Best Audio Bar for TV: Does Voice-Boost Mode Really Help?

When it comes to watching our favorite shows or movies, we often find ourselves straining to hear dialogue clearly. Whether it's because of the surround sound or the speakers themselves, it can be frustrating when we can't make out what's being said. To address this issue, many audio bars have introduced voice-boost modes, designed specifically for people with hearing loss. But do these modes really work?

To find out, we recruited six hard-of-hearing individuals to test three different soundbars and their respective voice-boost modes. Our listeners included both men and women, ranging in age from 49 to 79, who wore hearing aids or had some degree of hearing loss but didn't use them. We also invited an audiologist, Julie Glick of Musicians Hearing Solutions in Los Angeles, to recommend three patients for our study.

Our testing revealed that voice-boost modes can indeed help improve dialogue clarity for people with hearing loss. The modes we tested boosted midrange frequencies, where voices reside, and sometimes emphasized the center channel of surround-sound mixes. While some of these modes may have sounded unnatural or unpleasant to those with healthy hearing, our hard-of-hearing listeners found them effective in making dialogue easier to understand.

But before you rush out to buy a soundbar with voice-boost mode, it's important to note that this technology is not without its limitations. Some soundbars may compress the sound to make quiet voices sound louder, which can result in an unnatural listening experience. Additionally, audio engineers may not always put much effort into creating special listening modes, so it's essential to research and read reviews before making a purchase.

Ultimately, finding the best audio bar for TV with voice-boost mode requires careful consideration of your specific needs and preferences. By understanding how these modes work and what features are most important to you, you can find a soundbar that meets your unique requirements and enhances your viewing experience.

Best audio bar for tv