If you cannot listen to the dialogues during the movies, and shows, then you must have considered different home appliances to make the dialogue more audible.
Although, a soundbar and a center channel speaker provide different levels of sound, still, they are two of the most obvious choices for the vocals, and people have a tough time choosing the right one.
Thus, we have compiled this detailed guide, in which we have compared the soundbar, and the center channel speaker. So, you can easily choose one for your needs.
Soundbar Vs Centre Channel Speaker (Comparison)
Lets start the detailed comparison in detail.
Sound
No doubt, the sound is the important factor that you should be looking at in speakers, and in this case, it’s the dialogue clarity as well.
Since we are comparing the soundbar and the center channel speakers for dialogue clarity here. So, our focus would be the vocals.
A center channel speaker, when combined with the complete 5.1 channel surround system offers superior quality sound, with excellent sound effects as well as vocals.
On the other hand, a soundbar offers all in one sound from a single place, thus the sound is not as immersive as the full 5.1 channel setup. Although, the sound is very audible, and the vocals as also clear, still, it’s not as good as the full surround setup.
Thus, if you want an amazing sound experience and immersive sound, then we would recommend you to get the center channel speaker.
One more thing that you have to keep in mind is that you have to use an audio receiver, left channel, and right channel speakers with the center channel speaker for proper audio feedback.
Ease Of Setup
Before getting your next home audio device, you also have to keep the ease of setup in mind. Setting up the soundbar is very easy, and convenient. With the help of a single cable, you can easily connect it to your PC. Moreover, a soundbar is super-easy to carry around.
On the other hand, the 5.1 center channel setup needs little extra effort compared to the soundbar, as you have to connect multiple speakers.
Pricing
Last not least, pricing is also another important factor that can make or break your purchase decision. A soundbar is more affordable than a 5.1 channel setup. So, if you are low on budget, then it would be wise to get the soundbar.
If budget is not an issue for you, then we would recommend you to get the 5.1 channel setup, as the sound experience, and clarity is much better as compared to the soundbar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a Soundbar the Same as a Centre Channel Speaker?
Although the position of a soundbar and a center channel speaker is the same, as both of them sit right below the TV, still, there is a lot of difference between both of them, as the soundbar provides complete sound with treble, bass, and vocals, and the amplifier is built into the soundbar. On the other hand, the center channel speaker is dedicated to vocals only, and you need two other speakers on the left, and right sides to complete the 5.1 channels.
Do I Need a Center Channel Speaker?
Well, it depends upon you. If you are having a hard time listening to the vocal or dialogues on your TV, then the center channel speaker is mandatory for your needs. Also bear in mind that you will need to attach two other speakers (right channel, and left channel) with the center channel speaker if you want to enjoy the sound.
Can We Use a Soundbar as a Center Channel Speaker?
Well, you can use a soundbar as a center channel speaker, but, it is not recommended to use a soundbar as a center channel speaker, as the sound experience is not as immersive as using a dedicated center channel speaker.
Conclusion
Soundbar and center channel speakers are two common choices for improving the dialogue clarity of your movies and shows.
Since both of them are used interchangeably, a lot of people get confused between the two. Thus, we have compiled a complete guide above, in which we have put the soundbar against the center channel speaker, so, you can have a better time deciding the home audio speaker.
Mia Evelyn is a soundbar specialist and she love to test and review different soundbar brands. She shares her neutral and in-depth reviews through the Soundbar Mag.
