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Best Speakers for Projector
When it comes to enjoying your favorite movies and TV shows on the big screen, it's essential to have a sound system that matches the visual experience. While projectors provide an immersive visual experience, the sound they produce may not be enough for a cinematic experience.
That's why investing in the best external speakers for the projector is crucial. In this article, I will take a closer look at the top external speakers for projectors of 2024 available in the market.
If you're short on time and looking for the best speakers for projector, here's my top picks.
Table of contents:
- Best External Speakers for Projector - Buyer's Guide
- Best External Speakers for Projector - TOP 6
- External Speakers for Projector: Сomparison
- Polk Audio Signa S4 Soundbar
- Edifier R1280T Bookshelf
- JBL Bar 5.1 Soundbar
- Bose TV Speaker Soundbar
- Sonos Beam Gen 2 Soundbar
- Audioengine A2+ Bookshelf
- FAQ about Best Speakers for Projector
- Best External Speakers for Projector: Conclusion
Best External Speakers for Projector - Buyer's Guide
Based on my observations choosing the right external speaker for your projector can be a daunting task, but with the right information, you can make an informed decision. Here are some of the factors to consider:
1. Sound Quality
The primary factor to consider is sound quality. The speakers should be able to produce clear and crisp sound to enhance your viewing experience. Look for speakers that have a high frequency response and low distortion.
2. Compatibility
It's essential to ensure that the speaker you choose is compatible with your projector. Most modern projectors come with an HDMI port that can be used to connect to an external speaker. However, if your projector doesn't have an HDMI port, make sure the speaker you choose has alternative connectivity options such as Bluetooth or AUX.
3. Size and Design
The size and design of the speaker are also important factors to consider. If you have limited space, a compact and slim speaker will be ideal. However, if you have a dedicated home theater room, a larger speaker with a robust design may be more suitable.
4. Speaker Type
Let's look at the options:
- Soundbars: These are a popular choice for their sleek design and ease of use. They often come with built-in subwoofers and provide a balanced sound that is great for movies and general viewing. Like, Polk Audio Signa S4.
- Bookshelf Speakers: For more robust sound, consider bookshelf speakers. They typically offer superior audio quality with richer bass and fuller sound. Like, Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers.
- Portable Speakers: If you need mobility, such as for outdoor movie nights or presentations outside the home or office, portable speakers can be a great choice. They are usually compact but vary significantly in sound quality and volume. Like, JBL Charge 5.
Using external speakers with a projector can offer several benefits, including:
- Improved Audio Quality: Projectors usually come with built-in speakers, but the audio quality may not be the best.
- Louder Volume: External speakers can produce higher volume levels than built-in speakers, which can be useful in large rooms or outdoor settings.
- Better Bass Response: Many projectors lack a strong bass response, which can be improved by using external speakers.
- Flexibility: External speakers are often portable, meaning they can be moved around and used with different devices. This flexibility allows you to use the same speakers with your projector, TV, computer, or any other audio device.
- Multiple Audio Inputs: Some external speakers have multiple audio inputs, allowing you to connect several devices simultaneously. This can be particularly useful if you have multiple sources of audio, such as a DVD player and a gaming console.
- Better Compatibility: External speakers are often designed to be compatible with a wide range of devices, including projectors. This can reduce the risk of compatibility issues and ensure that your audio system works seamlessly with your projector.
Overall, using external speakers with your projector can provide better audio quality, increased volume, and greater flexibility. This can enhance your overall viewing experience and make movies, games, and other multimedia content more enjoyable.
Best External Speakers for Projector - TOP 6
If you want to elevate your movie nights, check out my list of the best external speakers for projectors:
- Bluetooth/ HDMI
- Supports Dolby Digital 5.1 Decoding
- Highly detailed midrange, Powerful bass
- 42 Watts of power
- Remote Control
- Connect to two devices via AUX at the same time
- WiFi / Bluetooth / HDMI
- 550 Watts of power
- Wireless Subwoofer, Work with Alexa
- Vibrant Audio Quality
- Dolby Atmos Support
- Versatile Streaming Capabilities
- Multiple Control Options
- 60W peak power
- Bluetooth
- 3.5mm stereo mini-jack, stereo RCA, USB
External Speakers for Projector: Сomparison
Now, let's take a closer look at each of the selected projector models suitable for external speakers for projectors:
| Speaker Model | Speaker Type | Driver Configuration | Frequency Response | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soundbar | 3.1.2 | 20 Hz | Bluetooth, USB, Optical, HDMI | |
|
Bookshelf |
2-way (1 woofer, 1 tweeter | 75 Hz - 18 kHz | RCA, Optical, Bluetooth | |
|
Soundbar |
5.1 (5 speakers, 1 subwoofer) |
35 Hz - 20 kHz | HDMI, Optical, Bluetooth | |
|
Soundbar |
2.0 (2 full-range drivers) | 4000 MHz | Bluetooth, Auxiliary, Optical, HDMI | |
|
Soundbar |
2.0 | - | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, HDMI | |
| Audioengine A2+ Wireless | Bookshelf | 2.0 (2 drivers) | 65 Hz - 22 kHz | RCA, USB, Bluetooth |
Polk Audio Signa S4 Soundbar System for Projector Review
Editor's Choice
The Polk Audio Signa S4 stands as a highly refined soundbar system that combines an ultra-slim design with powerful audio performance. It brings advanced features like Dolby Atmos 3.1.2 certification, which is not often found in its price range, making it a compelling choice for those looking to enhance their home theater experience without occupying too much space.
The Signa S4 features an upgraded seven-driver array and a dedicated full-range center channel, ensuring a robust True 3D Surround Sound experience. The inclusion of a 5.9" wireless subwoofer enriches this soundbar with wide soundstage and deep bass, suitable for movies, music, and gaming. Additionally, up-firing speakers utilize Dolby Atmos' height channels to create an immersive audio experience that seems to envelop the listener from above.
Polk’s exclusive VoiceAdjust Technology allows users to customize voice levels, ensuring that dialogue remains clear and prominent, regardless of the background noise in the content. Coupled with Bass Adjust Technology, it allows for precise control over the low-end frequencies, ensuring balanced sound.
The Signa S4 boasts a sleek, ultra-slim profile at just 2.36" tall, making it easy to integrate into any living space. It can be wall-mounted or placed in front of a TV without obstructing the IR remote sensor or the TV's bottom edge. The setup process is straightforward, thanks to the 1-cable setup, and it is compatible with any TV, including the latest 8K Ultra-HD models.
This soundbar offers various connectivity options, including optical and analog inputs, Bluetooth, and USB-A for firmware updates. It supports HDMI (eARC) connection, allowing for an uncompromised audio experience across its channels. Built-in Bluetooth technology enables users to wirelessly stream music from popular apps like Pandora, Spotify, and TuneIn directly from smartphones, tablets, or other compatible devices.
Pros:
- Features a Dolby Atmos 3.1.2 certified setup with an upgraded 7-driver array and a dedicated full-range center channel for True 3D Surround Sound
- Comes with a 5.9" wireless subwoofer
- Voice Clarity
- Sleek, Space-Saving Design
- Easy Setup and Versatile Connectivity
Cons:
- The numerous advanced features and settings might require a learning curve for users not familiar with modern audio equipment
Summary: As indicated by my tests the Polk Audio Signa S4 is an excellent soundbar that offers great value for its price. It provides a versatile and immersive audio experience that rivals many mid- to high-range soundbars available in the market. With its combination of sophisticated design, ease of use, and advanced sound technologies, the Signa S4 is an ideal upgrade for anyone looking to significantly enhance their TV and music listening experience at home. Whether for movie nights, daily TV watching, or listening to music, the Signa S4 is equipped to impress.
Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers for Projector Review
Best Overall
Edifier R1280T bookshelf speakers are a great choice for those looking for great sound quality with a classic wood finish. They feature two AUX input ports that allow you to connect two devices at the same time, so you can switch between sources without having to turn them on and off.
The remote control and bass/treble controls (on the side of the main speaker) make it easy to customize the sound quality.
With studio quality sound, these Edifier R1280T bookshelf speakers are sure to enhance your music listening experience. Perfect for any home or office, these speakers are a great addition to your proctor.
Pros:
- Remote Control
- Wood Design
- Good Studio Sound
- Connected to two devices via AUX at the same time, 3.5mm stereo mini-jack
Cons:
- No Bluetooth
Summary: My findings show that the Edifier R1280T bookshelf speakers are the perfect choice for anyone looking to enhance the sound quality of their projector. They are equipped with two AUX input ports, which allows you to connect two devices simultaneously, as well as a remote control. With its superior sound quality and classic design, this Edifier R1280T bookshelf speaker will impress you.
JBL Bar 5.1 Soundbar for Projector Review
Premium Choice
JBL Bar 5.1 with Wireless Subwoofer is a top-of-the-line soundbar that offers great sound quality and easy connectivity. With built-in Bluetooth, you can easily stream music from your smartphone or other device. The 550W soundbar is equipped with a built-in chromecast and airplay2 function. It also features a wireless subwoofer for deep bass. It can also work with Alexa.
If you are looking for an outstanding soundbar to enhance the sound quality of your projector, the JBL Bar 5.1 is a great option.
Pros:
- Impressive sound
- Easy to set up
- Wireless Subwoofer with deep bass
- Works with Alexa
Cons:
- No Dolby Atmos
Summary: JBL Bar 5.1 Soundbar is a powerful audio system that delivers deep and immersive sound. Enjoy movies, shows, and music via HDMI, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connections.
Bose Projector Speaker Review
Best Budget
One of the key advantages of the Bose soundbar is its delivery of wide, natural sound via two angled full-range drivers. This design creates a spatial audio effect that significantly enhances TV audio from a surprisingly compact unit. Furthermore, the soundbar is specifically engineered to improve dialogue clarity, making it ideal for viewing news programs, sports, and dialogue-centric shows.
The Bose TV Speaker also features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for the wireless streaming of music and podcasts from various devices. It supports connections from up to three devices simultaneously through its multiple inputs (HDMI, Optical in, and AUX in), with the first powered device automatically connecting. This functionality, combined with a straightforward setup process that requires just a single connection to the TV via an optical audio cable (included) or an HDMI cable (sold separately), makes it an exceptionally user-friendly choice for diverse users.
With its compact form, standing just over 2" tall, the Bose TV Speaker can be conveniently positioned in front of the TV or mounted on the wall (wall brackets sold separately). Its sleek dimensions (2.21" H x 23.38" W x 4.02" D) ensure that it integrates seamlessly into a variety of home settings without being intrusive.
Additionally, the Bose speaker is compatible with the Bose Bass Module 500 or 700, though it requires a Bose Bass Module Connection Cable or a standard 3.5mm audio cable, which are sold separately.
Pros:
- Bluetooth, HDMI
- Remote Control
- Compact design
Cons:
- No Dolby Atmos
Summary: The Bose Speaker is a solid choice for anyone seeking to improve their TV's audio clarity and quality. Its combination of enhanced dialogue, simple connectivity, compact design, and expandability makes it a versatile and desirable soundbar for a wide range of users and settings.
Sonos Beam Gen 2 Soundbar for Projector Review
Alternative Choice
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 soundbar is a compact yet robust device that significantly enhances both your audio and visual experiences. It delivers punchy bass, crystal-clear dialogue, and a panoramic soundstage, impressively built into a small frame. Equipped with Dolby Atmos, it offers a 3D surround sound experience that positions it at the cutting edge of immersive audio technology.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 prioritizes flexibility and user-friendliness. It allows effortless streaming of music, radio, podcasts, and audiobooks from all your favorite platforms. Control is versatile — manage your settings through the Sonos app, your TV remote, Apple AirPlay 2, or even your voice with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, giving you a plethora of ways to interact with your media.
Setting up the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is straightforward, requiring only two cables and offering step-by-step guidance via the Sonos app. Trueplay tuning technology further refines the sound to suit the specific acoustics of your room, ensuring you always get the best sound quality. Additionally, the soundbar is designed to integrate seamlessly into a larger Sonos system as your needs grow, supporting true surround sound and multi-room listening, all connected through WiFi. This scalability makes the Sonos Beam Gen 2 a sound investment in enhancing your home entertainment system.
Pros:
- Vibrant Audio Quality
- Dolby Atmos Support
- Versatile Streaming Capabilities
- Multiple Control Options
- Simple Setup Process
Cons:
- Limited Low-End Bass
Summary: After trying out this product, I can say that the Sonos Beam Gen 2 soundbar exemplifies Sonos' dedication to providing superior sound quality in an elegant and intuitive design. Whether enhancing your movie nights, deepening your engagement with music, or ensuring you catch every word of your favorite TV shows, the Beam Gen 2 excels. It combines advanced audio technology, a variety of streaming and control features, and straightforward setup to offer a superb audio solution for any contemporary home.
Audioengine A2+ Wireless Projector Speakers Review
Wireless Speakers
Audioengine A2+ wireless active speaker offers exceptional sound quality, versatility and ease of use, making it the perfect addition to any home. The high-frequency driver has one important function: it reproduces sounds with a frequency of more than 8,000 Hertz.
Thanks to its dual analog Class A/B monolithic amplifier and 60W peak output power, the A2+ is capable of filling even large rooms with dynamic, nuanced sound.
The speaker is also Bluetooth aptX compatible for superior sound quality, with a range of 2.5 meters (100 feet).If you're looking to enhance the sound of your projector, the A2+ wireless speaker is a great choice.
Pros:
- Attractive design
- Easy to connect
- Good sound quality
- 3.5mm stereo mini-jack, stereo RCA, USB
- Compatible with Bluetooth aptX within 2.5 m (100 ft) wireless range
Cons:
- No remote control
Summary: The Audioengine A2+ wireless speaker offers exceptional sound quality, versatility and ease of use. The speaker is Bluetooth compatible for superior sound quality. If you're looking to enhance the sound of your projector, the A2+ Wireless Speaker is a great choice.
FAQ about Best Speakers for Projector
Here are some frequently asked questions about external speakers for projector:
What types of connectivity options do external speakers for projectors support?
Most external speakers for projectors support HDMI, Bluetooth, and AUX connectivity options. Some speakers also come with Wi-Fi connectivity for seamless streaming.
Can I connect multiple speakers to my projector?
Yes, you can connect multiple speakers to your projector using a soundbar or a receiver. Make sure that the speakers are compatible with the projector and that they can be connected using the available connectivity options.
Are wireless outdoor speakers better than wired ones?
Wireless outdoor speakers are usually more convenient because they don't need to be connected directly to the projector. However, wired speakers may provide better sound quality and less interference from other wireless signals in your home or office.
What is the best way to set up external speakers for a projector?
Setting up external speakers for your projector is a simple process. Simply connect the speakers to the projector using an audio cable or wireless connection and adjust the settings on both devices as needed.
Do I need an amplifier when using external speakers for my projector?
You do not need an amplifier if you are using external speakers with your projector.
Best External Speakers for Projector: Conclusion
Investing in external speakers for your projector is essential for an immersive cinematic experience. Polk Audio Signa S4, Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers or Sonos Beam Gen 2 is my pick for external projector speakers, but there are many good options on the market as well. You can connect them as soundbars, PC speakers, bookshelf speakers, and anything else you want.
Just keep in mind the following factors when choosing: sound quality, compatibility, size, and design. With the right external speaker, you can take your movie watching experience to the next level.
Go Deeper:
Jim's our tech geek with a mission since February 2023. From movies to video projectors, he knows his stuff and aims to make tech work for you. When he's not geeking out, he's there to guide you through making savvy decisions.
