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I am considering buying a new soundbar to replace the entry-level LG thing we currently have. However I am concerned that the place I will be siting it will compromise the sound quality as it will be placed at the front of a shelf of a TV cabinet similar to this...

Specifically I am looking at getting a Sonos Arc and I am just wondering if the sound design of it (ie, with sound coming out of the side ports of the bar) will be effected by it being inside the unit and I would end up throwing money away on something I wouldn't really hear the benefit of?
Maybe look at a SONOS Playbase as you can stand the TV on top?
Also if you put the bar where that Sky box/bowl of fruit is, then run the SONOS Truplay setup I doubt you will notice any ill effects... In fact some might even say it will sound better enclosed in a unit like that...
That saying, you’ll only get dolby atmos (up firing) over earc, does your TV even have this?
It supports Atmos and some bundles I have seen it being sold as state the soundbar supports earc so I *assume* that means that it does.
Actually it seems some streaming apps only need arc not earc for atmos. Worth checking that your TV can pass it through the arc/earc port though.
Place it in front (or behind) the TV?

Place it in front (or behind) the TV?
I am not sure that would get past the interior designer wife.
Show her the alternative, ie floor standers with a massive amp and she'll come round 😁
I would like some kind of speaker to fit into a unit similar to that. Something forward facing, doesn't have to be a 'soundbar'. Open to recommendations.
@sharkattack If budget allows then a Naim Mu-So 2 would work well in that sort of location (as both a TV soundbar and music streamer/speaker)
