The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 is an ideal first soundbar. As it's part of Klipsch's "Flexus" collection, it's buildable into a multi-device home hi-fi system. You can get rears and a subwoofer whenever you want. As for the soundbar itself, it's compact, bassy, and very affordable. The only major downside is that it has no Wi-Fi, but if you only want a soundbar for great sound, this isn't an issue.

The Polk Audio Signa S4 is my go-to recommendation for Dolby Atmos sound on a budget. This soundbar has a fantastic 3.1.2 channel configuration with a wireless subwoofer for extra floor-shaking bass. When I tested this soundbar, I couldn't believe how advanced its Dolby Atmos was. During swimming scenes, I genuinely felt like I was underwater.

The Bose Smart Soundbar is a great beginner soundbar. With a 3.0.2 channel setup, it has great surround sound, even in shows and movies you least expect it. The soundbar can even upcode non-Atmos content into "fake" suround sound. The dialogue is crisp thanks to Bose's AI dialogue mode, and the bass is surprisingly great when listening to music via AirPlay. Although it's not as room-filling as pricier alternatives, it's a fantastic option. You can even add Bose's Sub 700 ($899) as an extra.

The Samsung Q600F is my favorite mid-range soundbar. With a fantastic 3.1.2 channel arrangement, the Samsung Q600F has expansive sound both horizontally and vertically, and it offers crystal-clear dialogue. Although it doesn't have any smart home features like AirPlay, if you're after a soundbar and subwoofer that does everything to earn its place on your TV stand, then this is it.

The Samsung QS750F is a marvel. You get two rear speakers, a subwoofer, and a 5-channel soundbar for under $1,000 — even at full price. At this discount, this is a major steal. The sound quality is utterly fantastic, with powerful, room-shaking bass, and crystal-clear dialogue. The only main downside is that the rear speakers need to be plugged into power, but this isn't a huge issue.