10 Best Surround Sound Systems 2025 in the UK

The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar is an impressive option for those seeking a surround-sound system with a sophisticated design and cutting-edge technology. It features a 9.1.4 channel setup, which means sound is distributed through multiple speakers, including upward-firing ones for an immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos. This makes it an excellent choice for a home theater setup or for gaming enthusiasts who want to feel every nuance of sound.

One of the standout features is its Sound Motion technology, which ensures that sound travels accurately throughout the room, providing a rich spatial audio experience. The soundbar also excels in delivering clear dialogue with its Speech Enhancement feature, ideal for watching movies or shows where dialogue clarity is crucial. The Sonos Arc Ultra is designed with elegance in mind, making it a stylish addition to any living space without being distracting. Its versatility in control options, including compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant, alongside the Sonos app, adds a layer of convenience for users.

Setting up the system is straightforward, thanks to the HDMI eARC connection and guided setup via the Sonos app. The Trueplay feature allows users to adjust the sound to suit their room's acoustics, enhancing the audio experience further. When it comes to connectivity, it supports Bluetooth and WiFi, allowing for seamless streaming from various platforms. However, it's worth noting that while the soundbar provides a rich audio experience, for the full surround sound effect, additional Sonos Sub and Era 300 rear speakers are recommended. This might add to the initial cost for users looking for a complete setup. Additionally, it’s a wired system, which may not appeal to those preferring a totally wireless setup. Nonetheless, the Sonos Arc Ultra remains a solid choice for anyone serious about creating an immersive audio environment in their home.

The Samsung Q990D Q-Symphony is a high-end surround-sound system with 11.1.4 channels, making it suitable for users looking for immersive cinematic audio. The 22 speakers, including upfiring ones, promise a concert-style experience, which is ideal for large room sizes and varied acoustics. The Dolby Atmos technology further enhances the audio quality, delivering precise bass and clear tones. The inclusion of a subwoofer and rear speakers adds depth and spatial accuracy to the sound, beneficial for movie and gaming enthusiasts.

The Q-Symphony feature ensures harmony between the TV and soundbar, enriching the listening experience. Wireless connectivity through Wi-Fi is a convenient aspect, allowing for flexible placement without clutter from wires. However, the system's complexity and high number of components might be overwhelming for users unfamiliar with advanced audio setups. Additionally, the maximum output power of 41 Watts may seem limited for extremely large spaces or users seeking high-volume levels. The physical dimensions and weight could also pose challenges for mounting or arranging in smaller setups.

This surround-sound system is best suited for users seeking top-tier audio performance in medium to large rooms, with a preference for wireless flexibility and advanced cinematic sound features.

The Samsung Q930D Q-Symphony is a 9.1.4 channel surround sound system that promises a cinematic audio experience through its 17 speakers, including upfiring options. This system is designed to deliver concert-like sound, which is ideal for home entertainment enthusiasts looking to enhance their television or gaming setups. With Dolby Atmos and 3D surround audio output modes, it creates an immersive soundscape that can adapt to different room sizes and acoustics, thanks to its tuned audio features.

One of the key strengths of the Q930D is its wireless connectivity, allowing for a clean setup with minimal cables. This is especially beneficial for users who prefer flexibility in speaker placement, as the system comes with two wireless rear speakers. The inclusion of a subwoofer ensures that bass is rich and impactful, adding depth to the audio experience.

However, the system's reliance on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth might pose connectivity challenges in areas with weak signals. The soundbar is designed for tabletop mounting, which might not suit all room layouts. Additionally, the weight of the system, at 23 kg, may require consideration in terms of where it can be positioned safely.

For those looking to enrich their cinematic or gaming experiences, the Samsung Q930D offers a robust and adaptable solution. It’s particularly well-suited for medium to large-sized rooms due to its power and output capabilities. Yet, potential buyers should ensure their environment supports strong wireless connectivity to fully leverage the system's features.