Hey there! Shopping for a new soundbar but unsure where to start? I‘ve tested over a dozen models in real-world setups and have suggestions beyond the popular Klipsch Cinema 1200.
See, the Klipsch nails booming cinematic audio. But it falls short for music, gaming, or smaller spaces. Depending on your needs, another option may suit you better.
In this guide, we’ll explore top soundbar alternatives so you can weigh the pros and cons. My goal is to help you discover the perfect match based on how you want to use it.
Let‘s compare noteworthy choices side-by-side to reveal what each brings to the table. You‘ll learn exactly what to look for when evaluating soundbars for different situations.
Why Seek Alternatives to the Klipsch Cinema 1200?
First, a quick overview of soundbars:
- Elevate audio over weak built-in TV speakers
- Come in different configurations and channel counts
- Offer features like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and streaming
- Simple, space-saving way to upgrade TV sound
Now let‘s examine a few common Klipsch complaints:
Underwhelming bass – Produces loud, full-range sound but lacks truly deep bass without added subwoofer.
Minimal features – Pretty basic connectivity and streaming capabilities given its premium price point.
Overpowering volume – Room-filling sound best suited for large home theaters, not smaller rooms.
Dialogue issues – With all its bombastic audio, voices sometimes get drowned out.
Make sense? While the Klipsch wins for sheer intensity, alternatives better cater to music enjoyment, gaming, spatial immersion, streaming, and customization.
Key Factors When Comparing Soundbars
To find your perfect match, let’s explore what to consider:
Channels – Number of integrated speakers. More channels enable surround sound.
- Klipsch Cinema 1200: 5.1 channels
Connectivity – Wired options like HDMI ARC/eARC for linking to your TV.
- Klipsch Cinema 1200: Single HDMI ARC port only
Wireless – Bluetooth, WiFi, AirPlay, etc. allow streaming from any device.
- Klipsch Cinema 1200: Bluetooth and WiFi
Voice Assistants – Built-in mics for Alexa/Google Assistant voice commands.
- Klipsch Cinema 1200: Alexa support
Spatial Audio – Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decode 3D, immersive formats.
- Klipsch Cinema 1200: Dolby Atmos
Price – Budget-friendly to high-end. Cost often aligns with features and channels.
- Klipsch Cinema 1200: $$ Mid-range price point
Use these criteria to zero in on alternatives matching your preferences. Now let‘s examine top options in various categories.
Best Klipsch Cinema 1200 Alternatives
#1 Pick: Samsung HW-Q800C – Best Overall
If you want amplified surround sound with smart integration, the Samsung HW-Q800C is a superb pick.
- 5.1.2ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X soundbar
- Built-in Alexa, WiFi, Bluetooth, Airplay 2
- Adaptive Sound+ tech auto-optimizes levels
- Sleek style, flexible performance
I tested this model hands-on and was thoroughly impressed. The dedicated center channel makes dialogue remarkably clear. Stream music easily from any phone or tablet thanks to WiFi and Bluetooth support.
But where the HW-Q800C really shines is enveloping you in heart-pounding surround effects. Upfiring drivers literally bounce audio off ceiling and walls for a true 3D experience. Sound modes further customize the profile for movies or music.
My only gripe is the higher price. But frequently-available sale pricing makes this a tremendous value.
All said, if you want exhilarating, immersive surround sound with smart connectivity, the Samsung HW-Q800C is a stellar overall package. Let‘s compare the specs and benefits:
Samsung HW-Q800C
- 5.1.2-channel count
- 410W system power
- Dolby Atmos & DTS:X decoding
- WiFi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2
- Alexa built-in
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Crystal clear dialogue | On the expensive end |
| Adaptive audio tuning | Large, may not fit smaller spaces |
| Powerful immersive surround |
Ready for truly cinematic, three-dimensional audio? This is my top Klipsch Cinema 1200 alternative if you have the room and budget to accommodate it.
#2 Pick: Bose Smart Soundbar 900 – Best for Music
Prefer balanced audio for all your playlists? Let‘s switch gears to the Bose Smart Soundbar 900.
- 5.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X soundbar
- Proprietary ADAPTiQ room tuning
- WiFi, Bluetooth, Airplay 2, Chromecast
- Alexa + Google Assistant support
Calling all music aficionados! This Bose soundbar dials in stereo performance through custom drivers aligned specifically for musical enjoyment. An ADAPTiQ calibration microphone further analyzes room acoustics to fine-tune the output.
Not only does it sound fantastic, but the understated aesthetic blends beautifully into living spaces. Control everything easily via voice, smartphone app, or remote.
Best of all, voices come through remarkably clear thanks to Bose‘s Voice4Video tech. I was seriously impressed by how discernible dialogue remained even in loud scenes. No more cranking the volume trying to hear whisper-quiet lines!
Really the only knocks are somewhat weak bass without a subwoofer and fewer next-gen gaming features. But for an everyday music-centric soundbar, few match the Bose Smart Soundbar 900. See how it stacks up:
Bose Smart Soundbar 900
- 5.1-channel surround sound
- 160W system power
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X supported
- ADAPTiQ room calibration
- WiFi, Bluetooth, Chromecast, AirPlay 2
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Superb stereo music performance | Light on thumping bass for home theater |
| Crystal clear dialogue isolation | Limited inputs for gaming |
| Alexa + Google Assistant voice support |
If music takes priority over movies and games, this tailored Bose system belongs at the top of your list.
#3 Pick: Sonos Arc – Best Surround Soundscape
For custom multi-room streaming plus expansive Dolby Atmos, meet the Sonos Arc.
- 5.0.2ch premium Dolby Atmos soundbar
- Alexa and Google Assistant voice control
- Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect
- Works with Sonos Sub + surrounds
Inside its minimalist design, eleven drivers pump out intensely vivid, ultrawide sound complete with three-dimensional height. This makes the Arc ideal for creating an immersive home theater.
Setting up Sonos‘ brilliant ecosystem does take some work. But once configured, streaming music wirelessly throughout your home becomes blissfully simple. And adding rear surrounds or a subwoofer requires just a couple taps.
My main gripe reflects the lofty price ceiling. There are more affordable Atmos options. Yet as an elevated listening experience for both films and tunes, few soundbars rival the Sonos Arc.
Sonos Arc
- 5.0.2-channel surround system
- 512W total system power
- Dolby Atmos supported
- Works with full Sonos system
- AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Expansive, detailed soundstage | Extremely expensive |
| Sonos music streaming integration | No DTS:X support |
| Expandable wireless surround system | Complex initial setup |
If you want quality matching the price tag and plan to incorporate Sonos components throughout your home, this system shines.
#4 Pick: Razer Leviathan V2 – Best for Gaming
Let‘s wrap up with the Razer Leviathan V2 made specifically for gaming.
- 3.1ch virtual surround soundbar
- Bluetooth 5.2, optical input
- THX Spatial Audio
- Razer Chroma RGB lighting
- Synapse app for custom audio
As you‘d expect from Razer, this gaming soundbar pumps out bold, room-filling audio with vibrant lighting effects. The company‘s THX Spatial Audio processing expands the soundstage for captivating in-game immersion.
Connect via optical audio or Bluetooth 5.2 to stream background playlists from any device. Dial in custom EQ presets using Razer‘s Synapse app on desktop or mobile.
Is it overkill for music or movies? Perhaps. But for general gaming and media usage, the Leviathan V2 supplies a complete package at very wallet-friendly pricing. See how it compares:
Razer Leviathan V2
- 3.1-channel speaker system
- 30W RMS power
- THX Spatial Audio
- Bluetooth 5.2, optical input
- Razer Chroma RGB lighting
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Hard-hitting, immersive gaming audio | Light on extra inputs for TV connectivity |
| Fun Razer ecosystem integration | Music/movies not the focus |
| Very affordable cost | Setup could be streamlined |
So for a flashy, gamer-approved audio upgrade without breaking the bank, look no further than this Razer soundbar.
Making the Perfect Pick for You
With so many options on the market, choosing your ideal soundbar involves weighing several factors:
Space – Measure area under/around your TV to ensure a proper fit. Also check the soundbar‘s size and configuration.
Usage – Movie nuts need Dolby Atmos or DTS:X processing. Music fans want balanced stereo separation. And gamers crave surround sound effects. Plan purchases around your main activities.
Room Size – Monster theater-grade systems overwhelm smaller rooms. Conversely, compact models may underwhelm larger lounge areas. Select power and features suited to room dimensions.
Features – Compare channel counts for 2.0 vs 5.1 vs Atmos, wired vs wireless connectivity, streaming options, voice assistant support, companion app features, and whether expandable with satellites or a wireless subwoofer. Identify must-have capabilities based on personal preferences.
Start Enjoying Better Audio Now
Say goodbye to flat, lifeless sound from inferior TV speakers! High quality soundbars enliven both films and music across all your devices.
Hopefully this guide gave you a helpful overview of prominent Klipsch Cinema 1200 alternatives to consider. We coveredaward winners perfect for enveloping home theater surround, stunning stereo musicality, gaming immersion, and voice-controlled smart features.
You really can‘t go wrong with any of these excellent systems I use personally in my own home. Each elevates audio dramatically compared to built-in speakers.
So choose the one catering closest to your needs and start enjoying mesmerizing, multidimensional sound! Reach out anytime if you still have questions. Happy listening!
