Soundbar Channels Explained: What Are They and Is It Always Better to Have More?

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You probably knew that a soundbar makes a great audio upgrade for almost any TV setup, especially if you can’t stand the sound quality of your TV speakers. What you might not know is that, just like a surround sound speaker system, many soundbars are rated based on the number of audio channels they offer. Numerical expressions like “2.0” and “5.1” give you quick information on how many channels your soundbar was designed for, with the first number indicating the number of main channels. The second number indicates whether your soundbar comes with a subwoofer.

You’ll also find soundbars billed as “5.1.2” systems, up to “11.1.4” for the most advanced models. The third number tells you how many height channels a soundbar has, which typically come in the form of upward-firing speakers that blast sound up to the ceiling and back down. Generally speaking, most premium and high-end soundbars are 5.1.2 or higher, as most of these products support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, audio formats with a vertical audio layer.

However, more isn’t always better when it comes to audio channels. Some of the best 2.1 systems – meaning the bar has front left and right channels, plus a dedicated woofer – can put an underperforming 5.1.2 system to shame, thanks to features like audio presets and automatic room calibration (Samsung’s SpaceFit Sound Pro is a great example of this technology).

Buying a soundbar may not be as difficult as choosing a new TV or surround-sound AV receiver, but you still need to carefully consider the room in which it will live. Mid-to-large living rooms and movie theaters are prime real estate for a 5.1.2 or better soundbar, as they typically have enough space to create convincing surround sound effects. At these higher prices, many bars also come with battery-powered wireless rear speakers for enhanced immersion; JBL even makes a soundbar with removable battery-powered rear speakers.

You’ll also come across soundbars that may be labeled as 5.1 or 7.1 systems but are still marketed as Dolby Atmos/DTS:X compatible. This often means the bar has two side speakers, simulates height effects through its front channels, or both. It’s important to note that this isn’t the same type of Dolby Atmos/DTS:X experience you’d get with a 5.1.2 or higher system, as height channels are completely absent.

That said, a 5.1.2 soundbar can also overwhelm a smaller living room with cramped acoustics. This is when you want to pay more attention to cutting-edge 2.0, 2.1, and 3.1 configurations. The latter is ideal because “3.1” means the bar has a dedicated center channel, which bodes well for clarity of dialogue and vocals.