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 more 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 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, and 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 port.
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It is the upgraded version of HDMI 1.4 which is outdated now.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 the 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 the 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 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 6 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) inputs 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 Dolby 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-inch 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 to 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-degree 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 in 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-inch 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, PCs, 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 ready, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi support, 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, PCs, TVs, 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 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
- The infrared remote that can control the 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 Wi-Fi. 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, PCs, 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, Wi-Fi, 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
JBL Cinema SB400 Soundbar Speaker System is a Soundbar that possesses many advanced features. It comes with a 200-watt wireless subwoofer. The 8-inch subwoofer gives you a real theatre-like sound experience.
If you are looking for a low-budget soundbar with multiple HDMI inputs, choose JBL Cinema SB400. It has 3 HDMI inputs. Moreover, it also has 1 Coaxial and 1 Optical, and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Bluetooth feature is advantageous as it allows seamless pairing with various devices. Moreover, it supports the JBL Music app. This is an iOS-compatible app for streaming music.
It is equipped with 4 woofers, 2 tweeters, and a 120W amplifier. The combined power of the whole system gives an amazing sound effect. It also features Dolby Digital 5.1 decoding. Hence, suitable for high-resolution audio formats.
Its Harman Display Surround technology enhances your movie experience. It delivers a virtual surround sound and a room-filling bass.
JBL Cinema SB400 Soundbar Speaker System is handy and easily installable. You can connect it easily to your TV.
Moreover, it is also compatible with other devices such as smartphones, tablets, PCs, projectors, gaming consoles, and many more.
The purchase includes a wall mounting kit. You can mount this soundbar on the wall or can place it on the table. Its Dual-position equalization feature adjusts the sound according to the location. Thus, a change of location does not affect the performance.
Salient Features
- JBL Cinema SB400 is equipped with 3 HDMI ports plus Optical, Aux, and Bluetooth connections
- It features Dolby Digital 5.1 decoding and Harman Display sound technology
- Dual-position equalization technology and surround sound effect
PROS
- An 8-inch wireless subwoofer
- Loud sound and good bass
- Surround sound effect
- Supports the JBL Music app
CONS
- Forgets settings and needs to be adjusted each time
- Some customers complain about popping noises
- The subwoofer gives a lag while starting a new track
You may also like: Best All-in-one Soundbars
6. Sony HT-A7000 Soundbar
This soundbar is another great option if you need multiple HDMIs. You get 2 HDMI IN and 1 HDMI out port.
Sony is a complete all-in-one soundbar with a 7.1.2 channel system. Moreover, it supports Dolby Atmos and DTS: X. You can enjoy 360-degree spatial surround sound.
The device can pair with any TV brand including Sony Bravia. The controlling options are versatile. All popular voice assistants including Alexa and Google Assistant work with this soundbar.
You can control the device, change channels, adjust the volume, and perform other functions through voice commands.
Furthermore, you can customize the sound according to your preference. Add two types of subwoofer or rear speakers for a rich audio effect.
Wireless connectivity options include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. It has built-in AirPlay 2 and Spotify Music. The price is reasonable and the product is recommended for a hi-res audio experience.
Salient Features
- A 53-inch soundbar for larger TVs
- 3 HDMI ports
- Immersive sound with 7.1.2 channel system
- Multiple wireless connectivity options
PROS
- Alexa and Google Voice Assistant support
- AirPlay 2 and Spotify built-in
- Various customization options
CONS
- It is a bit costly option
- The subwoofer and rear speakers are sold separately
Also Read: Best Soundbars with Built-in Subwoofers
FAQs
Read the following frequently asked questions if you have more queries regarding the best soundbars.
Is HDMI better than Optical to connect soundbars?
HDMI ARC is the best option to connect your soundbar to the TV or other devices. It supports all the advanced audio formats. Thus, audio is delivered precisely and without any data loss. While Optical is the second option if the soundbar lacks HDMI.
How many HDMI ports should a good soundbar have?
A good soundbar should have at least 2 or 3 HDMI ports. One port is needed to connect to the TV. While others are required to connect external devices such as cable boxes, gaming consoles, streaming devices, etc. Multiple HDMIs are also required to expand the sound system.
Is HDMI ARC better than HDMI?
Yes, HDMI ARC is better than the simple HDMI. ARC stands for ‘Audio Return Channel’. A single HDMI cable can be used to transmit both audio and video between your TV and soundbar. while the simple HDMI can transmit only video signals. Moreover, HDMI ARC gives the advantage of controlling both the soundbar and the TV with a single remote.
What cable is needed for HDMI ARC?
Many people ask this question. But, there exist no separate HDMI cables. You can use the same cable for HDMI ARC, eARC, and regular HDMI. Because it is the port, not the cable that differentiates between the two types.
What is the purpose of an HDMI Splitter?
An HDMI Splitter is used to connect more than one device to a single HDMI port. You connect it to the single HDMI port on your soundbar. Then, plug other devices into the ports on the Splitter. It outputs the exact clone of the original signal.
Does HDMI Splitter downsize the audio quality?
HDMI splitter is used to connect various devices to a single HDMI port. It does not reduce audio quality provided that you own a good quality product. However, using longer HDMI cables can compress the sound signals thus reducing the audio quality. So, always use shorter cables with the splitter switch and place the devices closer to each other.
Does an expensive HDMI cable perform better?
An expensive HDMI cable has nothing to do with the performance. You get the same video and audio quality with the cheap cable. However, expensive cables are more durable and can last longer. They also ensure higher bandwidth at a longer distance.
Also Read: Best Soundbars without Built-in Subwoofers
How to Connect External Devices to Soundbar Using HDMI Cables
Final Words
Speakersmag’s 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 requirements.
I hope my research and reviews will help you in purchasing the best soundbars with multiple HDMI inputs.
