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

Simekahle Mthethwa4 August , 2025

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.

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

What is a Soundbar?
What is Surround Sound?
Why Choose a Soundbar or Surround Sound System?
Makro: Affordable to Mid-Range Quality
Game: Trusted Brands with Solid Performance
Takealot: Premium Options and Smart Features
HiFi Corp: Advanced Surround and Smart Audio
Incredible Connection: Smart and High-Fidelity
Better Viewing Experience

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

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
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
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
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

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
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
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
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

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
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
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
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

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
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
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
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

Incredible Connection Soundbars — Incredible

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
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
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
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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