What this is
A sane buying plan. Pick a budget, pick a path, stop doom-scrolling.
$300 path
Option 1: Dialogue-first soundbar
Best if TV is your main use. Prioritize speech enhancement + night mode.
Option 2: Powered speakers
Best if music matters. Use stands and keep them off the wall.
$600 path
- Better speakers + add a small sub only if you can control vibration.
- Or a better bar with real clarity improvements.
$1200 path
- A 2.1 setup tuned for low-volume fullness, not “club bass.”
- Spend on placement + room basics before chasing specs.
Three mistakes that waste money
- Buying bass you can’t use.
- Ignoring placement and reflections.
- Upgrading gear before fixing settings.
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