Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar Review: Elevating Your Home Audio Experience Without Breaking the Bank

There’s a universal truth for anyone who’s invested in a modern television: while the picture quality can be breathtaking, the sound often falls frustratingly flat. We’ve all been there – settling into a new series or an epic movie, only for the dialogue to get lost in a muddy mix, or for action sequences to lack any real impact. Integrated TV speakers, designed to be as thin and discreet as possible, simply can’t deliver the depth, clarity, or immersive experience that today’s content demands. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it actively detracts from your entire entertainment experience, making compelling visuals feel hollow and emotional scenes less impactful. Without proper audio, you’re missing half the story, half the thrill, and half the immersion. The good news is, you don’t need a sprawling, expensive home theatre system to bridge this gap. A well-chosen soundbar, like the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar, offers a practical, space-saving, and remarkably effective solution to transform your living room into a truly engaging audio environment.

What to Consider Before Investing in a Speaker System

A speaker system is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for transforming your home entertainment. It dramatically improves dialogue clarity, provides rich, deep bass for movies and music, and creates a more expansive soundstage that pulls you into the action. The primary problems this product category solves are the limitations of built-in TV speakers – their lack of volume, clarity, bass, and overall immersive quality. The main benefits are a richer, more dynamic, and enjoyable audio experience for all your media, from blockbuster films and live sports to music streaming and gaming.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the pervasive issue of underwhelming television audio, who desires a significant upgrade without the complexity, expense, or space requirements of a traditional multi-component home theatre system. This includes casual viewers, movie enthusiasts, gamers, and music lovers who appreciate good sound but prioritize simplicity and a compact footprint. It might not be suitable for those who consider themselves extreme audiophiles seeking precise sound imaging, expansive multi-channel setups with upward-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos, or those with very large dedicated media rooms where more powerful, individual components would be more appropriate. For such users, investing in a high-end receiver and separate, dedicated speakers might be a better (albeit more costly and complex) alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: Soundbars are designed to be sleek and unobtrusive, but their length and height are still critical. You need to ensure the soundbar will fit comfortably under your TV without obstructing the screen or the remote control’s IR sensor. Consider your TV stand’s width and depth, and if wall-mounting, the available wall space. A compact model like the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar is ideal for TVs 32 inches or larger, ensuring it won’t overwhelm smaller setups.
• Capacity/Performance: Don’t get solely fixated on peak wattage; look for RMS (Root Mean Square) power for a more accurate representation of continuous output. More important is the soundbar’s ability to produce clear dialogue, powerful bass, and balanced mid-range frequencies. Check for connectivity options like HDMI (ARC/eARC), Bluetooth for wireless streaming, and auxiliary inputs. A built-in subwoofer, as found in the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar, simplifies setup and saves space while still delivering impactful bass.
• Materials & Durability: The construction materials impact both aesthetics and longevity. While many soundbars feature plastic enclosures, look for solid, well-finished plastics that feel robust. Metal grilles offer better protection for speakers than fabric covers. Durability also extends to the remote control – ensure it feels good in hand and that its buttons are responsive and clearly labelled for long-term use.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: The beauty of a soundbar lies in its simplicity. Look for easy setup via HDMI ARC, which allows your TV remote to control the soundbar’s volume and power. Bluetooth pairing should be straightforward for mobile devices. Maintenance is usually minimal, involving just dusting the unit, but good design prevents dust from accumulating in hard-to-reach areas. Consider automatic power on/off features for seamless integration with your TV.

Keeping these factors in mind, the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar stands out in several areas. You can explore its detailed specifications here.

While the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar

Unboxing the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar was an experience defined by simplicity and practicality. From the moment we lifted it from its packaging, the “all-in-one compact design” promised by Hisense was immediately apparent. There was no cumbersome separate subwoofer to wrestle with, no tangle of extra cables for satellite speakers. Just the sleek, single bar, neatly protected, alongside its remote control, power cable, and an included HDMI (ARC) cable – a thoughtful touch that saves an immediate trip to the electronics store. Its dimensions, 78.5 cm in length, 14 cm in width, and 13.5 cm in height, indicate a unit that will sit comfortably beneath most 32-inch and larger televisions, without obstructing the screen or looking disproportionately large. The item weight of 2.2 kg feels solid enough to suggest decent components, yet light enough to be easily managed during setup.

The aesthetic is understated and modern, with a black finish that blends seamlessly with most entertainment setups. The front-facing speakers are subtly integrated, and the built-in subwoofer’s presence is cleverly disguised within the unit’s compact form factor. Compared to some bulkier soundbars we’ve encountered, the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar feels refreshingly minimal, reflecting a design philosophy focused on integration rather than overt presence. Our initial impression was one of a well-conceived, budget-friendly solution poised to deliver an immediate upgrade to television audio, without demanding a significant re-arrangement of our living space.

Deep Dive into the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar’s Performance

When it comes to sound solutions, the real test is in the performance. The Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar promised an all-in-one compact design with powerful bass, and we were eager to put it through its paces across various scenarios. What we discovered was a well-balanced performer that lives up to most of its claims, particularly considering its accessible price point.

Effortless Setup and Seamless Integration

One of the most appealing aspects of the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar is its truly plug-and-play nature. Our experience setting it up was remarkably straightforward, taking mere minutes from unboxing to full functionality. The provided HDMI (ARC) cable is a game-changer, simplifying connectivity to a single wire. We simply connected the HDMI ARC port on the soundbar to the corresponding port on our test television, selected HDMI ARC as the source via the included remote, and that was it. The TV automatically detected the soundbar, and crucially, our TV remote seamlessly took over volume control, eliminating the need to juggle multiple remotes – a minor detail that makes a huge difference in daily convenience. This seamless integration extends to its automatic power on/off with the TV, making the soundbar feel like a natural extension of your television rather than an added peripheral.

This simplicity is consistently echoed in user feedback, with many highlighting the “easy setup with HDMI ARC” and how “TV on puts the soundbar on too,” underscoring the intuitive design. For those unfamiliar with audio setups, this user-friendly approach is invaluable. The “Roku TV Ready” feature is another testament to this focus on integration, ensuring full compatibility for Roku TV owners to control both devices with a single Roku TV remote. We found this level of convenience to be a significant advantage, proving that enhancing your audio doesn’t have to be a complicated endeavour. The Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar’s dedication to a hassle-free user experience truly sets it apart for those seeking an immediate and effective audio upgrade, and you can truly appreciate this ease of use when you experience its simple setup for yourself.

Immersive Audio with Surprisingly Impactful Bass

The “all-in-one” designation for the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar is more than just a space-saving promise; it’s a testament to its audio capabilities. With a built-in subwoofer and two front-facing speakers, the unit is engineered to deliver a full-bodied sound experience from a single compact chassis. We immediately noticed a dramatic improvement over our TV’s native speakers. Dialogue, often muffled and indistinct on television, became crisp and clear. This is particularly noticeable in movies and TV shows where complex soundscapes can easily overpower speech. The dedicated mid and high-range drivers do an excellent job of projecting voices, ensuring we never missed a word.

However, the real surprise comes from the powerful, full-bodied bass frequencies generated by the built-in subwoofer. For its compact size, the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar delivers a genuinely impressive thump. During intense action sequences in films, explosions resonated with satisfying depth, and musical scores gained a richness that was completely absent before. We appreciated the ability to adjust the bass levels via the remote, allowing us to fine-tune the sound to our preference or room acoustics – a feature users also praised, noting they had “to turn the bass down as it’s so powerful for my medium sized living room.” While one user astutely observed that the bass might be “somewhat ‘forced'” due to the inherent limitations of small drivers, we found that for a soundbar in this category, it’s an excellent compromise, providing impactful low-end without needing a separate, bulky component. This carefully engineered balance of clear highs and robust lows creates an immersive audio experience that transforms casual viewing into a more cinematic event.

Versatile Connectivity and Everyday Utility

Beyond its core function of enhancing TV audio, the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar proves to be a highly versatile piece of equipment. Its array of connectivity options—HDMI (ARC), Bluetooth, AUX, and USB—ensures it can serve multiple roles within a modern entertainment setup. We tested the wireless Bluetooth connectivity extensively, pairing it effortlessly with various smart devices, including smartphones and tablets. The connection was stable and reliable, making it a fantastic solution for streaming music wirelessly. Whether we were playing background music during dinner or filling the room with a focused playlist, the soundbar handled diverse genres with commendable clarity and surprising punch. This transforms it from a mere TV accessory into a standalone audio system for your living space.

The inclusion of an AUX input is perfect for connecting older devices that lack Bluetooth, while the USB port offers another convenient way to play digital audio files directly. Many users confirmed our findings, noting that “Bluetooth works flawlessly” and praising the “great input options.” The Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar is also optimized for use as a PC speaker, which we found particularly beneficial for gaming or watching videos on a desktop setup, providing a much richer audio experience than typical computer speakers. This flexibility in connectivity significantly enhances the value proposition of the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar, making it a central hub for all your audio needs, regardless of the source. For a seamless audio upgrade that encompasses all your devices, the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar is a stellar choice, and you can discover its full potential today.

Thoughtful Design and Daily Usability

The Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar isn’t just about sound; its design and practical features contribute significantly to its overall appeal. Its compact footprint (78.5 x 14 x 13.5 cm) ensures it fits neatly into various setups, particularly beneficial for those with limited space or smaller TV stands. We found its modest height meant it rarely obstructed the TV screen, even on lower stands, which is a common complaint with bulkier soundbars. The sleek, black finish gives it a premium feel that belies its affordable price point, allowing it to blend seamlessly with existing home décor rather than drawing undue attention. Users echoed this, stating its “sleek design looks great under the TV” and that its “unit length is perfect for corner units like mine. Not high either so doesn’t obstruct screen at all.”

The remote control, while functional, did present a minor point of contention for us, and for some users. The lettering on the buttons is quite small and can be indistinct in low light, which requires some familiarity with its layout. However, once accustomed, navigating through sound modes (Movie, Music, Sports, News, Game, Night, AI) and adjusting bass levels becomes intuitive. The soundbar’s automatic on/off function with the TV, enabled via HDMI ARC, further enhances its user-friendliness, eliminating the need for constant manual intervention. The build, while primarily plastic, feels robust enough for daily use, though we noted a user’s concern about the optical cable socket’s fragility, urging careful handling. Despite these minor points, the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar delivers a strong package in terms of daily usability and aesthetic integration, proving that thoughtful design can elevate the entire user experience.

What Other Users Are Saying

Our expert assessment of the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar is strongly supported by the general sentiment among other users, many of whom highlight the significant upgrade it offers over standard TV speakers. A common theme is the product’s excellent value for money and ease of setup. One user enthusiastically described it as a “fantastic soundbar! Easy setup with HDMI ARC, Bluetooth works flawlessly. The subwoofer delivers deep bass while voices stay clear. Fills the room with rich 240W sound, perfect for movies, music, and gaming. Sleek design looks great under the TV. Great value for the price—highly recommend!” This aligns perfectly with our findings regarding its simple integration and impressive audio output for its class.

Another user specifically mentioned the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar, confirming our seamless setup experience: “Setup was super simple – connect to HDMI ARC sockets with cable included, set source (with remote) on HS214 to HDMI ARC and that’s it! TV on puts the soundbar on too.” They added that having spent their life in the music industry, they thought “the sound is pretty good. Plenty of Bass, especially in Movie or Music mode that can be adjusted on the remote.” However, it’s not without its minor drawbacks. One critical piece of feedback that resonated with our observations was about the remote control: “Lettering on Remote is too indistinct.” Additionally, a user noted some build quality concerns, stating: “It’s plastic. The Optical cable socket door broke right away… Just be careful if you’re using an optical connection.” These candid observations provide a balanced perspective, reinforcing that while the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar is a formidable performer, a few minor refinements could elevate it further.

Comparing the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar to Top Alternatives

While the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar presents a compelling package for an affordable and compact audio upgrade, it’s always insightful to see how it stacks up against other popular choices in the market. Each alternative caters to slightly different needs or priorities, offering consumers a range of options.

1. ZVOX AV157 Sound Bar with AccuVoice

The ZVOX AV157 Sound Bar with AccuVoice carves out a niche for itself by prioritizing dialogue clarity above all else. Its patented AccuVoice technology, with twelve levels of voice boost, is specifically designed to make speech exceptionally clear, a godsend for those with hearing difficulties or who frequently struggle to understand dialogue in movies and TV. While the ZVOX AV157 excels in speech enhancement, it does so at the expense of a rich, full-bodied sound experience. It lacks the powerful, immersive bass provided by the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar’s built-in subwoofer, and its overall soundstage is less expansive. Therefore, if your primary concern is crisp, intelligible dialogue and deep bass or cinematic immersion is secondary, the ZVOX AV157 might be a superior choice. However, for a balanced home entertainment upgrade that excels in both clear voices and impactful low-end, the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar remains the more versatile option for general use.

2. CREATIVE Stage SE Under-monitor Soundbar

The CREATIVE Stage SE Under-monitor Soundbar positions itself as an excellent solution for desktop and smaller living room setups, emphasizing USB digital audio and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity. Its under-monitor design makes it incredibly compact and space-efficient, ideal for pairing with a PC or a small TV where even the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar might feel a bit large. It offers features like Clear Dialog and Surround by Sound Blaster, aiming to enhance the audio experience in confined spaces. However, its smaller form factor typically means a less powerful audio output and a more limited bass response compared to the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar. While the CREATIVE Stage SE is a fantastic upgrade over integrated monitor or laptop speakers, and a solid choice for space-constrained environments, it won’t deliver the room-filling sound or the deep, adjustable bass that the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar can achieve for movies and music in a typical living room. It’s a specialist for small spaces, whereas the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar offers broader home entertainment appeal.

3. Edifier T5 8 Inch 70 Watt Powered Subwoofer

The Edifier T5 8 Inch 70 Watt Powered Subwoofer stands apart from the other alternatives, as it is solely a subwoofer and not a complete soundbar system. This product is designed for users who already have an existing speaker setup – perhaps a stereo pair of bookshelf speakers or a basic soundbar lacking in bass – and wish to add significant low-end punch. With an 8-inch driver and 70 watts of power, it is capable of delivering deep, resonant bass that would undoubtedly enhance any audio system. However, it requires a separate audio output from your existing system, and it does not provide any mid-range or high-frequency audio on its own. The Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar, by contrast, is a complete, standalone audio solution that provides clear dialogue, balanced mids, and integrated bass from a single unit. Therefore, the Edifier T5 is ideal for audio enthusiasts looking to augment an existing system’s bass, while the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar is the go-to choice for those seeking an all-encompassing, simple, and effective audio upgrade straight out of the box.

Final Verdict: Is the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar Worth It?

After extensive testing and cross-referencing with user experiences, our final verdict on the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar is overwhelmingly positive. It successfully delivers on its promise to provide a significant, tangible upgrade to television audio without demanding a premium price tag or complicated setup. Its true “all-in-one” design, integrating a powerful built-in subwoofer, means you get impactful bass and clear dialogue from a single, compact unit, perfectly suited for most living rooms and TVs 32 inches and larger. The effortless setup via HDMI ARC, coupled with seamless TV remote integration, makes it incredibly user-friendly, a feature that we, and countless other users, truly appreciate. Add to that its versatile Bluetooth connectivity for music streaming, and you have a powerhouse audio solution for all your media needs.

While minor issues like the remote’s indistinct lettering and a somewhat plastic build might be noted, these are small compromises when weighed against its overall performance and exceptional value. For anyone tired of their TV’s lacklustre sound and seeking an affordable, hassle-free path to richer, more immersive home entertainment for movies, music, and games, the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar is a highly recommended choice. It’s a smart investment that will instantly elevate your viewing and listening pleasure, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune for great sound.

If you’ve decided the Hisense HS214 All-in-one Soundbar is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.