Thats where floor-standing speakers like the Q Acoustics M40 come in.
For the price, there are loads of soundbars and even some other floor-standing and bookshelf-powered speakers.
These are a great price-to-performance option, and a fine alternative to the more traditional soundbar.
Q Acoustics M40 review: Design and build
I love the way that the M40 look.
They have a simple, timeless feel to them with their sleek wooden enclosures and solid black grilles.
What does that mean?
Those grilles are fixed to the front of some really nice enclosures.
They come in three different colors white, black, and the walnut wood finish that weve got here.
Getting them in place takes a bit more work than a soundbar though.
You have to fit the feet into place too, with the included tools and screws.
Its not hard, but you do have to put a little work into getting them straight and level.
Once in place, you wont have to move them around or fiddle with them again.
On the back of the powered speaker, youll find two sets of different switches.
Youll want to work that out before placing them, and then set the switch accordingly.
Theres a corresponding color so that you know youve got the right one.
Included in the box is a very solid little remote controls.
Its a useful addition, and works very well for all its functions.
There isnt and the button doesnt do anything.
Its not a massive issue, but its not as seamless as a dedicated soundbar.
Theres the Bluetooth connection that serves wireless duty, and then a series of physical connections on the back.
For other RCA devices, youll be fine though.
The USB port is for plugging in your own DAC, or for other USB-connected players.
All of the ports work very well, with no issues getting setup or plugged in.
Perhaps one for the next version.
Theres no WiFi connection for streaming either, although this is definitely a longer shot at the price.
As it stands, the connectivity of the M40 is good, but not perfect.
If youre willing to go without youll get some masterfully crafted audio.
I did miss the height channel though, so keep that in mind.
Musically though, the M40 wipe the floor with their TV stand-sitting competition.
Dark FortresssPali Aikewas cold, calculating and perfectly formed.
It soundshuge,with loads of space around each individual element.
The dancing bass is articulate and clear, while the lighter strings are clear and bright.
Its fun, its funky, and a little silly.
The vocals cut through with their fuzz intact, and the bass line progresses with depth and width.
At $999 they might not seem cheap, but you get a lot for the money.
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