Affordable high-quality soundbar available for just 350 euros
Improving the dull audio output of most TVs can be done efficiently with soundbars or soundplates, both of which can be placed or mounted in front of the TV. Less popular yet equally effective alternatives are soundplates, where the TV set is positioned on top.
Stiftung Warentest listened to 21 contemporary home theater speakers, priced between 120 to 2000 euros. Their findings reveal that high price does not always equate to better performance. In fact, some premium models fail to impress and have imperfections in auditory response. On the flip side, some budget-friendly devices excel in their performance.
Only one device receives top marks
Taking the top spot is the Soundplate Nubert nuPro XS-8500 RC, which is the sole device to earn the 'very good' rating (1.4). Its sound and power consumption are the best in class, while its handling is commendable as well. With an average online selling price of 1970 euros, this German device is among the costliest tested external TV speakers.
Even pricier, with a rating of 'very good' sound only, is the Devialet Dione. The high-end soundbar fails to maintain its lofty position due to satisfactory handling and mere sufficient power consumption, resulting in an overall rating of 2.1, placing it 5th.
In the runner-up position, the LG DS95TR shines, featuring a subwoofer and two satellite speakers for surround sound. Although it retails at around 1300 euros, it garners impressive ratings across all three categories, yielding a 'very good' quality rating of 1.8.
Good sound at a budget price
With a slightly weaker but still strong sound, the Samsung HW-Q935GD/ZG secures third place. Equipped with a subwoofer and two additional boxes, it attains an overall rating of 2.1, despite its more affordable price point of around 860 euros.
Chewier on the pocket is the Samsung HW-Q810GD/ZG, priced at 565 euros. It achieves three good partial ratings and obtains a 'very good' quality rating of 2.0. However, it does not come with satellite speakers.
The lowest-priced 'good' soundbar is the Denon DHT-S218, which goes for around 250 euros. Despite lacking a subwoofer, it delivers satisfactory sound. Its handling and power consumption are exemplary.
The most budget-friendly device with commendable sound is the LG DS70TY, available for approximately 350 euros. Stiftung Warentest also rates its handling and power consumption as commendable and 'very good' respectively.
Despite the competing options, the importance of technical tests in evaluating audio performance becomes evident. For instance, the technically tested 'Devialet Dione' high-end soundbar, despite its high price, fails to maintain its superior sound quality due to its handling and power consumption.
On the other hand, some affordable devices like the 'LG DS70TY' and 'Denon DHT-S218', despite their budget-friendly prices, have commendable sound qualities, with the LG DS70TY even earning 'very good' ratings for its handling and power consumption.
