Audio system for Samsung TV

[c1tro]

Used to have a JBL 2.1 speaker system connected to the TV and was quite pleased with the result. Unfortunately the sub died and I have been exploring the option of a soundbar. the problem is that i haven't been impressed with their sound quality. Have tested two from Sony and one from Samsung (K450) and music reproduction is not anywhere close to what I've been used with the JBL's. I have tried various settings with some improvement but the sound remains shallow and not crisp even with maxing tremble. Don't want to spend over £200. The soundbar offers some convenient features but I am happy to sacrifice them for better sound quality.
Any suggestions?

 

[c1tro]

Have you looked at a soundbase like the Sony HT-XT2 or similar ?

The TV is wall mounted

Buy some stereo speakers and a AVR. It'll offer better sound, upgradability and connecitivty than a soundbar. AVR's depreciate like crazy so you'll get a decent AVR second hand

Plenty of second hand speakers available. My spare room is full of spare speakers.

That is my inclination. Any decent/compact options with optical and hdmi inputs?