Soundbars for TCL 85Q650G Comparison

I'm in the market for a soundbar to go with my new TCL 85" 85Q650G TV. Has anyone here had any experience or recommendations on which soundbars work best with this model? I'd appreciate it if you could share some insights.

Hi @archer123n! I recently bought the Sony HT-A5000 for my TCL 85Q650G, and I must say it's a great choice. The sound quality is excellent, and it supports eARC which makes setting up pretty straightforward. You should definitely check it out!

Hey @archer123n, I've been using the Polk Audio Signa S4 Ultra-Slim Sound Bar for my TCL 85Q650G TV, and it's been working great! It has Bluetooth support and good sound quality. You can find a detailed review in this TechReviewer article Best Soundbars for the TCL 85" 85Q650G TV. Give it a read if you're interested.

Thanks @stefanezer and @Hammeh87 for your recommendations! I'm leaning towards the Sony HT-A5000 based on your feedback, but I'm still a bit unsure about the HDMI vs. optical connection. Can someone explain the differences and which one is better for my TCL 85Q650G?

@archer123n, both HDMI and optical connections can be used to connect your soundbar to your TV, but they have their own advantages and disadvantages. HDMI supports high-quality audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, while optical is more basic and doesn't support these advanced features. However, HDMI cables are generally more expensive than optical ones.

That's helpful information, @mbarrado! So if I go with the Sony HT-A5000, which connection type should I use for optimal performance?

@archer123n, since the Sony HT-A5000 supports eARC and your TCL 85Q650G TV also has an eARC port, it's best to use an HDMI cable for a better experience. This way, you can enjoy high-quality audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

Great, thanks @Hammeh87! I'll go with the Sony HT-A5000 and connect it using an HDMI cable. One last question though - is it necessary to get a soundbar with a subwoofer output if my soundbar doesn't include one?

@archer123n, it's not absolutely necessary, but having a subwoofer output can enhance the bass quality of your audio experience. If you're looking for deeper and more impactful bass, it might be worth considering a separate subwoofer.

I agree with @mbarrado. Having a subwoofer definitely adds to the overall sound quality, especially during action-packed scenes or when watching movies. But ultimately, it depends on your personal preference and budget. If you think you'll enjoy the added bass, go for it!

Thanks everyone for your insights! I appreciate all the advice and will make my decision based on this feedback. Have a great day!