upward-firing drivers creating overhead audio effects.
Pros:
- Stunning design and build quality
- Wide, immersive soundstage
- Easy setup with Trueplay tuning
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant
- Seamless integration with Sonos speakers
Cons:
- Only one HDMI eARC port
- Lacks low-end punch of separate sub
- Expensive
While it commands a steep price, the Sonos Arc offers unmatched convenience, sound quality and aesthetic appeal. It’s the perfect nerve center for your whole-home audio system.
Best for Headphones
Trusted audio brand Bose also now has a Dolby Atmos offering. The Smart Soundbar 900 features proprietary PhaseGuide speaker technology to produce an ultra-wide sound field with height effects. There’s also built-in Alexa and Google Assistant support.
Pros:
- Spacious, immersive audio performance
- Connect Bose headphones wirelessly
- Voice control functionality
- Automatic ADAPTiQ room tuning
Cons:
- Angled design causes visibility issues
- Struggles with bass-heavy content
- Only one HDMI input
For Bose fans wanting to upgrade to Dolby Atmos sound, the Smart Soundbar 900 delivers their signature premium home theater sound – albeit at a premium price.
