Passive thin soundbars connect to the speaker-level outputs on a compatible A/V receiver or amplifier, with the soundbar’s left, center, and right channels wired to the matching outputs. Connect a powered subwoofer to the receiver’s subwoofer output, and connect surround speakers to the receiver’s surround-channel outputs for a complete theater system.

Thin soundbars commonly include low-profile wall brackets for placement below a wall-mounted TV, with some designs offering integrated mounting posts, adjustable positioning, or templates to simplify installation. For cabinet-based installations, a kickstand or shelf-placement support lets the soundbar rest on a TV stand or cabinet, while optional brackets can attach the soundbar to compatible articulating TV mounts.

Three-channel thin soundbars combine independent left, center, and right channels in one slim enclosure, providing a discrete front stage with less wall clutter than separate speakers. Traditional left, center, and right speakers allow more flexibility in placement, while a thin soundbar can simplify installation near a flat-panel TV and still connect with an AV receiver, surround speakers, and a subwoofer.

Choose a thin soundbar that suits your TV’s width, such as a fixed size for TVs from 46 to 52 inches, a larger option for 55-inch or larger TVs, or an expandable design for 50- to 70-inch displays. For the room layout, use a wall-mount bracket for a clean installation below the TV or a kickstand for shelf or cabinet placement, and consider the three-channel left, center, and right design when you want focused front-stage audio with an AV receiver, surround speakers, or a subwoofer.