As a digital technology expert and audio enthusiast, I‘ve witnessed firsthand how soundbars have revolutionized home theater over the past decade. Once a niche product, they‘ve rapidly become the go-to solution for anyone seeking better sound without the hassle and expense of traditional surround speaker setups.
In fact, the soundbar market has seen explosive growth in recent years, with global sales expected to reach $8.74 billion by 2025, up from $4.92 billion in 2019 (Source: Grand View Research). And among the top brands leading this charge is LG, whose Dolby Atmos-enabled models deliver some of the most immersive and powerful audio experiences you can get at home.
As someone who‘s tested dozens of soundbars from various brands, I can confidently say LG‘s Atmos models are a cut above the rest in terms of performance, features, and overall value. Here are 10 compelling reasons to add one to your home theater setup:
1. Immersive Dolby Atmos 3D Surround Sound
The headline feature of LG‘s premium soundbars is Dolby Atmos, a cutting-edge surround format that creates an incredibly immersive 3D soundstage. Unlike traditional 5.1 or 7.1 channel systems that rely on physical speakers placed around the room, Atmos virtualizes a hemispherical sound field using upward-firing drivers that bounce sound off the ceiling.
This creates the illusion of audio coming from all directions – including above – making you feel like you‘re inside the action. When a helicopter flies overhead or rain patters on a roof in a movie, you‘ll hear it as if it‘s happening in your room. It‘s a level of realism and immersion that traditional surround formats simply can‘t match.
To put Atmos‘ growth in perspective, there are now over 500 movies and TV shows available in the format, up from just 25 in 2015 (Source: Dolby). That means you‘ll have no shortage of content to enjoy in ultra-immersive 3D sound. On the gaming front, both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X consoles support Atmos, as do many top titles like Gears 5, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Forza Horizon 4.
LG‘s flagship SP11RA is the ultimate Atmos soundbar, with a room-shaking 7.1.4-channel configuration. That translates to 4 upfiring drivers (2 in the main bar, 2 in the wireless rears), 3 front channels, 2 side channels, and a beefy wireless subwoofer for 770 watts of total power. In their 5/5 star review, AVSForum raved that it "sets a new bar for immersion" and delivers "astonishing Atmos performance."
2. Seamless Integration with LG TVs
While you can pair an LG soundbar with any brand of TV, they‘re designed to integrate seamlessly with the company‘s own displays. All of LG‘s 2020 and newer models support Dolby Atmos, with pass-through via the HDMI eARC port. This allows the TV to send lossless, uncompressed Atmos audio from its built-in apps and any connected devices directly to the soundbar.
Newer LG TVs also have an AI Acoustic Tuning feature that uses the TV‘s built-in microphone to analyze your room‘s acoustics and automatically optimize the soundbar‘s EQ. This ensures you always get well-balanced sound customized for your space. Models like the C1 and G1 OLEDs also support advanced audio formats like Dolby TrueHD found on UHD Blu-rays.
For the best possible sound and convenience, pairing an LG Atmos soundbar with an LG TV is a no-brainer. Everything from setup to everyday use is just easier and more seamless vs mixing and matching different brands.
3. Simple Setup and Operation
Despite their advanced audio engines, setting up an LG Dolby Atmos soundbar is remarkably easy. All current models come with wireless subwoofers that automatically pair with the main bar as soon as you plug them in. Higher-end units like the SP11RA also include wireless rear speaker kits, eliminating the need to run cables around your room.
To connect the soundbar to your TV, all you need is a single HDMI cable (or an optical cable for older TVs without HDMI eARC). Then just place the bar under or in front of your TV, plug it in, and you‘re ready to be transported into your content with immersive 3D sound.
Many LG soundbars are also compatible with voice assistants like Google and Alexa for hands-free control. You can turn the volume up/down, switch inputs, or even have the assistant pull up information about what you‘re watching – all without lifting a finger.
4. Huge Leap in Sound vs. TV Speakers
The biggest reason to invest in an LG Atmos soundbar is the massive improvement in sound quality vs. your TV‘s built-in speakers. As TVs have gotten thinner, there‘s less room inside the cabinet for large speaker drivers capable of producing full, dynamic audio. Most built-in TV speakers sound thin and lifeless, with virtually no bass response.
In contrast, even LG‘s entry-level Atmos soundbars have multiple speaker drivers, dedicated tweeters for clear highs, and wireless subwoofers for deep, visceral bass. The difference is immediately apparent, with much richer, more vibrant and nuanced sound across the frequency spectrum.
To quantify this, let‘s look at some key audio specs. LG‘s mid-range SP8YA soundbar has a 3.1.2-channel configuration (3 front channels, 2 up-firing Atmos drivers) powered by 7 total speakers and a wireless sub. Its frequency response stretches from 30-21kHz for bass you can feel and sparkling highs, with 440W total output.
Compare that to the built-in speakers on the LG C1 OLED, one of LG‘s top 2021 TVs. It uses a simple 2.2-channel stereo configuration with just 4 speakers powered by a 40W amplifier. Frequency response isn‘t specified, but it‘s likely nowhere near the SP8YA‘s range – especially in the lows.
5. Reasonable Prices and Great Value
Premium Dolby Atmos soundbars may cost more than basic stereo models, but I‘d argue they provide much better value for anyone serious about audio. LG‘s SP8YA model has an MSRP of $799 but can often be found on sale for around $600. For that price, you‘re getting a high-performance 3.1.2-channel system with 440W output, a 10" wireless subwoofer, and support for both Dolby Atmos and competitor DTS:X.
Step up to the flagship SP11RA for $1399 (street prices closer to $1000), and you gain a 7.1.4-channel configuration with 770W output, a 12" subwoofer, and wireless rear speaker kit. It‘s designed to rival dedicated Atmos surround systems costing several times more.
When you consider the cost of individual speakers, amplifiers, and AV receivers needed to build a traditional Atmos setup, even LG‘s top soundbar packages are a relative bargain. They give you a full Atmos rig in a much simpler, more space-efficient form factor. And you can always start with a more affordable 3.1.2 system and add a compatible subwoofer or wireless rears later as your budget allows.
6. Expert Acclaim and User Praise
You don‘t have to just take my word for LG‘s Atmos soundbar prowess. Expert reviewers and everyday users alike have heaped praise on the company‘s models for their excellent performance and value.
Among 2021 models, LG‘s SP8YA earned a top-tier 8.2/10 rating from RTINGS.com, with the reviewers noting that it "has a very good overall performance and comes with a lot of sound enhancement features." What HiFi awarded the step-up SP9YA a perfect 5/5 stars, calling it a "excellent performer" that "sounds weighty, dynamic, and detailed."
User reviews on sites like Amazon and BestBuy are similarly positive. As of March 2023, the SP9YA has a 4.5/5 star average rating from over 350 Amazon reviewers, with owners praising its "incredible Dolby Atmos sound," "amazing surround effect," and "fantastic build quality." On BestBuy.com, the flagship SP11RA has a 4.7/5 star rating with users calling it "the perfect Atmos soundbar" and "worth every penny."
7. Advanced Audio Processing and Room Calibration
All LG Dolby Atmos soundbars use the company‘s advanced AI Sound Pro processing to optimize audio based on content type and your room‘s acoustics. The technology is powered by a blend of machine learning and digital signal processing developed in collaboration with audio specialists from Meridian Technology.
When you‘re watching a movie, the soundbar detects specific frequency ranges in the Atmos soundtrack and applies custom EQ to create a wider, more cinematic soundstage. For music, it optimizes stereo separation and widens the "sweet spot" for better off-axis listening. And for voice-heavy content like sports or news, it boosts the center channel for enhanced dialog clarity.
Many LG soundbars also have a built-in room calibration feature that uses an internal microphone to analyze your room‘s acoustics and automatically adjust EQ, levels, and delay. This compensates for sound reflections off walls and furniture that could muddy audio or throw off the soundstage. After a quick 15-second calibration, you‘ll get sound that‘s custom-tuned for your space.
While you can adjust EQ and levels manually, it‘s great having these smart features to optimize sound for you. It takes the guesswork out of calibration and ensures you‘re getting the best possible audio in any room and with any content.
8. Multiple Ways to Stream Music
LG Atmos soundbars aren‘t just great for movies and TV. They also double as powerful music systems, with built-in Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming. Many models support popular streaming protocols like Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, and Spotify Connect for easy playback from mobile devices.
Some LG soundbars even have Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant voice control built-in. This allows you to start music playback with hands-free voice commands like "Alexa, play my party playlist on Spotify." The soundbar connects directly to streaming services over Wi-Fi – no phone or external device needed.
With their wide frequency response and multi-speaker arrays, LG Atmos soundbars deliver high-quality music playback with expansive stereo separation and thumping bass response. Audiophiles will appreciate that higher-end models support Hi-Res Audio formats like FLAC and WAV up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution for better-than-CD sound quality.
9. Sleek, Low-Profile Designs
While soundbars from some brands like Sonos are design statements in themselves, LG takes a more understated approach. Most of their Atmos soundbars have low-profile chassis finished in basic black, with wrap-around metal grilles. They‘re meant to blend in seamlessly with your TV and decor, not draw attention.
This minimalist aesthetic makes them very versatile and easy to integrate in any room. At 2.2" tall, the SP8YA can sit below most TVs without blocking the screen. And at just 41.7" wide, it‘s an ideal match for 55" and larger sets. The wireless subwoofer is equally compact at 15" tall and can be easily hidden beside or behind seating.
For the smallest living rooms, LG‘s Eclair QP5 Ultra Compact Soundbar measures just 11.7" wide and 2.3" tall. But it still manages to pack in a 3.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos configuration with DTS:X, a wireless subwoofer, and HDMI eARC. There‘s even a model designed for the 48" LG C1 OLED, ensuring a perfect visual match.
10. Future-Proof Investment
A premium soundbar is an investment you‘ll likely live with for several years. And in that regard, LG‘s Dolby Atmos models are about as future-proof as they come. The Atmos format has seen rapid adoption in the film and television industry, with hundreds of movies and shows now available on streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max.
On the gaming side, Dolby Atmos is supported by Microsoft‘s Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S consoles, and will be featured in Sony‘s upcoming PlayStation 5 titles. PC gamers can also take advantage of Atmos sound, with compatible games, peripherals, and technologies like Dolby‘s own Atmos for Headphones.
The point is, Dolby Atmos is quickly becoming the default surround sound format for all types of entertainment. Buying a soundbar without it is essentially investing in an audio technology that may feel outdated in a few years‘ time.
LG‘s embrace of Atmos, along with other advanced home theater techs like HDMI 2.1 and eARC, ensures their soundbars are equipped to handle the latest audio formats and connectivity. You can feel confident your purchase will deliver top-tier sound quality for years to come – not just with today‘s content, but tomorrow‘s as well.
The Verdict
Whether you‘re a movie buff, a hardcore gamer, or an audiophile seeking the best sound quality for your money, it‘s hard to go wrong with an LG Dolby Atmos soundbar. From the SP8YA‘s outstanding value to the SP11RA‘s reference-grade audio, there‘s a model for every room size, budget, and performance level.
As a technology journalist who‘s demoed dozens of soundbars, I can confidently say LG‘s Atmos models offer some of the most convincing and immersive 3D sound experiences you‘ll find outside a movie theater. Watching films like 1917 or Ford v Ferrari with their Atmos soundtracks is a revelatory experience, with a hemispheric soundstage that puts you in the center of the action.
If you‘ve been on the fence about upgrading your TV‘s built-in speakers, an LG soundbar with Dolby Atmos is a fantastic place to start. You‘ll gain a huge leap in overall audio performance, with deeper bass, richer mids, and crystalline highs. Setup is a breeze, with wireless connectivity options and advanced room correction to optimize the sound. And you‘ll have one of the most sophisticated, future-proof surround sound technologies at your disposal.
Don‘t just take my word for it. Hear the difference Dolby Atmos makes for yourself at your local electronics store, or read the hundreds of rave reviews from expert publications and everyday users alike. Once you‘ve experienced the added dimensionality and immersion Atmos provides, you won‘t want to go back to plain old stereo.
