Soundbar MatchSoundbar Match

Editorial Policy

Our goal is simple: publish clear, real‑room guidance that helps you buy once, set up right, and enjoy better sound every day. This policy explains our standards, how we choose what to cover, and how we keep editorial decisions independent.

Independence and Integrity

  • No Pay‑to‑Play: We do not sell rankings, reviews, or placements.
  • Affiliate Neutrality: Commissions never affect our scores or picks. We link to multiple retailers where possible.
  • Clear Labels: Sponsored placements (if any) are labeled. Currently, we do not run sponsored reviews.

Product Selection

We prioritize soundbars that align with real‑world needs across our Room Profiles: Apartment Night, Family Room, Gaming Den, and Projector Loft. We consider availability, firmware support, warranty, and upgrade paths (add rears/sub later).

Hands‑On and Verification

Whenever possible, we test products directly. If we rely on manufacturer data or third‑party labs for a narrow spec, we verify it during setup and usage checks. Any limitations are disclosed.

Review Process

  • Fit‑First Evaluation: We rank performance by room size, seating distance, and connection path (ARC/eARC/optical).
  • Transparent Scoring: Dialogue Clarity (low volume), Gaming Latency, Night Mode effectiveness, Bass Containment, and HDMI/eARC reliability.
  • Setup Playbooks: Step‑by‑step guidance for ports, placement, calibration, and CEC behavior.
  • Compatibility Checklists: Confirmed formats (Atmos/DTS), passthrough, and lip‑sync notes.

Updates and Corrections

We revisit reviews after major firmware updates, price shifts, or new accessories (surrounds/subs). If we make an error, we correct it promptly and timestamp the change.

Samples, Loans, and Gifts

We prefer retail‑purchased units. Loaner units may be used for time‑limited evaluations and are returned. We do not accept gifts that could influence coverage. Acceptance of a sample does not guarantee a positive review.

Conflicts of Interest

Contributors disclose any prior employment, consulting, or relationships with brands. Those with conflicts do not cover that brand.

Reader Feedback

We welcome corrections and long‑term owner reports at [email protected]. Substantive feedback may be incorporated into updates with attribution where appropriate.