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Though it fulfills its budget-friendly purpose of beating out built-in TV speakers, audio-loving users may find the bar’s sound quality subpar. But, for its low price point, the TaoTronics TT-SK026 may suit those looking for an entry-level upgrade.
The TaoTronics TT-SK026 is a 2020 model entry-level 2.1-channel soundbar that features a built-in subwoofer module that produces enough extended low bass for a moderately sized living room.
Just like the highest-rated speakers available in the market, this model can get quite loud at the max volume (93.7 dB SPL) for house parties. But unlike other highly ranked soundbars, it does not have any separated wireless subwoofer for thumping bass.
If you need a soundbar that produces even more powerful bass from an integrated subwoofer module, do take a look at our Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar review.
Unfortunately, it does not support any Dolby or DTS audio codecs, including the more advanced and lossless Dolby Atmos or DTS: X for a wide soundstage, and it does not have any built-in microphone for voice assistants.
In terms of wireless connectivity, this soundbar only features Bluetooth and lacks Wi-Fi, Chromecast, or Apple AirPlay. And when it comes to wired inputs, it only features a 3.5 mm auxiliary and an optical audio jack.
If you need a USB port to play audio files from thumb drives and external hard drives, make sure to check out our TCL Alto 3 review.
Consensus
our Verdict
The TaoTronics TT-SK026 soundbar offers interesting connectivity features, such as dialogue enhancement and Bluetooth streaming, but overall has limited connection options and doesn’t connect to Chromecast, Apple Airplay, or WiFi.
The sound bar also lacks an HDMi or ARC connection input.
Soudwise, it has good volume, and its tonal balance leans towards the bass, sacrificing depth and rumble, which can be disappointing for sweeping, thunderous movie scores and effects.
It also has a frail treble and mid-performance, which contributes to the overall sound imbalance. The plastic build, lack of HDMI In, and PCM-only support limit its potential.
The remote control and user-friendly interface are simple but functional. Despite promising initial punch in bass, distortion creeps in at higher volumes, compromising the experience. The soundstage is limited, lacking focus and spaciousness.
ReasonS to Buy
Convenient Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
Dialogue enhancement feature for improved vocal clarity
The TaoTronics TT-SK026 is a 2020 model entry-level 2.1-channel soundbar that features a built-in subwoofer module that produces enough extended low bass for a moderately…
The TaoTronics TT-SK026 is a 2020 model entry-level 2.1-channel soundbar that features a built-in subwoofer module that produces enough extended low bass for a moderately sized living room.
Just like the highest-rated speakers available in the market, this model can get quite loud at the max volume (93.7 dB SPL) for house parties. But unlike other highly ranked soundbars, it does not have any separated wireless subwoofer for thumping bass.
If you need a soundbar that produces even more powerful bass from an integrated subwoofer module, do take a look at our Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar review.
Unfortunately, it does not support any Dolby or DTS audio codecs, including the more advanced and lossless Dolby Atmos or DTS: X for a wide soundstage, and it does not have any built-in microphone for voice assistants.
In terms of wireless connectivity, this soundbar only features Bluetooth and lacks Wi-Fi, Chromecast, or Apple AirPlay. And when it comes to wired inputs, it only features a 3.5 mm auxiliary and an optical audio jack.
If you need a USB port to play audio files from thumb drives and external hard drives, make sure to check out our TCL Alto 3 review.
Thanks to its wider 2.1-channel speaker setup, the TaoTronics TT-SK026 has a slightly wider stereo soundstage than the 2.0-channel TaoTronics TT-SK023 soundbar. The TT-SK026 soundbar…
Thanks to its wider 2.1-channel speaker setup, the TaoTronics TT-SK026 has a slightly wider stereo soundstage than the 2.0-channel TaoTronics TT-SK023 soundbar. The TT-SK026 soundbar can also get much louder than the TT-SK023, and it doesn’t suffer from as much compression artifacts or audio distortion at the max volume. The SK026 also has a text display-based UI that the SK023 lacks. Learn more about the TT-SK023 soundbar in our TaoTronics TT-SK023 review today.
Despite both coming with a similarly specced 2.1 channel speaker setup, the Vmai 2.1 Channel Sound Bar features a wider stereo soundstage than the TaoTronics…
Despite both coming with a similarly specced 2.1 channel speaker setup, the Vmai 2.1 Channel Sound Bar features a wider stereo soundstage than the TaoTronics TT-SK026 with better audio localization. The Vmai soundbar also features an HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) port, but the SK026 doesn’t. In addition, the Vmai model features a lot more audio customization options (e.g., bass adjustment, treble adjustment, etc.) than the TaoTronics TT-SK026 and better build quality.
Although the Sony HT-S100F only features a meager 2.0 channel output, it delivers a wider stereo soundstage than the 2.1 channel TaoTronics TT-SK026 soundbar, as…
Although the Sony HT-S100F only features a meager 2.0 channel output, it delivers a wider stereo soundstage than the 2.1 channel TaoTronics TT-SK026 soundbar, as it features both Dolby Digital and virtual surround sound. At 95.9 dB SPL, the Sony soundbar can also get much louder than the TaoTronics model and has fewer compression artifacts at the max volume. On the other hand, the SK026 has EQ options which the HT-S100F lacks.
