High-end soundbar systems live or die by how good their surround speakers are. Sure, the main bar can be excellent, but if you're not getting immersive height channels and rear speaker information from behind you, there's just really no way to simulate it perfectly.

That’s why I was excited to test LG’s C5 OLED TV alongside its expandable Sound Suite system. I used two front speakers, two rear speakers, a soundbar, and a wireless subwoofer for bass. What makes the Sound Suite expandable is the ability to customize the setup: Opt for a bundled configuration or design your own with à la carte gear. Either way, it's a multidriver array that fills any medium-size room with immersive 3D Dolby Atmos sound, and one that finally gives top-of-the-line soundbars from Samsung and Sonos a run for their money.

If you want an upscale setup that has the fullest bass you can buy, consider your search over. Of all the systems I've tested this year, this one creates the strongest cinematic experience, and one that is significantly more immersive than all but the best premium competitors.

Sound Suite

No matter the exact configuration of your Sound Suite, the centerpiece of the system is the LG H7 soundbar, which features 12 speakers. The two front and two surround speakers are identical LG M7s, which are round rectangles with up-firing drivers that bounce sound off the ceiling to simulate the sound coming from above. The wireless subwoofer is a hefty 19 pounds, but its thin profile makes it easy to place, even in rooms with an awkward layout.