Choosing the right soundbar can significantly enhance your TV viewing and music experience. In South Africa, major retailers offer a wide range of soundbars to fit different budgets and preferences. This article presents 20 top soundbars from five popular stores: Makro, Game, Takealot, HiFi Corp, and Incredible Connections, detailing their features, pricing, and compatibility to help you make an informed choice.
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Table of contents
- What is a Soundbar?
- What is Surround Sound?
- Why Choose a Soundbar or Surround Sound System?
- Makro: Affordable to Mid-Range Quality
- Game: Trusted Brands with Solid Performance
- Takealot: Premium Options and Smart Features
- HiFi Corp: Advanced Surround and Smart Audio
- Incredible Connection: Smart and High-Fidelity
- Better Viewing Experience
What is a Soundbar?
A soundbar is a long, slim speaker system that sits below or above your TV. It contains multiple speakers housed inside a single enclosure to provide stereo or multi-channel audio. Instead of having separate speakers placed around the room, a soundbar aims to deliver high-quality sound from one compact device.
- How it works: Internal drivers (small speakers) in the bar send sound in different directions, using acoustic tricks to mimic a wider soundstage.
- Subwoofer: Many soundbars come with a separate wireless subwoofer to handle deep bass frequencies.
- Connectivity: Soundbars connect to the TV via HDMI ARC, optical, or Bluetooth, allowing clear sound transmission and easy control.
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What is Surround Sound?
Surround sound creates a 3D audio experience by using multiple speakers placed around the listener, front, side, and behind, to simulate an immersive environment.
- Channels: Common configurations include 5.1 (five speakers plus one subwoofer) and 7.1 setups.
- How it works: Audio tracks are recorded or mixed with specific sounds sent to different speakers at various times, making you feel like you’re in the middle of action or music.
- Soundbars with Surround Sound: Advanced soundbars may use digital processing, multiple internal speakers, and upward-firing drivers (that bounce sound off the ceiling) to simulate surround sound without physical rear speakers.
Why Choose a Soundbar or Surround Sound System?
- Improved Sound Quality: Louder, clearer dialogues, richer music, and powerful bass compared to TV speakers.
- Sleek and Simple: Soundbars are streamlined and easier to set up than full surround speaker systems.
- Immersive Experience: Surround sound systems envelop you in audio, ideal for movies, gaming, and music.
Soundbars provide a compact, high-quality audio upgrade, while surround sound systems offer fully immersive experiences with multiple speakers. Many modern soundbars now simulate surround sound digitally to combine the best of both worlds.
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Makro: Affordable to Mid-Range Quality
- Samsung 2 Channel Sound Bar Bluetooth Soundbar 2.0
- Price: R899
- Configuration: 2.0 channel stereo sound
- Power Output: 40 W RMS total with built-in woofer
- Connectivity: Wired & wireless Bluetooth connection
- Features:
- Delivers dynamic, balanced audio for movies, music, and TV shows
- Integrated woofer provides deep bass without extra speakers
- Surround sound expansion for immersive audio experience
- Simplified setup with one remote control for easy operation
- Dimensions: 64.1 cm width, 6.65 cm height, 10.7 cm depth
- Warranty: 2 years onsite warranty
- Link
- LG Sound Bar Bluetooth Soundbar 2.1
- Price: R4,599 (34% off from R6,999)
- Configuration: 2.1 channel with wireless subwoofer
- Power Output: 160 W RMS total (up to 60 W for soundbar speakers)
- Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth
- Features:
- Immersive, crystal-clear sound ideal for movies, gaming, and music
- Up to 78 dB soundbar output for powerful audio performance
- User-friendly and intuitive controls for easy audio management
- Dimensions: 66 cm width, 5.5 cm height, 9.9 cm depth
- Warranty: 2 years onsite warranty
- Link
- Skyworth Dolby Sound Bar Ss531 3.1 Channel Bluetooth Soundbar 3.1
- Price: R2,799
- Configuration: 3.1 channel
- Power Output: 510 W RMS total
- Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth
- Features:
- Dolby sound processing for immersive audio
- Wireless connectivity for easy setup and use
- Colour: Grey
- Warranty: 1 year warranty
- Link
- JBL SB560 3.1 Bluetooth Soundbar 3.1
- Price: R3,999 (11% off from R4,499)
- Configuration: 3.1 channel
- Power Output: 300 W RMS total with 10″ wireless subwoofer
- Connectivity: Wired with Bluetooth wireless streaming
- Features:
- Dedicated center channel for crystal-clear dialogue
- JBL Surround Sound and Dolby Digital for immersive audio
- Connect up to three 4K devices via HDMI inputs
- JBL SoundShift lets you switch between TV and mobile device audio instantly
- Can be controlled with your existing TV remote control
- Dimensions: 102.5 cm width, 39.7 cm height, 23.5 cm depth
- Warranty: 1-year carry-in warranty
- Link
Game: Trusted Brands with Solid Performance
- TCL S643W 3,1 SOUND BAR 240W S643W
- Price: R1,999 (Save R1,500 from R3,499)
- Configuration: 3.1 channel
- Power Output: 240 W total power
- Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth, wired connection options
- Features:
- Award-winning design (Red Dot Award 2023)
- Immersive surround sound with dedicated subwoofer
- Clear, rich audio suitable for movies, TV, and music
- Integrates well with TVs and supports easy control
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
- Link
- HISENSE SOUND BAR 2.1 140W HS1800
- Hisense Sound Bar 2.1 140W HS1800
- Price: R1,299 (Save R400 from R1,699)
- Configuration: 2.1 channel
- Power Output: 140 W total power
- Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth
- Features:
- Portable yet powerful sound suitable for movies and music
- Easy to use with Bluetooth streaming from phones
- Compact size ideal for small to medium rooms
- Warranty: 2-year warranty
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- VOLKANO 2.1CH Turbulent Series Soundbar VK-3905
- Price: R1,299
- Configuration: 2.1 channel
- Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth
- Features:
- Provides a solid sound experience with a wireless subwoofer
- Compact and stylish design suitable for small to medium rooms
- Easy connectivity with Bluetooth-enabled devices
- Warranty: 1 year warranty
- Link
- JVC SOUND BAR 2.1 CH EA TH-N333Bl
- Price: R999 (Save R500 from R1,499)
- Configuration: 2.1 channel
- Dimensions: Height 18.0 cm, Width 36.2 cm, Length 83.1 cm
- Features:
- Delivers quality sound suitable for home theatre and music
- Bass enhancement with built-in subwoofer
- Multiple sound equalizer modes for different audio experiences
- Warranty: 1 year warranty
- Link
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Takealot: Premium Options and Smart Features
- HP Luminous Soundbar – RGB Desktop Speaker
- Price: From R999
- Configuration: 2.0 channel
- Power Output: 2 x 3W
- Connectivity: Wired (USB for power and 3.5mm audio jack)
- Features:
- RGB lighting with customizable backlight effects
- Active electronic equalizer balances low, mid, and high frequencies for clarity
- Plug and play design, with volume knob and easy controls
- Compact size (44.0 x 8.5 x 8.7 cm) ideal for desktop use
- Warranty: 6-month manufacturer warranty
- Link
- Supersonic 2.1 80W Built-In Subwoofer Bluetooth Soundbar + Remote SAV-101A
- Price: R1,267 (discounted from R2,899)
- Configuration: 2.1 channel
- Power Output: 80 W total
- Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth
- Features:
- Dynamic bass boost with built-in subwoofer
- Suitable for entertainment and gaming
- Includes remote control for easy operation
- Compact and stylish design
- Warranty: 6-month limited warranty
- Link
- Omega 2.1 60W PureVibe Series Soundbar & Wired Subwoofer HDMI/BT/USB 101Y
- Price: R997 (discounted from R1,399)
- Configuration: 2.1 channel
- Power Output: 60 W total
- Connectivity: HDMI, Bluetooth, USB, AUX
- Features:
- Crisp sound quality with powerful bass via wired subwoofer
- Multiple input options including HDMI and Bluetooth
- Ideal for home entertainment with clear audio for movies and music
- Remote control included for convenient operation
- Warranty: 6-month limited warranty
- Link
- Samsung Soundbar HW-B750D 5.1 ch Sub Woofer
- Price: R3,999 (discounted from R5,699)
- Configuration: 5.1 channel with wireless subwoofer
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI
- Features:
- Powerful surround sound experience for movies and music
- Dedicated subwoofer delivers deep bass
- Multiple connectivity options including HDMI and Bluetooth
- Sleek design with easy remote control
- Warranty: 24-month limited warranty
- Link
HiFi Corp: Advanced Surround and Smart Audio
- Orion StudioSound Mini BT Soundbar MSB 100
- Price: R299 (after R100 discount; sale until 31 August 2025)
- Configuration: Dual channel
- Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth, auxiliary input
- Features:
- Portable mini soundbar with built-in microphone
- Supports MP3/WMA/WAV file playback
- 2400 mAh lithium battery for wireless use
- Compact size ideal for small spaces or desktops
- Warranty: 1 year
- Link
- Sonos Ray WiFi Smart Soundbar (Black)
- Price: R5,999 (sale ends 12 August 2025; regular price R7,499)
Configuration: Compact smart soundb
Connectivity: WiFi, HDMI eARC
Features:
Crisp dialogue and well-balanced sound tuned for small spaces
Designed to be tucked away discreetly
Works seamlessly with most TVs
Warranty: 1 year - Link
- Price: R5,999 (sale ends 12 August 2025; regular price R7,499)
- Volkano Turbulent 2.1ch Sound Bar
- Configuration: 2.1 channel with subwoofer
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, Optical Input (includes 1.5 m cable), HDMI input
- Features:
- Supports song shuffle and repeat
- 3D sound mode for immersive audio experience
- Warranty: 1 year
- Link
- JVC 2.1 Channel 140W Sound Bar TH-N434B
- Price: R2,999
- Configuration: 2.1 channel with built-in subwoofer
- Power Output: 140 W total
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI ARC, Optical, AUX, USB inputs
- Features:
- 3D EQ effect for enhanced sound experience
- LED display for easy control
- Remote control included
- Slim and space-saving design, supports wall mounting
- Warranty: 1 year
- Link
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Incredible Connection: Smart and High-Fidelity
- Maxdorf Signature Series 540W Wired Soundbar
- Price: R3,499
- Bluetooth: Version 5.3, with up to 10 meters range
- Max Output Power: 540 W
- RMS Output: 180 W
- Configuration: True 5.1 channel with built-in subwoofers and multiple speakers
- Subwoofer Driver: 6.5 inches
- Connectivity: HDMI ARC, optical input, USB, AUX
- Features:
- Immersive 5.1 surround sound for cinematic audio
- Rich bass, clear midrange, and sparkling treble
- Remote control for convenience
- Multiple setup options for optimal room acoustics
- On/off lights for aesthetic control
- Link
- Warranty: 1 year
- Hisense AX3100G 3.1 Channel Dolby Atmos Sound Bar
- Price: R4,299
- Configuration: 3.1 channel
- Max Audio Power: 280 W
- Subwoofer: 6.5″ wireless subwoofer
- Audio Technology: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, EzPlay
- Features:
- 7 EQ modes for tailored sound profiles
- Control via TV remote for ease of use
- Warranty: 2-year warranty
- Link
- TCL 2.1 Channel 200W Sound Bar S522W
- Price: R2,499
- Max Audio Power: 200 W
- Subwoofer: Wireless subwoofer included
- Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth music streaming
- Design: Slim (810 mm) and sleek with wall mounting kit included
- Warranty: 12 months (1 year)
- Link
- Gxt 618 Asto Sound Bar PC Speaker
- Price: R699
- Power: 12W peak power, 6W RMS
- Sound: Rich stereo sound from a compact speaker
- Design: Fits below any PC monitor or TV screen
- Controls: Large illuminated volume control knob
- Power Supply: USB-powered, no wall power needed
- Warranty: 1 year
- Link
ALSO READ: Cheapest 75-inch TVs: Finding Big Screen Deals That Don’t Break the Bank
Better Viewing Experience
From budget-friendly soundbars to premium models with Dolby Atmos and smart assistant integration, South African shoppers have diverse options. When choosing a soundbar, consider your room size, connectivity needs (HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, optical), and desired features like wireless subwoofers or voice assistants.
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