Re-use of soundbars
How feasible is it to give soundbars a second life? Commissioned by Stichting OPEN, Second Use investigated the re-use potential of four soundbar models, revealing insights into repairability, consumer interest, and key barriers.
Research by Second Use shows that re-use of soundbars is technically very feasible. Most models are relatively easy to disassemble and repair, with common defects typically limited to power supplies or motherboards. Repair costs are generally low, and refurbished soundbars—if not older than five years—can retain up to 80% of their original retail value.
However, repairability and build quality vary between models and play a critical role in refurbishment potential. Some soundbars are easier to dismantle and reassemble than others, and the availability of replacement parts also differs. A major challenge is the housing: casing components are difficult to source, which means even well-functioning soundbars may be discarded if the exterior is visibly damaged.
Lastly, the commercial lifespan of soundbars is relatively short. Due to rapid model turnover in the market, consumer interest in older models declines quickly. As a result, refurbishment is mainly viable for newer devices in good condition. Improving the availability of housing components could significantly boost the overall potential for soundbar re-use.
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