Flexible and likeable, the Yamaha SR-C30A is, in some ways, the ideal affordable soundbar/subwoofer combo. It’s not quite a slam dunk in every department, and won't satisfy those looking for Dolby Atmos thrills, but it's an excellent option overall if you want power in a smaller size.

The Yamaha SR-C20A could be all the soundbar you need for a gaming setup. Excelling as an all-in-one desktop speaker solution, the sound quality is excellent, the audio modes useful, and the design wonderfully compact. It might lack a couple of features like USB input, but the audio quality and simplicity more than make up for it.

For those after a soundbar that’s compact and easy to use, then this Yamaha is a solid and affordable option. If you’re a soundbar with a bit more beef to its bass, then perhaps look elsewhere

Solid front performance

So, it’s easy to pick nits and point out the features that Yamaha’s SR-C30A lacks, but when you tally up what it does—not to mention what it does well—it’s frankly quite the bargain. Especially if you have a standing desk and you’re tired of having your computer speakers serenade your midriff.

If what you need is a bit of everything from your soundbar - ignoring that, at this price point, you can't expect surround sound - you can't go far wrong with the Yamaha SR-C20A. This one-box 'bar solution can turn its hand to pretty much anything, without ever making itself the centre of attention.

For those simply looking to improve on the sound of their TV for just a couple of hundred pounds, the Yamaha SR-C20A is a great option

If the absolute ceiling on your budget is $200 and you can do without Wi-Fi audio streaming, Yamaha’s SR-B20A soundbar is a great value.

Small but perfectly formed, the Yamaha SR-C30A is a diverting option for those who desire an unobtrusive upgrade to their TV sound

This soundbar is an accomplished performer, delivering a presence that's bigger than its dimensions would suggest

This smaller speaker boosts the sound quality of TV shows and music but it's not the best value.

The SR-C20A is the bar Yamaha wanted it to be, but it lacks low end sound.

Good option for buyers on a shoestring, but lack of upgrade path means it’s not for petrolheads.

The Yamaha SR-C20A is a soundbar that can do a bit of everything without getting in your way. It's a real winner at this price point.

If you just want a soundbar for one specific purpose, you can probably do better than the SR-C20A without spending any more than this. But if you want something that’s small and discreet, yet able to sound big and convincing no matter what you use it for, your shortlist is very much shorter. And this Yamaha should be near the top of it.