A great number of soundbars are available in the market. But, you should prefer a soundbar with multiple HDMI ports. In this article, I will provide you with a list of the 5 best soundbars with multiple HDMI inputs.
Multiple HDMIs have a great connectivity advantage. You can connect various devices via HDMI ports. Moreover, you can also expand the system by adding speakers and subwoofers.
An alternative to HDMI is the Optical port. However, it cannot support high-definition audio. HDMI connection supports 4K and higher resolutions. So, it gives you the best quality sound without any lag.
Soundbars with HDMI 2.1 and HDMI eARC are very rare, only a few brands include this feature. A soundbar with HDMI 2.0 version and HDCP 2.2 is a great choice. It may cost you higher but deliver virtual audio.
How Multiple HDMIs Benefited Me
Having multiple HDMIs on your soundbar is very helpful. You can better understand it from my personal experience. Previously, I had a simple setup in my home-a soundbar connected to a TV.
However, recently, I decided to upgrade my sound system. I wanted to add the rear speakers and a subwoofer. But, for that, I prefer an HDMI connection as it delivers high-fidelity audio.
Fortunately, my soundbar has 3 HDMI inputs. So, I connected my TV to the HDMI ARC, rear speakers to one port, and paired the subwoofer wirelessly. This gives me high-quality audio with no data loss.
Now, I can operate both my TV and the soundbar with the same remote using the eARC. In case my soundbar had only a single HDMI, I would have to use the splitter switch or Optical cable. But, this is not ideal.
So, I suggest you purchase a soundbar with multiple HDMI ports. It will prove very convenient to add multiple devices to your system.
Here, I am recommending to you some of the best soundbars equipped with more than one HDMI ports.
Types of HDMI Connections
There are 4 types of HDMI Connection; HDMI 2.0, 2.1, HDCP 2.2, and HDMI eARC. Before proceeding further, let us understand basic things about HDMI connection types. This knowledge will assist you in choosing the best soundbars for you.
1. HDMI 2.0
It is the older and basic version. HDMI 2.0 supports 18Gbps bandwidth. It can deliver 4K audio resolution at 50 or 60fps (frames per second). It is the upgraded version of HDMI 1.4 which is outdated now. The majority of soundbars come with HDMI 2.0 version.
2. HDMI 2.1
It is the latest version. It has excellent performance as compared to HDMI 2.0. The 2.1 supports 48Gbps. This means the 2.1 version delivers a higher-resolution sound. It can carry 10K/120 fps. It gives you a virtual sound experience. HDMI is backward compatible. An HDMI 2.1 cable can also work with the older version.
3. HDCP 2.2
This version is one step forward, it is more advanced than HDMI 2.1. It delivers 4K Ultra HD content. It is specifically designed to establish a secure connection between the source and display.
If you want to get an advantage out of HDCP 2.2, your soundbar and TV need to be compatible with this version. HDCP is not backward compatible. Although it can connect to an older version yet it cannot deliver 4K resolution.
4. HDMI ARC
This advanced connection is capable of sending signals both ways. Moreover, it has a CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) feature which allows you to control 15 devices with a single remote. So, if your soundbar has a CEC feature, you can control it with your TV remote.
It is the most reliable connection between your TV and the soundbar. When you connect your TV via HDMI CEC, it automatically plays sound through a soundbar or other audio system. It also helps you in reducing the number of wired connections.
5. HMDI eARC
The eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) produces premium quality sound. It can handle 32 audio channels and all the advanced audio formats. It transmits the audio in its original full-resolution format.
You do not need to compromise on the audio quality. If you connect an HDTV to your soundbar, HDMI eARC sends audio signals perfectly without any loss.
Top 5 Best Soundbars with Multiple HDMI Inputs
Now, you have a better idea of why multiple HDMI ports are important. They give you a virtual sound experience. HDMI connections are preferred to other connections because of their higher-resolution compatibility.
I am presenting you with the best soundbars with multiple HDMI ports. After in-depth research, I selected the best ones only. Let us review each soundbar thoroughly.
1. Nakamichi Shockwafe Soundbar
Nakamichi is the best soundbar with multiple HDMI Inputs. It comes with 4 HDMI ports; 3 HDMI (HDCP 2.2) input and 1 HDMI ARC. In addition, it has many other input options. This soundbar is equipped with USB, optical, coaxial, and Aux.
This advanced soundbar supports all types of audio formats such as DTS: X, TrueHD, Dolby Digital, and Atmos. Its Dolby Vision and 4K HDR support make it the best choice for your home theater setup.
This 7.1.4 channel soundbar is 45.5 inches and is highly suitable for larger TVs. The most amazing feature of the Nakamichi is that it comes both with a subwoofer and rear speakers.
The dedicated speakers, two tweeters, and 6 full drivers deliver a matchless audio quality. An 8 inches subwoofer is also included. The combined power of the whole system gives you an earthshaking sound.
Its frequency response ranges from 35Hz to 22kHz and its output power is 600W. So, you get a crystal clear and virtual sound experience at both low and high ends. The soundstage is 35% wider than other soundbars of the same category. This sound system produces an immersive sound effect.
Because of its multiple HDMI ports and 4K HDR support, Nakamichi is highly compatible with all sorts of devices. You can connect this soundbar to Xbox, Blu-Ray player, TV, PC, and many other devices.
HDMI ARC is a good option to connect with a TV. The other 3 HMDI inputs can be used for versatile connections. The Aux connection can be used for tablets and smartphones. Additionally, it also supports a Bluetooth connection.
You can place the soundbar under your TV or can mount it on the wall. The rear speakers are also wall mountable. The setup process is quite easy and hassle-free. The package includes all the essential accessories.
Salient Features
- Nakamichi Shockwafe has 4 HDMI ports including 3 HDMI inputs (HDCP 2.2) and 1HDMI ARC
- It also supports Optical, Aux, USB ports, and Bluetooth
- A luxurious soundbar with 4K HDR, Dolby Digital, DTS: X, Dolby Atmos, TrueHD compatibility
- A 7.1.4 Channel soundbar that gives a 360-degrees cinematic surround sound experience
- It delivers an immersive sound, wide soundstage, and deep bass
PROS
- Supports high definition audio formats
- Comes with an 8-inch subwoofer
- Rear speakers are also included
- Compatible with multimedia devices
- A total of 600W output power
CONS
- HDMI ARC cannot support more than a 5.1 channel system
- Soundbar does not support HDMI 2.1
- An expensive sound system
2. SAMSUNG HW-Q950A Soundbar
Samsung HW-Q950A comes at the second number in the list of the best soundbars with multiple HDMI input ports. It comes with 3 HDMIs; 2 HDMI inputs and one HDMI eARC. It also features 2.1 HDMI which supports up to 10K resolution and dynamic HDRs.
Another amazing feature of this soundbar is that it can work well with 48Gbps bandwidth. So, it is highly recommended for virtual gaming and audio experience. It is iOS ready and Wifi supported.
Other connectivity options include optical and stereo analog input. A wireless 8 inches subwoofer also comes with the soundbar. Additionally, it also has rear speakers. It is designed to deliver a premium quality sound. This soundbar supports high-definition audio formats such as DTS: X and Dolby Atmos.
This 48.5-inch soundbar is ideal for larger TVs. Moreover, it is also suitable for gaming consoles, PC, and other multimedia devices. Thanks to its Q-Symphony feature, it perfectly synchronizes and harmonizes the audio with the content.
It is an 11.1.4 channel soundbar, equipped with right, left, and center channels. Furthermore, it has 2 surround channels, 2 top channels, and two satellites.
This powerful sound system is an ideal choice for your home theater. The full range upward-firing drivers ensure a virtual and immersive sound effect
The wider soundstage and deep bass give you an amazing sound experience. Likewise, its Auto EQ feature analyzes the room acoustics to adjust the audio accordingly.
Overall, the soundbar gives a decent look. It is made of high-quality plastic and the subwoofer is composed of wood. The soundbar comes with built-in Alexa and also supports Apple AirPlay. This voice control feature provides you with many facilities.
It is also compatible with the SmartThings app. You can control the soundbar through your smartphone. Moreover, the Bluetooth connection allows seamless pairing with many devices.
Salient Features
- A high-class and premium quality sound system with 11.1.4 Channels
- It is equipped with 3 HDMI inputs (2.1) including an eARC
- Samsung supports 48Gbps bandwidth which is ideal for high-speed virtual gaming
- An advanced system-iOS ready, Bluetooth and Wifi supported, built-in Alexa and Apple AirPlay compatibility
PROS
- Allows control through the SmartThings app
- Q-Symphony and EQ feature for voice enhancement and synchronization
- Compatible with Dolby Atmos and DTS: X
- 48.5 inches body suitable for larger TVs
CONS
- An expensive soundbar
- Mid-range is not excellent
- eARC version is 2.0
Also Read: Best SoundBars Over $1000
3. Polk Audio MagniFi 2 Sound Bar
Polk Audio MagniFi Soundbar is also one of the best soundbars with multiple HDMI inputs. It is equipped with 4 HDMI ports. It has three HDMI 2.0, one HDMI ARC, and one HDCP 2.2.
Moreover, it also has many other versatile connectivity options. The soundbar comes with Optical input, AUX 3.5mm, and Ethernet (RJ45) port. It supports Dolby Digital and DTS audio formats.
Built-in Chromecast is another amazing feature of this soundbar. It allows you to stream from various apps and services such as Google Play, Youtube, Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, iRadio, and many more.
Bluetooth connection is also available that allows seamless pairing. This soundbar is a decent choice for a multi-room setup. Its width is 37.5 inches and it comes with an 8-inch wireless subwoofer.
Additionally, it features 4 full-range drivers and 2 tweeters. It delivers an excellent sound quality. Its universal 4K HD compatibility stands it out among its counterparts.
This multipurpose soundbar is highly suitable for different multimedia devices including smartphones, tablets, PC, TV, and gaming consoles. Its refresh rate is 60fps which minimizes the sound delay and muffled audio.
It gives virtual height and 3D sound effects. Its SDA technology produces a room-filling sound. The subwoofer gives a deep bass. Furthermore, the voice adjustment features cancel out the background noises and ensure dialogue clarity. Although it does not have dedicated Atmos speakers yet it gives an awesome audio quality.
This soundbar has a sleek and compact design. Its slim and smart body fits in any place. It is 2 inches high. So, you can place it under your TV or can mount it on the wall.
In terms of budget, this soundbar offers all the advanced features at a low cost. It is a complete package including all the wires in the purchase.
Salient Features
- It also comes with 3 HDMI inputs including an HDMI ARC
- Further, it has Optical, AUX, and Ethernet ports
- Bluetooth enabled and built-in Google Chromecast for streaming through famous services
- It supports 4K HD, DTS, Dolby Digital, features 6 full-range drivers
- 3D sound effects, deep bass, SDA technology, voice enhancement feature, crystal clear dialogues without any delay
PROS
- Comes with an 8 inches powerful subwoofer
- Compatible with multi-media devices
- Allows streaming from Google Play, Amazon Music, Youtube, Spotify, Pandora, and others
- Infrared remote that can control TV
- Slim and decent design
CONS
- Dolby Atmos and DTS: X are not supported
- Does not support any mobile app
Also Read: Best Soundbars For PS5
4. Samsung HW-Q80R 5.1.2 Soundbar
Samsung HW-Q80R is the best soundbar for the budget. Equipped with many advanced features, this soundbar is the ideal choice for your home theater.
It comes with multiple HDMI input ports including 2 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI ARC out. It is 4K HDR compatible and delivers high-resolution audio.
Moreover, it also supports Bluetooth and Wifi. So, it is compatible with many devices and gives you a lot of streaming options. A micro USB port is also available on the soundbar. In addition, it has built-in Alexa.
It comes with a separate subwoofer which gives an extra loud sound and deep bass. Furthermore, it is equipped with powerful speakers. The wide range of tweeters ensures an enhanced audio quality. This slim and smart soundbar is the complete audio solution.
If you own a Samsung TV, this soundbar is the best match for it. However, it is also compatible with other TV brands and multimedia devices. It gives a surround sound experience. You can connect this soundbar to gaming consoles, smartphones, tablets, PC, and many more.
This soundbar is slim with a sleek design. It is made up of durable material. Its metal body is protected by the steel grille on the front part. Like other Samsung soundbars, this model is also an elegant addition to your home.
The right panel of the soundbar has touch-sensitive buttons for basic functions like power, source selection, and volume control. The OneRemote allows more control options.
It supports the Samsung Multiroom app. You can control the soundbar conveniently by downloading the app on your smartphone.
Samsung devices feature simple control and setup. A wall mounting kit is included in the purchase. You can mount this smart bar on the wall or can place it under your TV for perfect synchronization.
Salient Features
- 3 HDMI ports including HDMI ARC out
- It comes with built-in Amazon Alexa, Wifi, and Bluetooth support
- Samsung HW-Q80R is a Harmon Kardon and Dolby Atmos soundbar
- It features 5.1.2 channels, a separate subwoofer, and truly immersive surround sound
PROS
- Compact, stylish, and elegant design
- Compatible with Samsung Multi-room app
- Works with OneRemote
- Simple and easy setup
CONS
- Performance may not be excellent at high volumes
Also Read: Best SoundBars for Open Floor Plans
5. JBL Cinema SB400 Soundbar
Also Read: Best Soundbars with Built-in Subwoofers
FAQs
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Final Words
Speakersmag team of experts sorted out the best soundbars with multiple HDMI inputs. Some of them have 4 inputs while others may have 2 or 3.
Multiple HDMI inputs are very useful. As mentioned in the article, there are many types of HDMIs. The latest version is the best in terms of transmitting high-resolution audio.
However, even the older version of HDMI is better than other connectivity options like Optical and Aux. From the list of top 5 soundbars, you can choose considering your budget and requirement.
I hope my research and reviews will help you in purchasing the best soundbars with multiple HDMI inputs.
