Hisense HS2100 Sound Bar Review

Powerful Audio with Wireless Convenience

Published June 3, 2023 at 10:00 AM
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The Hisense HS2100 2.1 Channel Soundbar is a wallet-friendly audio solution designed to elevate your home entertainment experience. This compact system packs a punch with its impressive 240W max audio output, delivered through two powerful speakers and a wireless subwoofer. The inclusion of DTS Virtual:X technology promises to create an immersive 3D audio experience, enhancing your enjoyment of movies, TV shows, and music. While the HS2100 doesn't support Dolby Atmos, it does offer Dolby Audio and DTS decoding capabilities. The soundbar features easy connectivity options, including HDMI ARC and Bluetooth 5.3, making it simple to integrate into your existing setup. With six EQ modes and a user-friendly remote control, this soundbar aims to provide versatile audio performance for various content types, from action-packed movies to dialogue-heavy TV shows.

Hisense HS2100 Sound Bar Review: Verdict

Pros

  • Powerful 240W audio output
  • Wireless subwoofer for enhanced bass
  • DTS Virtual:X for immersive sound
  • Easy setup and connectivity options
  • Multiple EQ modes for audio customization

Cons

  • Limited low-frequency extension
  • No Dolby Atmos support
  • Some compression at max volume

The Hisense HS2100 2.1 channel soundbar delivers impressive audio performance at an affordable price point. With its 240W max audio output and wireless subwoofer, this system significantly enhances TV sound, providing a rich and immersive experience for movies, music, and games.

The inclusion of DTS Virtual:X technology is a standout feature, creating a spacious 3D soundstage that adds depth to your entertainment. While it lacks Dolby Atmos support, the HS2100 compensates with its ability to handle Dolby Digital and DTS content, ensuring compatibility with most modern audio formats.

Connectivity is a strong suit of the HS2100, with HDMI ARC and Bluetooth 5.3 offering seamless integration with TVs and mobile devices. The six preset EQ modes provide versatility, allowing users to tailor the audio to their preferences or specific content types.

However, the system does have some limitations. Despite the dedicated subwoofer, bass enthusiasts might find the low-frequency extension somewhat lacking for the deepest rumbles. Additionally, at maximum volume, there’s noticeable compression, which may affect audio quality during loud scenes or high-energy music.

Overall, the Hisense HS2100 offers excellent value for those looking to upgrade their TV audio without breaking the bank. Its combination of powerful output, wireless convenience, and audio enhancement features make it a solid choice for most home entertainment setups, particularly in small to medium-sized rooms.

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Style Model Number
240W with Wireless Subwoofer HS2100

Hisense HS2100 Sound Bar Review: Compared To Other Soundbars

Pros

  • Competitive price point for features offered
  • DTS Virtual:X technology enhances spatial audio
  • Wireless subwoofer for flexible placement

Cons

  • Limited low-frequency extension compared to some competitors
  • Lacks advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity

The Hisense HS2100 holds its ground well against other soundbars in its price range. Its 240W output and wireless subwoofer deliver a powerful audio experience that competes with more expensive models. The inclusion of DTS Virtual:X technology sets it apart from many budget options, offering an enhanced spatial audio experience that many users find impressive for the price point.

However, when compared to higher-end models, the HS2100 does show some limitations. While its bass performance is good for its class, it may not match the deep, rumbling lows of more premium soundbars with larger subwoofers. Additionally, unlike some competitors in the mid-range market, the HS2100 lacks Wi-Fi connectivity and advanced smart features. Despite these trade-offs, its combination of sound quality, ease of use, and affordability makes it a strong contender for those seeking to upgrade their TV audio without breaking the bank.

Vizio V-Series 2.1
2.1
The Vizio V-Series 2.1 offers similar features to the Hisense HS2100 but at a lower price point. While it may not match the HS2100's 240W output, it provides good value for budget-conscious buyers. The Hisense edges out with its DTS Virtual X technology and more EQ modes for better sound customization.
Sony HT-S200F
Black
Sony's HT-S200F is a compact 2.1 channel soundbar that competes with the Hisense HS2100. While it lacks a separate subwoofer, it offers a built-in subwoofer for space-saving. The Hisense HS2100 provides more powerful output and a dedicated wireless subwoofer for potentially better bass response.
TCL Alto 6+
Black
TCL's Alto 6+ is another budget-friendly 2.1 channel soundbar with a wireless subwoofer. While it offers good value, the Hisense HS2100 boasts higher power output and more advanced features like DTS Virtual X and multiple EQ modes, potentially offering a more immersive audio experience.
Yamaha SR-C20A
Black
The Yamaha SR-C20A is a compact soundbar that offers clear dialogue and surprising bass for its size. However, the Hisense HS2100 outperforms it in terms of total power output and the inclusion of a separate wireless subwoofer. The HS2100 also offers more connectivity options with its HDMI ARC port.

Hisense HS2100 Sound Bar Review: Design and Build Quality

Pros

  • Sleek and compact design fits most TV setups
  • Wireless subwoofer for flexible placement
  • Fabric mesh front adds aesthetic appeal

Cons

  • Plastic construction may feel less premium
  • Loose fabric mesh on some units

The Hisense HS2100 soundbar boasts a sleek and minimalist design that complements modern TV setups. Its compact dimensions of 31.5 inches wide, 2.4 inches high, and 3.5 inches deep allow it to fit discreetly under most televisions without obstructing the view. The soundbar features a black finish with a fabric mesh front, adding a touch of elegance to your entertainment area.

The build quality of the HS2100 is decent, considering its budget-friendly price point. While the main unit is primarily constructed of plastic, it feels sturdy enough for everyday use. The wireless subwoofer, a standout feature at this price range, offers flexibility in placement and contributes to the overall aesthetic by eliminating unsightly cables.

Some users have reported that the fabric mesh covering the front of the soundbar feels slightly loose on certain units, which may be a minor concern for long-term durability. Despite this, the overall design of the Hisense HS2100 strikes a good balance between functionality and aesthetics, making it an attractive option for those seeking to enhance their TV audio without compromising their living room’s appearance.

Hisense HS2100 Sound Bar Review: Sound Performance

Pros

  • Impressive 240W max audio output
  • DTS Virtual:X for immersive 3D sound
  • Wireless subwoofer for deep bass
  • Clear dialogue reproduction

Cons

  • Limited low-frequency extension
  • Some compression at max volume

The Hisense HS2100 soundbar delivers a surprisingly robust audio experience for its price point. With a total output of 240W, including the wireless subwoofer, it significantly enhances TV sound, providing a rich and immersive experience for movies, music, and games. The 2.1 channel configuration, featuring two full-range drivers and a dedicated subwoofer, effectively fills the room with sound, creating a solid foundation for various content types.

One of the standout features is the DTS Virtual:X technology, which creates a virtual surround sound experience. This technology enhances the perceived soundstage, giving the impression of a wider and more three-dimensional audio environment. While it may not match the immersion of a true multi-channel setup, it notably improves upon standard TV speakers, especially in dialogue clarity and overall sound separation.

The wireless subwoofer contributes significantly to the system’s performance, adding depth to low-end frequencies that punctuate action scenes and music. However, some users might find the bass lacking in the deepest rumbles, as the low-frequency extension is somewhat limited. Additionally, at maximum volume, there’s noticeable compression, which can affect audio quality during particularly loud scenes or high-energy music tracks.

Hisense HS2100 Sound Bar Review: Features and Connectivity

Pros

  • DTS Virtual:X for immersive 3D sound
  • Multiple connectivity options including HDMI ARC and Bluetooth 5.3
  • Six preset EQ modes for audio customization
  • Wireless subwoofer for flexible placement

Cons

  • No Wi-Fi connectivity for streaming services
  • Limited HDMI inputs

The Hisense HS2100 soundbar boasts an impressive array of features designed to enhance your audio experience. At the forefront is DTS Virtual:X technology, which creates a three-dimensional soundstage that immerses you in your entertainment. This virtual surround sound capability adds depth and height to the audio, making movies and music more engaging without the need for additional speakers.

Connectivity options are versatile, catering to various setups. The HDMI ARC port allows for easy connection to your TV, enabling control of both devices with a single remote. Bluetooth 5.3 technology provides stable wireless streaming from smartphones and tablets, ensuring you can enjoy your personal playlists with enhanced audio quality. For those preferring wired connections, the soundbar also includes optical and auxiliary inputs.

Audio customization is a strong suit of the HS2100, featuring six preset EQ modes tailored for different content types. Whether you’re watching movies, enjoying music, or catching up on news, a simple touch of the remote allows you to optimize the sound profile. The inclusion of a wireless subwoofer not only adds powerful bass to your setup but also offers flexibility in placement, allowing you to fine-tune your room’s acoustics without the hassle of cable management.

Hisense HS2100 Sound Bar Review: Setup and Ease of Use

Pros

  • Quick and straightforward setup process
  • HDMI ARC for simple TV connection
  • Automatic wireless subwoofer pairing
  • User-friendly remote control

Cons

  • Limited HDMI inputs
  • Manual pairing may be required occasionally

The Hisense HS2100 soundbar is designed for hassle-free setup, making it an attractive option for users who want to enhance their TV audio without complicated installation procedures. The package includes all necessary cables, including an HDMI cable, which allows for quick connection to most modern TVs through the HDMI ARC port. This single-cable solution not only simplifies the setup process but also enables users to control both the TV and soundbar with one remote, streamlining the overall user experience.

One of the standout features in terms of ease of use is the automatic pairing between the soundbar and the wireless subwoofer. In most cases, the two units will connect automatically once plugged in and powered on, eliminating the need for manual configuration. However, some users have reported occasional connectivity issues, requiring manual pairing by pressing the pair button on the subwoofer. Despite this minor inconvenience, the overall wireless setup contributes significantly to a cleaner, wire-free entertainment area.

The included remote control is intuitive and well-designed, offering easy access to various functions such as volume adjustment, input selection, and EQ mode changes. The six preset EQ modes can be quickly toggled using dedicated buttons, allowing users to optimize audio performance for different content types without navigating complex menus. While the soundbar’s functionality is comprehensive, some users might find the lack of additional HDMI inputs limiting, especially if they have multiple devices to connect directly to the soundbar.

Hisense HS2100 Sound Bar Review: Conclusion

The Hisense HS2100 2.1 channel soundbar delivers a compelling audio experience at an affordable price point. With its powerful 240W output and wireless subwoofer, this system significantly enhances TV sound, providing a rich and immersive experience for movies, music, and games. The inclusion of DTS Virtual:X technology is a standout feature, creating a spacious 3D soundstage that adds depth to your entertainment.

While the HS2100 offers impressive performance for its class, it does have some limitations. Bass enthusiasts might find the low-frequency extension somewhat lacking for the deepest rumbles, and there’s noticeable compression at maximum volume. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Hisense HS2100 presents excellent value for those looking to upgrade their TV audio without breaking the bank. Its combination of powerful output, wireless convenience, and audio enhancement features make it a solid choice for most home entertainment setups, particularly in small to medium-sized rooms.

                                 

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