Best New Soundbars & Wireless Audio Systems from CES 2026

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Home audio took a leap forward at CES 2026, with major brands unveiling advanced soundbars and wireless speakers that promise cinematic immersion and flexible, high-res audio. Whether you’re planning a new setup or eyeing an upgrade, these products showcased on Home Theater Geeks by Scott Wilkinson reveal where home theater sound is headed.

Biggest Audio Innovations Announced at CES 2026

This year’s show brought significant updates from industry leaders like LG, Samsung, Klipsch, Focal, and Marantz. Standouts include flexible Dolby Atmos soundbar systems, high-resolution wireless speakers, and impressive floor-standing models—all designed to simplify installation and elevate listening experiences.

LG H7 FlexConnect Soundbar and Dolby Atmos Flex Connect

LG showcased its H7 FlexConnect soundbar paired with Dolby Atmos FlexConnect technology. This feature allows users to place compatible wireless speakers anywhere in a room, letting the Dolby algorithm automatically calibrate sound for optimal immersive audio, regardless of speaker placement.

• Works with any TV; some LG TVs have FlexConnect built in.
• Easy setup for expanding or upgrading your system.

Samsung HW-Q990H and HW-QS90H Soundbars

Samsung announced its flagship HW-Q990H (11 channels: 7.0.2 main bar plus 0.2 rear speakers, dual 8-inch subwoofers) and the more affordable HW-QS90H (7.1.2 channels). These systems deliver surround sound with minimal setup and no need to run speaker wires.

• Flexible speaker placement and automatic calibration.
• Expect rich, enveloping sound for movies, gaming, and music.

Klipsch, Focal, and Ultra-Premium High-Res Audio

• Klipsch updated their powered speaker line—The Fives II, Sevens II, and Nines II—all with built-in Dirac Live room correction. The correction ensures accurate sound, though full-bandwidth calibration (especially bass management for subwoofers) costs extra. Prices range from $2,000–$2,400 per pair, shipping this spring.
• Focal partnered with Naim for the ultra-high-end Mu-so Hekla all-in-one Atmos system ($3,600) and the Diva Mezza Utopia active wireless floorstanders ($69,000/pair), delivering high power, wireless hi-res, and advanced room calibration.

Features to Watch For

Flexible Wireless Placement

Dolby Atmos Flex Connect and Samsung’s smart calibration make it easier to position speakers without worrying about sound accuracy. This is ideal for renters or those unwilling to commit to permanent wiring.

Integrated Room Correction

Speakers like Klipsch’s new models and Focal’s high-end lines use embedded digital room calibration. Dirac Live (even with bandwidth limits) helps correct acoustic problems caused by room shape or furniture placement, bringing out the best in your speakers.

High-Resolution and Spatial Audio Support

New models tout support for 24-bit/96kHz sound, wide frequency response, and spatial audio features—catering to audiophiles who demand pristine playback. Products like Samsung Music Studio LS70H and Focal’s Diva Mezza Utopia push these technical boundaries.

What This Means for You

On Home Theater Geeks, Scott Wilkinson emphasized how these 2026 releases lower the barriers for immersive home audio:

• Upgrading is easier with flexible wireless options, with no complex installations needed.
• More lifelike sound is now achievable in living rooms, not just dedicated theater rooms.
• Budget matters: While ultra-high-end speakers impress, most users will see the biggest gains from smarter soundbars and midrange powered speakers.

Pricing, Availability, and Suitability

• LG H7 Flex Connect: Ideal for those wanting a simple, expandable Atmos system.
• Samsung HW-Q990H/QS90H: Great for users after plug-and-play surround.
• Klipsch (The Fives II, Sevens II, Nines II): For traditional stereo lovers seeking modern connectivity and room correction. Ships spring 2026.
• Focal Muso Hekla and Diva Mezza Utopia: For the luxury segment willing to pay a premium for cutting-edge wireless and room correction.

The Big Takeaways

• CES 2026 saw a wave of audio tech that makes cinematic, high-res sound easier to get and tailor to your space.
• Prioritize systems with flexible placement and room correction for the best practical upgrade.
• For most users, flagship soundbars or advanced powered speakers deliver huge improvement without the cost or complexity of traditional multi-speaker setups.

If you’re looking to maximize your home theater experience in 2026, focus on wireless, flexible audio systems with robust room calibration. These advances mean better sound with less setup, and options for every budget. For more expert recommendations, subscribe to Home Theater Geeks for the latest coverage and reviews.

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