Soundbar or 5.1 sound system - advantages and disadvantages

A sound bar or a 5.1 / 7.1 sound system are suitable as audio components for computer and home cinema systems. We explain to you how the two systems differ and which variant is best for you.

5.1 Sound system - the classic in home cinema

5.1 Sound systems have been the standard for home theater systems for several years. Most of these are five speakers of the same size, which are configured as center, front and surround speakers based on their position and the respective cabling. In more expensive systems, the individual speakers differ - the center is usually a larger box. These tweeters and midrange speakers are complemented by a subwoofer. Stiftung Warentest tested the best models.

• Advantage: 5.1 sound systems enable very realistic audio experiences with the appropriate film material. If, for example, a helicopter flies in a film, the propeller noise sounds from all sides. If a shot is fired from behind, it also sounds from behind. The correct positioning of the speakers is a prerequisite for this sound experience.
• Disadvantage: According to the five speakers, you also have to accommodate five cables in your room. Depending on the possibilities, this works well - however, the speakers hang open on the wall, the hanging cables give an unsightly picture. You also need a lot of space to position the five speakers appropriately.
• Disadvantage: In addition, 5.1 speakers are not compatible with every playback device. Passive speakers require a stereo receiver. If you do not have one or you want to connect the speakers directly to your computer, you can alternatively buy an active 5.1 sound system.

Soundbar - Space-saving sound experience in the home theater

Sound bars have only become popular in recent years. These are wide, flat loudspeaker complexes that are placed in front of a screen. As a rule, the soundbar itself consists of integrated tweeters and mid-range speakers. A subwoofer usually serves as the woofer. High-quality models are even equipped with woofers, so you really only have to place the soundbar in front of your TV.

• Advantage: Whether in front of the TV or a PC screen - the soundbar can be placed anywhere. Usually the connections of a soundbar are on the back, so that cables disappear inconspicuously behind the desk or TV cabinet. Especially in a living room, a soundbar gives a good picture. Color-coordinated with the TV, it is hardly noticeable and does not take up any space. Stiftung Warentest honored particularly good models.
• Disadvantage: The sound of many models is more than sufficient for the home theater area. Nevertheless, a sound bar cannot surpass the sound experience of separate speakers. The surround sound is imitated, but it cannot match the spatial effects of a 5.1 sound system.

Conclusion: soundbar vs. 5.1 sound system

If you have little space in your living room or want to banish the speakers from your desk, you are well served with a soundbar. For the same money, however, you get the better sound if you choose a 5.1 or even 7.1 sound system. It is also a matter of taste: if you connect the speakers or soundbar to your television, which you can also use to watch standard TV programs and news, the sound of a sound system can even be disruptive. A soundbar sounds a bit more discreet and can be stretched out at a corresponding volume in movies.