PHILIPS B5309 2.1 Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer: features and specs

The PHILIPS B5309 (model TAB5309/37) is a 2.1-channel soundbar with a separate wireless subwoofer, finished in dark grey. It is designed to give a TV more presence than built-in speakers usually manage, with clearer voices, more bass and a wider soundstage. Here is what the main features mean in practice.

What 2.1 channels means

The "2" in 2.1 refers to the left and right channels inside the bar, and the ".1" is the subwoofer, which handles low frequencies. Splitting the bass off to a separate unit lets the bar concentrate on voices and mid-range detail, while the subwoofer adds weight to explosions, music and film scores. Because the subwoofer is wireless, it needs only a power outlet and can usually be placed anywhere in the room within range. Philips quotes up to 240W maximum power.

DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Digital Plus

The listing highlights two audio technologies. DTS Virtual:X is a virtual surround and height processing system: it uses signal processing to make sound seem to come from a wider and taller space without extra speakers. Philips says it can be switched on from the remote or the Philips Home Entertainment app.

Dolby Digital Plus compatibility means the soundbar can decode that surround format, which is common on streaming services and many discs. Virtual surround from a single bar is a simulation, so the effect varies with room shape and where you sit, but it typically widens the sound compared with a TV alone.

EQ modes and Dialogue Enhancement

There are four EQ modes so you can pick a sound style for what is playing, for example movies, music or news. Philips also includes Dialogue Enhancement, which it says makes voices clearer in any mode. That feature is useful for anyone who finds speech hard to follow under loud background music or effects.

Connections and control

The bar connects to a TV through HDMI eARC. In general, eARC carries higher-quality audio from the TV and lets the TV remote control the bar's volume, so you need fewer remotes. Philips says the bar works with a Roku TV remote, and with a Philips Ambilight TV the EasyLINK function lets the TV remote switch EQ presets and adjust bass and treble.

Other inputs are audio-in, USB and optical. For wireless audio there is Bluetooth 5.4, and Philips lists compatibility with Bluetooth LE Audio. Phones and other devices that also support LE Audio typically get a steadier link and less lag, while older devices connect as normal Bluetooth sources.

Size and placement

The bar measures about 30.2 inches wide, 3.6 inches deep and 2.6 inches tall (about 77 x 9 x 6.6 cm) and weighs 10.2 lb (about 4.6 kg), as the listing gives it. A bar this wide suits TVs of roughly 40 inches and up, though that is a general guide rather than a Philips statement. Its low profile helps it sit in front of a TV without blocking the screen or the remote sensor; check your TV stand height.

Who it suits

It suits people who want a clear step up from TV speakers without a multi-speaker home theatre setup: a living room, bedroom or small den. It is also suited to anyone who wants to stream music over Bluetooth to the same system.

What to check before you buy

• TV ports: check that your TV has HDMI ARC or eARC, or an optical output.
• Bar fit: measure your TV stand and the gap below the screen against the 30.2-inch width.
• Subwoofer spot: it needs a power outlet nearby, so plan where it will sit.
• Wall mounting: the listing doesn't mention it, so check the manual or packaging for mounting options.
• Source devices: Bluetooth LE Audio benefits depend on your phone or tablet also supporting it.
• What's in the box: confirm the remote, cables and power supplies against the manual.

The short version

• A 2.1-channel soundbar with a wireless subwoofer and up to 240W maximum power.
• DTS Virtual:X virtual 3D sound and Dolby Digital Plus compatibility.
• Four EQ modes plus Dialogue Enhancement.
• HDMI eARC, optical, audio-in and USB inputs; Bluetooth 5.4 with LE Audio.
• About 30 inches wide and 10.2 lb.

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