Best Soundbars With Optical Output for Clearer TV Audio and Easy Setup
Answering the search for a soundbar with optical output, these selections emphasize clear dialogue, robust bass, and simple setup compatible with modern TVs. Each option targets different needs: compact under-shelf setups, built-in subwoofers for cinema-like immersion, or versatile connections for multi-device homes. The top picks are best for: movie lovers wanting cinematic sound, gamers seeking immersive atmospherics, and office or dorm setups needing compact, reliable audio upgrades.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Assistrust Sound Bar | Small living rooms and multi-placement setups | Auto volume boost and 4 placement modes for room-filling sound |
| Saiyin 11.7-inch Sound Bar | Space-saving TV setups | Compact design with optical/BT/AUX and sub-out option |
| Saiyin 60W Bluetooth Sound Bar | Easy ARC/Optical setup | Clear dialogue, dual woofers, single-remote control |
| BESTISAN 2.1ch Sound Bar | All-in-one home theaters | Built-in subwoofer, 3 DSP modes, ARC/Optical/USB |
| MZEIBO 50W Sound Bar | Mid-sized rooms and flexible connections | Multiple inputs including ARC/Optical/AUX |
Note: Each product listed supports optical output as part of its connection options, aiding compatibility with TVs that provide optical audio out. The selection emphasizes clear dialogue, reliable bass, and straightforward control to suit a range of room sizes and setups.
Assistrust Sound Bar For Smart TV
- Brand: Assistrust
- Key connectivity: ARC, Optical, AUX, Bluetooth
- Power: 80W
- Placement: Horizontal, vertical, tabletop, or wall-mounted
Best For: Small to medium living rooms and desk setups where flexible placement matters. The auto volume boost adapts to mixed content, helping dialogue in movies or games remain intelligible. The 4-placement options support distortion-free audio in different spaces.
What makes it a fit: The built-in 80W driver configuration promises richer details in both scenes and music, with tailor-made EQ modes. The built-in equalizer modes—movie, music, and news—help optimize for dialogue clarity or cinematic impact. Caution: Response in a very bright room may reflect some reflections, so wall mounting should be considered carefully to maintain sound localization.
Saiyin 11.7-Inch Sound Bar
- Brand: Saiyin
- Key connectivity: Bluetooth, Optical, AUX; sub-out
- Size: 11.7″ x 3.5″ x 2.5″
Best For: Space-constrained setups where you still want room-filling sound. Its compact profile fits under most screens while offering multiple wired and wireless inputs. Sub out allows future bass expansion for a fuller soundstage.
Why selected: The balance between compact form and multiple input options makes it a versatile pick for dorms or apartments. Caution: The sub-out requires a powered subwoofer to realize deeper bass, which is an additional accessory to consider.
Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar
- Brand: Sony
- Key connectivity: Bluetooth; integrated tweeter; Bass Reflex
- Design: Slim, compact for small rooms
Best For: Users seeking a slim profile with straightforward setup and reliable dialogue clarity. The built-in tweeter and bass reflex design support crisp highs and a balanced overall sound. Caution: Optical input is not listed as a feature, so check compatibility if you rely on a dedicated optical output for your TV.
MZEIBO Sound Bar
- Brand: MZEIBO
- Key connectivity: ARC, Optical, AUX, USB, Bluetooth
- Power: 50W
Best For: Medium-sized rooms where multiple inputs and stable ARC control are advantageous. The inclusion of HDMI ARC and Optical ensures broad TV compatibility, while AUX and USB expand connection flexibility.
Why chosen: Its balance of input options and a compact 17-inch form factor makes it a good all-around option. Caution: The 50W output may feel lighter in very large spaces or with high-volume listening preferences.
BESTISAN 2.1ch Sound Bar
- Brand: BESTISAN
- Key connectivity: ARC, Optical, AUX, USB
- Power: 120W peak (built-in subwoofer)
Best For: All-in-one home theater seekers who want a built-in subwoofer and DSP-driven sound profiles. The 2.1 design provides stronger bass for movies and gaming. Caution: The dedicated subwoofer is built-in, so upgrading bass further requires careful room placement to avoid localization issues.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Optical-Output Soundbars
- What is optical output good for? Optical (Toslink) delivers reliable audio with minimal interference, ideal when your TV lacks HDMI ARC or when you want a separate audio path for certain devices.
- How many channels do you need? For basic TV dialogue, 2.0 to 2.1 can suffice; for cinema-like experience, consider 2.1 or higher with a built-in or external subwoofer.
- Do you want built-in subwoofers? A built-in sub enhances bass without extra wires, but an external sub may offer deeper, adjustable bass for larger rooms.
- Remote and control: If you prefer a single remote, look for ARC compatibility and TV-remote compatibility options.
- Size and placement: Measure your space. Compact bars fit under small screens; longer bars fill larger TVs and rooms with more balanced sound distribution.
- Compatibility: Check TV output options (ARC, Optical, AUX) and whether the soundbar supports your preferred input to minimize adapters.
- Future expandability: Consider whether you want to add a subwoofer or satellite speakers later and ensure the soundbar supports those connections.
FAQ
Do all these soundbars support optical output?
Most listed models include Optical as a connection option in addition to ARC or AUX. Confirm each model’s exact ports on the product page.
Is HDMI ARC required for best TV compatibility?
HDMI ARC simplifies control with a single remote and often provides higher-quality audio; Optical can serve as a reliable alternative if ARC isn’t available or functional.
Can I add a subwoofer later?
Many models offer a dedicated sub-out or built-in subwoofers. Check whether an external subwoofer is supported and how it connects.
What room size is best for a 50W soundbar?
Mid-sized rooms typically benefit from 50W to 60W, especially when paired with a sub or in a well-treated listening area.
Are these easy to install for non-tech users?
Yes. Most units use simple plug-and-play connections with TV-ARC or Optical, and many support TV remote volume control for convenience.
Can I use Bluetooth to connect to my TV?
Several models include Bluetooth as an input, allowing wireless streaming from compatible devices, but Bluetooth does not replace a wired optical/ARC path for TV audio.