Tired of your TV’s lackluster audio? Craving immersive sound for movies, music, and games? Look no further than soundbars with HDMI pass-through! This innovative technology simplifies your setup and unlocks a world of superior sound experiences. In this guide, we’ll unveil the top soundbars boasting HDMI pass-through, catering to various budgets and needs.
Whether you’re a movie buff, a passionate gamer, or simply seeking an audio upgrade, we have the perfect soundbar waiting to transform your entertainment space. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to discover the best soundbars that seamlessly integrate with your existing setup, delivering exceptional audio and unmatched convenience.
These are the best soundbars with HDMI pass-through.
Round Up of the Best Soundbars with HDMI Pass-Through
1 | Samsung HW-Q800C (Best Option) | Check Price on Amazon |
2 | Samsung HW-Q930C | Check Price on Amazon |
3 | Vizio Elevate | Check Price on Amazon |
4 | JBL Bar 1300X | Check Price on Amazon |
5 | Sony HT-S2000 | Check Price on Amazon |
6 | Samsung HW-Q990C | Check Price on Amazon |
7 | Sony HT-A7000 | Check Price on Amazon |
1. Samsung HW-Q800C (Best Option)
Samsung HW-Q800C Key Specifications
Dimensions: Soundbar: 1111 x 60 x 120mm / 43.7 x 2.4 x 4.7 in ; Subwoofer: 210 x 403 x 403mm / 8.3 x 15.9 x 15.9 | Speaker configuration: 5.1.2 | Claimed audio power: 360W | Connections: 1x HDMI input, 1x HDMI eARC support, digital optical, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Supports: HDMI 2.1 with eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode).
- Benefits: Allows for high-quality audio pass-through, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and smooth gaming experience with reduced input lag.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- User-friendly features
- Stylish design
- Plenty of connectivity options
Cons
- No HDMI 2.1 passthrough
- No rear speakers
The best soundbar with HDMI pass-through is the Samsung HW-Q800C. Craving a home theater experience without the Hollywood-sized price tag? Look no further than the Samsung HW-Q800C soundbar. This sonic powerhouse packs a punch far exceeding its weight, making it the undisputed champion of affordable Dolby Atmos.
Forget anemic sound and grainy dialogue. The HW-Q800C blasts you into the heart of the action with crystal-clear vocals, bone-rattling bass, and 360-degree surround sound that puts you center stage. Upfiring drivers bounce audio off your ceiling, creating a virtual soundscape that rivals dedicated setups. Whether you’re dodging bullets in a blockbuster or whispering secrets in a period drama, every detail comes alive.
This versatile marvel elevates every aspect of your audio experience. Music comes alive with vibrant clarity, whether you’re streaming Spotify or spinning vinyl. High-resolution files like FLAC reveal hidden layers of richness, allowing you to rediscover your favorite tracks. And for gamers, the immersive soundscapes draw you deeper into every virtual world.
Gone are the days of tangled cables and confusing menus. The HW-Q800C seamlessly integrates into your existing setup with a single HDMI cable. Control is equally intuitive, with a user-friendly remote and a sleek app that puts every setting at your fingertips. Plus, built-in voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant let you command your sound with just your voice.
While beauty is in the ear of the beholder, the HW-Q800C exudes a rugged, industrial charm that complements any modern home theater. Its solid build gives it a reassuring heft, a testament to its premium quality. And at 43 inches wide, it perfectly fits alongside most TVs, from 50 inches to 55 inches and beyond.
So, if you’re seeking a sonic upgrade without blowing your budget, the Samsung HW-Q800C is the clear winner. It delivers unparalleled Dolby Atmos performance, seamless connectivity, and intuitive control, all at an unbeatable price. This is more than just a soundbar; it’s an invitation to experience entertainment like never before. The Samsung HW-Q800C is the soundbar of choice for anyone seeking cinematic thrills without breaking the bank.
2. Samsung HW-Q930C
Samsung HW-Q930C Key Specifications
Dimensions: 1106 x 64.2 x 138.2 mm (W x H x D)| Speaker configuration: 9.1.4 | Claimed audio power: 380W | Connections: HDMI input (2.1 with eARC), HDMI output, Optical input, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Supports: HDMI 2.1 with eARC and ALLM.
- Benefits: Same as HW-Q800C.
Pros
- Immersive Surround Sound
- Powerful and Balanced Sound
- Multiple Sound Modes
- Easy Setup and Use
- Sleek and Stylish Design
- Wireless Dolby Atmos & DTS:X
- Q-Symphony
Cons
- Some compression at max volume
The Samsung HW-Q930C soundbar packs a punch, delivering immersive 9.1.4 surround sound that rivals its pricier siblings.
Imagine explosions thundering from behind the couch, whispers floating overhead, and every rustle of leaves in the forest crackling around you. That’s the magic of the HW-Q930C. Its dedicated rear satellites and up-firing speakers paint a sonic canvas that envelops you in the action, transporting you to the heart of your favorite movies and shows.
But it’s not just about booming bass and surround magic. This soundbar boasts impressive clarity and detail, faithfully reproducing every delicate note and nuanced dialogue. Room correction technology fine-tunes the sound to your specific space, ensuring a balanced, distortion-free listening experience wherever you sit.
And the versatility? Oh, the versatility! Whether you’re a Dolby Atmos devotee or a classic Dolby Digital purist, the HW-Q930C handles them all with aplomb. Stream music wirelessly, connect to your TV through eARC, or use the built-in voice assistants for hands-free control.
Sure, some might argue that the two missing surround channels compared to its pricier cousin, the HW-Q990C, translate to a slightly less pinpoint sonic accuracy. And perhaps it doesn’t quite reach the ear-splitting volumes of its big brother. But here’s the secret: you won’t miss them. Not when you’re basking in the rich soundscape, feeling the rumble of bass in your chest, and losing yourself in the cinematic magic the HW-Q930C conjures up.
So, if you’re seeking a premium soundbar experience without the premium price tag, the Samsung HW-Q930C is your golden ticket. It’s the perfect blend of power, precision, and value, ready to transform your living room into a cinematic oasis.
3. Vizio Elevate
Vizio Elevate Key Specifications
Dimensions: 1219.2 x 67.1 x 165.1mm (W x H x D)| Speaker configuration: 5.1.4 | Claimed audio power: N/A | Connections: 2 x HDMI Inputs (one with eARC), 1 x HDMI Output (eARC), 3.5mm Analog Audio Input, Voice Assistant, USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
- Supports: HDMI eARC (version not specified).
- Benefits: Allows for high-quality audio pass-through, but may not support all latest features like ALLM if eARC is not HDMI 2.1.
Pros
- Immersive Dolby Atmos sound
- Wide soundstage
- Powerful bass
- Good value for money
- Compatible with multiple smart assistants
- Chromecast Built-in
Cons
- Surround effects can feel less distinct
The Vizio Elevate takes your home theater a level higher, immersing you in every scene with rich, nuanced sound. Whether you’re belting out tunes, binging the latest blockbuster, or catching up on your favorite shows, this versatile soundbar delivers.
Crystal-clear dialogue dances from the center channel, ensuring every whisper and witty quip lands smack dab in the sweet spot. And when the action heats up, the dedicated subwoofer kicks in, unleashing a rumble that vibrates your bones and punches you right in the feels.
But wait, there’s more! This isn’t your average soundbar. When you throw on a Dolby Atmos or DTS:X flick, prepare to be blown away. The soundbar’s sides magically transform, rotating upwards to mimic the way real-world sound bounces off your ceiling. The result? A mind-bending soundscape that envelops you, pulling you right into the heart of the movie.
Think two surround sound speakers would be overkill? This bad boy has you covered there too. Simply connect them to the subwoofer (a quick and painless process, even for the tech-timid) and experience cinema-worthy audio that wraps around you.
Sure, some fancier soundbars boast fancy room correction features and graphic EQs, but for the price, the Vizio Elevate is a steal. With its bass and treble adjustments, you can tailor the sound to your unique space, and let’s be honest, the immersive Atmos experience and booming bass speak for themselves.
4. JBL Bar 1300X
JBL Bar 1300X Key Specifications
Dimensions: 1376 x 60 x 139 mm (W x H x D) | Speaker configuration: 11.1.4 | Claimed audio power: 1170W | Connections: HDMI (eARC), Optical in, Bluetooth, USB
- Supports: HDMI 2.0 with ARC (Audio Return Channel).
- Benefits: Allows for good quality audio pass-through, but lacks the capabilities of HDMI 2.1 like eARC and ALLM.
Pros
- Immersive Dolby Atmos sound
- Excellent build quality and design
- Detachable and rechargeable rear speakers
- Easy setup and calibration
- Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, and DTS:X support
Cons
- Pricey
- Large subwoofer
The JBL Bar 1300X packs a thunderous punch in a sleek, space-saving package, transforming your movie nights into cinematic spectacles.
Craving Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound that washes over you like a sonic tidal wave? The Bar 1300X delivers. Up-firing speakers and detachable rear satellite speakers (doubling as wireless Bluetooth marvels) create a multi-dimensional soundscape that puts you right in the heart of the action. Explosions rattle your bones, whispers slither through the air, and dialogue cuts through with crystal clarity. It’s like having a mini cineplex nestled in your living room.
This isn’t a soundbar that gathers dust between blockbuster marathons. With multiple HDMI inputs, it effortlessly juggles all your entertainment devices, from streaming sticks to consoles. And those wireless rear speakers? They aren’t just for surround sound. Take them anywhere and instantly rock your backyard barbeque or pool party with booming Bluetooth tunes. Talk about a party trick!
It’s surprisingly easy to set up, meaning you’ll be immersed in sonic nirvana without battling cables and manuals. Plus, its compact design won’t hog precious living room real estate. It’s perfect for movie enthusiasts who crave big sound without sacrificing space or convenience.
While the Bar 1300X excels in movies and music, serious gamers might want to look elsewhere. Its HDMI ports lack the 4K 120Hz pass-through needed for the latest consoles’ high-framerate gaming. But for everyone else, this soundbar is a versatile audio powerhouse that punches way above its weight.
Just know: In some regions, you might find the JBL Bar 1300 instead of the X version. It packs a slightly smaller subwoofer punch, but the overall experience remains just as stellar.
5. Sony HT-S2000
Sony HT-S2000 Key Specifications
Dimensions: 800 X 64 X 124 mm(31 1 / 2 in x 2 5 / 8 in x 5 in) | Speaker configuration: 3.1 | Claimed audio power: 250W | Connections: HDMI eARC x 1, optical digital x 1, USB x1, Bluetooth
- Supports: HDMI 2.0 with ARC.
- Benefits: Similar to JBL Bar 1300X, good audio pass-through but no HDMI 2.1 features.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality for the price
- Affordable
- Easy to set up and use
- Sleek and compact design
- HDMI eARC support
Cons
- Can’t handle deep sub-bass frequencies
- No Wi-Fi or smart features
- No room correction
The Sony HT-S2000 soundbar packs a punchy audio upgrade into a pocket-friendly package. Forget tinny TV speakers – this little powerhouse delivers crisp dialogue, immersive surround sound, and even a surprising taste of Dolby Atmos.
Sure, there are flashier soundbars out there, boasting more bells and whistles than a carnival carousel. But the HT-S2000 is all about pure sonic satisfaction. Ditch the tangled mess of wires with just one HDMI input and Bluetooth connectivity. It’s simplicity at its finest.
Don’t let the price tag fool you. This soundbar is built to impress. Sleek lines and a sturdy mesh grille whisper “high-end,” while hidden LEDs dance to your every remote command, adding a touch of magic to your movie nights.
The HT-S2000 might not have dedicated height channels, but its virtual surround technology conjures up a spacious soundscape that will transport you right into the heart of the action. Explosions rumble, whispers float, and every voice rings clear as a bell. And while it won’t knock your socks off with earth-shattering bass, the built-in sub packs enough punch to satisfy most movie and music lovers.
The most remarkable feat? The HT-S2000 delivers a taste of Dolby Atmos, that elusive, three-dimensional audio experience, without needing extra speakers. It’s not a full-blown Atmos extravaganza, but for a 3.1 soundbar, it’s pure sonic sorcery.
So, if you’re looking for a sound upgrade that won’t break the bank, the Sony HT-S2000 is your golden ticket. It’s not the fanciest soundbar in town, but for its price, it’s hard to find a better balance of sound quality, features, and pure listening enjoyment. Turn up the volume, dim the lights, and let the HT-S2000 paint your living room with cinematic sound. The adventure awaits.
6. Samsung HW-Q990C
Samsung HW-Q990C Key Specifications
Dimensions: 1309 x 59.5 x 277mm (W x H x D) | Speaker configuration: 11.1.4 | Claimed audio power: N/A | Connections: x2 HDMI inputs, x1 HDMI output (eARC), optical input, wi-fi, Bluetooth
- Supports: HDMI 2.1 with eARC and ALLM.
- Benefits: Same as HW-Q800C.
Pros
- Very good Dolby Atmos performance
- Comes with wireless subwoofer and rear satellite speakers
- Easy to set up
- Lots of features
- Sleek design
Cons
- Expensive
- No HDMI 2.1
The Samsung Q990C soundbar is complete sonic portal, transporting you to the heart of your favorite movies, music, and whatever else your ears crave. Imagine 11.1.4 channels of pure audio bliss enveloping you, courtesy of the main bar, a thunderous subwoofer, and two discreet rear speakers. Dolby Atmos? The Q990C wields it like a maestro, conjuring immersive soundscapes that make every explosion resonate and every whisper feel intimate.
Even at maximum volume, the Q990C refuses to crack under pressure. The sound remains pristine, with trebles that dance on the edge of brilliance without ever crossing the line into harshness. And the bass? Oh, the bass. The subwoofer rumbles with a deep, soulful enthusiasm, every beat a physical reminder of the power music holds.
The Q990C boasts a secret weapon: Q-Symphony technology. This ingenious feature is like a handshake between your Samsung soundbar and compatible TV, forging a sonic alliance that unlocks their combined speaker potential. The result? A wall of sound so vast and enveloping, it’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the screen itself.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – the price tag. Yes, the Q990C sits proudly at the premium end of the spectrum. But consider it an investment in your aural pleasure, a one-way ticket to sonic nirvana. If you crave the ultimate Dolby Atmos experience and your budget allows, the Q990C is not just a choice, it’s a sonic revelation.
So, go ahead, unleash the cinematic beast within the Q990C. Let it drown out the mundane and ignite your senses with every roar, rumble, and whispered dialogue. It’s more than just a soundbar; it’s an invitation to a sonic symphony, conducted by you.
7. Sony HT-A7000
Sony HT-A7000 Key Specifications
Dimensions : 1300 x 80 x 142mm (W x H x D) | Speaker Configuration : 7.1.2 | Claimed audio power : 500W | Connections: x2 HDMI Input, x1 HDMI output (eARC), x1 optical output, x1 3.5mm output, x1 USB
- Supports: HDMI 2.1 with eARC and ALLM.
- Benefits: Same as Samsung HW-Q series soundbars with full HDMI 2.1 pass-through capabilities.
Pros
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
- Excellent sound quality
- Hi-res audio support
- Room correction feature
- Future-proofed with HDMI 2.1
- Elegant design
Cons
- High price
- Subwoofer and surround speakers sold separately
For the passionate gamer juggling both PS5 and Xbox Series X, TV connectivity can be a frustrating battlefield. Often, only two precious HDMI 2.1 ports grace the back of your big-screen beast, one inevitably hijacked by eARC. Suddenly, squeezing in both consoles for that coveted 4K 120Hz experience feels like fitting a T-Rex through a keyhole.
Enter the Sony HT-A7000, a soundbar wielding a secret weapon: not one, but two HDMI 2.1 ports that act as your gaming salvation. These aren’t just passthrough portals; they’re fully equipped with VRR and ALLM thanks to a clever firmware update, ensuring your PS5 and Xbox Series X sing in perfect harmony. Blast through explosive landscapes at 4K 120Hz without sacrificing smooth frame rates or instant responsiveness.
But the HT-A7000 isn’t just a pixel-pushing powerhouse. Clear, crisp dialogue brings cinematic cutscenes and story-driven adventures to life, while 360 Reality Audio music transforms your listening space into a concert hall. Imagine pinpointing every instrument’s position as you’re enveloped by rich, immersive sound – it’s pure audio nirvana.
Sure, the HT-A7000’s built-in bass might not shake the walls like some thunderous rivals. But with optional rear speakers and a subwoofer lurking in the shadows, this soundbar’s potential for sonic expansion is undeniable.
When it comes to gaming, however, the HT-A7000 stands as an undisputed champion. No other soundbar packs such a potent punch of features to enhance your console experience. Ditch the port juggling, unleash the full potential of your next-gen beasts, and immerse yourself in worlds where every footstep, every explosion, every whispered secret resonates with breathtaking clarity.
1 | Samsung HW-Q800C (Best Option) | Check Price on Amazon |
2 | Samsung HW-Q930C | Check Price on Amazon |
3 | Vizio Elevate | Check Price on Amazon |
4 | JBL Bar 1300X | Check Price on Amazon |
5 | Sony HT-S2000 | Check Price on Amazon |
6 | Samsung HW-Q990C | Check Price on Amazon |
7 | Sony HT-A7000 | Check Price on Amazon |