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Philips TAB5306 2.1 Soundbar with Subwoofer: features, specs and who it suits
A 140W Philips 2.1-channel soundbar with a wireless subwoofer, HDMI ARC and Roku TV Ready support. What the channels and connections mean for TV sound.
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The Philips TAB5306 (B5306) is a 2.1-channel soundbar paired with a wireless subwoofer, with a total output of 140W. It's meant to improve on the thin sound of built-in TV speakers, with clearer dialogue and more bass, while staying compact enough for small rooms.
What 2.1 channels means
The "2" refers to left and right channels in the bar, and the ".1" is the separate subwoofer for low frequencies. This is a stereo layout plus bass, not a surround system with rear or height speakers. Philips says it brings out effects, score and dialogue. Because the subwoofer is wireless, you can place it where it suits the room, needing only a power outlet.
Total output of 140W is a figure for the system as a whole. Loudness in a room depends on the speakers and the space, so use the figure as a rough guide.
Roku TV Ready
The soundbar carries the Roku TV Ready badge. According to Philips, this means easier setup, quick access to sound settings and control from a Roku remote when it's paired with a Roku TV. It can still be used with other TVs through its standard inputs.
Connections
- HDMI ARC: one cable carries audio back from the TV, and the soundbar volume can then be controlled with the TV remote.
- Optical and audio-in: options for TVs or devices without HDMI ARC, or for a wired music source.
- Bluetooth: Philips says you can pair a smartphone or tablet for music.
- USB: play files from a USB drive.
Check your TV's back panel to see which of these it offers, because HDMI ARC ports are often labelled and may share a port with other inputs.
Placement and mounting
The soundbar is 37.9 inches (about 96 cm) wide, 14.8 inches deep and 8.5 inches high, according to the listing. Philips describes a trapezoid shape designed to sit on a TV stand or on any flat surface. Wall brackets are integrated and a wall mount bracket is included, so it can be mounted on the wall. If you mount it, follow the manual and use fixings suited to your wall type.
What's in the box
Philips lists the soundbar, a power cord, a remote with two AAA batteries, a wall mount bracket, a quick start guide and a warranty card.
Who it suits
It suits people replacing built-in TV speakers in a bedroom, apartment or small living room, Roku TV owners who want simple control, and anyone who wants film dialogue and bass without a full surround system. Anyone after rear or overhead effects would want a larger multichannel setup.
What to check before you buy
- TV inputs: confirm HDMI ARC, optical or analogue output on your TV.
- Width: compare the soundbar's width with your TV stand and the space below the screen.
- Subwoofer position: plan a spot with a power outlet and some clearance.
- Remote: check how volume control works with your TV.
- Room and neighbours: bass carries through floors and walls, so check how loud you'll play it.
The short version
- A 140W 2.1-channel soundbar with a wireless subwoofer.
- Roku TV Ready, with HDMI ARC, optical, audio-in, Bluetooth and USB.
- Placed on a surface or mounted using the included bracket.
- Includes remote with batteries, power cord and quick start guide.
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