Audio Technology Expert
Complete guide to selecting the ideal soundbar based on your room size. Discover which Westinghouse model best fits your audio needs.
Your TV Sounds Good, But Could It Sound Amazing?
If you are looking for the best soundbar for living room and do not know where to start, this guide is for you. Choosing a soundbar is not just about power — it is about finding the perfect balance between your room size, entertainment habits, and budget.
Modern TVs are getting thinner, which means their built-in speakers sacrifice audio quality. A soundbar solves this problem, completely transforming your experience when watching movies, shows, sports, or listening to music at home.
In this complete guide, we walk you through how to choose the perfect soundbar for your space, compare Westinghouse Dolby Atmos options, and give personalized recommendations for every room type.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Soundbar
Before comparing models or brands, you need to understand which factors truly matter when selecting a soundbar. Not all spaces or users have the same needs.
A 15x18 foot living room needs more power than a 10x10 bedroom. Sound dispersion changes dramatically with dimensions.
Movies with surround effects? Music? Clear dialogue for shows? Each use prioritizes different audio characteristics.
HDMI ARC/eARC, Bluetooth, optical — your TV compatibility determines the signal quality you will receive.
From compact 2.0 bars to full 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos systems, there are options for every budget without sacrificing quality.
Which Soundbar Do You Need Based on Room Size?
Your room size is the most determining factor when choosing a soundbar. A system that is too powerful in a small space distorts, while an insufficient one in a large room gets lost.
| Room Size | Recommended Power | Ideal Type | Westinghouse Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (up to 130 sq ft) | 50-100W | 2.0 or 2.1 | WS200AM |
| Medium (130-215 sq ft) | 150-250W | 3.1 or 3.1.2 | WS312AS |
| Large (over 215 sq ft) | 300W+ | 5.1.2 with Atmos | WS512AWS |
For large rooms over 215 square feet, we recommend a soundbar with a wireless subwoofer. The subwoofer handles deep bass that fills the space, while the main bar manages voices and effects with clarity.
Channel Types: 2.0, 3.1, 5.1.2 — What Do They Mean?
The numbers in a soundbar configuration tell you exactly what type of audio experience you will get. Understanding this naming convention is fundamental to making the right purchase.
2.0 System — Basic Stereo Audio
Two channels (left and right), no subwoofer. Ideal for bedrooms or small spaces where you just need to improve your TV audio. The Westinghouse WS200AM is the perfect example: compact, affordable, and a significant upgrade over TV speakers.
3.1.2 System — Surround Audio with Height
Three front channels + subwoofer + 2 height channels. The Westinghouse WS312AS offers this: crystal-clear dialogue from the center channel, powerful bass, and sound coming from above for an immersive experience.
5.1.2 System — Full Dolby Atmos
Five channels + subwoofer + 2 height channels. The Westinghouse WS512AWS is the most complete system: true surround sound with effects that move around you and above you. Perfect for cinephiles and gamers.
Dolby Atmos: Is It Worth It in a Soundbar?
The short answer: yes, especially if you enjoy movies, shows, or video games with spatial audio. Dolby Atmos is not just an audio format — it is a revolution in how we experience sound at home.
What Makes Dolby Atmos Different?
- ✓Object-based audio: Instead of assigning sounds to fixed channels, Atmos positions each sound at a 3D point in space.
- ✓Vertical dimension: Adds height to sound — you hear planes fly overhead, raindrops fall from the sky.
- ✓Growing compatibility: Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV+, and Amazon Prime Video offer increasing Atmos content.
- ✓HDMI eARC connection: For the best Atmos quality, you need an HDMI eARC connection between your TV and bar.
Recommended Westinghouse Models for Each Space
Westinghouse offers three soundbars designed to cover every need and budget:
WS200AM — Mini Bar 2.0
Perfect for bedrooms, kitchens, or studios. Compact design ideal for 24" to 43" TVs. Bluetooth for music from your phone.
Starting at: $79 USD
WS312AS — 3.1.2 System with Subwoofer
The sweet spot for medium rooms. Includes wireless subwoofer for deep bass and height channels for near-surround experience.
Starting at: $219 USD
WS512AWS — Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 (Our Top Pick)
Westinghouse flagship system. True immersive audio with Dolby Atmos, 5 channels + subwoofer + 2 height channels. Turns your living room into a cinema.
Starting at: $379 USD
Installation Tips for the Best Sound
Proper placement can improve perceived audio quality by up to 40%. Follow these recommendations:
- At ear height: Place the bar at the same height as your ears when seated.
- No obstructions: Do not place objects in front of the bar — it needs a clear line to you.
- Subwoofer on the floor: The subwoofer works best on the floor, ideally in a corner to reinforce bass.
- Use HDMI eARC: Connect via HDMI eARC for maximum audio quality including lossless Dolby Atmos.
- Calibrate volume: Adjust subwoofer and channel levels individually until dialogue is clear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best soundbar for a large living room?
For rooms over 215 sq ft, we recommend a 5.1.2 system like the Westinghouse WS512AWS with Dolby Atmos. Its 410W power and wireless subwoofer completely fill the space with surround audio.
Do I need HDMI ARC or eARC for my soundbar?
HDMI ARC is sufficient for standard audio and Dolby Digital. For uncompressed Dolby Atmos, you need eARC. Most recent 4K TVs include at least one HDMI ARC port.
Is a 2.0 soundbar worth it?
Yes, absolutely. Even a 2.0 bar like the Westinghouse WS200AM offers a dramatic improvement over TV built-in speakers. For bedrooms and small spaces, it is the ideal choice.
Can I connect my soundbar via Bluetooth?
Yes, all Westinghouse models include Bluetooth. Great for streaming music from your phone. For movies, we recommend HDMI for lower audio latency.
Does Dolby Atmos work with all content?
Dolby Atmos requires content encoded in that format (available on Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV+). With regular content, the bar applies virtual upmixing for an enhanced surround effect.
Ready to Transform Your Audio?
Stop settling for flat TV sound. Choose the perfect Westinghouse soundbar for your space and enjoy a cinematic audio experience at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
For rooms over 215 sq ft, we recommend a 5.1.2 system like the Westinghouse WS512AWS with Dolby Atmos. Its 410W power and wireless subwoofer completely fill the space with surround audio.
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María García
Audio Technology Expert
Audio and home theater expert with THX certification. Specialized in surround sound systems and Dolby Atmos technology for the home.