There’s a universally frustrating moment we’ve all experienced. You’re settled in for a movie night, the opening scene builds with epic music, and then the characters start to speak. You grab the remote, inching the volume up… and up… and up. The background sounds become deafeningly loud, but the dialogue remains a muffled, incomprehensible whisper. This is the sad reality of the paper-thin, downward-facing speakers built into most modern flat-screen TVs. They’re an afterthought, designed for aesthetics and cost-cutting, not for immersive audio. For years, my secondary setup in the office—a modest 32-inch TV—suffered this exact fate. Gaming sessions lacked punch, and catching the nuances of a quiet drama was a constant battle. The alternative seemed to be investing in a complex, expensive home theater system that felt like overkill for the space. The problem is simple: we need better sound, but without the cost and complexity that often comes with it.
- 【Loud and Clear】 The sound bar is built with 2 full-range speakers that provide a more realistic, spatial audio experience to make movies and music truly come to life, allowing you to enjoy all...
- 【Ultra-Compact Design】The 17-inch soundbar is a compact and sleek audio device that great for desktop space especially small to medium-sized living room or bedroom.Our sound bar takes up less...
- 【Stream Audio with Bluetooth 5.3】Our soundbar allows you to connect your devices seamlessly via Bluetooth, so you can easily stream your favorite music,podcasts, and more from your smartphone,...
What to Consider Before Buying a Sound Bar
A sound bar is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for reclaiming your audio experience. In its simplest form, it’s a dedicated, self-contained speaker system designed to deliver clearer, fuller, and more powerful sound than your TV’s native speakers ever could. The primary benefit is a dramatic improvement in dialogue clarity, making voices crisp and easy to understand. Beyond that, they add depth and impact to everything from explosive action sequences to the subtle strings of a film score, transforming a passive viewing session into an engaging, immersive event. They bridge the gap between inadequate built-in audio and a full-blown surround sound system, offering a perfect balance of performance, simplicity, and value.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing audio frustration in a small to medium-sized space. This includes apartment dwellers, students in dorms, or anyone looking to upgrade the sound for a bedroom TV, desktop computer, or even a projector setup. It’s for the user who values simplicity and a clean setup over the granular control and room-filling power of a multi-speaker system. Conversely, a compact sound bar might not be suitable for those with a large, open-concept living room or dedicated home theater space, where a more powerful, multi-channel system with a dedicated subwoofer would be necessary to fill the area effectively. Audiophiles demanding support for high-fidelity formats like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X should also look toward higher-end models.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Measure your space carefully. A sound bar should ideally be slightly narrower than your TV for a balanced look. The Saiyin 17-inch Sound Bar Bluetooth 5.3 is specifically designed for smaller TVs (under 40 inches) or to fit neatly under a computer monitor, making it perfect for desktops and tight spaces where a larger bar would be overwhelming.
- Performance & Connectivity: Look at the channel configuration (e.g., 2.0 for stereo) and power output (measured in watts). Critically, check the available inputs. Optical is excellent for TVs, AUX (3.5mm) is great for PCs and older devices, and modern Bluetooth (like the 5.3 version here) is essential for wireless streaming. Also, verify audio format support; many budget bars, including this one, do not support Dolby or DTS, which you may need to disable on your TV.
- Materials & Durability: Most sound bars in this price range are constructed from durable plastics with a metal or fabric grille. While not premium, the build should feel solid and not hollow or flimsy. Look for a design that feels sturdy and can withstand minor bumps, especially if it will be placed in a high-traffic area like a desktop.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A good sound bar should be plug-and-play. Consider the control options—does it have on-device buttons as well as a remote? Is the remote logically laid out? For long-term care, a simple wipe-down with a microfiber cloth is usually all that’s required, but fabric grilles can attract more dust.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Saiyin 17-inch Sound Bar Bluetooth 5.3 stands out in several areas, particularly for those prioritizing a compact footprint and value. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the Saiyin 17-inch Sound Bar Bluetooth 5.3 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:
- 【𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐦𝐞 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭】: Elevate faint sounds to vibrant with automatic loudness boost. Experience immersive sound through 4 versatile...
- Hear your TV better: Designed with simplicity in mind, the Bose TV Speaker is a small soundbar that clarifies speech and is a simple fix for better TV sound
- All-new acoustic architecture with Sound Motion technology fills every inch of the room and precisely place sounds all around you
First Impressions: Unboxing a Compact Audio Solution
Pulling the Saiyin 17-inch Sound Bar Bluetooth 5.3 from its box, the first thing that struck us was its refreshingly compact and lightweight nature. Tipping the scales at just 2 pounds and measuring a mere 17 inches wide, it immediately felt like the perfect companion for the smaller screens it’s designed to serve. The packaging is no-frills but effective, containing everything you need to get started right away. We were genuinely impressed by the inclusion of not just a power adapter and remote, but also an optical cable and a 3.5mm AUX cable. Many budget brands omit these to cut costs, so their presence here is a significant plus, eliminating the need for an extra purchase.
The unit itself has a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with a glossy black finish and a metal mesh grille protecting the two full-range speakers. It feels surprisingly solid for its price point, a sentiment echoed by users who rated its build quality highly. On-board controls for power, mode, and volume are subtly integrated on the side, but most interactions will happen via the included remote. Setting it on the desk beneath our 27-inch test monitor, it looked right at home, taking up minimal space while promising a major audio upgrade over the monitor’s abysmal built-in sound.
Key Benefits
- Incredibly compact and lightweight, perfect for desktops and small rooms
- Surprisingly powerful and clear sound that far surpasses TV speakers
- Excellent connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.3, Optical, and AUX
- Great value proposition, often priced very competitively
- Includes a SUB OUT port for future bass enhancement
Drawbacks
- Lacks support for Dolby Digital and DTS audio formats
- EQ presets (Movie, Music, News) have a very subtle effect
- Some user reports of crackling at maximum volume
Performance Deep Dive: How the Saiyin Sound Bar Measures Up
A compact sound bar lives or dies by its ability to produce sound that belies its small frame. It’s not expected to shake the rafters like a premium home theater system, but it must deliver a clear, significant, and satisfying upgrade over the status quo. We put the Saiyin 17-inch Sound Bar Bluetooth 5.3 through its paces across movies, music, and gaming to see if this budget-friendly bar could truly deliver on its promise.
Audio Performance: A David vs. Goliath Sound Story
Let’s be clear: the primary mission of a sound bar like this is to rescue dialogue from the muddy mess produced by internal TV speakers. On this front, the Saiyin is an unequivocal success. Firing up a dialogue-heavy series, the change was immediate and dramatic. Voices that were once indistinct became crisp, centered, and easy to follow without cranking the volume to antisocial levels. This was confirmed by one user’s experience, who noted, “The sound is loud and clear, so I no longer have to turn the TV volume up to 100% for movies and still strain to hear the dialogue.” This is the core benefit, and the Saiyin delivers it flawlessly.
When we pushed it with more dynamic content, like an action sequence from a blockbuster film, the 40-watt output proved more than sufficient for our small office test environment. Explosions had a respectable punch and sound effects were rendered with a clarity that was simply missing before. While it’s a 2.0 channel bar (stereo left and right), it creates a surprisingly wide soundstage for its size. Another user, who used it with an outdoor projector, was “pleasantly surprised with how this sounds,” even noting that “the woofer effect without a dedicated subwoofer is quite impressive for a soundbar this size.” We agree; there’s a richness in the lower-mid range that gives the audio a weight you don’t expect. However, it’s important to set realistic expectations. This isn’t deep, rumbling bass. It’s a clean, punchy low-end that adds presence. For those who crave more, the inclusion of a SUB OUT port is a fantastic feature, offering an upgrade path to a true 2.1 system.
During our testing, we pushed the volume to its limits. While it gets impressively loud without distortion for most of its range, we did notice a hint of harshness at the absolute maximum setting (95-100%). This aligns with a minority of user reports mentioning “crackling,” which seems to be an issue only when the device is pushed well beyond comfortable listening levels. For normal viewing in a small to medium-sized room, we found the sweet spot to be around 60-75% of max volume, where the audio remained clear and balanced.
Connectivity and Setup: The Plug-and-Play Promise
Saiyin excels in making the setup process painless, largely thanks to its versatile connection options and the inclusion of all necessary cables. For our TV test, we used the provided optical cable, which is the recommended method for the highest quality digital audio signal. The TV immediately recognized the sound bar, and we were up and running in under two minutes. The only crucial step, as noted in the manual, is to go into your TV’s audio settings and change the output to PCM, disabling any Dolby or DTS processing, which this sound bar cannot decode. This is a common requirement for budget sound bars and is a simple one-time adjustment.
Next, we tested it as a PC speaker, connecting it to our desktop via the included 3.5mm AUX cable. Again, the process was seamless. It provided a massive upgrade for everything from YouTube videos to video conferencing. The real star, however, is the Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity. Pairing with a smartphone was instantaneous, and the connection remained stable from across the room, well within the advertised 10-meter range. We streamed playlists for hours without a single dropout. This versatility makes the sound bar a fantastic multi-purpose device. As one user highlighted, it “worked perfectly with my mini projector,” demonstrating its utility for portable movie nights where running cables isn’t practical. This ease of connection is a major selling point, making the Saiyin 17-inch Sound Bar Bluetooth 5.3 an appealing option for even the most tech-averse user. If you value a hassle-free setup that just works, you can find out more about its user-friendly features here.
One area of slight confusion arose from user feedback regarding Fire TV remote compatibility. One user found pairing via Bluetooth allowed them to control the volume with their Fire remote but caused erratic behavior. Our testing confirmed that while some universal remotes *might* be able to control the sound bar’s volume via Bluetooth, the connection is not always stable or intended for that purpose. For the most reliable experience, especially when using the optical connection, you should expect to use the included Saiyin remote. It’s a small inconvenience but an important one to note.
Design, Controls, and Usability
The ultra-compact design is arguably the biggest selling point of the Saiyin 17-inch Sound Bar Bluetooth 5.3. It’s not just a speaker; it’s a space-saving audio solution. On a desk, it tucks neatly under a monitor, reclaiming valuable real estate from bulky traditional PC speakers. One reviewer, an self-proclaimed “sound aficionado,” praised it for exactly this reason, using it as a clean computer speaker solution. For televisions, it’s a perfect match for smaller screens in bedrooms, kitchens, or dorms. We were particularly impressed by the user who installed one in their backyard workshop, showcasing its adaptability to non-traditional environments. The lightweight build also makes it easily portable for temporary setups, like with a projector.
The included wall-mounting kit is a thoughtful addition, providing the flexibility to mount it directly under a wall-hung TV for an integrated, clean look. The controls are straightforward. The physical buttons on the side of the unit are responsive and provide basic functionality if the remote goes missing. The remote itself is small, simple, and intuitive. It offers direct control over power, volume, mute, play/pause, track skipping, and input switching (Bluetooth, Optical, AUX). It also features dedicated buttons for the three equalizer presets: Music, Movie, and News. In our testing, we found these presets to be very subtle. The “Movie” mode seemed to add a slight boost to the midrange, and “News” emphasized vocal frequencies, but the changes were not dramatic. This was consistent with user feedback, with one person stating, “I don’t notice a difference when I cycle through movie, music, and noise setting.” For more impactful EQ adjustments, we recommend using the audio settings on your source device (TV or PC) instead.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general consensus among users is overwhelmingly positive, with most feedback centering on the incredible value for money. Many, like the reviewer who “bought three of them,” are repeat customers, using the sound bar to upgrade audio in multiple rooms or workshops. One detailed account praised it as an “incredible upgrade” for a workshop Roku TV, noting that friends were “amazed at the sound that comes out of this little soundbar.” This sentiment of surprise at the audio quality relative to the compact size and low price is a recurring theme.
However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect, which gives a realistic picture of a budget product. A few users reported receiving units that were damaged in transit, a frustrating but likely logistical issue rather than a product defect. More critically, a small number of reviews mention audio “crackling” when the volume is pushed to its absolute maximum. As noted in our own testing, this seems to be a limitation at the extreme end of its performance envelope and not an issue at normal to loud listening levels. The most common usability critique involves the subtle EQ modes and the occasional hiccup with universal remote compatibility, solidifying our finding that relying on the included remote is the best approach.
How Does the Saiyin 17-inch Sound Bar Compare to Alternatives?
The Saiyin 17-inch Sound Bar Bluetooth 5.3 carves out a fantastic niche in the ultra-budget, compact category. But if your needs or budget differ slightly, several compelling alternatives are worth considering.
1. Saiyin 24 Inch 100W Soundbar with Subwoofer
- 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐛𝐚𝐫 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐃𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐬: This sound bar with subwoofer is built with two full range speakers,...
- 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐛𝐚𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐑𝐕 𝐔𝐬𝐞: The 24 inch soundbar is designed to be detachable so that you...
- 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐩𝐮𝐭𝐬: The sound bars for TV has wired inputs, like ARC, optical and AUX input, and it’s also compatible with Bluetooth enabled devices with a...
For those who like the Saiyin value but crave more power and true, room-filling bass, this 24-inch model is the logical step up. It’s a 2.1 channel system, meaning it comes with a dedicated 5.25-inch subwoofer to handle the low-end frequencies. With 100W of total power, it’s better suited for medium-sized living rooms where the 17-inch model might feel underpowered. It also adds an HDMI ARC input, which simplifies the connection to a TV and allows you to control the soundbar’s volume with your TV remote. This is the perfect choice for someone who wants a more cinematic experience without leaving the Saiyin ecosystem.
2. Hisense HS2100 2.1 Ch 240W Sound Bar Wireless Subwoofer
- 240W Output: 2 powerful speakers and a wireless subwoofer, erupting impressive 240W max audio power to upgrade your TV sound instantly.
- DTS Virtual: X: Whether you’re gaming, watching your favorite movie or show, or listening to that new track on repeat, DTS Virtual X enhances the entertainment you love across all of your devices....
- Wireless Subwoofer: A wireless subwoofer delivers the robust low-end frequencies that punctuate your favorite movies, music, and games, without any messy wires. You’ll feel the “boom” while the...
If you’re willing to invest a bit more for a well-known brand and premium features, the Hisense HS2100 is a formidable competitor. Its key advantage is official support for Dolby Audio and DTS Virtual:X, ensuring compatibility with the most common audio formats found on streaming services and Blu-rays. With a hefty 240W of power and a wireless subwoofer, it delivers a much more powerful and immersive audio experience. It’s aimed at the user building a primary home entertainment setup who prioritizes seamless format compatibility and the convenience of a wireless sub over the absolute lowest price.
3. GEOYEAO 180W 2.1CH Bluetooth Soundbar with RGB LED
- 𝐑𝐆𝐁 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 & 𝐋𝐄𝐃 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲 - Enhance your entertainment setup with RGB lighting and a clear LED display, making this soundbar for TV both...
- 𝐁𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝟓.𝟑 & 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐎𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 - Seamlessly connect via Bluetooth...
- 𝐈𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝟐.𝟏𝐂𝐇 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 - Enjoy powerful 180W output with dual 2.25-inch full-range speakers and dual...
This alternative from GEOYEAO targets a different user entirely: the gamer or the user who values aesthetics as much as audio. Its standout features are the customizable RGB LED lights that can add ambiance to a gaming setup and its unique 2-in-1 detachable design, which allows you to use it as a single 32-inch bar or as two separate vertical tower speakers. With 180W of power and an included wired subwoofer, its audio performance is robust. This is the ideal pick for someone who wants their sound system to be a visual centerpiece, especially in a PC or console gaming environment.
Our Final Verdict: A Small Bar with a Big Impact
After extensive testing, it’s clear that the Saiyin 17-inch Sound Bar Bluetooth 5.3 is a standout product in its category. It’s not designed to compete with high-end, multi-hundred-dollar audio systems, and it doesn’t try to. Instead, it focuses on solving one problem exceptionally well: rescuing users from the terrible audio of their built-in TV and monitor speakers for an astonishingly low price. Its combination of a compact, space-saving design, surprisingly clear and powerful sound, and dead-simple connectivity makes it an almost unbeatable value proposition.
We recommend it without hesitation to anyone with a smaller TV, a desktop PC setup, a projector, or even a workshop who wants a massive, immediate audio upgrade without breaking the bank. It’s the perfect entry-level sound bar that delivers on its promises and punches far above its weight class. The inclusion of all necessary cables and a future-proofing SUB OUT port are just cherries on top of an already fantastic package.
If you’ve decided the Saiyin 17-inch Sound Bar Bluetooth 5.3 is the right fit for your space and budget, you can check its current price and availability here.
Last update on 2025-10-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API