If you plan to build a sound system with more than one component, the most important addition is a subwoofer. Soundbars can generate a lot of sound from low-mid to high frequencies, but they usually can't reach deep into the sub-bass ranges. Because of how sound travels, you need a lot of physical space to get powerful bass, and the wide, shallow shape of soundbars simply doesn't allow that.

Many soundbar packages include subwoofers that wirelessly connect to the rest of the system; you can tuck these behind, next to, or under your couch. Low-frequency sounds don't rely as much on acoustics and directionality as higher frequencies do, so you can still feel the effect of the rumble no matter where you put the subwoofer. You might need to plug a wireless subwoofer into a power outlet, but that's likely the full extent of the setup process for wireless models.

If your soundbar doesn't include a subwoofer, you might still have options. Some models have subwoofer outputs, which means you can add one after the fact. You have to consider cables with this method, though. You also need to ensure that your subwoofer is powered (has a built-in amplifier) or connect a preamp between your unpowered subwoofer and the soundbar. Just like it takes a lot of space to move that much air, it also takes a lot of power.

Check out our article on how to set up your speakers for more information on soundbar placement and how to optimize the audio quality of your system.

“For the best sound quality, use the HDMI eARC connection to go from your TV to the soundbar. This will allow your soundbar to decode all of the different multi-channel audio codecs used these days. If you have a simple soundbar, we’d always suggest using the optical connection, as this is an ‘always on’ connection and is the simplest to set up.

“Some TVs have problems correctly passing through multi-channel audio from connected devices like Blu-ray players to soundbars. If that’s an issue, look for soundbars fitted with additional HDMI ‘pass-though’ inputs. These allow the direct playback of surround sound audio before sending high definition pictures on to your TV.”

Absolutely, maintains expert Paul Murray. “On most occasions a soundbar will give far superior audio than just a TV used on its own,” he says. There are some “honourable exceptions” including Sony, which “has some very clever sound tech in its TVs”.