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Yamaha SR-B20A Powered sound bar with built-in subwoofers, DTS® Virtual:X, and Bluetooth®

Item # 022SRB20A

This bang-for-your-buck bar is an easy way to give your TV audio a big boost.

This bang-for-your-buck bar is an easy way to give your TV audio a big boost.

15 questions - 34 answers

Item # 022SRB20A

In stock
$199.95

About the Yamaha SR-B20A

Emily S.

A bang-for-your-buck bar

Yamaha's sound bars have consistently impressed us, and their budget-friendly bars are no exception. This new SR-B20A offers a really simple way to improve your TV's sound quality with an easy one-cable connection — either HDMI or optical digital.

A bang-for-your-buck bar

Yamaha's sound bars have consistently impressed us, and their budget-friendly bars are no exception. This new SR-B20A offers a really simple way to improve your TV's sound quality with an easy one-cable connection — either HDMI or optical digital.

Onboard amplification powers six drivers, including a pair of built-in ported subwoofers that deliver more bass than you'd expect from such a slim bar, especially at this price point. But if you want even more low-end rumble, there's an output for adding on a separate powered sub of your choice.

Yamaha SR-B20A

The bar has built-in ported subwoofers for deeper bass than most sound bars can deliver on their own.

Dedicated dialogue and surround modes

I hate when I have to rewind movies and TV shows because I didn't catch what the actor just said. Sometimes it is just too hard to hear the dialogue over the background noise. That's where Yamaha's Clear Voice processing comes in handy — it brings speech to the forefront so that dialogue is easier to hear and understand.

And right next to "Clear Voice" on the remote control, you'll find a button for "3D Surround." This enables the bar's simulated surround sound via a technology called “DTS Virtual:X.”

How does DTS Virtual:X work?

Many sound bars simulate Dolby Atmos or DTS:X by bouncing sound off your walls and ceiling. That's not what's happening here. Instead, DTS Virtual:X almost completely relies on digital sound processing.

DTS uses what they call "spatial audio techniques" to make it seem like the sound is all around you. Incredibly sophisticated audio delays and adjustments create a larger, wider soundstage. That includes overhead atmospheric effects like leaves rustling on a tall tree or birds chirping above.

Check out Jeff Miller's article "What is DTS Virtual:X?" for more details.

Stream your favorite tunes over Bluetooth

The SR-B20A can handle your music, too. The bar has built-in Bluetooth so you can wirelessly stream music, audiobooks, or podcasts from compatible devices directly to the sound bar. 

READ LESS

Product highlights:

  • Featured in our article: Best sound bars for 2024
  • two-channel sound bar with simulated 3D surround sound
    • two 1" dome tweeters
    • two 2-1/8" cone midrange drivers
    • two 3" cone woofers
  • built-in amplifiers: 30 watts x 2 for front left and right drivers, 60 watts for bass drivers
  • DTS Virtual:X digital sound processing
    • emulates object-based surround sound like DTS:X and Dolby Atmos
    • simulated surround and height-channel speakers create a spacious, lively soundstage
  • built-in Bluetooth for wireless music streaming from compatible devices
  • Dolby® Digital and DTS decoding
  • Clear Voice mode for clearer, louder dialogue with movies and shows
  • listening modes: stereo, standard, movie, and game
Connections and general info:
  • 1 HDMI ARC connection
  • 2 optical digital audio inputs
  • mono RCA subwoofer output for adding your own powered subwoofer
  • free downloadable Sound Bar Remote app for Apple® and Android™ lets you control the bar via Bluetooth with your smartphone
  • keyhole slots for wall-mounting
  • remote with subwoofer volume control
  • 35-7/8"W x 2-1/8"H x 5-1/8"D
  • weight: 7.1 lbs.
  • warranty: 2 years
  • MFR # SR-B20ABL

No A/V receiver required.

What's in the box:

  • Active soundbar speaker
  • 6' AC power cord
  • Remote control (CR2025 3V battery installed)
  • 5' Optical digital cable
  • 2 Spacers
  • Quick Start Guide
  • Wall-Mount Template
  • Product Registration
  • Safety Brochure
  • Warranty Information
  • Contact Information

Customer reviews for Yamaha SR-B20A

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4.5 out of 5 stars
207 reviews

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More details on the Yamaha SR-B20A

Stacey B.

Features & specs

General
Design Bar
Amplification Self-powered
Separate Subwoofer Optional
Wireless Surrounds No
Number Of Channels 2.1
Surround Formats
Dolby Digital Yes
DTS Yes
Dolby Atmos No
DTS:X No
Audio Enhancements
Dialogue Enhancement Yes
Auto Volume No
Night Mode No
Virtual Surround 3D Surround
Room Correction No
Audio Connections
Optical Digital Inputs 2
Coaxial Digital Inputs None
HDMI ARC Input Yes
HDMI eARC Input No
3.5mm Stereo Analog Inputs None
RCA Stereo Analog Inputs None
USB Type-A Input No
Subwoofer Output Mono-RCA
Audio Specs
Tweeter 1" Dome (2)
Midrange 2.125" Cone (2)
Woofer 3" Cone (2)
Subwoofer Driver None
Enclosure Ported
System Frequency Response 55-23k Hz
Sound Bar RMS Power 120
Subwoofer RMS Power N/A
Video Connections
HDMI Inputs None
HDMI Outputs 1
Video Specs
HDMI Version 1.4
HDMI Video Pass-through Resolution N/A
HDR Video Compatible No
Control
Includes Remote Yes
Voice Control No
Control by App Apple iOS, Android
HDMI CEC Yes
Remote IR Passthrough No
Learns TV Remote No
Audio Streaming
Bluetooth Connectivity Built-in
Bluetooth Audio Playback Yes
Bluetooth Transmitter Mode No
Online Music Sources None
Apple AirPlay No
Chromecast built-in No
Amazon Music No
Apple Music No
Pandora No
SiriusXM No
Spotify No
TIDAL No
TuneIn No
YouTube Music No
Files on Your Network No
Wi-Fi Networking
Built-in Wi-Fi Version None
Bands N/A
Other Info
Wall-mountable Yes
Mounting Bracket Included No
Sound Bar Size (inches) 2-1/8H x 35-3/4W x 5-1/8D
Sound Bar Weight 7.1 lbs
Subwoofer Size (inches) No Subwoofer
Subwoofer Weight N/A
Speaker Parts Warranty 2 Years
Speaker Labor Warranty 2 Years
Amplifier Parts Warranty 2 Years
Amplifier Labor Warranty 2 Years

Product Research

Features

2.1ch Active Soundbar Speaker: The Yamaha SR-B20A active soundbar speaker features a 2.1ch driver configuration with one 1" dome tweeter and one 2.125" mid-woofer for each of the left & right channels, as well as dual 3" subwoofers for the LFE channel. The SR-B20A delivers 120-watts of power to the enclosed drivers - 30 watts to each of the left & right channels and 60 watts to both subwoofers.

  • Clear Voice: Clear Voice raises the level of dialog and narrations while maintaining overall sound quality. Movies and TV shows, sports commentary and news broadcasts are more clearly audible.
  • Built-In Subwoofers w/ Bass Extension: The SR-B20A is equipped with dual, built-in 3" subwoofers plus a unique bass reflex port and "Bass Extension" processing to deliver exceptional low-end performance without the need for a separate powered subwoofer. You can adjust the level of the built-in subwoofers independently from the soundbar's overall volume.

Note: The Yamaha SR-B20A does not include a separate powered subwoofer.

Dolby Digital & DTS Compatible: The Yamaha SR-B20A soundbar decodes 2ch PCM, Dolby Digital, & DTS audio signals. You can listen to these audio formats in DTS Virtual:X mode (with vertical and horizontal surround effects), Virtual Surround mode (with horizontal surround effects only), or 2ch Stereo mode (no surround effects). The 2ch Stereo mode is ideal for music, while the Virtual Surround mode provides surround effects for movies, and the DTS Virtual:X provides an even more immersive surround sound effect for movie soundtracks.

Digital Audio Connector Audio Signal Type Audio Signal Format
HDMI & Optical Bitstream Dolby Digital, DTS
2Ch Linear PCM 2ch, 32-96kHz, 16/20/24-bit

DTS Virtual:X 3D Surround: In addition to the standard Virtual Surround mode which provides virtual surround from horizontal directions, the SR-B20A supports DTS Virtual:X which adds virtual height effects for a more immersive surround sound experience. DTS Virtual:X can be used with any content (from 2ch to 5.1ch soundtracks), while delivering virtual height & virtual surround processing based on psychoacoustics (not reflective surfaces).

Sound Modes: You can enjoy the sound of movies, music, TV programs and games with Yamaha's optimal sound modes. Select from four options (Stereo, Standard, Movie, Game) designed to suit your content. Stereo mode to match stereo playback of music, Standard mode for most TV programs, Movie mode for movies to enhance space expansion, and Game mode to immerse yourself in gameplay content allowing for individual sound action localization to be clear and precise.

Dynamic Range Compression (DRC): Compressing the dynamic range of audio signals (the volume difference between the loudest and quietest sounds) makes it easier to listen at a low volume. This setting is applied only when Dolby Digital audio signals are being played.

Compressed Music Enhancer: The Compressed Music Enhancer restores frequency response lost during digital compression, so your music sounds the way it should. Optimized for Bluetooth audio transmission, you'll enjoy vivid, lively sound quality during wireless playback. When a compressed source is played, the Compressed Music Enhancer engages automatically.

HDMI ARC Output: The Yamaha SR-B20A features one HDMI ARC output to connect the soundbar to your TV's HDMI ARC input. The SR-B20A's HDMI ARC output allows audio from your TV to be sent through the active soundbar speaker. The HDMI ARC output supports 5.1ch Dolby Digital, 5.1ch DTS, and 2ch PCM audio signals.

  • Some televisions will only pass 2ch PCM through the ARC-enabled HDMI input from devices connected to the TV via HDMI or analog, and will only pass Dolby Digital via the TV's built-in tuner, network apps, or USB.
  • The HDMI ARC Output only supports audio transmission and does not support any type of video signals.

Optical Digital Inputs: In addition to HDMI connectivity, the SR-B20A is outfitted with two optical (toslink) digital inputs that supports 2ch PCM, 5.1ch Dolby Digital, and 5.1ch DTS audio signals.

  • The digital optical output terminals of some flat-panel TVs only send an audio signal in 5.1ch when receiving Dolby Digital/DTS surround sound from the TV's built-in tuner, network connection, or connected USB device; and will output only 2ch stereo from sources connected to the TV via HDMI, or RCA (like your Blue-ray/DVD player or satellite/cable box).
  • There is no analog input on this soundbar.

Bluetooth Audio Streaming: The Yamaha SR-B20A soundbar features built-in Bluetooth 5.0 with support for wireless audio streaming (A2DP). You'll be able to stream stored music, music apps, and other audio content from your Bluetooth-enabled device (such as your smartphone, table, laptop, or computer) to the SR-B20A active soundbar speaker. You will continue to navigate your music and view song/artist/albums information from your Bluetooth-enabled source device. The soundbar system has a Bluetooth wireless range of approximately 33'.

  • Pairing: This unit pairs with your Bluetooth-enabled device with a single press of a button. If a Bluetooth device has been paired before, the unit will connect to the last paired device when the soundbar's Bluetooth source button is pressed. You will need to terminate this connection to pair a new device.
  • SBC + AAC Codecs: In addition to support for the standard SBC Bluetooth audio codec, the Yamaha soundbar speaker offers support of AAC. By supporting AAC, the SR-B20A soundbar offers better audio performance of the music streamed from your Apple iPod, iPhone, or iPad.
  • Bluetooth Standby: The Bluetooth Standby function allows you to turn On or Off the soundbar automatically, linked with the operation of a Bluetooth device.

Notes:

  • The SR-B20A does not support Bluetooth hands-free communication for making or answering phone calls.
  • Due to the differences in Bluetooth technology, some Bluetooth enabled devices may be incompatible, function improperly, or may not support all features when used with the Yamaha SR-B20A.

Sub Out: A mono-RCA subwoofer output lets you hook up an optional powered sub (sold separately). The soundbar's built-in subs will continue to produce sound along with the external power sub.

Mounting Options: Due to its slim profile, the soundbar fits in front of most flat-panel TVs without blocking the screen. If you prefer to wall-mount the speaker, the SR-B20A offers built-in keyhole slots (spaced 18" apart). A built-in gyroscope optimizes sound depending on whether the soundbar is placed on a table-top or hung on wall.

  • Table-Top Dimensions: 35.75" (w) x 2.125" (h) x 5.125" (d)
  • Wall-Mount Dimensions: 35.75" (w) x 5.125" (h) x 2.5" (d)

IR Remote + HDMI-CEC: The SR-B20A comes with a sleek, easy-to-use IR remote control for wireless operation of the soundbar speaker. Also, if your TV supports HDMI CEC and you use HDMI connectivity, it is possible to adjust the volume of the sound bar using your TV's remote to simplify day-to-day operation.

Note: This soundbar does not allow you to program your TV remote to operate the speaker, but does offer HDMI control through your compatible TV's remote.

Sound Bar Remote App: With Yamaha's Sound Bar Remote App (for Apple iOS 13.0+ and Android 6.0+) its even easier to control the SR-B20A active soundbar speaker from your compatible smartphone or tablet device. The app can be used to switch sources, sound modes, clear voice and bass extension functions and simple power on/off commands intuitively and easily from your Apple iOS or Android mobile device.

Auto Power Standby: When the Auto Power Standby function is enabled, the unit will automatically turn off when there is no operation for 8 hours. When Bluetooth or HDMI is selected as the input, the unit will turn off after no audio input and no operation for 20 minutes.

Firmware Updates: Firmware updates can be done via a USB thumbdrive containing downloadable firmware updates from Yamaha's website. Check Yamaha's Support Download Site for the most recent firmware updates.

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Customer Q&A

15 questions already asked

Q
Will this connect to a Denon receiver for use with my TV?
jonathanc  Nov 12, 2023
1 answer
A
Self-powered soundbars like the SR-B20A are not designed or intended for use with home theater receivers simultaneously. The primary issue would be HDMI-ARC, if we planned to use that functionality.
zachary  Nov 12, 2023 (Staff)
Q
Can this be mounted under a swinging tv mount?
katherine  Jun 11, 2023
1 answer
A
Greetings Kate, and thank you for your question. The Yamaha SR-B20A has whats called key hole slots on the back for wall mounting purposes. With an extension off the TVs wall mount, you can hang this bar. https://www.crutchfield.com/p_310SB100/Kanto-SB100.html
hogan  Jun 11, 2023 (Staff)
Q
Does this sound bar have a head phone jack for a standard head phone?
thomas  Feb 18, 2023
1 answer
A
It does not feature a headphone jack.
zachary  Feb 19, 2023 (Staff)
Q
Is there a difference in sound effects when wall mounting versus placing on a desktop?
marcos  Aug 08, 2022
1 answer
A
Greetings Marc, and thank you for your question. Yamaha bars have a gyroscope to optimize sound depending on how the bar is placed. Will it be a bit different, quite possible, maybe to to the human ear.
hogan  Aug 12, 2022 (Staff)
Q
In a medium size room will I get better sound effects (DTS Virtual X in particular) if the sound bar is wall mounted versus lying on a tabletop?
marcos  Aug 08, 2022
1 answer
A
Greetings Marc, and thank you for your question. The Yamaha sound bar has a built in gyroscope to optimize the sound depending on orientation of the bar. It is possible one way sounds better in a room. We just do not set these up and try all mounting options to see which is going to sound better. Quite possible Yamaha might have a better insight. If you like their number is 800-292-2982.
hogan  Aug 09, 2022 (Staff)
Q
Is Yamaha SR B20A compatible with Poplk audio PSW10?
randy  Apr 24, 2022
1 answer
A
Yes. The Yamaha has a standard RCA style subwoofer output, and I believe the Polk PSW10 has a standard RCA style subwoofer audio input.
terry  Apr 26, 2022
Q
My TV has only HDMI. Is there anyway to connect HDMI ARC?
tom  Apr 23, 2022
2 answers
A
yes
david  Apr 25, 2022
A
On most TV's less than 10 years old with 4 HDMI ports, one of them is ARC. Usually it's HDMI 3. On my TV it wasn't labeled - I had to dig through the user's manual to find it. That's the HDMI channel you'll use to go out to the sound bar. If yours doesn't have an ARC channel, the SR-B20A also has a digital optical connection. It won't give you the same interactive capability as HDMI, but it will still sound just as good. Hope that helps.
ed  Apr 23, 2022
Q
Do I need Blue Tooth capability to use this?
william a  Jan 24, 2022
6 answers
A
no
andrew  Jan 30, 2022
A
No. I have mine connected directly to my TV using a Toslink cable
brian  Jan 29, 2022
A
No, you do not have to have Bluetooth to use it. It should have coaxial digital inputs, as well as an HDMI input.
jim  Jan 24, 2022
A
No. Will connect to tv with hdmi cable.
bradford  Jan 24, 2022
A
Not to connect to your tv set only if you wish to have music/sounds from a laptop or mobile phone
paul  Jan 24, 2022
A
The unit comes with a remote control, so Bluetooth isn't required - however the Yamaha app (for iPhone anyway) is quite nice and works over Bluetooth. I prefer it over the supplied remote.
john s  Jan 24, 2022
Q
Will this work with an Element TV?
harold  Jan 16, 2022
1 answer
A
I'm an idiot concerning technology. lol. I don't know what an Element TV is. Sorry. BUT, I can tell you I'm extremely satisfied with it's performance. So much so, I bought one for my sister. Definitely a BIG difference when compared to just my TV speakers. The only negative I have found is with the remote control. It has to be in an exact position to operate. It's not just pick up and push. Same with the second one I bought as a gift. I hope this helps in some way. If you've never done business with Crutchfield, I highly recommend them. GREAT customer service.
james claude  Jan 16, 2022
Q
Will this pair up with a Samsung TV remote so all I need is the TV remote to operate?
jeff  Dec 27, 2021
5 answers
A
Unsure about the optical connection, but if your TV is connected to the bar via HDMI your TV remote will control the bar's volume. You will need the bar's remote or app to adjust other settings like subwoofer level and sound modes though
ed  Jan 02, 2022
A
I don't think so. Check out the bottom of the "Details" tab on Crutchfield. It talks about using HDMI control but I've not tried that.
david  Dec 30, 2021
A
Yes, hooked up with hdmi cable to arc port and digital cable . Synced to Comcast remote and Samsung remote
john  Dec 27, 2021
A
Yes mines is paired with Samsung remote
gregory  Dec 27, 2021
A
Cannot say with certainty. I use my direct remote paired with TV, but have never tried linking in the speaker
matthew  Dec 27, 2021
Q
I have a Sony wired and powered sub woofer can I connect it to this soundbar?
dale  Dec 15, 2021
2 answers
A
You definitely can. I've got an older JBL sub wired to this soundbar and it sounds awesome. I've totally replaced my 5.1 home theater system with it because it sounds better, even though it doesn't have surround. I can actually hear dialog in movies without having to crank it up to 11.
ed  Apr 23, 2022
A
Yes, you should be able. The sound bar has a subwoofer output RCA jack. So as long as your Sony subwoofer has a common RCA subwoofer input jack it should work. Btw, I have had this sound bar for some time now and have been extremely satisfied with it, even without a separate subwoofer. Highly recommended!
terry  Dec 15, 2021
Q
what performance will i get if i connect passive 450W sub to this that i already have? (had to trash the old amp/tuner)
jason  Nov 15, 2021
2 answers
A
You'll need an active (powered) sub with a crossover, the bar's sub output is not amplified nor does it have a crossover.
ed  Nov 21, 2021
A
This will not power passive subwoofers; it has a preamp output to send audio to a powered subwoofer.
jason  Nov 20, 2021 (Staff)
Q
Is this soundbar charged or plug in the wall?
stephanie  Oct 18, 2021
7 answers
A
Plugs into an electrical outlet, not battery operated.
ed  Oct 19, 2021
A
Plug in. It's not chargeable.
ralph  Oct 18, 2021
A
PLUGS INTO WALL OUTLET
gregory  Oct 18, 2021
A
Plug in only. Sounds good for a small unit
matthew  Oct 18, 2021
A
Wall plug
eric  Oct 18, 2021
A
It must be plugged into the wall to operate. It does not have a battery.
james  Oct 18, 2021
A
It plugs in
james e.  Oct 18, 2021
Q
Can this connect to a Samsung QLED TV via Bluetooth?
javier  Jan 12, 2021
2 answers
A
I don't know
michael  Jan 12, 2021
A
Sorry. I cannot answer your question. I connected mine via HDMI to a Sony H900 set. Very happy with the sound, the remote, and the app one can use once installed on a smart phone. Try contacting any of the manufacturers or Crutchfield. Also manuals for electronics are often available online, and you can check those for instructions and compatibility questions. Good luck.
ralph  Jan 12, 2021
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