They generally provide poor sound even compared to what you get with very budget stereo speakers & receiver. What you don't get with a sound bar is proper stereo (really, audio) separation. That's easy with wired speakers you can place where they need to be to optimize your space for the best sound possible. $200 is well inside the range where you could find some great used gear that would be perfect.
My advice? If the $200 is a hard limit, find either a used entry level AV receiver (at least 5.1) and two inexpensive speakers for now. Later on add the center channel and sub so you do it right.
cheers
Hello All,
I currently have a Vizio M50- E1, I want to purchase a Vizio Sound Bar, I would like some advice regarding Channel 2.1 or 3.1
My budget is about $200, which can get me either.
My Living Room is about 15'x19', of course i would be better off with a 3.1?...is there much of a difference? (between 2.1 and 3.1 with my living space?) or should i just save a little cash and purchase a 2.1 since there isn't much difference?
Thanks CNET group ![]()

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