The best soundbar under $500 just got a 50% discount

By Michael Bizzaco Published April 4, 2025

Not every soundbar needs to cost hundreds of dollars. In fact, some of the best models on the market are priced lower than $500, including the Yamaha YAS-209BL 2.1ch Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer, which we named the best overall soundbar under $500. And this week, you’ll be able to purchase the Yamaha bar at Amazon or Walmart and pay only $170. The full MSRP on this model is $350. 

The YAS-209BL has been on the market for a minute, but sometimes the adage “If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it” means the manufacturer doesn’t need to replace a product that’s already perfect at what it does. In the case of this Yamaha system, you’re looking at a great upgrade to everyday TV audio. The YAS-209BL produces a warm and balanced sound with crystal-clear dialogue and vocals, making it a great choice for small to medium-sized rooms.

The YAS-209BL can be connected via HDMI ARC or digital optical to your TV. There’s also a Bluetooth input and an Ethernet port; the latter is used for hardwiring the bar to your network to use features like Spotify Connect and the built-in Alexa voice assistant (though the bar does have Wi-Fi, too).

Even though the YAS-209BL doesn’t have enough speakers to be able to virtualize Dolby Atmos or DTS:X audio formats, the soundbar can downmix Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1 codecs for a simulated surround experience. It’s not the most convincing emulation, but it’s a nice step up from plain ol’ left-right stereo. 

Save $180 when you purchase the Yamaha YAS-209BL 2.1ch Soundbar today, and be sure to have a look at our collections of the best soundbar deals, best TV deals, and best Bluetooth speaker deals before you head out.