Top 20 Soundbars to Buy in South Africa in 2025: Features, Pricing, and Compatibility

Choosing the right soundbar can significantly enhance your TV viewing and music experience. In South Africa, major retailers offer a wide range of soundbars to fit different budgets and preferences. This article presents 20 top soundbars from five popular stores: Makro, Game, Takealot, HiFi Corp, and Incredible Connections, detailing their features, pricing, and compatibility to help you make an informed choice.

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RELEVANT ARTICLE: Game vs Makro: Which Store Sells the Most Affordable Soundbars

What is a Soundbar?

A soundbar is a long, slim speaker system that sits below or above your TV. It contains multiple speakers housed inside a single enclosure to provide stereo or multi-channel audio. Instead of having separate speakers placed around the room, a soundbar aims to deliver high-quality sound from one compact device.

• How it works: Internal drivers (small speakers) in the bar send sound in different directions, using acoustic tricks to mimic a wider soundstage.
• Subwoofer: Many soundbars come with a separate wireless subwoofer to handle deep bass frequencies.
• Connectivity: Soundbars connect to the TV via HDMI ARC, optical, or Bluetooth, allowing clear sound transmission and easy control.

What is Surround Sound?

Surround sound creates a 3D audio experience by using multiple speakers placed around the listener, front, side, and behind, to simulate an immersive environment.

• Channels: Common configurations include 5.1 (five speakers plus one subwoofer) and 7.1 setups.
• How it works: Audio tracks are recorded or mixed with specific sounds sent to different speakers at various times, making you feel like you’re in the middle of action or music.
• Soundbars with Surround Sound: Advanced soundbars may use digital processing, multiple internal speakers, and upward-firing drivers (that bounce sound off the ceiling) to simulate surround sound without physical rear speakers.

Why Choose a Soundbar or Surround Sound System?

• Improved Sound Quality: Louder, clearer dialogues, richer music, and powerful bass compared to TV speakers.
• Sleek and Simple: Soundbars are streamlined and easier to set up than full surround speaker systems.
• Immersive Experience: Surround sound systems envelop you in audio, ideal for movies, gaming, and music.

Soundbars provide a compact, high-quality audio upgrade, while surround sound systems offer fully immersive experiences with multiple speakers. Many modern soundbars now simulate surround sound digitally to combine the best of both worlds.

Makro: Affordable to Mid-Range Quality

1. Samsung 2 Channel Sound Bar Bluetooth Soundbar 2.0
   • Price: R899
   • Configuration: 2.0 channel stereo sound
   • Power Output: 40 W RMS total with built-in woofer
   • Connectivity: Wired & wireless Bluetooth connection
   • Features:
     • Delivers dynamic, balanced audio for movies, music, and TV shows
     • Integrated woofer provides deep bass without extra speakers
     • Surround sound expansion for immersive audio experience
     • Simplified setup with one remote control for easy operation
   • Dimensions: 64.1 cm width, 6.65 cm height, 10.7 cm depth
   • Warranty: 2 years onsite warranty
   • Link
2. LG Sound Bar Bluetooth Soundbar 2.1
   • Price: R4,599 (34% off from R6,999)
   • Configuration: 2.1 channel with wireless subwoofer
   • Power Output: 160 W RMS total (up to 60 W for soundbar speakers)
   • Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth
   • Features:
     • Immersive, crystal-clear sound ideal for movies, gaming, and music
     • Up to 78 dB soundbar output for powerful audio performance
     • User-friendly and intuitive controls for easy audio management
   • Dimensions: 66 cm width, 5.5 cm height, 9.9 cm depth
   • Warranty: 2 years onsite warranty
   • Link
3. Skyworth Dolby Sound Bar Ss531 3.1 Channel Bluetooth Soundbar 3.1
   • Price: R2,799
   • Configuration: 3.1 channel
   • Power Output: 510 W RMS total
   • Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth
   • Features:
     • Dolby sound processing for immersive audio
     • Wireless connectivity for easy setup and use
   • Colour: Grey
   • Warranty: 1 year warranty
   • Link
4. JBL SB560 3.1 Bluetooth Soundbar 3.1
   • Price: R3,999 (11% off from R4,499)
   • Configuration: 3.1 channel
   • Power Output: 300 W RMS total with 10″ wireless subwoofer
   • Connectivity: Wired with Bluetooth wireless streaming
   • Features:
     • Dedicated center channel for crystal-clear dialogue
     • JBL Surround Sound and Dolby Digital for immersive audio
     • Connect up to three 4K devices via HDMI inputs
     • JBL SoundShift lets you switch between TV and mobile device audio instantly
     • Can be controlled with your existing TV remote control
   • Dimensions: 102.5 cm width, 39.7 cm height, 23.5 cm depth
   • Warranty: 1-year carry-in warranty
   • Link

Game: Trusted Brands with Solid Performance

1. TCL S643W 3,1 SOUND BAR 240W S643W
   • Price: R1,999 (Save R1,500 from R3,499)
   • Configuration: 3.1 channel
   • Power Output: 240 W total power
   • Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth, wired connection options
   • Features:
     • Award-winning design (Red Dot Award 2023)
     • Immersive surround sound with dedicated subwoofer
     • Clear, rich audio suitable for movies, TV, and music
     • Integrates well with TVs and supports easy control
     • Warranty: 1-year warranty
     • Link
2. HISENSE SOUND BAR 2.1 140W HS1800
   • Hisense Sound Bar 2.1 140W HS1800
   • Price: R1,299 (Save R400 from R1,699)
   • Configuration: 2.1 channel
   • Power Output: 140 W total power
   • Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth
   • Features:
     • Portable yet powerful sound suitable for movies and music
     • Easy to use with Bluetooth streaming from phones
     • Compact size ideal for small to medium rooms
     • Warranty: 2-year warranty
     • Link
3. VOLKANO 2.1CH Turbulent Series Soundbar VK-3905
   • Price: R1,299
   • Configuration: 2.1 channel
   • Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth
   • Features:
     • Provides a solid sound experience with a wireless subwoofer
     • Compact and stylish design suitable for small to medium rooms
     • Easy connectivity with Bluetooth-enabled devices
     • Warranty: 1 year warranty
     • Link
4. JVC SOUND BAR 2.1 CH EA TH-N333Bl
   • Price: R999 (Save R500 from R1,499)
   • Configuration: 2.1 channel
   • Dimensions: Height 18.0 cm, Width 36.2 cm, Length 83.1 cm
   • Features:
     • Delivers quality sound suitable for home theatre and music
     • Bass enhancement with built-in subwoofer
     • Multiple sound equalizer modes for different audio experiences
     • Warranty: 1 year warranty
     • Link

Takealot: Premium Options and Smart Features

1. HP Luminous Soundbar – RGB Desktop Speaker
   • Price: From R999
   • Configuration: 2.0 channel
   • Power Output: 2 x 3W
   • Connectivity: Wired (USB for power and 3.5mm audio jack)
   • Features:
     • RGB lighting with customizable backlight effects
     • Active electronic equalizer balances low, mid, and high frequencies for clarity
     • Plug and play design, with volume knob and easy controls
     • Compact size (44.0 x 8.5 x 8.7 cm) ideal for desktop use
     • Warranty: 6-month manufacturer warranty
     • Link
2. Supersonic 2.1 80W Built-In Subwoofer Bluetooth Soundbar + Remote SAV-101A
   • Price: R1,267 (discounted from R2,899)
   • Configuration: 2.1 channel
   • Power Output: 80 W total
   • Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth
   • Features:
     • Dynamic bass boost with built-in subwoofer
     • Suitable for entertainment and gaming
     • Includes remote control for easy operation
     • Compact and stylish design
     • Warranty: 6-month limited warranty
     • Link
3. Omega 2.1 60W PureVibe Series Soundbar & Wired Subwoofer HDMI/BT/USB 101Y
   • Price: R997 (discounted from R1,399)
   • Configuration: 2.1 channel
   • Power Output: 60 W total
   • Connectivity: HDMI, Bluetooth, USB, AUX
   • Features:
     • Crisp sound quality with powerful bass via wired subwoofer
     • Multiple input options including HDMI and Bluetooth
     • Ideal for home entertainment with clear audio for movies and music
     • Remote control included for convenient operation
     • Warranty: 6-month limited warranty
     • Link
4. Samsung Soundbar HW-B750D 5.1 ch Sub Woofer
   • Price: R3,999 (discounted from R5,699)
   • Configuration: 5.1 channel with wireless subwoofer
   • Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI
   • Features:
     • Powerful surround sound experience for movies and music
     • Dedicated subwoofer delivers deep bass
     • Multiple connectivity options including HDMI and Bluetooth
     • Sleek design with easy remote control
     • Warranty: 24-month limited warranty
     • Link

HiFi Corp: Advanced Surround and Smart Audio

1. Orion StudioSound Mini BT Soundbar MSB 100
   • Price: R299 (after R100 discount; sale until 31 August 2025)
   • Configuration: Dual channel
   • Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth, auxiliary input
   • Features:
     • Portable mini soundbar with built-in microphone
     • Supports MP3/WMA/WAV file playback
     • 2400 mAh lithium battery for wireless use
     • Compact size ideal for small spaces or desktops
   • Warranty: 1 year
   • Link
2. Sonos Ray WiFi Smart Soundbar (Black)
   • Price: R5,999 (sale ends 12 August 2025; regular price R7,499)
     Configuration: Compact smart soundb
     Connectivity: WiFi, HDMI eARC
     Features:
     Crisp dialogue and well-balanced sound tuned for small spaces
     Designed to be tucked away discreetly
     Works seamlessly with most TVs
     Warranty: 1 year
   • Link
3. Volkano Turbulent 2.1ch Sound Bar
   • Configuration: 2.1 channel with subwoofer
   • Connectivity: Bluetooth, Optical Input (includes 1.5 m cable), HDMI input
   • Features:
     • Supports song shuffle and repeat
     • 3D sound mode for immersive audio experience
   • Warranty: 1 year
   • Link
4. JVC 2.1 Channel 140W Sound Bar TH-N434B
   • Price: R2,999
   • Configuration: 2.1 channel with built-in subwoofer
   • Power Output: 140 W total
   • Connectivity: Bluetooth, HDMI ARC, Optical, AUX, USB inputs
   • Features:
     • 3D EQ effect for enhanced sound experience
     • LED display for easy control
     • Remote control included
     • Slim and space-saving design, supports wall mounting
   • Warranty: 1 year
   • Link

Incredible Connection: Smart and High-Fidelity

1. Maxdorf Signature Series 540W Wired Soundbar
   • Price: R3,499
   • Bluetooth: Version 5.3, with up to 10 meters range
   • Max Output Power: 540 W
   • RMS Output: 180 W
   • Configuration: True 5.1 channel with built-in subwoofers and multiple speakers
   • Subwoofer Driver: 6.5 inches
   • Connectivity: HDMI ARC, optical input, USB, AUX
   • Features:
     • Immersive 5.1 surround sound for cinematic audio
     • Rich bass, clear midrange, and sparkling treble
     • Remote control for convenience
     • Multiple setup options for optimal room acoustics
     • On/off lights for aesthetic control
     • Link
   • Warranty: 1 year
2. Hisense AX3100G 3.1 Channel Dolby Atmos Sound Bar
   • Price: R4,299
   • Configuration: 3.1 channel
   • Max Audio Power: 280 W
   • Subwoofer: 6.5″ wireless subwoofer
   • Audio Technology: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
   • Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, EzPlay
   • Features:
     • 7 EQ modes for tailored sound profiles
     • Control via TV remote for ease of use
   • Warranty: 2-year warranty
   • Link
3. TCL 2.1 Channel 200W Sound Bar S522W
   • Price: R2,499
   • Max Audio Power: 200 W
   • Subwoofer: Wireless subwoofer included
   • Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth music streaming
   • Design: Slim (810 mm) and sleek with wall mounting kit included
   • Warranty: 12 months (1 year)
   • Link
4. Gxt 618 Asto Sound Bar PC Speaker
   • Price: R699
   • Power: 12W peak power, 6W RMS
   • Sound: Rich stereo sound from a compact speaker
   • Design: Fits below any PC monitor or TV screen
   • Controls: Large illuminated volume control knob
   • Power Supply: USB-powered, no wall power needed
   • Warranty: 1 year
   • Link

ALSO READ: Cheapest 75-inch TVs: Finding Big Screen Deals That Don’t Break the Bank

Better Viewing Experience

From budget-friendly soundbars to premium models with Dolby Atmos and smart assistant integration, South African shoppers have diverse options. When choosing a soundbar, consider your room size, connectivity needs (HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, optical), and desired features like wireless subwoofers or voice assistants.

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