PHILIPS B5706 2.1 Soundbar with Subwoofer: features, specs and fit

The Philips B5706 (model TAB5706/37) is a 2.1-channel soundbar with a built-in subwoofer and 200W of output. It is meant to replace a TV's small speakers with louder, clearer dialogue and more bass, without a separate subwoofer box on the floor.

What 2.1 channels means

In "2.1", the 2 refers to left and right speakers and the .1 to a bass channel. Philips builds the subwoofer into the bar, so there is a single unit and nothing extra to place or wire. A built-in sub usually gives less deep bass than a separate one, but it takes less space and is simpler to set up.

Dolby Audio and Stadium EQ

Philips says Dolby Audio makes movies and music sound clearer and deeper. There is also a Stadium EQ mode aimed at sport: it adjusts the sound to feel like a live stadium while keeping commentary clear. Sound modes are a matter of taste, and you can switch back to normal listening.

Connections

• HDMI ARC: connects to a compatible TV by one cable; sound plays from the soundbar and the TV remote controls volume.
• Bluetooth-style wireless: Philips says you can pair a smartphone or tablet. Check the manual for the exact wireless standard.
• Audio-in: for a wired music source.
• USB: plays files from a USB drive.

HDMI ARC needs a TV port marked ARC, so check your TV before buying.

Size and mounting

The bar is about 36 inches wide, 7.1 inches deep and 5.1 inches high, and weighs 8.7 lb. The listing calls the profile low, so it can slide under many TVs, but check the height against your TV's stand and screen. It can sit on a stand or shelf or be mounted on a wall. Wall brackets are integrated, and a wall-mount bracket is in the box.

What's in the box

Power cord, two AAA batteries, a remote, the wall-mount bracket, a quick-start guide and a warranty card.

Who it suits

It suits people with a flat-panel TV whose built-in speakers sound thin, and small rooms where a separate subwoofer is awkward. It is a straightforward stereo-plus-bass bar, not a surround system.

What to check before you buy

• TV ports: look for HDMI ARC; otherwise check the audio-in route.
• Fit: measure the shelf or stand, and the gap under the TV.
• Wall mounting: use suitable fixings for your wall, and follow the manual.
• Room size: a single bar suits small to medium rooms.
• Bass expectations: a built-in sub is compact.
• Remote: confirm how the TV remote controls volume.

The short version

• A 200W 2.1-channel soundbar with a built-in subwoofer.
• Dolby Audio and a Stadium EQ mode.
• HDMI ARC, wireless pairing, audio-in and USB playback.
• About 36 inches wide and 8.7 lb, with integrated wall brackets.
• Includes remote, batteries, power cord and mount bracket.

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