Where should the soundbar go?

A soundbar is the cheapest big upgrade for a wall-mounted TV, whose built-in speakers usually point at the wall. Placement makes as much difference as the soundbar itself.

Below the TV — the default

Center the bar 2–4 inches below the bottom edge of the screen. Sound comes from the same spot as the picture, dialogue stays clear, and it looks like one unit.

Watch for two things:

• The TV's IR sensor — usually at the bottom center. A bar placed too close can block the remote.
• The TV's bottom vents or stand feet slots — leave a small gap for air.

Above the TV — when it makes sense

Over a fireplace mantel there's often no room below the screen. Mounting the bar just above the TV works, angled slightly down if the bracket allows. Dolby Atmos bars with up-firing drivers should stay below, with a clear path to the ceiling.

Wall or console?

If the TV is on the wall, mount the bar too: it stays centered, doesn't rattle a shelf, and frees the console. If a console stays under the TV anyway, the bar can sit on it — just keep it clear of the screen and sensor.

Connecting it: ARC and eARC

Use one HDMI cable from the soundbar to the TV's port labelled ARC or eARC, then turn on HDMI-CEC in the TV settings. Every brand names it differently — Anynet+ (Samsung), SimpLink (LG), BRAVIA Sync (Sony). After that, the TV remote controls the soundbar's volume.

Subwoofer

A wireless sub works almost anywhere, but near a wall or corner gives more bass. Try it on the same side as the couch's center.

Mounting a soundbar with us is $49 as part of your TV visit, including the ARC/eARC setup.