AV receivers and a soundbar have a large intersection. At the same time, the two hi-fi components have a lot of peculiarities that make them very different from their respective counterparts.
High-quality soundbars* represent an attractive alternative to the otherwise standard surround sound systems. Especially those devices that have an integrated subwoofer save space.

AV receiver versus soundbar

An AV receiver receives auditory and visual signals in order to forward them to the required location in the home theater. In the case of visual signals, a TV set is the output device.
In the case of auditory signals, the end point is a loudspeaker. Within a surround sound 5.1 there are 5 audio channels as well as a subwoofer for the level of low tones.
Whereas, a soundbar is supposed to combine the role of the multi-channel amplifier and the surround sound created by the placement of the speakers. Formats like DTS form the basis for this claim to create a virtual sound. In contrast to classic surround sound, a soundbar* therefore requires much less space.

Practical advantages of a soundbar

A soundbar is suitable for users, for example, if there is no room for a sideboard in the home cinema room for space reasons. In addition, the temperature development is noticeably reduced due to the compact design.
Every cable that can be avoided reduces a possible heat buildup at high temperatures. All those who do not want to do without a room-filling sound, do not make any sacrifices with the help of a soundbar.

Distinguishing criteria among soundbars.

Without any ifs and buts, soundbars have a characteristic appearance that distinguishes and sets them apart from other hi-fi components. Soundbars and sound decks from Teufel are among the high-end products.
By the way, if you have as little space as possible for your home theater, you can resort to a combination of soundbar and AV receiver Slimline. The latter represents an AV receiver in a more compact design.

Of course, there are considerable differences between soundbars in terms of their dimensions, music performance, as well as the formats they support. In stereo sound, the speakers are placed on the left and right inside the soundbar.
For 5.1 surround sound, there is another speaker in the center of the compact device. In addition to that, two speakers are located on the back of its to create a room-filling sound. Review based on product ratings and general pros and cons of the category.