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The best sound systems to turn up your Memorial Day weekend
The right sound system immerses you in the action of your favorite movies, games, and songs, in every twist and turn -- especially if you're hosting a summer party. And as we head into Memorial Day, major retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, and Target are sure to put sales on blast.
Also: The best portable speakers: Sonos, Edifier, JBL, and more compared
If you're looking to purchase a new wireless sound system during this Memorial Day sale cycle, here are the best picks to look out for based on speaker power, sound system type, connectivity options, and of course, price.
- Super loud volume
- Tons of bass
- Plays audio while charging
- EQ restrictions
- Pricey
JBL Bar 9.1 tech specs: Speaker type: Subwoofer | Output: 820W | Subwoofer dimensions: 10 inches / 300W
The JBL Bar 9.1 includes a 10-inch subwoofer with 820-watt output and detachable surround sound speakers that use batteries to operate. With built-in Wi-Fi, there is excellent audio with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X 3D sound incorporated. You will also enjoy fantastic clarity through Dolby Vision. An available HDMI port makes it easy to start working, or you can stream from Chromecast or AirPlay.
When you open the box, you'll find the soundbar, two detachable wireless surround speakers, two L-shape wall-mount brackets, two U-shape wall-mount brackets, a remote control, an HDMI cable, power cords, and a kit with screws.
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- Completely immersive sound
- Removable grilles
- High-performing design
- Better sound for larger rooms
- Takes up a lot of space
Klipsch Reference tech specs: Speaker type: Subwoofer | Output: 400W | Subwoofer dimensions: 12 inches
Klipsch Reference combines floor-standing speakers and a built-in elevation channel for a more balanced sound that you can enjoy. It also includes a set of bookshelf speakers and a subwoofer for a more well-rounded system. The system incorporates 360 Dolby Atmos for better clarity and is powered by 90° X 90° Tractrix Horn for more powerful sound. To better secure your purchase, a five-year limited warranty applies.
- Excellent pairing
- 18 drivers
- Thoughtful design
- Some compression at higher temperatures
- Several cords
Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra tech specs: Speaker type: Subwoofer | Output: 600W | Subwoofer dimensions: 10 inches / 600W
The Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 eARC SSE Max is a wireless surround sound system that includes dual subwoofers with twin-cone drivers and a soundbar design. You also receive four modular surround speakers. With this surround system, Nakamichi-exclusive software meets Dolby Atmos for more powerful sound. When you need to hook up to your speakers, multiple options exist for connectivity, including RCA, Bluetooth, auxiliary, optional, HDMI, and coaxial cables for a well-rounded system.
The system includes the soundbar, brackets, remote control, batteries, a mounting kit, and a mounting guide along with the necessary cords and cables.
Also: The best TV wall mounts (and how to install them safely)
- Simple design
- User-friendly
- Excellent sound
- Pricey
- Single HDMI port
Sonos Arc tech specs: Speaker type: Subwoofer | Output: N/A | Subwoofer dimensions: 45 x 3.4 x 4.6 inches
To buy a surround sound system from Sonos, you must bundle the Sonos Arc with the Sonos Sub and Sonos One. The wireless surround sound system perfectly captures highs and lows with particular attention to dialogue. With the addition of Dolby Atmos, you receive strong bass and excellent clarity for a truly immersive experience.
The Sonos app gives you complete control, too, with the ability to stream a variety of music and content with Apple Airplay 2 available.
Review: Sonos Era 300: Close to a perfect smart speaker, but with one big drawback
- Competitively priced
- Rear satellites included
- Enticing bass
- Mediocre treble
- Missing graphic EQ
Vizio M-Series 5.1 tech specs: Speaker type: Subwoofer | Output: N/A | Subwoofer dimensions: 5.70 x 3.50 x 2.20 Inches
The Vizio M-Series 5.1 includes subwoofers, tweeters, and an incorporated soundbar with 11 total speakers for a powerhouse system. It works with televisions for excellent audio via Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for a 3D wireless surround sound system. The sound pressure level measures 103 decibels with a 45Hz – 20kHz frequency range for better audio. There is also Bluetooth and HDMI connectivity to simplify listening.
In the box, you'll find two surround speakers, two tweeters, a wireless subwoofer, and a backlit display remote.
What is the best wireless surround sound system?
The JBL Bar 9.1 may not be the cheapest wireless surround sound system, but the three-piece system performs as well as other larger systems. It delivers strong, powerful bass with startling clarity, and users agree -- it is the best wireless surround sound system.
To see how it compares, here is an overview of the best wireless surround sound systems.
Best wireless surround sound system | Cost | Number of pieces | Dolby Atmos | Subwoofer Dimensions |
JBL Bar 9.1 | $900 | Three | Yes | 10 inches |
Klipsch Reference | $1,299 | Six | Yes | 12 inches |
Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 eARC SSE Max | $1,600 | Six | Yes | 10 inches |
Sonos Arc with Sonos Sub and Sonos One | $2,096 | Four | Yes | N/A |
Vizio M-Series 5.1 | $328 | Four | Yes | 6 inches |
Which is the right wireless surround sound system for you?
To help you find the right wireless surround sound system for your needs, here are our expert recommendations to consider.
Choose this wireless surround sound system... | If you want... |
JBL Bar 9.1 | Excellent surround sound with a simple setup. It also features built in Wi-Fi and Dolby Atmos sound. |
Klipsch Reference | A budget-friendly upgrade from a wired system. These floor-standing speakers are great for larger rooms. |
Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 eARC SSE Max | Fantastic Dolby Atmos sound. The speakers have 18 drivers and multiple options for connectivity. |
Sonos Arc with Sonos Sub and Sonos One | A well-designed surround sound system with smart features. You can connect with other Sonos speakers for an immersive experience. |
Vizio M-Series 5.1 | The best bang for your buck. It has Bluetooth and HDMI connectivity to simplify listening. |
How did we choose these wireless surround sound systems?
In choosing the best wireless surround sound system, we consider several critical factors.
- Speakers: Each system comes with a different number of and type of speaker included, which can affect how sound is played.
- Type: From bookshelf speakers to floor-standing options, there are several types of speakers included in a wireless surround sound system.
- Connectivity: Connecting to different sources is important if you plan on using a variety of different connections. This can include Bluetooth, HDMI, and even coaxial cable connections.
- Cost: Wireless surround sound systems can get pricey, so we look for options that suit a variety of budgets.
Can I use Bluetooth with my wireless surround sound system?
Bluetooth connections are actually quite common in wireless surround sound systems. They offer a simple, convenient way to connect your surround sound system to your mobile device. Not all wireless surround sound systems have Bluetooth, but they may offer Wi-Fi.
Do you get surround sound from a soundbar?
It all depends on the type of soundbar that you have. Typically, both front and rear speakers are necessary for surround sound, but some soundbars offer technology that mimics this audio, offering a full surround sound experience.
Are there alternative wireless surround sound systems worth considering?
There are so many options on the market for sound systems from different brands. In our search for the best wireless surround sound systems, we also found these great options that are worth checking out.
Best alternative for 3D sound
Polk Audio React System
This slim soundbar gives you 3D virtual surround sound with no additional speakers. This is the device for you if you don't want too many moving parts in your home entertainment system.
Best alternative for calibration
Sennheiser Ambeo
This sleek soundbar has 13 Class-D amplifiers. It can fill any space with 3D surround sound. The soundbar comes with a calibration microphone and remote control.
Best alternative for theater sound
Vizio V-Series 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar
Vizio advertises itself as America's #1 Sound Bar for a reason. The Dolby Audio 5.1 and DTS Virtual:X bring high-quality audio to your living room with virtualized 3D sound.