Is the Fire TV Soundbar Plus worth the price? Learn how this 5.1-channel system works, its limitations with Dolby Atmos, and how it handles your home audio.
Based on reporting by Lifehacker. Research, structure, and fact-checking by Groundwork.
The Fire TV Soundbar Plus offers a straightforward, budget-friendly path to 5.1 surround sound. It excels at improving dialogue clarity and horizontal immersion, though it lacks true overhead Atmos performance and smart speaker capabilities. It is best for users seeking a simple, plug-and-play upgrade over built-in TV speakers.
While the system will process Atmos metadata, it lacks the physical hardware to bounce sound off the ceiling to create true overhead immersion. As noted in technical assessments by PCMag, users expecting a premium "3D" audio experience with distinct verticality may find the virtual height effects subtle. The system succeeds at horizontal immersion through its rear speakers but does not replicate the precise overhead positioning of higher-end, dedicated Atmos systems.
Despite the "Fire TV" branding, this soundbar is not an Alexa-enabled device, nor does it support Alexa Home Theater integration. This distinction is crucial for users who rely on smart speakers to control their home environment or who expect the soundbar to function as a node in an existing multi-room audio network.
Instead, the device relies on HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) for basic integration. This allows you to control power and volume using your existing TV remote, provided your television supports HDMI ARC or eARC. While this simplifies daily use, it removes the advanced smart-home customization features found in dedicated smart soundbars.
Because the system lacks advanced room calibration software—a feature common in more expensive home theater receivers—you are limited to the sound presets provided by the interface, such as Movie, Music, and Sports modes. While this "plug-and-play" approach is ideal for beginners, it provides fewer opportunities for granular audio tuning compared to professional-grade equipment.
No, the Fire TV Soundbar Plus is not Alexa-enabled. It does not function as an Echo device and cannot be used for voice-controlled smart home automation or multi-room music streaming.
Only the main soundbar requires a wired connection to your television via HDMI. The subwoofer and the two rear satellite speakers connect to the soundbar wirelessly, requiring only a power outlet for each.
You can still connect the system using a standard HDMI ARC port or an optical cable. However, an eARC connection is required to take full advantage of the highest-quality audio formats like Dolby TrueHD.
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