What we found

None of the sound bars we tested were effective in large open-plan rooms. Even in a typical small lounge, our listening panel found only a small "sweet spot" (the ideal position to sit in that yields the best sound results) for all models.

When it came to faking surround sound, the Yahama YSP-4000 ($2999, pictured) scored highest, but was let down by very poor energy use. The cheaper YSP-600 ($1299) was a close second to the YSP-4000 in most respects.

Both the Denon DHT-FS3 ($1999) and the Denon FS5 ($899) produced sounds that were biased to the right. We couldn't find a way of compensating for this - Denon couldn't either, when we asked them. The FS5 was easy to set up and use; but it doesn't come with a subwoofer, which limits the amount of bass it can output.

The Samsung HT-X810 ($1299) had the worst overall surround-sound experience yet some of the best technical audio quality. It also has a built-in DVD player and a wireless subwoofer.

We can't recommend any of these models - although some may be worth considering. We suggest you wait and see whether the technology improves ...

How we tested

The sound bars were set up in a typical small "lounge" with furnishings and were calibrated to the manufacturer's specifications. A panel of three expert listeners judged each model's ability to accurately output stereo music, 5.1 music, and 5.1 movie audio. Particular attention was paid to each model's rendition of an immersive surround-sound experience; and this rendition was immediately compared with the sound from a standard 5.1 stereo setup.

The technical quality of the sound was tested in an echo-free sound chamber. We measured each sound bar's frequency response, total harmonic distortion, subwoofer (bass) integration, and channel separation.