© SENKI / Shutterstock.com
LG Electronics has one of the biggest market shares in the TV and speaker system niches. The company has cemented its position as one of the best Dolby soundbar manufacturers. LG Dolby soundbars produce high-quality surround sound, providing an immersive entertainment experience.
However, Samsung, Sony, Bose, and Sonos have also aggressively attacked the market with notable Dolby Atmos soundbars that rival LG soundbars. These rival companies have improved their soundbar’s compatibility issues, thus making them compatible even with LG TVs.
So, which are the 6 best alternatives to LG Dolby Soundbars? Keep reading to find out!
Sony HT-A7000
- DTS:X, Dolby Atmos, Vertical Surround Sound Engine
- 360 degree sound mapping
- converts audio to 7.1.2 Ch automatically
- 4K/120 and 8K passthrough for the best visuals and gameplay.
When accounting for power consumption, the Sony HT-A7000 is the obvious alternative to LG Dolby soundbars, precisely, the LG S95QR.
This Sony soundbar consumes 65 watts of power, 13 watts less than the S95QR. The difference in power consumption probably stems from the LG’s superior 9.1.5 speaker structure, but even the A7000’s 7.1.2 speaker layout is impressive.
Moreover, the A7000 boasts other unique features that make it stand out. For example, the 360-reality audio feature paired with Dolby Atmos gives you the best sound quality. It allows you to immerse yourself in the music and feel like you’re at a live concert.
Nevertheless, the A7000 and S95QR share similarities, including Bluetooth connectivity, voice control, Apple Airplay, and HDMI eARC ports. However, the LG S95QR is more expensive than the Sony HT-A7000 soundbar. The former is likely pricier as it is classified as a premium model. But still, this Sony soundbar is also a high-end product. It offers more features at a lower price, hence one of the best alternatives to LG Dolby soundbars.
Sonos Beam Generation 2
- 3D surround sound with Dolby Atmos
- Compatible with Apple AirPlay 2, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant
- Smart Trueplay tuning
The Sonos Beam Generation 2 is an excellent alternative to LG Dolby Soundbars for consumers with crowded or large living rooms.
Thanks to the Sonos Beam’s Trueplay tuning feature, you can determine how sound reflects off your furniture, walls, and carpet and adjust the Sonos speakers.
Even though some LG Dolby soundbars have a night mode feature, most notably the LG 3.1.3, it’s incomparable to Sonos’ night sound feature. Through the Sonos app, you can adjust the soundbar’s night sound settings, which minimizes the loud effects from your movie while still making the dialogues clear. Sonos also added a speech enhancement feature, improving the soundbar’s clarity even after activating night sound.
This Sonos soundbar is convenient to operate as you can navigate the menu and settings using the Sonos app, remote, and Apple Airplay. However, the Sonos Beam shines the most with the tap or swipe feature at the top of the soundbar. You can use it to adjust the volume, pause music, and do other functions without a remote.
The Sonos Beam also supports Alexa and Google Assistant, Wi-Fi connectivity, Apple Airplay, Dolby Atmos, and HDMI eARC connectivity, all available in the LG 3.1.3. So, buyers won’t miss out on anything by picking the Sonos Beam as an alternative to any LG Dolby soundbar.
Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max
- Deep 30Hz bass
- Delivers 3D surround sound via advanced room calibration
- Built-in equalizer and 3 bespoke AMBEO 3D technology modes
- Fully compatible with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and MPEG-H
- Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Chromecast, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect
Next, we have the AMBEO soundbar max, a great alternative to LG Dolby soundbars, specifically the LG S95QR, primarily due to its sound experience.
Even though the AMBEO soundbar has a 5.1.4 speaker layout, which is lower than the S95QR, it still produces 30Hz of bass without a subwoofer. Additionally, this soundbar analyzes your living room’s acoustics to create a 3D sound experience thanks to the soundbar’s 13 speakers.
Moreover, the AMBEO Max has a sleek design that is rare in many soundbars. This soundbar’s aluminum exterior blends perfectly with the round meshes on the side. It’s more appealing than the S95QR’s plastic material with the perforated mesh at the top, typical of most soundbars.
Tidal Connect adds to the soundbar’s features, allowing you to stream music from Tidal while incorporating the Dolby Atmos feature. Even though Tidal Connect is available in the S95Q6 and is similar to Spotify Connect, having the versatility to play music on any streaming platform using AMBEO’s speaker layout makes this soundbar a good alternative.
Furthermore, AMBEO’s MPEG-H audio feature is where this soundbar stands out the most. You will experience sound naturally and realistically when listening to different content because this audio feature gives you the best surround sound experience.
Bose Smart Soundbar 900
- Multi-directional sound makes you feel as if you are surrounded by speakers.
- Includes Dolby Atmos as well as Bose' TrueSpace
- Voice assistants built in (Google and Alexa)
- Microphones on the Soundbar let you control other devices through the soundbar's voice control as well.
Consumers who prioritize aesthetics and build design should consider the Bose Smart Soundbar 900, a suitable alternative to LG Dolby Soundbars.
Known for its slim design and top glass plate, the Bose 900 is incomparable to LG soundbars like the S80QR, design-wise. Furthermore, this soundbar’s wireless surround speakers are visually appealing at first glance.
The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 has ADAPTiQ technology, which solves one of the biggest criticisms most soundbars face: their incompatibility with the room’s acoustics. ADAPTiQ technology analyzes all the objects in your living room and adjusts the soundbar’s settings to match your room’s auditory range. The LG S80QR has a similar feature, the AI Room Calibration technology, so it depends on which one you prefer.
Additionally, SimpleSync Connect makes the Bose 900 versatile. You can pair your Bose soundbar with your Bose headsets and listen to music without disturbing others in the house. Moreover, through SimpleSync, you can wirelessly connect many Bose speakers and place them in different rooms.
The Bose 900 and LG S80QR share other features, like Google Assistant support and Alexa, which are integral to the soundbars’ voice command feature. However, the Bose 900’s Video4Video technology improves Alexa’s capabilities. You can use your voice to control your TV and satellite, besides controlling the soundbar. Overall, this Bose soundbar is cheaper than the LG S80QR, making it a better and more affordable alternative.
Samsung HW-Q950A
- 11.1.4ch Soundbar
- Dolby Atmos/DTS:X
- Alexa built-in
- Bass Boost, SpaceFit Sound
The Samsung HW-Q950 is the best alternative to an LG Dolby Soundbar when accounting for sound quality, extra features, and Dolby Atmos.
The only LG Dolby soundbar that comes close to this Samsung soundbar is the LG S95QR due to its 9.1.5 channels. But this LG’s speaker layout is still incomparable to Samsung’s 11.1.4 speaker design, which provides the best Dolby Atmos experience.
Furthermore, Samsung packed this soundbar with the Q-Symphony technology to optimize its audio output. Most soundbars mute your TV speakers. But with Samsung’s Q-Symphony, you can use both the soundbar and your TV speakers simultaneously, giving you a more immersive sound experience. Unfortunately, Q-Symphony is only compatible with Samsung TVs.
The Samsung HW-Q950A also has adaptive sound technology, which automatically analyzes your sound signals to optimize your sound based on your TV’s content. The LG S95QR has a similar feature because you can change your soundbar’s mode from sports to movies. However, the LG soundbar doesn’t have the same flair as the HW-Q950A, where the soundbar optimizes your sound in real-time based on each scene.
Adding to the specs is the HW-Q950A’s Game Pro Mode, which delivers the best surround sound experience when gaming. However, the LG S95QR comes in strong with its variable refresh rate and auto latency mode, which reduces lagging. So, if you’re buying the soundbar for gaming purposes only, then the LG S95QR is better. In contrast, the HW-Q950A offers better value for money when shopping for a multi-purpose soundbar.
Majority Sierra 2.1.2
- 2.1.2 Dolby Atmos
- With wireless subwoofer
- 400W powerful output
- Up-firing Atmos speakers
- HDMI Arc, Bluetooth, USB and Aux
The Majority Sierra 2.1.2 is the most affordable alternative to LG Dolby soundbars.
This mid-range soundbar offers lower sound quality than other soundbars on this list, primarily due to its 2.1.2 speaker layout. However, it will perform reasonably well, especially when you try the soundbar’s Dolby Atmos.
Other features include Bluetooth connectivity, HDMI, and USB ports, so you will have many ways to connect the soundbar to your TV. Compared to other soundbars on this list, the Majority Sierra 2.1.2 has the fewest smart features. For example, it lacks the 4K pass-through, Dolby Vision, and in-built voice commands. So, you will have to forego these features, but at least it has Dolby Atmos, making it a good alternative, considering its sub-$300 price tag.
©BobrinSKY/Shutterstock.com
How to Pick the Best Alternative Soundbar to the LG Dolby Soundbar
LG Dolby soundbars are among the best audio speaker systems on the market. So, when considering suitable alternatives, focus on soundbars offering extra features or better price points.
Let’s look at some essential factors to consider.
Extra Features
At this point, you may have realized that all soundbars on this list have Dolby Atmos, so what distinguishes them is their extra features. Top of the list is getting a soundbar with smart features for the best user experience. For instance, the Samsung HW-Q950A offers Q-Symphony, allowing you to connect directly to your Samsung TV. It also has adaptive sound, a smart feature that produces more realistic sound when watching movies.
Connectivity
A good soundbar should have multiple inputs for connecting different audio and video sources. The soundbar’s HDMI connectivity is something to consider, as it should have at least two ports, including an eARC one. The soundbar should also support Bluetooth connectivity, as everyone has it on their phones. Lastly, the soundbar should have Wi-Fi connectivity features to support direct streaming from music platforms like Spotify and Tidal.
Price
Buy a soundbar within your budget; look at the device’s specs to get value for money. The soundbar’s release date, connectivity options, and technology will likely influence its price. Go for the latest soundbar if money isn’t a problem. However, acquire a mid-range soundbar should you prefer a budget-friendly alternative.
Wrapping Up
LG Dolby soundbars are among the best audio speaker systems you can buy today. Whether due to the big price tag or other reasons, not many people want to buy these soundbars, so it’s great to consider alternatives.
Though some of the devices we listed aren’t as premium as the LG Dolby soundbars, they are close behind. Buying the Samsung HW-Q950A, Bose Smart 900, Sony HT-A 7000, and the AMBEO Soundbar Max guarantees the best sound quality and unique smart features. The Majority Sierra 2.1.2 will save you hundreds of dollars for pretty good performance.
Overall, LG Dolby soundbars are impressive, and replacing them is challenging; however, the soundbars on this list are some of the best out there.
