The Klipsch Cinema 1200 is a popular high-end soundbar renowned for its rich, detailed sound quality. However, its relatively high price tag places it out of reach for many buyers. Thankfully, the soundbar market has exploded with options in recent years – many of which provide comparable audio performance at more affordable rates.
In this guide, we break down the top four alternatives to the Klipsch Cinema 1200 across various usage scenarios and price points.
Why Consider Alternatives to the Klipsch Cinema 1200?
There‘s no doubt that the Klipsch Cinema 1200 is an excellent soundbar. Its 5.1 surround sound system delivers thunderous bass, clear mids and highs, and an ultra-wide soundstage. The dedicated center channel ensures crisp dialog in movies and TV shows.
However, it does have some limitations:
- Expensive – Typically retailing for $1,200 or more, it stretches many home theater budgets.
- Lacks Key Audio Formats – Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support is missing. This reduces immersiveness.
- Minimal Features – You won‘t find built-in voice assistants or room correction. Streaming relies on optical connection.
- Overkill for Music – It‘s tuned more for cinematic audio rather than music listening.
Fortunately, the soundbar market has many less expensive yet highly capable alternatives. Let‘s look at the top options.
Best Klipsch Cinema 1200 Alternatives
Overall: Samsung HW-Q800C
Our pick for the best overall Klipsch Cinema 1200 alternative is the Samsung HW-Q800C. Priced hundreds less, it still provides a premium 5.1.2 channel surround system with side-firing speakers and wireless subwoofer.
Key Features
- 5.1.2 channel sound with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- Wireless subwoofer with powerful bass
- Acoustic beam technology for clear dialogue
- Built-in Alexa and Bixby voice assistants
- Stream music via WiFi, Bluetooth, Airplay 2
We recommend the Samsung HW-Q800C for buyers that want a balances and immersive home theater audio experience without breaking the bank. It works well for both movies and music across a variety of streaming services.
For Music: Bose Smart Soundbar 900
Serious music listeners should consider the Bose Smart Soundbar 900. It packs unique angled transducers to fill a room with stereo or simulated surround sound. The balanced audio profile makes songs, podcasts and more sound their best.
Key Features
- Proprietary Bose TrueSpace technology provides wide, detailed stereo separation
- Customizable EQ via Bose music app
- Support for AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Alexa and Google Assistant
- WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
- ADAPTiQ room calibration further tunes the soundbar to your room‘s acoustics
While certainly no slouch for home theater use, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 shines when it comes to musical enjoyment. It‘s smarter and more adaptable than the Klipsch alternative.
For Gamers: Razer Leviathan V2
Gamers should check out the Razer Leviathan V2, designed specifically with immersive gaming audio in mind. THX Spatial Audio brings game worlds to life with pinpoint directional queues. The dedicated gaming mode further enhances audio detail critical for competitive multiplayer titles.
Key Features
- THX Spatial Audio for surround sound immersion
- Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity
- Chroma RGB lighting syncs with other Razer Chroma devices
- Optical input for game consoles and PCs
- Enhanced footstep detail in gaming mode
While music and movies sound reasonably good, the Razer Leviathan V2‘s gaming bonafides make it the best choice for serious gamers not willing to splurge over $1,000 on the Klipsch alternative.
For Surround Sound: Sonos Arc
The Sonos Arc provides an impressive balance of home theater performance and music versatility. It supports advanced Dolby Atmos audio formatting alongside a bevy of music streaming options. Sleek design blends seamlessly with modern décor.
Key Features
- Dolby Atmos and 5.0.2 channel surround sound
- Broad music service support including Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, Tidal and more
- Sleek, low profile design mounts flush below TV
- Touch controls, speech enhancement and night mode
- Expandable to surround set with other Sonos speakers
For those seeking Dolby Atmos on a budget, the Sonos Arc delivers. While it skimps on DTS:X support, it nails usability for everything from blockbuster movies to background music.
What To Look For In An Alternative Soundbar
Beyond the models above, keep the following criteria in mind when shopping for a Klipsch Cinema 1200 alternative:
- Usage – Are you primarily watching movies or playing games? Listening to music? Using it for all three?
- Audio Channels/Speaker Configuration – More channels provide heightened immersion but cost more.
- Wireless Connectivity – Bluetooth, WiFi, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, etc. Determine what‘s essential.
- Smart Assistants – Built-in Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri simplify hands-free control.
- 3D Audio Support – Dolby Atmos and DTS:X provide the best cinematic sound staging.
- Room Correction – Some soundbars auto tune output to your room‘s acoustics.
- Price – Set a firm budget and find best option that fits. Sales around holidays can net bargains on premium models.
Testing different soundbars firsthand is the best way to determine optimal fit. But the models profiled above provide superb alternatives to the Klipsch Cinema 1200 across needs, virtually matching it in performance at more affordable rates.
