Home entertainment systems have become an “out of sight, out of mind” operation over the last two decades — the best theater is the one that’s hiding in plain sight. The growing popularity of slim, unassuming “sound bar” speakers exemplifies that, although perhaps not as well as something like frame TVs.
LG’s sub-$200 model was already a great bargain, made even stronger on Amazon’s inaugural Prime Big Deals Days event at 36% off and about $127. Samsung, in comparison, makes the top-of-the-line model, boasting Dolby Atmos and smart home integration and retailing for $1,000-plus.
But not everyone needs to sound like they’re in a movie theater all the time, especially if they’re watching Cocomelon while recovering form a hangover; sometimes saving space with respectable sound quality is enough. (For slight upgrades, LG has two other models on sale today: a more high-res one for about $200 and a Dolby one for $300.)
But the cheapest one on its own has a lot to offer: it automatically adjusts the volume based on the content being viewed (“clear vocals in sports, thunderous bass in live music, and dynamic sound in action movies,” the brand advertises). You can stream from your phone via Bluetooth or WiFi. Hardware-wise, it has 3.1 channel configuration, meaning the speakers are situated in a way designed to optimize sound immersion.
And it comes with a subwoofer, a bass-focused speaker for audiophiles who know what they want out of their Father John Misty albums.
LG Sound Bar and Wireless Subwoofer
A solid sub-$200 entry into the world of sound bars is even cheaper today.
