The Amazon Fire TV Soundbar is the entry-level model in Amazon’s Fire TV audio lineup. What distinguishes the Fire TV Soundbar from a typical TV’s built-in speakers is the integrated DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio processing for virtual surround sound. DTS Virtual:X uses audio processing to simulate sound coming from multiple directions, so you get a wider soundstage without needing separate speakers around the room. Although the Fire TV Soundbar keeps the simple plug-and-play setup of an entry-level soundbar, the virtual surround processing adds more dimension to your TV audio without extra speakers.
A bombastic soundbar that works great with your Amazon Fire ecosystem
The Fire TV Soundbar uses two 20-watt speakers in a 2.0 channel setup for fuller TV audio. DTS Virtual:X processing extends that 2.0 channel signal into virtual surround, which creates three-dimensional sound from the single bar without rear or ceiling speakers. Dolby Audio handles surround sound formats from streaming platforms and physical media, so your shows and movies play back in the original surround mix instead of a stereo downmix. The processing also runs automatically when the soundbar detects supported content, so you don’t have to adjust any settings manually.
You connect the Fire TV Soundbar to your TV through a single HDMI cable. However, optical input is also supported if you’re using an older TV. You can also pair with the soundbar via Bluetooth to stream audio from your phone, tablet, or computer, even if your TV is off.
The Fire TV Soundbar measures about 24 inches long, which fits under most TVs from 32 inches and up. Fire TV Ready support means the soundbar pairs with your Fire TV remote, so one remote handles both volume and power. A dedicated soundbar remote is also included in the box, which gives you direct access to settings such as sound modes and Bluetooth pairing. The soundbar is made from 18% recycled materials and runs a Low Power Mode that cuts energy use when idle.
The Fire TV Soundbar is basic and no-frills, with no built-in Wi-Fi or Alexa support. So, don’t expect the full smart speaker experience here. The 2.0 channel speaker setup also won’t deliver the chest-thumping bass that a dedicated subwoofer adds. If you want bigger sound with built-in bass, the Fire TV Soundbar Plus is the model in Amazon’s lineup that includes a 3.1 channel system with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
At $80, the Amazon Fire TV Soundbar is a major discount on an entry-level soundbar with virtual surround processing. Pick one up on Amazon while the discount holds for the integrated DTS Virtual:X processing that simulates surround sound from a single bar.
