Comparing Q series Soundbars
Sound Bar Buying Guide
Here are the most important things to know (or do) before buying a sound bar, in bitesize form:
Select a sound bar that has three or more channels – at a bare minimum.
Despite the fact that there are still 2-channel sound bars available, they are little more than glorified mini-stereos. It is possible to mimic surround sound with three or more channels, resulting in a more immersive experience.
Opt for a soundbar with built-in speakers.
Active sound bars are equipped with integrated amplifiers (passive sound bars do not). We believe it is worthwhile, particularly if you are attempting to reduce space or want a two-in-one solution.
Think about where you’d want to put your sound bar before you buy it.
Is it going to be hung on a wall or laid out on a coffee table? Your new sound bar shouldn’t be any broader than your television, just for aesthetic reasons. And, in an ideal world, whether it’s mounted on a wall or placed on a shelf, the ideal location for your sound bar would be centered under or above your television. Ensure, however, that you have enough room.
Pay close attention to the connection.
With Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth connectivity, most sound bars can stream music from any computer, phone, or tablet, thus transforming your sound bar into a stereo system. Also look for HDMI-switching, which allows you to easily switch between audio sources without having to reroute your HDMI connections..
Samsung HW-Q950A
Best Samsung Q series Soundbar
The Samsung HW-Q950A is the greatest Samsung Q series Soundbar we’ve tested. This top-of-the-line system has two separate satellite speakers and a dedicated subwoofer in an 11.1.4 configuration. It has a function called Auto EQ that adjusts the audio output depending on your room’s acoustic properties. Many sorts of audio material may be enjoyed thanks to its balanced, neutral frequency response, and it comes with a wide range of customizing options, including a visual EQ. Dolby Atmos video can also be streamed via the bar, and it has built-in voice assistant capability.
As a result, the audio quality on this system isn’t nearly as high compared to devices like Bose and Vizio. Compared to its predecessor, the Samsung HW-Q950T, its low-bass is not as long-lasting. However, most listeners will be pleased by its ability to capture the low kick and rumble in your mixes.
Samsung HW-Q950T
Best 9.1 Samsung Q series Soundbar
The Samsung HW-Q950T is an amazing 9.1.4 surround sound device that was released in 2020. Neutral and balanced, it boasts a thumpy, snappy bass that is suited for a wide range of music genres. Additionally, it contains a visual EQ and presets so that you may fine-tune its sound. Q-Symphony, a function that works in conjunction with compatible Samsung QLED TVs to produce a more immersive audio experience, is included in this high-end soundbar, although we have not yet tested this feature.
If you’re looking for a high-end Samsung phone with a metal grille, this one isn’t quite up to scratch. Unless you’re standing precisely above it, you can’t view the screen on its upper side. While this is an excellent pick for a soundbar that works better with Samsung TVs, it’s not without flaws.
Samsung HW-Q900A
Best 7.1 Samsung Q series Soundbar
The HW-Q900A soundbar’s 48-inch width works well with 50-inch and bigger televisions. In order to fit beneath most televisions without obscuring the bottom of the screen, this device has a very low profile. On the other hand, the soundbar may be placed on the wall as well (hardware is provided).
The soundbar’s physical breadth delivers a large stereo and immersive surround sound area. Dolby Atmos and other surround sound formats are supported. Listening flexibility is provided by further dialog enhancements, auto and manual EQ, and other audio processing (including presets).
If your TV has an optical or HDMI ARC/eARC connection, the Samsung HW-Q900A is compatible. The Q-Symphony feature, on the other hand, is only available on certain Samsung 2020/21 TV models. SpaceFit is only compatible with specific Samsung TV models for the year 2021.
Samsung HW-Q850A
Best 5.1 Samsung Q series Soundbar
When the Samsung HW-Q850A was introduced in 2021, it was a 5.1.2 configuration. A few additional features have been added to the Samsung HW-Q850T, including compatibility for Apple AirPlay 2. Q-Symphony and SpaceFit Sound, which sync the bar with compatible Samsung TVs to provide a more immersive sound, are features that we do not test. It offers a very balanced sound profile, although the bass is lacking a little thud and power.
Thanks to the abundance of sound customizing tools available, such as a graphic equalizer and presets, this isn’t an issue. Soundstage items like footsteps and voices are properly located thanks to its separate surround speakers. With Dolby Atmos material, it may also be rather loud. At maximum volume, there’s slight compression, but it’s hardly noticeable.
Samsung HW-Q800A
Best 3.1 Samsung Q series Soundbar
The Q800A is a significant advance over its 2020 predecessor in two critical areas. One of the best things about this is that you may get better audio performance if you use it in conjunction with Samsung’s new Q70A or higher 2021 TVs. Q800A’s optional rear speakers now have up-firing height channel drivers, resulting in a more immersive and authentic Dolby Atmos sound experience. Although the Q800A is excellent enough on its own, we don’t think most buyers will feel the need to add the rear speakers.
It offers a very balanced sound profile, although the bass is lacking a little thud and power. A visual EQ and presets, for example, are among the many sound modification options available.The Q800A’s greatest benefits over its competitors come when it’s turned up to the volume settings that serious moviegoers need.
Samsung HW-Q800T
Best Samsung Q series Soundbar balancing price and sound quality
If you’re looking for a 3.1.2 soundbar, look no further. It includes two speakers that are integrated into the bar, as well as a separate wireless subwoofer. Uses up-firing speakers on the bar to give a more immersive listening experience with Samsung Acoustic Beam technology. Although we haven’t tested this, the Q-Symphony function enables you to match Samsung QLED TV speakers with the bar for a more theatrical sound. A built-in microphone may be turned off when not in use, and Amazon Alexa voice assistant functionality is included into the design.
With its neutral and well-balanced sound reproduction, it can handle a wide range of audio material right out of the box. Despite the fact that it is capable of playing Dolby Atmos and surround material, it does not provide the most immersive audio experience possible. There are a lot of choices for connection and sound customization with this bar. The only thing I can think of to complain about is the lack of surround and Atmos sound.
Samsung HW-Q600A Soundbar
Best Midrange Samsung Q series Soundbar
A dedicated subwoofer is included with the Samsung HW-Q600A, which is a 3.1.2 system. It offers a very neutral and balanced sound profile out of the box, making it acceptable for listening to a wide variety of audio material, however it does lack some low-bass.
Sound customization options including a visual EQ and settings like ‘Game Mode Pro’ and ‘Adaptive Sound’ are included in the Samsung HW-Q800A and the Samsung Q700A soundbars from the 2021 series. Acoustic Beam and Q-Symphony, which improve audio reproduction when linked to compatible Samsung TVs, are also included into the bar, but we didn’t test them for you.
Voice assistant capabilities and Wi-Fi and Apple AirPlay2 compatibility are missing from this model. Fans of action movies and bass-heavy music may be disappointed by the sound system’s inability to deliver a deep, resonant bass.
Samsung HW-Q70T Soundbar
Best Stand-alone Samsung Q series Soundbar
The Samsung HW-Q70T is a versatile soundbar that does a good job reproducing most types of audio content. It has a neutral, well-balanced sound that makes it suitable for most uses, though it lacks a bit of bass. On the upside, this bar can get loud and it performs reasonably well at max volume. It supports Atmos content and uses two up-firing speakers on the bar to simulate height. However, it downmixes surround content to stereo, so it won’t provide the most immersive movie-watching experience. Overall, this well-built soundbar should please a wide variety of listeners. It’s the next version of the Samsung HW-Q70R from 2019, which also supports Dolby Atmos content.
However, its well-balanced sound profile lacks a bit of sub-bass, which may be noticeable with bass-heavy music and movies, but it does offer sound customization features. In addition, it has to downmix surround content into stereo to play it, which isn’t as immersive-sounding.
Samsung HW-Q60T
Best Budget Samsung Q series Soundbar
In the 2020 Samsung range, the HW-Q60T soundbar sports a 5.1-channel sound system. The Samsung HW-Q60R model has been updated. Like its predecessor, the new configuration does not employ dynamic amplifiers nor does it accommodate Dolby Atmos content, like the previous model.
In the review, it is deemed acceptable for a variety of purposes. Having a little less bass and treble makes action movies seem less interesting. A graphic equalizer or presets, on the other hand, may be used to alter the sound.
The soundbar’s center channel is well-balanced. Dialogues and musical performances make this very obvious. Using this soundbar for a party at home may be loud, but the bass will be distorted. In addition to the foregoing, the Q60T offers an auto-shutdown feature to save energy.
How Samsung Q series Soundbars are so Good
A selection of high-end soundbars from the Samsung Q series are available if you want to experience genuinely beautiful cinematic sounds that cover the whole room. When compared to other flagship series, as well as soundbars, the Q series is distinctive in its own right.
The Samsung Q series soundbars are very well-built and feature a sleek design to complement their high-quality sound. You won’t find any mesh fabric on them, and you’ll be pleased with their build quality, which is constructed of high-grade solid plastic and metal grilles that protect the speakers from outside interference.
Straight out of the box, Samsung Q series soundbars tend to have a solid, well-balanced, and neutral sound profile that is useful for a variety of applications. Some soundbars do offer a little more bass than others, due to the inclusion of a wireless subwoofer.
You’ll always be able to connect in your gadgets to a Q series soundbar since it has a Full HDMI In port. Even though they have several connectors and enable for multiple wireless playbacks, the most affordable models only support Bluetooth technology.
On the majority of Samsung soundbars, a small screen that shows the inputs and volume levels is included. The text must be scrolled to the bottom of the screen if there are any messages. While some may prefer this interface over light indicators, others may find the scrolling text to be a bothersome distraction.
Soundbars from the Q series are often a little more costly than comparable rival devices. A room correction capability is only available on Samsung’s most expensive soundbars, which are also the most expensive. You may notice that your music sounds different depending on whatever room you’re listening in if you choose a more budget-friendly model.
Unique Features
Q-symphony
You can listen to music in a whole new way thanks to Samsung’s cutting-edge Q-symphony audio technology. Using this sound feature, the TV’s audio is synced up with the soundbar’s to provide an immersive surround sound experience.
For those who want to create a really immersive home theater experience, Q-Symphony is the answer. In this setup, the sound comes from both the TV speakers and the soundbar. Wirelessly connecting certain Samsung TVs and soundbars is a straightforward operation.
It’s possible to enjoy surround sound from your TV and soundbar simultaneously using a technology known as Q-Symphony that creates an audio synergy. For those who want to create a really immersive home theater experience, Q-Symphony is the answer. In this setup, the sound comes from both the TV speakers and the soundbar. Wirelessly connecting certain Samsung TVs and soundbars is a straightforward operation.
Cords will not be an issue when you use the Samsung soundbar with a QLED television that is compatible. Through a Bluetooth connection, the soundbar and TV are linked together. Both devices may be controlled simultaneously using the One Remote Control. You may also use this remote to control other peripherals, such as a Blu-ray player and decoder. The SmartThings software made by Samsung may also be used to control your Samsung devices from your smartphone.
Acoustic Beam
Samsung Soundbars equipped with Acoustic Beam technology blend and transmit sound to look as though it is coming directly from the scene on the screen. However, we encourage sports, movies, and games in order to get the most out of the technology and enhance your experience.
An inward-firing speaker is used in each Acoustic Beam to emit sound. There are 56 holes on the Soundbar, and each beam has 28 holes of varying diameters, which send various frequencies of sound upwards, allowing for a broader sound field. The Acoustic Beam is slanted towards the front by 18 degrees in order to drive sound upwards to the roof.
Built-in voice assistant
Hands-free operation allows you to easily control your music, get information, and plan your day. Can’t remember the name of a song? By merely uttering a few lines of a song’s lyrics, you may ask Alexa to play a certain song. Your Samsung soundbar is ready to listen to any kind of music or entertainment you’re into at the moment.
You will find it to be a very useful item if you wish to listen to some high-quality audio. The process of connecting the Samsung Soundbar to the Google Home is straightforward. Everything about it functions in the same manner as any other Bluetooth speaker. All you have to do is walk through the Google Home app’s settings menu to accomplish your goal.
Tap Sound and Smart Sound Mode
For those times when you want to take your music to a higher degree of enjoyment. It’s as simple as tapping on the soundbar while listening to your favorite tunes on your phone. It vibrates when it identifies the smartphone, and it connects and plays the music you were listening to – but with fantastic soundbar sounds.
Smart Sound Mode is a feature that allows you to customize the sound to your liking. Automatically adjusts the EQ to the content you’re viewing in order to provide you with the best possible sound experience.
- Adaptive: Best for TV because voices get a ‘boost’
- Standard: Best for music because is simulates stereo sound.
- Surround: Best for watching movies because it uses all the speakers to create a surround sound setting.
- Game-pro: Best for gaming.
What is the best Samsung Q series Soundbars for Samsung TVs?
Now, Samsung TV users can enjoy an 11.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos surround-sound experience with the HW-Q950A, which is built around a large soundbar, two wireless back speakers, and a subwoofer. It’s a mind-blowing piece of technology that generates a strong and detailed audio dome around you. Q-Symphony support makes it sound even better on a Samsung TV. Of course, it’s pricey and needs a 55-inch or bigger television.
If you’re on a budget but still want Dolby Atmos functionality, Sony’s HW-Q60T is the best option. In addition to the soundbar and subwoofer, you get a 43-inch TV in the package. You can feel the force, detail, and depth of the music, and it forms a true wall of sound in front of you.
The Samsung HW-Q800A is the greatest option for a middle ground. If you’re looking for a Dolby Atmos soundbar and subwoofer combination like the Sony, but for TVs with a screen size of 50 inches and higher, this is the best option. Its mid-range pricing and good sound quality make it a great value, plus it can play Q-Symphony.
Conclusion
Overall, the Samsung Q series Soundbars are decent soundbars that provide high sound quality and have a well-balanced sound profile. Some of their subwoofers are really strong, which may provide a little additional bass that is particularly useful for watching movies. Apart from covering the subwoofer port, they also boast a stylish and robust design that does not need the use of fabric. However, because of this, they are often a little more costly than comparable models, but for some individuals, the price difference is well worth it.
You could choose the Samsung HW-Q950A from a large number of options since it produces superb bass that makes movies exciting and realistic. Music is also a pleasure to listen to. Its high-quality, cinematic-rich sound will always hold your attention to some extent.
FAQs
When it comes to resolving your issues, our FAQ sections are the most helpful resource available. Learn more about this specific section by clicking here.
What is the best way to get the best sound out of my Samsung soundbar?
Turn off or mute the internal speakers on your television to enable the high-quality sound from your soundbar to shine through. When transmitting audio signals to your Soundbar, use HDMI (ARC) or other high-quality cables to do so. If possible, make adjustments to your equalization settings to verify that your soundbar is appropriately configured for the audio source you’re using.
Is it preferable to connect a soundbar using HDMI or Optical cables?
Soundbars with HDMI and optical inputs provide high-quality audio as either a component of a home theater system or as a stand-alone speaker system. Nevertheless, since HDMI Soundbars support both video and audio streaming, they are the preferable choice when utilized in combination with your television, Blu-ray player, gaming consoles or any number of other devices.
What is causing the shrill sound on my Samsung TV?
An difficulty with the sound quality might arise as a result of a faulty connection, cable, or a problem with the source. 1 Check to see whether the distorted sound problem is caused by any audio/video files or by a certain television station.
Is the Bose Soundbar better than the Samsung Soundbar?
The Samsung Q series Soundbar is a superior soundbar when compared to the Bose Soundbar on its own, yet the Bose can be updated with ease. The Samsung includes a separate subwoofer, which provides a more prolonged bass response as well as a louder maximum volume.
Freelance tech journalist & author of soundboxlab.com …Read More
