Philips TAB5109 2.0 Soundbar 120W Bluetooth Review: The Budget Audio Upgrade Your TV Deserves?

Let’s be honest. You’ve just invested in a stunning, razor-thin 4K television. The picture is so crisp you can count the pores on an actor’s face. But when the epic orchestral score swells or a dramatic dialogue unfolds, the sound that emerges is… flat. It’s thin, tinny, and completely devoid of the weight and emotion the filmmakers intended. We’ve all been there. My own living room setup suffered from this exact problem for months. The built-in speakers on my otherwise excellent TV were an afterthought, firing sound downwards or backwards, resulting in muffled dialogue and a non-existent soundstage. It turns a blockbuster movie into a muted disappointment and a gripping series into a constant struggle with the volume remote. Upgrading your audio isn’t a luxury; it’s essential to unlocking the full potential of your home entertainment experience.

What to Consider Before Buying a Soundbar

A soundbar is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for reclaiming the immersive audio that modern television design has sacrificed. It’s the simplest and most effective way to achieve a cinematic sound experience without the complexity and clutter of a traditional multi-speaker surround sound system. The primary benefit is a massive leap in audio fidelity, providing clarity, depth, and a wider soundstage that makes everything from action sequences to quiet conversations feel more present and impactful. With a single, elegant bar and minimal wiring, it declutters your media centre while dramatically enhancing your viewing pleasure.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone living in a small-to-medium-sized space, like an apartment, bedroom, or a moderately sized living room, who is seeking a significant, no-fuss audio upgrade. It’s for the person who values simplicity, ease of use (especially with features like HDMI ARC), and a clean aesthetic. However, a 2.0 channel soundbar like this might not be suitable for those who are dedicated audiophiles demanding true, multi-channel surround sound or for individuals with very large, open-plan living areas where a more powerful system with a dedicated subwoofer would be necessary to fill the space. For those users, a more robust 3.1 or 5.1 system, or even a full AV receiver setup, would be a better investment.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: Measure the space below your TV. The Philips TAB5109 2.0 Soundbar 120W Bluetooth measures 96 cm in length, making it an ideal visual match for TVs that are 43 inches and larger. Consider if you will place it on a media unit or wall-mount it, and ensure you have the clearance and appropriate aesthetic fit for your setup.
• Performance & Power: A soundbar’s power is measured in watts (W). At 120W max output, this Philips model is more than capable of filling a small-to-medium room with powerful sound. Look beyond just power and consider the audio technologies it supports, such as DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Digital Plus, which are designed to create a more immersive, 3D-like sound experience from a single bar.
• Connectivity: HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) is the most important connection to look for. It allows you to control the soundbar’s volume with your TV remote, creating a seamless user experience. Also, consider wireless options like Bluetooth 5.4 for easily streaming music from your phone or tablet, and check for other inputs like Optical and USB for versatility.
• Channels & Subwoofers: A 2.0 system means two channels (left and right) are housed within the bar itself. This is excellent for stereo separation and clarity. Systems labeled 2.1 include a separate subwoofer for deep bass, while 3.1 systems add a dedicated center channel for enhanced dialogue. The TAB5109 uses virtual technology and dialogue enhancement to compensate for the lack of these, which is a key factor in its value proposition.

Making the right choice is about matching the soundbar’s capabilities to your room and your needs, ensuring you get the audio boost you’re looking for.

While the Philips TAB5109 2.0 Soundbar 120W Bluetooth is an excellent choice for many, 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: Sleek, Simple, and Ready to Perform

Unboxing the Philips TAB5109 2.0 Soundbar 120W Bluetooth is a straightforward and satisfying experience. The packaging is secure and minimalist, containing the soundbar itself, a compact remote control (with the necessary AAA batteries included—a small but appreciated touch), a power cable, and documentation. Our first impression of the soundbar is one of understated elegance. The dark grey finish and distinct, angular geometric design give it a modern look that blends seamlessly into most entertainment setups without drawing undue attention. One user we spoke with noted how it “blends in unobtrusively,” and we couldn’t agree more.

Compared to some of the bulkier, fabric-wrapped soundbars on the market, the TAB5109 feels sleek and solid. At 1.93 kg, it’s light enough to handle easily during setup but has enough heft to feel well-made. There are tactile control buttons on the top of the unit for power, volume, and input selection, which is convenient for moments when the remote isn’t handy. Setup is where this soundbar truly shines in its simplicity. For us, connecting it via HDMI ARC to our Philips TV was a plug-and-play affair that took less than two minutes. The TV immediately recognized the soundbar, and we had integrated control from a single remote right away. For anyone intimidated by complex audio gear, this initial handshake is incredibly reassuring and speaks to the user-friendly design Philips was aiming for. You can explore its full feature set and user-friendly design here.

Performance Deep Dive: A Sonic Transformation

A soundbar can look great and be easy to set up, but the ultimate test is how it sounds. We put the Philips TAB5109 2.0 Soundbar 120W Bluetooth through a rigorous testing process, using a wide range of content to see where it excels and where it might fall short. From explosive action films and dialogue-driven dramas to a variety of music genres streamed over Bluetooth, we explored every facet of its audio performance. The results were, for the price point, deeply impressive and transformative for our television’s native audio.

Sound Performance: Does DTS Virtual:X Really Deliver?

The headline feature here is DTS Virtual:X, a technology designed to create a 3D soundscape without needing upward-firing or rear speakers. We were initially skeptical, as many virtual surround technologies can sound artificial. However, Philips’ implementation is remarkably effective. We fired up a space epic known for its complex sound design, and the difference was immediate. The soundstage expanded dramatically, not just horizontally but vertically as well. Spaceship fly-bys felt like they were moving across the room, and atmospheric effects seemed to emanate from areas far beyond the physical confines of the bar. It’s not a replacement for a true Dolby Atmos setup, but it adds a layer of immersion that flat stereo sound simply cannot match. This sentiment was echoed by users, one of whom noted that “compatibility with DTS Virtual transforms the TV’s audio positively.”

The 120W of maximum power is more than sufficient for its intended environment. In our 20 square metre testing room, pushing the volume past 60% was genuinely loud and filled the space without significant distortion. A user with a 40 square metre apartment confirmed this, stating it has “enough sound to potentially annoy the neighbours” and is “perfect” for their space. The four EQ modes—Movie, Music, Voice, and Stadium—offer meaningful adjustments. Movie mode widens the soundstage and boosts the low end, while Music mode provides a more balanced, traditional stereo experience. The real standout, however, is the Dialogue Enhancement function. Toggling this on makes voices incredibly crisp and clear, cutting through even the most chaotic action scenes. For anyone who constantly struggles to hear conversations in modern films and shows, this feature alone makes the Philips TAB5109 2.0 Soundbar 120W Bluetooth worth considering.

Design and Build: Minimalist Form, Functional Purpose

Philips has clearly designed the TAB5109 to complement modern televisions, not compete with them. Its low profile (6.7 cm high) ensures it won’t block the IR sensor on most TVs when placed on a media unit. The 96 cm width makes it a perfect visual partner for TVs in the 43- to 55-inch range, creating a balanced and cohesive look. The angular, hard-plastic construction is a departure from the fabric grilles seen on many competitors, which has the practical benefit of being much easier to dust and keep clean.

While the build is primarily plastic, it feels dense and well-constructed, with no creaks or flex. The front grille is metal, protecting the drivers from any accidental bumps. The controls on the unit are responsive, and the simple, single-LED display system on the front is clever. It uses different colours and blinking patterns to indicate the selected input (e.g., white for HDMI ARC, blue for Bluetooth) and EQ mode. This maintains the clean, minimalist aesthetic without sacrificing essential feedback. It’s a design that prioritizes blending in, allowing the sound to be the star of the show. This focus on practical, unobtrusive design is a significant part of its appeal for those who want better sound without adding visual clutter to their living space.

Connectivity & Control: Simplicity with a Stumble

In 2024, connectivity is king, and this is an area where the Philips TAB5109 2.0 Soundbar 120W Bluetooth largely excels. The inclusion of HDMI ARC is the most critical feature for seamless integration. With a single HDMI cable, the soundbar receives audio from the TV and allows your existing TV remote to control its power and volume. Philips’ EasyLINK (CEC) technology worked flawlessly with our Philips TV, creating a “one remote to rule them all” experience that is the gold standard for usability. The remote included with the soundbar is simple and effective, giving direct access to EQ modes and dialogue enhancement, but thanks to ARC, we rarely had to use it.

However, we must address a point raised in user feedback. One reviewer mentioned being unable to get HDMI ARC to work correctly, forcing them to rely on Bluetooth. While our experience was smooth, ARC “handshake” issues can occasionally occur between devices of different brands. This is not always the fault of the soundbar but can be related to TV settings or the cable itself. It’s a potential hurdle worth noting. On the wireless front, the inclusion of Bluetooth 5.4 with LE Audio support is fantastic. It’s a cutting-edge standard that ensures a stable, low-latency connection for high-quality music streaming. Pairing our smartphone was instantaneous, and the audio quality was excellent, making the soundbar a great de facto home stereo system. One user review celebrated this, saying they “connected it to my TV via Bluetooth and I have to say it doesn’t miss a beat, a truly spectacular soundbar.” With additional Optical, USB, and 3.5mm inputs, the TAB5109 offers a comprehensive suite of connections that should cover nearly any setup imaginable. The versatility of its connection options is a major strength.

What Other Users Are Saying

After our own extensive testing, we delved into feedback from other users to get a broader perspective. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with most praising the Philips TAB5109 2.0 Soundbar 120W Bluetooth for its exceptional value. Phrases like “Good quality,” “works perfectly,” and “very satisfied with my purchase” appear frequently. One German user provided a particularly insightful review, noting that while they were initially underwhelmed, they “needed some time to find the right setting,” after which the sound was “perfect” for their 40 sqm apartment, calling it “small price, big sound!” This aligns perfectly with our experience that experimenting with the EQ modes is key to unlocking its best performance.

On the critical side, the feedback is consistent and important to consider. The most common technical complaint, though not widespread, revolves around the HDMI ARC connectivity issues with some TV models, as one Italian user detailed. The other negative point relates not to the product’s performance but to shipping and handling, with a couple of users reporting that their units arrived with cosmetic damage, such as a significant dent, despite the packaging appearing intact. This serves as a good reminder to thoroughly inspect the product upon delivery, a wise practice for any online electronics purchase.

How Does It Compare? The Top 3 Alternatives

The Philips TAB5109 2.0 Soundbar 120W Bluetooth punches well above its weight, but it exists in a competitive market. Here’s how it stacks up against three popular alternatives.

1. Sharp HT-SBW110 180W Bluetooth Soundbar

The Sharp HT-SBW110 is a direct competitor that offers one key difference: it’s a 2.1 system, meaning it comes with a separate, wired subwoofer. With 180W of total power, it’s geared towards those who crave more low-end rumble for action movies and bass-heavy music. If your primary goal is feeling explosions and kick drums, the Sharp is a compelling alternative. However, this comes at the cost of simplicity and space, as you’ll need to find a place for the subwoofer box. The Philips TAB5109, by contrast, offers a cleaner, all-in-one solution with more advanced virtual surround technology in the form of DTS Virtual:X.

2. JBL Cinema SB 550 3.1 Channel Soundbar

Stepping up in price and performance, the JBL Cinema SB 550 is a 3.1 channel system. The “.1” signifies a powerful wireless subwoofer for deep bass, while the “3” indicates left, right, and a dedicated center channel. This center channel provides a distinct advantage for dialogue clarity, making voices even more prominent and anchored to the screen. With 250W of power, it’s designed for a more impactful, room-filling cinematic experience. This is the choice for someone with a slightly larger budget who wants a true home cinema feel without moving to a full 5.1 setup.

3. Sony HT-A3000 3.1ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar

The Sony HT-A3000 represents a significant leap into the premium category. This soundbar supports Dolby Atmos and features Sony’s 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, which are more advanced and convincing virtual surround technologies than DTS Virtual:X. It also has a built-in subwoofer for convenience, delivering a rich sound profile. The HT-A3000 is for the home theatre enthusiast who wants top-tier virtual surround sound, smart features like Alexa and Google Assistant integration, and is prepared to invest significantly more for that premium experience. It competes in a different league but shows what’s possible at a higher price point.

Final Verdict: The Ideal Audio Upgrade for the Modern Home

After weeks of testing, it’s clear that the Philips TAB5109 2.0 Soundbar 120W Bluetooth is a resounding success. It accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do: provide a simple, elegant, and highly effective audio upgrade for the millions of people let down by their TV’s built-in speakers. Its greatest strength lies in its balance of performance, features, and price. The DTS Virtual:X technology delivers a genuinely immersive soundstage, the dialogue enhancement is a game-changer for clarity, and the comprehensive connectivity, led by HDMI ARC and Bluetooth 5.4, makes it both easy to integrate and versatile to use.

While it won’t satisfy bass fanatics who need a dedicated subwoofer to shake the room, its low-end output is tight, punchy, and more than adequate for most content. For anyone living in an apartment or with a small-to-medium-sized living room, this soundbar is an easy and enthusiastic recommendation. It bridges the gap between poor TV audio and complex home cinema systems perfectly. If you’re looking to elevate your movie nights and bring your favourite shows to life without clutter or complexity, this is one of the best value-for-money upgrades you can make. We highly recommend you check the latest price and see if it’s the right fit for your home.