Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Review

There’s no doubt that the Bose Solo 5 is one of the most portable soundbars in the market right now. At just 7cm tall and 55cm long, it will suit any sound system arrangement. This makes it ideal for those looking for something a bit smaller that can fit right under their TV. However, its compact size can bring some challenges to it. The sound output it moderate.

If you are looking for a compact or portable soundbar for your TV or entertainment system, it’s important to find out what the soundbar can do and what it cannot do. We’ve taken the time to look at the features of the Bose Solo 5 soundbar.  If you are considering this soundbar because of its portability, there are other great features it possesses, as well. We would even explain some of its flaws to help you decide rightly.

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Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Review

Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Review

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Bose Solo 5 TV Sound features

Sound features for the Bose Solo 5 is moderate because it does not have enough dimensions for more. However, the size of the TV will play a role in determining the sound quality and output. One point to note here is, a smaller TV could even help the soundbar perform better than a larger TV. So, it’s worth noting if you are buying a new TV along with the soundbar.

The speech and voice clarity is relatively high, as there is no distortion even when you raise the volume. This feature is lacking in many types of soundbars. Again, the compact size of the soundbar enables it to achieve such a high level of voice clarity. It does not have that slim, hard sound associated with most TVs. In fact, there is a lot of difference between the TV and this soundbar when it comes to sound.

While it may not be able to compete favorably with some other bigger soundbars, it sure sounds better than most TVs (whether large or small).

So, the Bose Solo 5 TV soundbar is a better option if you don’t want the often brash sound of your TV.  The midrange is direct and focused, giving you a controlled treble sound. However, the bass is still not up to par with other soundbars. That is understandable, considering the size of the soundbar.

So, if you’re looking for something that gives a big bang in terms of sound, the Bose Solo 5 TV soundbar may not be right for you. Although there is a way to improve bass by turning on the bass boost, doing so will create a dent in the midrange clarity. So, it’s better to allow the custom mode to enjoy the crisp, clear sound without altering the bass mode.

Bose Solo 5 TV Connectivity

This soundbar is plug and play, so it’s very easy to setup. No technical details or serious connection is needed to start enjoying the soundbar. Bose Solo 5 has a plethora of options when it comes to connecting devices. It has a built-in Bluetooth connection, auxiliary options, as well as optical connection option. The Bluetooth option will come in handy when you are streaming movies or when you are using your device while playing music with the soundbar.

There isn’t much in terms of EQ settings or sound mode. It is pretty straightforward, with a simple Plug and Play feature. If you want to have a relatively simple soundbar without heavy settings, this model could be right for you. You can connect the soundbar via optical cables. And, there is an option to connect via coaxial cables, in case that is your system’s forte. Apart from the subtle status indicators and logo on the front, the design of this model is largely modest.  When the soundbar is powered on, the status indicator lights up to show you the dialogue mode.

The soundbar comes with six labeled shortcut buttons. You can program each of these buttons to control a separate device. Programming the remote control is a breeze. All you need to do is to hold down the right button and type the manufacturer code. However, the universal control does not control a PlayStation console because it works only through infrared.

Unfortunately, the Bose Solo 5 TV soundbar doesn’t come with HDMI port, so you should ensure that the connecting device has either an optical output or a coaxial output. And if you want to pair your device quickly, there isn’t support for NSF, which is one of its downsides. Also, although there is a Bluetooth connection, it doesn’t offer support for the aptX codec.  As we mentioned earlier, the soundbar doesn’t come with so many features-just basic features that will improve the sound quality of your TV set and audio system. So, you shouldn’t expect much from the soundbar considering its compact size and affordability.

You can turn on the dialogue mode with the remote control to make voices clearer. But there are no presets or adjustments when listening to music or watching sports.

Bose Solo 5 TV Built and design

Looking from the design perspective, the Bose Solo 5 has a simple outlook. It does not come with too many details since you are either going to mount it on the wall or keep it underneath your TV.

It doesn’t come with switches or buttons that would complicate things either. It only comes with black plastic at the top sides and black grille on the front end. The simple design makes it very durable but still lightweight.  For a simple soundbar, the emphasis was on portability by providing basic design features.

There are drivers placed at the center of the soundbar, slightly pointing outwards to provide a more comprehensive sound reach. Besides, there are LED light indicators to inform the user when there’s a change in certain features. When you increase or low the volume, the LED lights also blink as an indication.

The Bose Solo 5 has a remote controller, which is unusually large compared to the size of the soundbar itself. But there’s a reason the remote is broad. Apart from using as a remote to the soundbar, you can also configure it to serve as a universal remote for other purposes like your TV and infrared devices. So, with the single remote, you can control all your electrical gadgets in one place.

Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Review Conclusion

The increasing desire to own portable entertainment gadgets have motivated companies to produce portable items that meet the demands of consumers. And soundbars are now the primary gadget for those looking to enjoy the audio sounds from their TVs. They are relatively sleek with crisp and clear sounds.

The Bose Solo 5 TV is undoubtedly one of the finest and most portable you can find in the market. It is relatively compact, as it can fit right underneath your TV. We’ve seen its features, including its sound quality, design, and connectivity options. Although it may not be the best in terms of sound output, this compact music box surely lives up to expectations for quality.

But if your main concern is a portable device with a crisp, clear, and filtered sound, this soundbar is the right soundbar for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

The following are answers to the most common questions about the Bose Solo 5 TC soundbar

Is it possible to add extra speakers to the Bose Solo 5?

Unfortunately, the speakers of the Bose Solo 5 are designed to stand alone. There is no way to add extra speakers to the current speakers available for the soundbar.

Is there any difference between Bose Solo 15 and Bose Solo 5?

The main difference between the two is the fact that Bose Solo5 is more compact than the Bose Solo 15. The former takes less space and is more compact than the latter.

Between Sonos and Bose, which is better?

The two soundbars have similar features in terms of design. So, it will be difficult to select between the two if your main concern is design. However, the Bose sounds better, and it offers support for more connections than the Sonos soundbars.

Does the Bose Solo 5 offer support for Dolby Digital?

Yes, the Bose Solo 5 has support for both Dolby Digital and uncompressed stereo. However, it does not offer support for Dolby Atmos

Is Bose Solo 5 Wi-Fi enabled?

Unfortunately, the Bose Solo 5 does not support Wi-Fi, unlike Smart or SoundTouch Home Speakers. However, it does come with a Bluetooth feature that can allow you pair devices connected on the internet.

How many speakers does the Bose Solo 5 have?

The Bose Solo 5 comes with two built-in speakers, which are placed at either side of the sandbar

Does Bose Solo 5 have HDMI ARC?

No, it does not support the HDMI connector.

Is Bose Solo 5 worth it?

If you are looking for a compact device that produces clear and crisp sounds, yes, the Bose Solo 5 will be perfect for you. Moreover, it’s affordable too.

Which is the best sandbar for TV?

There are lots of good options. But top of the list includes the Bose Solo 5 TV soundbar, Samsung‎ ‎HW-Q60R, and Sony HT-ST5000 soundbar.

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Bose Solo 5 TV Soundbar Review 3BoseBose Solo 5 TV Sound SystemCheck Price on Amazon

* If you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. For more details, please visit our Privacy policy page.

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