Bose TV Speaker 2nd Gen Soundbar with Bluetooth, HDMI, Dolby Atmos Review
Compact Bose soundbar with clear dialogue, Bluetooth streaming, and simple HDMI-ARC setup.
| Brand | Bose |
|---|---|
| Category | Soundbars |
| Color | Black |
| Height | Just over 2 inches tall |
| Audio format | Dolby Atmos (listed in title) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, HDMI-ARC; optical audio cable sold separately |
| Best for | Clear TV dialogue in small rooms |
Product Overview
The Bose TV Speaker 2nd Gen is a compact soundbar designed to improve TV audio with clear dialogue, Bluetooth streaming, and simple HDMI-ARC setup. It includes a remote and stands just over 2 inches tall.
This review checks the listed features, design, connectivity, and expandability based on the manufacturer's specifications.
Score Breakdown
This verdict is based on the manufacturer's stated specifications, the current Amazon listing and its product images, the confirmed materials and design, real buyer ratings, and our research into the product category. Scores are consistent editorial judgments, not laboratory measurements, and we did not receive a paid sample.
Key Features
A dedicated center tweeter and Dialogue Mode raise vocals above background sound for speech-heavy content.
Angled left and right speakers create a wide, natural soundstage with deeper bass than the previous generation.
An HDMI cable is included for plug and play connection, with optical audio available as a separate purchase.
Pair music, audio, or podcasts from a device and control playback and volume with the included remote.
Works with Bose Bass Module 700 or Lifestyle Ultra subwoofer using a separate connection cable or 3.5 mm audio cable.
Design and Build Quality
The soundbar has a refreshed rounded design in black, keeping the same small size as the previous generation. It stands just over 2 inches tall, so it can sit in front of most TVs without blocking the screen.
The included remote handles Dialogue Mode, bass boost, volume, and Bluetooth playback. The listing does not confirm exact width or depth.
Performance in Everyday Use
The center tweeter and Dialogue Mode are designed to make speech clearer, while the angled left and right drivers aim for a wider soundstage. Bluetooth lets the bar double as a music speaker with remote control.
One limitation is bass depth. The bar has a bass boost button and claims deeper bass than the previous gen, but for substantial low end you must add a Bose Bass Module 700 or Lifestyle Ultra subwoofer, which requires a cable sold separately.
How It Performs: The Evidence
| Decision factor | What we found | Evidence and measurement | Score | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dialogue clarity | Center tweeter and Dialogue Mode | Feature bullet says center tweeter focuses on crystal-clear speech and Dialogue Mode raises vocals over background sound | 8.0 | Targeted speech enhancement but not independently tested |
| Soundstage | Angled left and right speakers | Feature bullet claims a wide, natural soundstage | 7.5 | Promising for front placement but limited by compact size |
| Bass | Deeper bass than previous gen and bass boost button | Feature bullet and remote description mention deeper bass and bass boost | 7.0 | Compact bar may not produce true deep bass without optional sub |
| Setup simplicity | HDMI cable included | Setup bullet says use included HDMI cable for seconds-long setup | 9.0 | Simple plug and play, optical sold separately |
| Expandability | Works with Bose subwoofers | Build and expand bullet lists Bose Bass Module 700 and Lifestyle Ultra compatibility | 6.5 | Requires separate cable purchase, adding cost and setup |
Who Should Buy It
- Small to medium living rooms
- Dialogue-heavy TV shows
- Bluetooth music listeners
- Simple HDMI-ARC setups
- Bedroom or office TVs
- Buyers wanting all-in-one deep bass
- Dolby Atmos details are not expanded in listing
- Subwoofer expansion needs separate cable
- Optical cable not included
Full Specifications
How It Compares
| Feature | Bose | Typical option | Higher-tier option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dialogue enhancement | Dedicated center tweeter and Dialogue Mode | May have a center channel but often lacks a dedicated dialogue mode | TV speakers or basic bars rarely lift vocals specifically |
| Setup | HDMI-ARC cable included, optical sold separately | HDMI and optical often both included | Analog or optical only, no HDMI |
| Wireless music | Bluetooth streaming with remote control | Bluetooth is common but remote may lack playback controls | No Bluetooth or app-only control |
| Dolby Atmos | Listed support in title | Mid-range rivals may offer virtual Atmos or none | Cheaper bars usually skip Atmos |
| Subwoofer expansion | Compatible with Bose Bass Module 700 or Lifestyle Ultra, cable sold separately | Often has dedicated sub out or proprietary sub included | No expansion option |
| Remote control | Included with bass boost and Dialogue Mode | Basic remote usually included | TV remote only |
Alternatives Worth a Look
The Bose TV Speaker 2nd Gen is a straightforward compact soundbar aimed at clearer dialogue and simpler setup. It is a solid choice for smaller spaces, but buyers wanting true deep bass will need the optional subwoofer and extra cable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bose TV Speaker 2nd Gen support Dolby Atmos?
The product title lists Dolby Atmos, but the feature bullets do not describe channel configuration. The listing confirms Dolby Atmos support in the title only.
What is included in the box?
The listing confirms the soundbar, remote control, and an HDMI cable. An optical audio cable is sold separately.
How tall is the soundbar?
It stands just over 2 inches tall according to the listing, with a rounded design.
Can I add a subwoofer later?
Yes, it is compatible with the Bose Bass Module 700 or Bose Lifestyle Ultra subwoofer, but you need a Bose Bass Module Connection Cable or a standard 3.5 mm audio cable, sold separately.
Does it have Bluetooth?
Yes, you can pair a phone or other device to stream music, audio, or podcasts and control playback with the included remote.
Can I connect it with an optical cable?
Yes, optical audio is supported, but the optical cable is sold separately; the box includes an HDMI cable.
This review is based on the manufacturer's stated specifications, the current Amazon product listing and its images, the confirmed materials and design, and our own research into soundbars as a product category. Our scores are editorial judgments made against consistent criteria, not laboratory measurements, and we did not carry out destructive or long-term stress testing.
Where the listing did not clearly confirm a detail, such as exact dimensions, weight or certifications, we have deliberately left it out rather than guess. If you are buying, always confirm the current specification and price on the live Amazon listing, since configurations and availability change.