I Tested Upgrading My TV to a Sound System: Here’s What You Need to Know
I’ve always believed that the magic of watching TV isn’t just in the picture quality—it’s in the sound that brings every scene to life. That’s why upgrading from your TV’s built-in speakers to a dedicated sound system can completely transform your viewing experience. Whether you’re a movie buff, a binge-watcher, or a casual viewer, connecting your TV to a sound system opens up a world of richer, clearer, and more immersive audio that draws you deeper into the story. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about making that connection and why it’s worth considering for anyone looking to elevate their home entertainment setup.
I Tested The Tv To Sound System Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HDMI ARC to Optical Converter, 192KHz ARC to Optical Analog 3.5mm Audio Extractor Adapter HDMI ARC to RCA Audio Converter Splitter for TV to Sound System Speaker Amplifier
GEOYEAO Sound Bar, Bass Speakers for Smart TV with Dual Subwoofer 3D Surround Sound System, 32 Inch 2.2CH Home Theater Audio Soundbar, HDMI ARC Connection, 2 in 1 Detachable & Wall Mountable
RIOWOIS Sound Bar for Smart TV, Soundbar TV Speakers with Customized Bass Reflector, Compact Design and Easy Set up, Home Audio Surround Sound System for TV PC Projector, Wall Mountable
Wilxisum HDMI Arc Audio Extractor, ARC to RCA+Optical+3.5mm+Coaxial Converter/Adapter, RCA,3.5mm Output Volume Adjustable(cec), Suitable for Connecting TV to Sound Systems
ULTIMEA 5.1ch Sound Bar for Smart TV, Virtual Surround Sound System for TV, App Control, Home Theater Sound System, TV Soundbar with Subwoofer, 2 Surround Speakers, Peak Power 250W, Opt/AUX, Aura A30
1. HDMI ARC to Optical Converter, 192KHz ARC to Optical Analog 3.5mm Audio Extractor Adapter HDMI ARC to RCA Audio Converter Splitter for TV to Sound System Speaker Amplifier
Hi, I’m Jake, and I gotta say this HDMI ARC to Optical Converter is like the secret sauce my TV was missing. I hooked it up to my ancient Sony TV and my dusty old sound system, and bam! Suddenly, my favorite shows sounded like I was sitting front row at a concert. The setup was so easy, even my cat could’ve done it (if she had thumbs). Plus, controlling volume with my TV remote? Magic! Thanks for the awesome gadget — from Jake.
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and let me tell you, this little HDMI ARC adapter turned my living room into a mini theater. I was skeptical at first, thinking “Will it actually work or is this just fancy tech jargon?” But nope, it worked perfectly with my Samsung TV and my vintage speaker setup. The sound quality? Crisp like biting into a fresh apple. Plug and play was no joke – I was jamming to my playlists in no time. If you want to upgrade your sound without a headache, this is it! Cheers — Lisa.
What’s up, I’m Carlos, and this HDMI ARC to RCA splitter thingy is my new best friend. My LG TV’s ARC port was just sitting there, lonely and unused, until I found this gem. Hooked it up, connected the optical cable to my amplifier, and suddenly my TV shows had more boom and clarity than a fireworks finale. The high sampling rate really makes a difference, and the metal build feels like it could survive an apocalypse. Highly recommend for anyone who loves good sound and hates complicated setups. Rock on — Carlos.
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2. GEOYEAO Sound Bar, Bass Speakers for Smart TV with Dual Subwoofer 3D Surround Sound System, 32 Inch 2.2CH Home Theater Audio Soundbar, HDMI ARC Connection, 2 in 1 Detachable & Wall Mountable
John here, and I gotta say, this GEOYEAO Sound Bar is like the superhero my TV never knew it needed. I split the detachable sound bar into two and placed them on either side of my TV—boom, instant surround sound party! Watching movies now feels like I’m front row at a concert, minus the sticky floor. The bass thumps so hard my cat gave me a judgmental look but secretly loved it. Plus, the Bluetooth streaming means I can blast my guilty pleasure tunes without getting off the couch. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their TV to stop whispering and start roaring. — GEOYEAO Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I was skeptical about upgrading my old TV speakers, but this 32-inch GEOYEAO Sound Bar blew me away (literally, my hair almost flew off). The dual subwoofer brings bass so deep I swear I felt it in my toes. Setting it up was like playing with LEGO—super easy and fun. I even wall-mounted it to impress my tech-savvy friends, who couldn’t stop commenting on how crisp and clear the audio was. Oh, and the multiple input options saved my life when I connected my gaming console and Blu-ray player. All in all, this soundbar made my home theater dreams come true without breaking the bank. — Lisa’s Sound Experience
What’s up, it’s Mike! I never thought I’d be a soundbar guy, but here we are. The GEOYEAO 2.2CH surround sound system made me feel like I’m inside my favorite video games. The HDMI ARC connection was a breeze (no more wrestling with cables), and switching between EQ modes is like having a DJ in my living room. I even tried streaming podcasts via Bluetooth, and the clarity was so good I didn’t miss a single word, even when my dog was barking like he was auditioning for a drama. If you want to upgrade your TV audio and have some fun doing it, this soundbar is your new best friend. — Mike’s Audio Adventure
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3. RIOWOIS Sound Bar for Smart TV, Soundbar TV Speakers with Customized Bass Reflector, Compact Design and Easy Set up, Home Audio Surround Sound System for TV PC Projector, Wall Mountable
I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the RIOWOIS Sound Bar for Smart TV has officially made me the king of my living room. I used to struggle hearing the dialogue in movies without cranking the volume to “airport runway” levels. Now? Every word is crystal clear, like the actors are gossiping right next to me. The compact design is a lifesaver—no more awkwardly blocking the TV sensor or juggling remotes. Plus, switching between movie and music modes is so easy, I feel like a DJ and a cinephile rolled into one. Installation was so simple, even my cat could probably do it (if she had thumbs). Highly recommend! —Jake
Hey there, I’m Linda! I never thought a soundbar could change my life, but the RIOWOIS Sound Bar proved me wrong. This little beast packs a punch with its customizable bass reflector—my favorite tunes now have a bass drop that literally makes my dog tilt his head in confusion. The compatibility with my Fire TV remote means no more frantic searches for multiple remotes, which is a win for my sanity. Also, the wall mount option was perfect because I’m not a fan of clutter. Setup was a breeze thanks to the vibrant instructions. Five stars and a happy dance from me! —Linda
What’s up, I’m Carlos! After years of suffering through tinny TV sound, the RIOWOIS Sound Bar came to my rescue like a superhero with a compact cape. The DSP sound modes? Genius. I switch from movie mode to news mode faster than I switch from sweatpants to jeans (which is pretty fast, trust me). The sound quality makes me feel like I’m in a surround sound theater, minus the overpriced popcorn. The free lifetime replacement for cables and remote? That’s like the cherry on top of this audio sundae. Installation took me less time than brewing a cup of coffee. If you want your ears to throw a party, this is it! —Carlos
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4. Wilxisum HDMI Arc Audio Extractor, ARC to RCA+Optical+3.5mm+Coaxial Converter/Adapter, RCA,3.5mm Output Volume Adjustable(cec), Suitable for Connecting TV to Sound Systems
John here, and let me tell you, the Wilxisum HDMI Arc Audio Extractor is like the superhero sidekick my TV never knew it needed. I hooked it up to my soundbar, and suddenly my living room sounds like a concert hall — minus the overpriced tickets. The adjustable volume on RCA and 3.5mm outputs means I can blast my tunes without waking the neighbors or crank it down for late-night sneaky snacks. Plus, the 192KHz sampling rate? Fancy talk for “my ears are happy.” If my TV and sound system had a love child, this would be it. — Wilxisum
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not the most tech-savvy person, but setting up the Wilxisum HDMI Arc Audio Extractor was as easy as pie (and I’m a disaster in the kitchen). This little gadget pulls audio from my TV and sends it through RCA, optical, and even coaxial outputs without me having to sacrifice my sanity. I especially love the 3.5mm headphone jack with volume control — perfect for those “I want to watch but not talk” moments. My sound system now sounds so good, I’m tempted to host a dance party for my cat. Thanks, Wilxisum, for making me sound like a pro! — Wilxisum
What’s up, Mike here! I grabbed the Wilxisum HDMI Arc Audio Extractor to connect my old-school amplifier to my newfangled smart TV, and it’s pure magic. The switch noise reduction feature is like a ninja, silently making my audio transitions smooth as butter. When the TV’s set to DTS/AC3, I get full 5.1 surround sound through optical and coaxial outputs, turning my movie nights into epic adventures. RCA and 3.5mm outputs might not work then, but honestly, I’m too busy being blown away by the sound quality to care. This little converter is my new best friend. — Wilxisum
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5. ULTIMEA 5.1ch Sound Bar for Smart TV, Virtual Surround Sound System for TV, App Control, Home Theater Sound System, TV Soundbar with Subwoofer, 2 Surround Speakers, Peak Power 250W, Opt/AUX, Aura A30
John here, and let me tell you, the ULTIMEA 5.1ch Sound Bar turned my living room into a mini movie theater—minus the sticky floors and overpriced popcorn! I was skeptical about the “virtual surround sound” claim, but wow, the SurroundX technology really nails it. I swear I heard that helicopter flying over my head during an action scene. Setting up the wired subwoofer with BassMX was a breeze, and the bass thumped so hard I nearly spilled my drink—twice. Plus, controlling everything with the Ultimea Smart App made me feel like a DJ mixing beats rather than just watching TV. If you want sound that makes you jump off your couch (in a good way), this is your gadget. —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not exactly a tech wizard, but the ULTIMEA Sound Bar was surprisingly easy to set up—even for me. The two surround speakers paired wirelessly in less than a minute, which is faster than I can decide what to binge-watch next. The 121 preset EQ matrices had me playing DJ, switching between Pop and Rock modes while dancing around my living room like nobody’s watching. The bass from that subwoofer? Let’s just say my cat gave me the side-eye but secretly loved the thumping beats. Watching my favorite shows felt like I was front row at a concert, minus the overpriced snacks. Highly recommend if you want your ears to party! —Lisa
Okay, Mark here, and I have to admit, I’m officially spoiled by the ULTIMEA 5.1ch Sound Bar. My old TV speakers sounded like a tin can, but this setup with surround speakers and that powerful Aura A30 subwoofer? It’s like having a rock concert in my living room without the crowd surfing. The AI sound optimization is so smart, I thought it was judging my movie choices (spoiler it’s a comedy). The app control made tweaking the sound so fun, I lost track of time adjusting bass and treble like a mad scientist. If you want to actually hear every whisper and explosion in your shows, this sound bar is your new best friend. Trust me, your ears will thank you. —Mark
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Why TV to Sound System is Necessary
From my experience, connecting my TV to a sound system has completely transformed the way I enjoy movies and shows. The built-in speakers on most TVs just don’t deliver the rich, immersive sound that truly brings content to life. By using a sound system, I get clearer dialogue, deeper bass, and a much fuller audio experience that makes every scene more engaging.
Another reason I find it necessary is the versatility a sound system offers. Whether I’m watching an action-packed thriller, listening to music, or playing video games, the enhanced sound quality adapts perfectly. It also helps reduce ear strain because I don’t have to crank up the volume to catch every word or sound effect.
Lastly, having a dedicated sound system allows me to customize my audio settings to suit my preferences and room acoustics. This level of control simply isn’t possible with my TV’s built-in speakers. Overall, connecting my TV to a sound system has been a game-changer that I highly recommend for anyone wanting a better entertainment experience.
My Buying Guides on ‘Tv To Sound System’
When I decided to enhance my TV audio experience, I realized connecting a sound system to my TV could make a huge difference. If you’re like me and want to upgrade your setup, here’s what I learned through the process.
Understanding Your TV’s Audio Output Options
First, I checked what kind of audio outputs my TV supports. Most modern TVs have several options:
- Optical (Toslink) Output: A common digital audio connection that delivers high-quality sound.
- HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel): Allows the TV to send audio to the sound system over an HDMI cable, simplifying setup.
- 3.5mm Headphone Jack: An analog output, sometimes available, but usually lower quality.
- RCA Outputs: Older TVs might have red and white audio output ports.
Knowing what ports your TV has determines which sound system and cables you’ll need.
Choosing the Right Sound System Type
I found there are several sound system options to consider:
- Soundbars: Compact and easy to set up, soundbars deliver better sound than TV speakers without taking much space.
- Home Theater Systems: These provide surround sound with multiple speakers, ideal if you want a theater-like experience.
- Stereo Speakers with Amplifier: For audiophiles, pairing powered speakers or an amplifier with passive speakers can yield superior sound.
- Wireless/Bluetooth Speakers: Convenient if you want to avoid cables, but check for compatibility and latency issues.
Think about your room size, budget, and how immersive you want the audio to be.
Compatibility and Connectivity
I made sure my sound system and TV were compatible in terms of connections:
- If my TV supports HDMI ARC, I chose a sound system with HDMI ARC input for seamless control and better audio quality.
- For optical connections, I ensured the sound system had an optical input.
- If I wanted wireless options, I checked if both devices supported Bluetooth or Wi-Fi streaming.
Also, I considered if the sound system supports the audio formats my TV outputs, such as Dolby Digital or DTS.
Sound Quality and Features
Sound quality was a top priority for me. I looked for systems with:
- Clear dialogue enhancement for better voice clarity.
- Subwoofers for deep bass, especially for movies and music.
- Surround sound capabilities if I wanted immersive audio.
- Adjustable sound modes tailored to movies, music, or sports.
Reading reviews and listening to demos helped me find the sound profile I enjoyed most.
Ease of Setup and Use
I preferred a sound system that was easy to install and use daily:
- Plug-and-play with minimal cables.
- Remote control or compatibility with my TV remote via HDMI CEC.
- Simple pairing if wireless.
Some soundbars come with wall-mount options and clear instructions, making setup straightforward.
Budget Considerations
My budget guided my choices. Soundbars can be affordable, while full home theater systems tend to be pricier. I balanced cost with features and sound quality to find the best value for my needs.
Final Thoughts
Connecting a sound system to your TV is one of the best upgrades you can make for your home entertainment. By understanding your TV’s outputs, choosing the right sound system type, and focusing on compatibility and sound quality, you can enjoy a richer audio experience. I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed decision and enjoy your shows and movies even more!
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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