The 7 Best HDMI 2.1 Passthrough Soundbars of 2025 – Elevate Your Home Audio Experience

If you’re looking to enhance your home audio experience in 2025, consider the top HDMI 2.1 passthrough soundbars.

Options like the THOMSON Sound Bar offer budget-friendly performance, while the MZEIBO 80W provides customizable audio settings.

The Hisense AX3120G delivers an immersive Dolby Atmos experience, and the ULTIMEA 5.1ch impresses with its compact design and wireless connectivity.

To fully appreciate their unique features and how they can elevate your home setup, explore our curated list of the best soundbars available.

THOMSON Sound Bar for TV (35-Inch, Bluetooth 5.0)

If you’re in search of a budget-friendly yet impactful soundbar that elevates your home entertainment experience, the THOMSON Sound Bar for TV is an excellent option. Its sleek 35-inch design seamlessly fits in front of your TV or can be conveniently wall-mounted. This soundbar features a robust 2.1 channel system that provides immersive 3D surround sound, while the remote allows for easy adjustments to treble and bass. With Bluetooth 5.0, connecting your devices is effortless, and multiple wired options ensure compatibility with various setups. Users consistently praise its superb sound quality, making it a valuable addition to your audio system.

Best For: Those seeking a cost-effective, high-performance soundbar to enhance their home entertainment experience with versatile connectivity options.

Pros:

• Superb sound quality with a 2.1 channel system and impressive bass.
• Simple connectivity via Bluetooth 5.0 and various wired options.
• Modern design that complements contemporary home decor and allows for wall mounting.

Cons:

• Some users have reported sensitivity issues with the volume control.
• Occasional electrical noise from LED lights may be distracting.
• Enhanced bass may benefit from an additional subwoofer for optimal sound performance.

MZEIBO 80W Detachable Bluetooth Sound Bar for Smart TV

The MZEIBO 80W Detachable Bluetooth Sound Bar is an excellent option for those looking to enhance their smart TV’s audio performance. Featuring four full-range drivers, it provides crystal-clear highs and robust bass, making your movies, music, and news more enjoyable. With its 2.1 surround sound configuration and three customizable EQ modes, you can easily adjust the audio to suit your preferences. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.3 ensures fast and reliable wireless connectivity with a variety of devices. Weighing in at just 5.33 pounds, this soundbar is both portable and easy to integrate into any room. Setup is straightforward, and the user-friendly remote control simplifies adjustments, making it a superb addition to your audio setup.

Best For: Those seeking to elevate their audio experience for movies, music, and news through their smart TV.

Pros:

• Crystal-clear highs and deep bass significantly improve the listening experience across different media.
• Portable design enables seamless integration into various spaces like living rooms and bedrooms.
• The intuitive remote control allows for effortless volume adjustments and EQ mode changes.

Cons:

• Bass performance may be limited compared to larger sound systems, potentially disappointing audiophiles.
• At 5.33 pounds, the weight could be a challenge for some users when mounting or relocating the soundbar.
• Reliance on a power supply for optimal performance may restrict placement options in certain rooms.

8K@60Hz HDMI Splitter 1×2 with Audio Extractor

Looking to elevate your home theater experience with exceptional sound quality? The 8K@60Hz HDMI Splitter 1×2 with Audio Extractor is your ideal solution. It allows you to mirror one HDMI source to two TVs while extracting audio through 3.5mm, Coaxial, or Optical outputs, making it perfect for connecting to your favorite soundbar. With support for 4K@120Hz and Dolby Atmos 7.1CH audio, it ensures stunning visuals paired with immersive sound. Its plug-and-play design simplifies setup, so you can enjoy your content without the hassle of installing drivers. Compatible with devices like Blu-ray players and gaming consoles, it’s an excellent addition for enhancing your audio-visual setup. Enjoy seamless switching between TVs without the need for constant cable swapping.

Best For: Home theater enthusiasts looking to connect multiple TVs and enhance their audio experience with high-quality video and sound through their soundbars.

Pros:

• Supports high resolutions and refresh rates, including 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz, ensuring breathtaking visuals.
• Multiple audio extraction options (3.5mm, Coaxial, Optical) cater to various audio setups, including soundbars and AV receivers.
• User-friendly plug-and-play design eliminates the need for drivers, making setup quick and hassle-free.

Cons:

• Concerns about durability may leave some users worried about the longevity of the product.
• Limited customer support options could be a drawback for those requiring assistance.
• An average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars suggests mixed experiences among users, indicating potential variability in performance.

4K 60Hz HDMI Splitter and Audio Extractor

For sound enthusiasts looking to elevate their audio experience, the K 60Hz HDMI Splitter and Audio Extractor is an excellent choice, offering Ultra HD 4K output alongside high-quality sound via eARC. This adaptable splitter enables you to connect multiple audio sources, supporting resolutions such as 4K@60Hz and 1080p@120Hz. It seamlessly integrates with soundbars and other audio devices, ensuring optimal performance. With bi-directional capability and user-friendly EDID settings, you can easily customize your audio formats to match your setup. Just keep in mind that it requires HDMI 2.0 cables under 3 meters and does not support VRR or HDR downscaling. Enjoy a superior audio experience!

Best For: Audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts seeking a versatile HDMI splitter that supports Ultra HD 4K output and high-quality audio extraction.

Pros:

• Supports multiple resolutions including 4K@60Hz and 1080p@120Hz, enhancing audio-visual quality.
• Bi-directional capability allows for flexible connectivity with various sound systems.
• Easy EDID settings for personalizing audio formats to fit your preferences.

Cons:

• Requires HDMI 2.0 cables under 3 meters, which may limit installation options.
• Does not support VRR or HDR downscaling, potentially limiting compatibility with certain audio content.
• Cannot convert ARC to eARC, restricting audio output configurations.

Hisense AX3120G 3.1.2Ch Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer

With its 3.1.2 channel setup and Dolby Atmos support, the Hisense AX3120G 3.1.2Ch Sound Bar is an excellent choice for soundbar enthusiasts seeking an immersive audio experience. This powerful soundbar delivers 360W of power through seven speakers, including a wireless 6.5-inch subwoofer that enhances low-end frequencies. You’ll enjoy clear audio with various EQ modes for music, movies, and games. Plus, Bluetooth 5.3 and HDMI eARC connectivity make streaming effortless. While some users noted minor audio sync issues, the overall sound quality and user-friendly setup make it a fantastic addition to any soundbar collection. Elevate your home audio experience with this impressive soundbar!

Best For: Soundbar enthusiasts and gamers seeking an immersive audio experience with powerful sound quality.

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality with 360W power and Dolby Atmos support for an engaging audio experience.
• Easy connectivity via Bluetooth 5.3 and HDMI eARC, allowing for seamless streaming.
• Multiple EQ modes tailored for various content types, enhancing audio clarity.

Cons:

• Some users report audio sync issues that may require adjustments for optimal performance.
• A few users have described a flat sound, suggesting a need for tuning.
• Weighing 24.8 pounds, it may be less portable compared to lighter soundbar options.

4K HDMI Splitter 1×2 for Dual Monitors

The 4K HDMI Splitter 1×2 is a fantastic option for soundbar enthusiasts who wish to duplicate a single HDMI audio source to two sound systems without compromising audio quality. Supporting 4K@60Hz video pass-through and various audio formats like Dolby Atmos, this splitter ensures you experience rich sound and visuals simultaneously. With its 18 Gbps bandwidth, you can easily connect devices like your Blu-ray player or gaming console to two soundbars. Setup is straightforward, allowing you to synchronize audio across different sound systems effortlessly. Just keep in mind, it duplicates the audio output, so you won’t be able to extend your audio across different sound setups.

Best For: Soundbar enthusiasts seeking to duplicate a single HDMI audio source to two sound systems without sacrificing quality.

Pros:

• Supports high-resolution audio formats up to 4K@60Hz and various audio formats including Dolby Atmos.
• Easy setup with plug and play functionality; no driver installation required.
• Effective HDCP bypass functionality ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices.

Cons:

• Only duplicates audio; does not allow for audio extension across sound systems.
• Lacks support for advanced audio features like ARC, e-ARC, CEC, VRR, and 4K@120Hz upscale.
• Some customer reports indicate potential failure leading to damage in connected devices.

ULTIMEA 5.1ch Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos

ULTIMEA’s 5.1ch Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos is a top-tier option for sound enthusiasts seeking an immersive audio experience in compact environments. Featuring a sleek design, this system comprises a soundbar, a wired subwoofer, and surround speakers, all working together to produce crystal-clear dialogue and powerful bass. The innovative Dolby Atmos technology crafts a 3D sound landscape, while SurroundX enhances standard audio into a vibrant 5.1 surround sound experience. You can effortlessly manage settings through the Ultimea App, allowing you to adjust EQ presets to suit your mood. Additionally, with HDMI eARC and Bluetooth connectivity, setup is quick and straightforward, enabling you to enjoy premium audio without the hassle of clutter.

Best For: Sound enthusiasts seeking an immersive, high-quality audio experience in compact living spaces.

Pros:

• Dolby Atmos Technology offers a 3D sound experience for greater immersion.
• Compact Design makes it ideal for smaller areas while reducing cable clutter.
• Customizable Audio Settings via the Ultimea App provide a personalized listening experience.

Cons:

• Some users have noted instances of Bluetooth audio cutting out during operation.
• There are reported issues with rear speaker volume levels, which may impact overall surround sound quality.
• Optimally suited for spaces ≤215ft²/20m², which may limit placement options.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Hdmi 2.1 Passthrough Soundbars

When selecting an HDMI 2.1 passthrough soundbar, consider several important factors. Focus on audio quality, connectivity options, and how well the design integrates with your space. Additionally, ensure that the setup process is straightforward and that the soundbar is compatible with your devices for an optimal listening experience.

Audio Quality Considerations

Choosing an HDMI 2.1 passthrough soundbar involves several important audio quality considerations that can greatly enhance your listening experience. Look for features like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which deliver immersive surround sound with precise audio positioning. A 2.1 channel configuration typically includes a dedicated subwoofer, boosting low-end frequencies and enriching bass performance, making it ideal for any soundbar setup. Advanced audio processing technologies, such as DSP, improve clarity and detail, adapting to various listening environments and content types. Verify that the soundbar supports high-resolution audio formats for the best lossless quality. Additionally, adjustable EQ settings allow you to customize your audio experience, tailoring sound profiles for movies, games, or music to match your preferences perfectly. These factors will elevate your home audio setup considerably, making your soundbar the centerpiece of your entertainment system.

Connectivity Options Available

Connectivity is a crucial aspect to consider when selecting an HDMI 2.1 passthrough soundbar. Look for models that support higher bandwidths up to 48Gbps, allowing for stunning 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz video resolutions. It’s essential to choose soundbars with HDMI eARC support, which enables lossless audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Multiple HDMI inputs and outputs are a must, as they let you connect various devices like gaming consoles and Blu-ray players without the hassle of constant cable swapping. Additionally, features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Finally, ensure your soundbar includes versatile audio setup options such as Optical, AUX, or Bluetooth connectivity.

Design and Aesthetics

While aesthetics might not be the first consideration when choosing an HDMI 2.1 passthrough soundbar, it plays a crucial role in how seamlessly it integrates with your entertainment setup. Many soundbars feature a slim, sleek profile, allowing them to be easily positioned in front of your TV or mounted on the wall without obstructing the screen. Look for models with contemporary finishes, such as matte black or polished metal, that enhance your home decor. Soundbar dimensions typically range from 30 to 40 inches, catering to various TV sizes. User feedback often highlights the significance of a visually appealing design, as the soundbar frequently serves as a focal point in your space, complemented by discreet integrated LED indicators.

Ease of Setup

When setting up an HDMI 2.1 passthrough soundbar, ease of setup is crucial to enhancing your audio experience. Look for soundbars that feature plug-and-play functionality, eliminating the need for extra drivers or complex configurations. Ensure the soundbar supports HDMI 2.1, which provides higher bandwidth for 8K video and advanced audio formats seamlessly. Additionally, consider models equipped with multiple input and output options such as HDMI, optical, and AUX, allowing for easy connections to various devices. Choose soundbars that come with user-friendly remotes or app control, making it convenient to adjust settings and switch audio modes during setup. This way, you can fully enjoy your new soundbar without the hassle of complicated installations.

Compatibility With Devices

Setting up your HDMI 2.1 passthrough soundbar is just the beginning; ensuring it’s compatible with your devices is equally important for an optimal audio experience. First, check that your soundbar supports essential HDMI 2.1 features like 8K resolution, VRR, and ALLM. This guarantees you’ll enjoy the latest advancements in gaming and video quality. Ensure the soundbar can decode various audio formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for a truly immersive sound experience. It’s advisable to choose models with multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, allowing you to connect all your devices—gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices—without any hassle. Additionally, verify that the soundbar supports ARC or eARC, which facilitates easy connections to your TV and ensures high-quality audio return. Lastly, review the specifications to confirm a minimum of 48Gbps bandwidth to maximize the performance of your soundbar.