Without the subwoofer, the reproduction becomes too flat. The best thing about this soundbar IS the subwoofer. I wouldn't spend the money without it. The detachable satellites are ok, but only recommended for Blue Ray discs. The volume of the satellites could be better when listening to music or watching TV. I always have them on the dock, but that doesn't help much.....

I have not connected the suwoofer and it works wonderfully.