Tag Archives: Soundbar Reviews

We anticipate loads from soundbars lately. Far greater than only a option to beef up your TV sound, right this moment’s premium soundbars are tasked with loads of facet gigs: good speaker; audio streaming hub; multi-room audio machine; HDMI switcher; and the listing goes on. It’s straightforward to land all the most effective goodies when you’re prepared to shell out loads of money. But the place do you draw the road in terms of getting the most effective worth?

With the Magnifi Max AX Dolby Atmos bar, Polk has proven a novel capacity to load up the highest options and attributes most customers want, with out skimping on crucial function of all: spectacular sound to your cash. Offering a minimalist design and interface, stable options, and nice efficiency, the Max AX appeals to these looking for a simplified Dolby Atmos setup that rises above the group with out blowing your funds.

High Points

• Impressive Dolby Atmos immersion
• Excellent dialogue readability
• Full and balanced sound
• Loads of HDMI inputs
• Ability so as to add encompass audio system later

Low Points

• No App/restricted audio settings
• No room calibration mode
• Sound is often over processed

Swift and easy setup

Getting going with the Magnifi Max AX is exceedingly easy. Pulling the fabric-wrapped bar and boxy sub from its stout, L-shaped bundle is probably the most time-consuming half. After plugging within the sub and bar and connecting the included HDMI cable to my TV, I used to be up and operating in a few minutes.

Connecting for Wi-Fi streaming was additionally fast, although right here’s the place you’ll get your first style of simply how simplified the Max AX actually is: there’s no devoted app. Instead, when you’ve acquired an iPhone you possibly can comply with Polk’s startup directions to attach the bar to your community through AirPlay.

For Android customers, Polk borrows both the Google Home or Amazon Alexa app to seek out your native community. There aren’t any built-in mics, however as soon as related, Alexa is supported for fundamental controls through the Amazon app or a separate good speaker. (Google Assistant isn’t supported).

Smooth model, a great deal of inputs

It’s arduous to discover a soundbar that breaks from the all-too-familiar mildew – there are a complete lot of non-descript black rectangles banging round on the market. Polk’s Magnifi does higher than most, sporting a barely rounded profile wrapped in a good-looking layer of charcoal acoustic material that stands a wholesome 45 inches throughout, 5 inches deep, and just below 3 inches excessive.

Under the floor are 11 drivers, together with twin 2.5-inch upfiring drivers; a pair of 1×3-inch racetrack drivers and a single .75-inch tweeter for every of the left and proper channels; and a pair of 1×2.5-inch racetrack drivers with one other .75-inch tweeter for the middle channel.

The wi-fi subwoofer is its personal beast, loaded with a 10-inch down-firing driver set inside a big, black-matte MDF cupboard. The unit stands 16 inches tall and deep, and just below 12 inches large. It appears to be like stylish sufficient, although the vinyl exterior appears to draw scuffs over time.

At a cubby behind the bar is an virtually surprising variety of HDMI inputs for this worth bracket, together with HDMI eARC for totally uncompressed audio when connecting to eARC-ready TVs, in addition to three spare HDMI inputs that assist 4K/HDR at 60Hz. There’s additionally an optical connection (although this received’t assist Dolby Atmos), and a USB port for firmware updates.

It can be good if the HDMI inputs supported 120Hz passthrough to permit for increased framerates from the most recent gaming consoles. But when you think about opponents just like the Sonos Arc and Bose Smart Soundbar 900 supply zero spare HDMI inputs, and loads of pricier bars have the identical 60Hz limitation, you’re nonetheless popping out effectively forward.

There are additionally loads of methods to stream wirelessly, together with Chromecast, AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect, in addition to Bluetooth 5.0. Alongside Dolby Atmos, the Magnifi Max AX additionally helps its principal rival for Blu-ray discs, DTS:X spatial audio.

One factor the bar skimps on is audio settings. The rubbery distant provides you the fundamentals, together with bass and treble controls, the flexibility to regulate peak channels for efficient spatial audio efficiency, in addition to a Voice function to pump up dialogue. But you received’t discover deeper settings, reminiscent of a subwoofer management or multi-band EQ, and there’s no automated calibration like numerous opponents supply.

This is generally by design – the Magnifi Max AX appears to focus on those that don’t need to need to fiddle with all these further settings. Most importantly, the default sound is sort of good, providing spectacular stability with just a few EQ tweaks, and loads of readability because of the bar’s loaded assortment of drivers. This equates to simplified management, with the audio chops to again it up.

Clear, balanced, and expansive TV sound

When it involves these audio chops, I used to be instantly impressed at simply how full and immersive this method sounds out of the field. Virtual encompass sound engines have change into more and more convincing in the previous few years, and Polk’s SDA model blends with its twin upfiring drivers for sound that pulls you into the motion.

Delving via my Dolby Atmos demo discs, I used to be handled to a formidable present, from birds circling across the room to strafing starships overhead and buzzing bugs that just about had me scratching away the dense humidity of a muggy summer time night. Even the difficult rain storm within the “Amaze” demo got here off with surprisingly practical overhead placement, permitting my mind to virtually really feel the beads of rain falling from the ceiling.

Few sound results made the total journey across the again of the room – a trick that’s almost unattainable to drag off with out precise encompass audio system, however they got here shut sufficient for my mind to fill within the gaps.

Another Atmos take a look at, “Ant-Man,” was equally spectacular. The Max AX provided thrilling spectacle in scenes just like the suitcase fall, the place Ant-Man and Yellowjacket trigger The Cure’s Disintegration to burst forth from a relatively gigantic iPhone and fill the house with mournful new-wave rock. The system compares effectively to the Sonos Arc right here, although I believe the Arc offers a bit extra readability and dynamic punch.

One cause is probably going as a result of the Magnifi Max AX doesn’t embody side-firing drivers to bounce hold forth the partitions, counting on its digital encompass engine as a substitute. Another is that Polk’s bar appears so as to add some further compression in chaotic scenes to maintain issues from distorting, which may dampen among the dynamic depth. As one thing of a purist, this was one setting I needed may very well be turned off.

On the opposite hand, this retains you from needing to experience the amount in bombastic scenes, whereas nonetheless preserving results like gunshots and explosions appropriately palpable. You’ll even be getting deeper sub-bass for the cash than Sonos’ bar as a result of, in contrast to Polk’s bar, the Arc doesn’t embody a subwoofer.

Speaking of subwoofers, even with out room tuning, I used to be very happy with how effectively the Magnifi Max AX’s giant cupboard fills within the holes within the system’s decrease register, melding with the bar for a near-seamless transition from the deeper bass tones into the decrease midrange. The two work in tandem throughout content material for a candy mixture of stability and authority.

Polk’s determination to dedicate three audio system for the middle channel alone additionally results in clear and detailed dialogue in just about any state of affairs. While it’s a lighter taste, it’s about as shut as you will get to a discrete center-channel speaker in a single bar, letting you wave goodbye to dialogue points. From sitcoms and status dramas to intense motion, you’ll hear each lip motion and all of the completely different vocal textures of your favourite characters.

Great for music, too

The Max AX can be a really succesful music streamer. That clean mix between the subwoofer and bar is as soon as once more on show when streaming over Wi-Fi as the 2 mix for heat and full sound for every little thing from pulse-raising digital pop to acoustic tunes.

One level to notice right here: because of the bar’s minimalist interface, there’s apparently no option to stream stereo music with out encompass sound virtualization. You’ll get sound modes like Movie, Music, and Night mode with completely different equalization presets, however there’s no Direct mode to ship the format as supposed. That’s usually one thing that will hassle me, however the bar’s Auto mode appears to make almost all the best choices, offering optimized efficiency for every little thing from immersive motion scenes to swirling synthesizers.

Sure, every now and then I’d discover a monitor that will be a bit drowned in reverb or devices oddly positioned within the combine. But that was very uncommon – I largely discovered myself having fun with the alternatives the bar made for instrumental placement and stability. It’s a well-tuned machine, and though the engineer in me needs extra management, I didn’t want it for the overwhelming majority of listening. The result’s a hands-off system that is significantly engaging for individuals who don’t stay and breathe audio gear.

Competition and comparability

Priced $100 above the Magnifi Max AX, the Sonos Arc provides equally immersive Dolby Atmos sound from a single bar, in addition to superior networking options like the flexibility to connect with different Sonos audio system in a encompass or multi-room audio configuration. In some ways, the Arc is the exact opposite of Polk’s bar, buying and selling choices like an included subwoofer and a number of HDMI inputs for a sophisticated app that allows you to dive a lot deeper into the settings and options.

Another possibility to contemplate is Vizio’s M-Series Elevate Dolby Atmos soundbar, which incorporates not solely a subwoofer like Polk’s bar, but in addition encompass audio system. To get there, you forego any Wi-Fi streaming choices, although, and it solely contains one spare HDMI enter.

Finally, if you recognize you need encompass audio system and also you just like the lower of this bar’s jib, Polk sells an upgraded model with surrounds included within the Magnifi Max AX SR (sure, it’s numerous letters) for simply $100 extra, slicing the retail worth for the surrounds on their very own in half.

Should you purchase it?

Polk’s Magnifi Max AX units itself aside with a mixture of spectacular efficiency and versatile connection that provides as much as nice worth. It provides balanced, clear, and surprisingly immersive audio for no matter you play, and it’s one of many few fashions in its class to incorporate a number of HDMI inputs and a subwoofer, alongside the flexibility so as to add encompass sound audio system later.

Though its interface is extra minimalist than most, it’s acquired the sound high quality to again it up, making it a perfect soundbar for individuals who desire a largely hands-off expertise. Whether you get the AX or the SR model, Polk’s newest Magnifi Max is a formidable possibility within the fierce Dolby Atmos soundbar subject, and effectively price contemplating as your subsequent sound system.

The publish Polk Magnifi Max AX Dolby Atmos Soundbar Review – Great sound, nice worth first appeared on HomeTheaterReview and is written by Ryan Waniata

It’s been years within the making, however Samsung appears to have whittled high-end Dolby Atmos soundbars all the way down to a science. Create one thing that sounds breathtakingly highly effective, make it simple sufficient for anybody to arrange and use, and outfit it with each characteristic below the solar. Oh, and slap a larger-than-life price ticket on it.

That equation has labored wonders for the model so far, and Samsung is hoping for extra of the identical from its new HW-Q990C Q-Series system. The soundbar is an 11.1.4-channel behemoth, with a complete of twenty-two drivers devoted to creating an otherworldly three-dimensional soundstage in your listening pleasure. There are just a few small discrepancies to be handled, however the Q990C is each bit the Atmos powerhouse it was constructed to be. 

High Points

• Fantastic sound
• Immersive Dolby Atmos
• Tons of Features
• Simple setup

Low Points

• Rear speaker cables are too quick
• Small onboard show

Setup

Despite being a high-end soundbar, the Q990C is fairly atypical in the case of setup, and that’s factor. Each piece of the puzzle must be linked to energy, and the soundbar itself wants to determine a connection to your TV. For most people, which means plugging the included HDMI cable to the HDMI eARC (or ARC) port on each your show and the soundbar. If you’ve one in every of a choose few newer Samsung TVs, nonetheless, you’ll be able to pair the 2 over Wi-Fi and nonetheless obtain wi-fi Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, in line with Samsung. 

I don’t have such a show, so I went the great ol’ long-established hardwired route. The solely actual hiccup was inserting the system’s rear audio system of their splendid positions in my front room. With roughly 4 ft of energy cable to spare, Samsung places an actual restrict on how far-off these audio system might be from an influence outlet, typically leading to ill-advised placement. In most instances, you could find a strategy to make it work. But simply bear in mind that wall retailers could also be at a premium.

Finally, plan on downloading the SmartThings app and operating the soundbar by way of that setup process. You completely don’t must in an effort to use the system — I used to be too giddy to start out testing, so I went the primary day with out the app. Once you learn the way simple it’s to entry and modify settings with SmartThings, although, you’ll surprise the way you went with out it. 

Design and options 

Weighing in at 62 kilos in complete, the Q990C is a spectacle in each sense of the phrase. Each part sports activities a modern black end, with even the rear audio system resembling a high-end bookshelf speaker design versus the plastic afterthought you’ll discover in lots of soundbars’ rear audio system. Just ensure you clear some house in your TV stand and designate a spot in your subwoofer. These issues are monsters, with the soundbar alone stretching over 48 inches throughout, and there’s no hiding them, or mixing them into the background of your front room aesthetic. They’re going to face out, they usually’re going to look sharp doing it.

The soundbar’s show isn’t practically as sharp. Sitting about 8 ft from the bar itself, I discovered myself having to squint to make out what the diminutive digital show was rattling off as I attempted to vary the channel degree or sound mode. For probably the most half, it’s a lot simpler to make important updates within the SmartThings app and relegate the distant for easy changes like quantity and subwoofer degree (for which there’s an included button). 

Beneath the design of all of it, the {hardware} of the Q990C is teeming with options. A variety of them do require a Samsung TV, like Q-Symphony mode that makes use of each the soundbar’s audio system and the drivers in your TV to generate its encompass sound impact. The identical goes for Game Mode Pro, which is supposed to optimize directional sound to boost your gaming expertise, however is simply appropriate with 2023 Samsung TVs. Even the Tap Sound characteristic, which helps you to start taking part in music simply by tapping your cellphone to the Q990C, requires you to personal a Samsung cellphone with Android 8.1 or above. 

The options that aren’t gatekept by Samsung are strong, for what it’s price. The Active Voice Amplifier performance, as an example, amplified dialogue precisely the best way it was imagined to in an effort to improve commentary-heavy documentaries and dramas. AreaFit Sound Pro can also be an intriguing characteristic, a toggle-able choice within the SmartThings app that analyzes room reverberations throughout your house and customizes your sound accordingly. 

Beyond that, the Q990C works seamlessly with every little thing from Apple AirPlay and Spotify Connect to  Amazon Alexa. Plus, you’ll be able to allow the Q990C as a SmartThings Hub to attach good house gadgets like lighting, retailers, plugs, door locks, and so on. 

Performance

As simple as it’s to arrange and as jam-packed as it’s with options, the true showstopper of the Q990C is its efficiency. My check unit arrived on a Wednesday, also called Grogu day for many who observe the creed. I obtained every little thing linked simply in time for the newest Mandalorian episode and was instantly rewarded for my efforts. 

Shortly after the opening credit, my accomplice and I had been fully immersed in a dogfight with TIE fighters, and the Q990C took us alongside for the journey. The rear audio system pulled tons of weight right here, using their up-firing and side-firing drivers so as to add masterful directional sound to the scene. At the danger of spoiling an intense sequence, we had been primarily within the cockpit as Mando went vertical in his Naboo N-1 Starfighter, then took a whole nosedive to launch an assault on unsuspecting enemies. The phrase cinematic doesn’t start to explain how fulfilling, detailed and impactful the Q990C made this scene.

Over the weekend, we lastly obtained round to watching Jurassic World: Dominion. The three-dimensional sound was thrilling right here as effectively, however what floored me probably the most was the depth and impression of the system’s bass. I needed to preserve my finger on the amount set off on the request of my accomplice, as a result of every new, prehistorically-charged motion sequence arrived with seemingly extra drive than the final. The Q990C’s subwoofer provides a dynamic presence to the soundstage even at decrease volumes. Pump up that bass degree, and also you’ll be liable to shaking an image body off the wall. 

The Q990C isn’t a one-trick pony, both. It was particularly clear within the dialogue-driven new Netflix documentary MH370: The Plane That Disappeared. It additionally made music sing, expertly dealing with a various playlist that features every little thing from Blues Traveler to Doja Cat. And if for some cause one thing does pontificate, the SmartThings app possible has the setting you’re on the lookout for. It has a 7-band equalizer for customizing the bar’s sound, plus just a few presets like Pop, Jazz, and Classical. There are additionally choices to toggle on/off voice enhancement, bass enhancement, and evening mode options. 

Finally, the soundbar has adjustable channel ranges for every little thing from the middle channel to the rear heights, regardless of them being comparatively hidden within the app. It takes tapping the Settings icon within the higher right-hand nook of the app, deciding on “Device Settings,” then selecting “Channel Level” in an effort to entry these changes. I might have a lot most well-liked a direct hyperlink to them on the app’s house display, however at the very least they’re in there someplace.

Competition and comparability

At $1,900, the Q990C is likely one of the dearer methods available on the market, eclipsing LG’s flagship bar, the S95QR 9.1.5 system, by roughly $100 at retail costs. 

If you had been hoping to avoid wasting a couple of dollars, the Klipsch Cinema 1200 routinely goes on sale for round $1,000 and affords equally cinematic sound with a 12-inch subwoofer that’s arduous to beat. 

Finally, when you don’t thoughts going for final 12 months’s mannequin, and particularly when you will not be utilizing the wi-fi connection characteristic, Samsung’s now-discounted Q990B affords numerous what makes the 990C nice, minus upgraded software program for 2023. 

Conclusion

It’s arduous to not love Samsung’s latest flagship system. It sounds wonderful, no matter what sort of content material you ship its approach. It units up (largely) seamlessly, is simple to make use of, and is filled with helpful options. If you’ll be able to reside with the annoyances of quick energy cables and a show for ants, then the Q990C drives a very arduous cut price to go up.

If the value would not scare you off, the Q990C is well-equipped to face its floor with the very best Dolby Atmos soundbars in manufacturing at present. If you’re invested within the Samsung ecosystem and might foot a hefty invoice, it’s price each penny. 

The put up Samsung HW-Q990C Soundbar Review – Cinematic Spectacle first appeared on HouseTheaterReview and is written by Nick Woodard

It’s been years within the making, however Samsung appears to have whittled high-end Dolby Atmos soundbars all the way down to a science. Create one thing that sounds breathtakingly highly effective, make it simple sufficient for anybody to arrange and use, and outfit it with each function underneath the solar. Oh, and slap a larger-than-life price ticket on it.

That equation has labored wonders for the model to date, and Samsung is hoping for extra of the identical from its new HW-Q990C Q-Series system. The soundbar is an 11.1.4-channel behemoth, with a complete of twenty-two drivers devoted to creating an otherworldly three-dimensional soundstage to your listening pleasure. There are just a few small discrepancies to be handled, however the Q990C is each bit the Atmos powerhouse it was constructed to be. 

High Points

• Fantastic sound
• Immersive Dolby Atmos
• Tons of Features
• Simple setup

Low Points

• Rear speaker cables are too brief
• Small onboard show

Setup

Despite being a high-end soundbar, the Q990C is fairly peculiar in relation to setup, and that’s a very good factor. Each piece of the puzzle must be related to energy, and the soundbar itself wants to ascertain a connection to your TV. For most folk, meaning plugging the included HDMI cable to the HDMI eARC (or ARC) port on each your show and the soundbar. If you could have considered one of a choose few newer Samsung TVs, nevertheless, you possibly can pair the 2 over Wi-Fi and nonetheless obtain wi-fi Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, based on Samsung. 

I don’t have such a show, so I went the nice ol’ usual hardwired route. The solely actual hiccup was putting the system’s rear audio system of their very best positions in my lounge. With roughly 4 toes of energy cable to spare, Samsung places an actual restrict on how distant these audio system will be from an influence outlet, typically leading to ill-advised placement. In most instances, you will discover a strategy to make it work. But simply bear in mind that wall shops could also be at a premium.

Finally, plan on downloading the SmartThings app and working the soundbar via that setup process. You completely don’t should so as to use the system — I used to be too giddy to begin testing, so I went the primary day with out the app. Once you learn how simple it’s to entry and modify settings with SmartThings, although, you’ll surprise the way you went with out it. 

Design and options 

Weighing in at 62 kilos in whole, the Q990C is a spectacle in each sense of the phrase. Each element sports activities a smooth black end, with even the rear audio system resembling a high-end bookshelf speaker design versus the plastic afterthought you’ll discover in lots of soundbars’ rear audio system. Just be sure you clear some house in your TV stand and designate a spot to your subwoofer. These issues are monsters, with the soundbar alone stretching over 48 inches throughout, and there’s no hiding them, or mixing them into the background of your lounge aesthetic. They’re going to face out, they usually’re going to look sharp doing it.

The soundbar’s show isn’t almost as sharp. Sitting about 8 toes from the bar itself, I discovered myself having to squint to make out what the diminutive digital show was rattling off as I attempted to alter the channel degree or sound mode. For probably the most half, it’s a lot simpler to make vital updates within the SmartThings app and relegate the distant for easy changes like quantity and subwoofer degree (for which there’s an included button). 

Beneath the design of all of it, the {hardware} of the Q990C is teeming with options. A lot of them do require a Samsung TV, like Q-Symphony mode that makes use of each the soundbar’s audio system and the drivers in your TV to generate its encompass sound impact. The identical goes for Game Mode Pro, which is supposed to optimize directional sound to reinforce your gaming expertise, however is barely appropriate with 2023 Samsung TVs. Even the Tap Sound function, which helps you to start taking part in music simply by tapping your telephone to the Q990C, requires you to personal a Samsung telephone with Android 8.1 or above. 

The options that aren’t gatekept by Samsung are strong, for what it’s value. The Active Voice Amplifier performance, as an example, amplified dialogue precisely the way in which it was presupposed to so as to improve commentary-heavy documentaries and dramas. HouseFit Sound Pro can also be an intriguing function, a toggle-able possibility within the SmartThings app that analyzes room reverberations throughout your house and customizes your sound accordingly. 

Beyond that, the Q990C works seamlessly with every thing from Apple AirPlay and Spotify Connect to  Amazon Alexa. Plus, you possibly can allow the Q990C as a SmartThings Hub to attach sensible dwelling gadgets like lighting, shops, plugs, door locks, and many others. 

Performance

As simple as it’s to arrange and as jam-packed as it’s with options, the true showstopper of the Q990C is its efficiency. My check unit arrived on a Wednesday, also referred to as Grogu day for many who observe the creed. I acquired every thing related simply in time for the most recent Mandalorian episode and was instantly rewarded for my efforts. 

Shortly after the opening credit, my companion and I had been utterly immersed in a dogfight with TIE fighters, and the Q990C took us alongside for the trip. The rear audio system pulled tons of weight right here, using their up-firing and side-firing drivers so as to add masterful directional sound to the scene. At the danger of spoiling an intense sequence, we had been basically within the cockpit as Mando went vertical in his Naboo N-1 Starfighter, then took a whole nosedive to launch an assault on unsuspecting enemies. The phrase cinematic doesn’t start to explain how fulfilling, detailed and impactful the Q990C made this scene.

Over the weekend, we lastly acquired round to watching Jurassic World: Dominion. The three-dimensional sound was thrilling right here as properly, however what floored me probably the most was the depth and influence of the system’s bass. I needed to hold my finger on the amount set off on the request of my companion, as a result of every new, prehistorically-charged motion sequence arrived with seemingly extra drive than the final. The Q990C’s subwoofer provides a dynamic presence to the soundstage even at decrease volumes. Pump up that bass degree, and also you’ll be vulnerable to shaking an image body off the wall. 

The Q990C isn’t a one-trick pony, both. It was particularly clear within the dialogue-driven new Netflix documentary MH370: The Plane That Disappeared. It additionally made music sing, expertly dealing with a various playlist that features every thing from Blues Traveler to Doja Cat. And if for some purpose one thing does hold forth, the SmartThings app doubtless has the setting you’re searching for. It has a 7-band equalizer for customizing the bar’s sound, plus just a few presets like Pop, Jazz, and Classical. There are additionally choices to toggle on/off voice enhancement, bass enhancement, and night time mode options. 

Finally, the soundbar has adjustable channel ranges for every thing from the middle channel to the rear heights, regardless of them being comparatively hidden within the app. It takes tapping the Settings icon within the higher right-hand nook of the app, choosing “Device Settings,” then selecting “Channel Level” so as to entry these changes. I might have a lot most popular a direct hyperlink to them on the app’s dwelling display screen, however at the least they’re in there someplace.

Competition and comparability

At $1,900, the Q990C is without doubt one of the costlier programs in the marketplace, eclipsing LG’s flagship bar, the S95QR 9.1.5 system, by roughly $100 at retail costs. 

If you had been hoping to avoid wasting a couple of bucks, the Klipsch Cinema 1200 routinely goes on sale for round $1,000 and gives equally cinematic sound with a 12-inch subwoofer that’s onerous to beat. 

Finally, in the event you don’t thoughts going for final 12 months’s mannequin, and particularly in the event you will not be utilizing the wi-fi connection function, Samsung’s now-discounted Q990B gives quite a lot of what makes the 990C nice, minus upgraded software program for 2023. 

Conclusion

It’s onerous to not love Samsung’s latest flagship system. It sounds wonderful, no matter what sort of content material you ship its manner. It units up (principally) seamlessly, is simple to make use of, and is filled with helpful options. If you possibly can stay with the annoyances of brief energy cables and a show for ants, then the Q990C drives a very onerous cut price to cross up.

If the worth would not scare you off, the Q990C is well-equipped to face its floor with the very best Dolby Atmos soundbars in manufacturing as we speak. If you’re invested within the Samsung ecosystem and might foot a hefty invoice, it’s value each penny. 

The publish Samsung HW-Q990C Soundbar Review – Cinematic Spectacle first appeared on ResidenceTheaterReview and is written by Nick Woodard

As the least costly soundbar with Dolby Atmos we have encountered, the Monoprice SB-300 stands out from the competitors. As you’d anticipate, the Dolby Atmos functionality of the SB-300 is digital, which means there’s not a devoted set of upward-firing drivers however quite Digital Signal Processing is utilized to create the phantasm of top. But though the value is true, digital Atmos has its limitations. Does the SB-300 do sufficient to make it price including to your listening room? Read on to seek out out extra.

High Points

• Substantial enchancment over TV audio
• Clean and understated design
• Excellent connectivity choices 

Low Points

• Virtual Dolby Atmos impact is minimal
• No approach so as to add a subwoofer 
• Midrange can sound skinny

Design and options

The SB-300 is 39.4 inches broad, 2.9 inches excessive, and 4.2 inches deep and weighs in at six kilos making it a superb match for mid-sized televisions. The SB-300 is all-black with gently rounded corners for a clear, fashionable look. 

An LED show is within the heart of the speaker behind the plastic grille and just under a row of management buttons. Monoprice doesn’t present particulars as to what’s contained in the enclosure, nevertheless it seems to be dome tweeters on the outer ends with oval-shaped drivers at their inside edges and a pair of ports flanking the LED show. 

Amplification is specified as 50 watts for every of the 2 channels. Connectivity features a very shocking three HDMI inputs in complete, one with HDMI eARC assist for connection to your TV. There are additionally coaxial and optical digital inputs, a USB connection, Bluetooth, and a 3.5mm analog enter. There is not any Wi-Fi or Ethernet functionality, however that is already a surprisingly loaded setup to your cash

The SB-300 comes with a distant, HDMI and three.5mm audio cables, and wall mount {hardware}. 

Audio efficiency

I related the Monoprice SB-300 soundbar to my LG OLED through HDMI and located it to be a strong enchancment over the inner audio system. The totally different EQ modes together with film, music, sport, and voice can be found in addition to bass/treble controls. Listening to the information and sitcoms with the voice mode DSP engaged, the SB-300 was extra ahead with vocals, however I discovered the Music mode to be my favourite for many listening because it was fuller bodied whereas sustaining vocal intelligibility. 

It may play louder than my tv with out distortion however not almost as loud as a pair of small bookshelf audio system. As I expanded my listening to dramas and procedurals, the SB-300 showcased respectable bass for its dimension, rolling off round 50 Hz. This offers a superb sense of what was occurring however if you’re used to a subwoofer, the dearth of bass will nonetheless be noticeable. 

Unfortunately, there’s no subwoofer output, so you possibly can’t add one after the actual fact. That’s not all that shocking at this value, nevertheless it does restrict your choices. 

So how does the Monoprice SB-300 carry out with Dolby Atmos? I’ve been watching a variety of “Locke and Key” on Netflix and the Dolby Atmos processing did vertically develop the soundstage upward throughout a number of the combat scenes between the present-day Locke and the Revolutionary War troopers in addition to the scenes with “ghosts” flying above the opposite solid members.

This was most likely helped by reflections off the drywall ceiling about three to 4 ft above the soundbar. The Atmos impact is way lower than with soundbars with devoted upfiring drivers, such because the Vizio M-Series 5.1.2, which additionally presents a devoted subwoofer and encompass audio system, however you will additionally pay no less than double for Vizio’s bar.

Competition and comparability

In wanting via present choices, there have been a few choices that had been aggressive. (See our Soundbars web page for all of the soundbars we now have reviewed.)

The JBL Bar 2.0 ($129) has 40 watts every for 2 full-range drivers in a barely smaller bundle. Like the Monoprice unit, wi-fi connectivity is restricted to Bluetooth. The JBL has simulated encompass however no Dolby Atmos or DTS:X capabilities. 

Yamaha’s SR-B20A ($199) has built-in three-inch “subwoofers” to associate with the midrange cone and dome tweeters and DTS’ Virtual:X instead of the digital Dolby Atmos discovered within the Monoprice SB-300. Like the opposite two soundbars, its wi-fi connectivity can also be Bluetooth solely.

Conclusion

The Monoprice SB-300 presents spectacular options, together with extra connectivity choices than anticipated, and a modicum of digital Dolby Atmos. It will enlarge the soundstage and supply higher efficiency than what you might be getting along with your tv at an amazing value. 

The SB-300 carried out competently for my tv viewing and background music wants. However, if you’re wanting to make use of this soundbar as your fundamental music or film playback system, and you’ve got the price range, I’d suggest paying a bit extra for one of many higher-end fashions from Monoprice or others. 

The submit Monoprice SB-300 Soundbar Review – Atmos on the Cheap first appeared on DwellingTheaterReview and is written by Brian Kahn

As the least costly soundbar with Dolby Atmos we have encountered, the Monoprice SB-300 stands out from the competitors. As you’d count on, the Dolby Atmos functionality of the SB-300 is digital, that means there’s not a devoted set of upward-firing drivers however somewhat Digital Signal Processing is utilized to create the phantasm of peak. But though the value is true, digital Atmos has its limitations. Does the SB-300 do sufficient to make it value including to your listening room? Read on to search out out extra.

High Points

• Substantial enchancment over TV audio
• Clean and understated design
• Excellent connectivity choices 

Low Points

• Virtual Dolby Atmos impact is minimal
• No approach so as to add a subwoofer 
• Midrange can sound skinny

Design and options

The SB-300 is 39.4 inches broad, 2.9 inches excessive, and 4.2 inches deep and weighs in at six kilos making it match for mid-sized televisions. The SB-300 is all-black with gently rounded corners for a clear, fashionable look. 

An LED show is within the middle of the speaker behind the plastic grille and just under a row of management buttons. Monoprice doesn’t present particulars as to what’s contained in the enclosure, but it surely seems to be dome tweeters on the outer ends with oval-shaped drivers at their inside edges and a pair of ports flanking the LED show. 

Amplification is specified as 50 watts for every of the 2 channels. Connectivity features a very shocking three HDMI inputs in whole, one with HDMI eARC help for connection to your TV. There are additionally coaxial and optical digital inputs, a USB connection, Bluetooth, and a 3.5mm analog enter. There isn’t any Wi-Fi or Ethernet functionality, however that is already a surprisingly loaded setup in your cash

The SB-300 comes with a distant, HDMI and three.5mm audio cables, and wall mount {hardware}. 

Audio efficiency

I linked the Monoprice SB-300 soundbar to my LG OLED by way of HDMI and located it to be a strong enchancment over the interior audio system. The completely different EQ modes together with film, music, sport, and voice can be found in addition to bass/treble controls. Listening to the information and sitcoms with the voice mode DSP engaged, the SB-300 was extra ahead with vocals, however I discovered the Music mode to be my favourite for many listening because it was fuller bodied whereas sustaining vocal intelligibility. 

It might play louder than my tv with out distortion however not almost as loud as a pair of small bookshelf audio system. As I expanded my listening to dramas and procedurals, the SB-300 showcased respectable bass for its measurement, rolling off round 50 Hz. This gives sense of what was happening however if you’re used to a subwoofer, the shortage of bass will nonetheless be noticeable. 

Unfortunately, there’s no subwoofer output, so you may’t add one after the very fact. That’s not all that shocking at this worth, but it surely does restrict your choices. 

So how does the Monoprice SB-300 carry out with Dolby Atmos? I’ve been watching numerous “Locke and Key” on Netflix and the Dolby Atmos processing did vertically develop the soundstage upward throughout a number of the struggle scenes between the present-day Locke and the Revolutionary War troopers in addition to the scenes with “ghosts” flying above the opposite solid members.

This was in all probability helped by reflections off the drywall ceiling about three to 4 ft above the soundbar. The Atmos impact is far lower than with soundbars with devoted upfiring drivers, such because the Vizio M-Series 5.1.2, which additionally presents a devoted subwoofer and encompass audio system, however you may additionally pay at the very least double for Vizio’s bar.

Competition and comparability

In trying by means of present choices, there have been a few choices that have been aggressive. (See our Soundbars web page for all of the soundbars we’ve reviewed.)

The JBL Bar 2.0 ($129) has 40 watts every for 2 full-range drivers in a barely smaller bundle. Like the Monoprice unit, wi-fi connectivity is proscribed to Bluetooth. The JBL has simulated encompass however no Dolby Atmos or DTS:X capabilities. 

Yamaha’s SR-B20A ($199) has built-in three-inch “subwoofers” to go together with the midrange cone and dome tweeters and DTS’ Virtual:X rather than the digital Dolby Atmos discovered within the Monoprice SB-300. Like the opposite two soundbars, its wi-fi connectivity can be Bluetooth solely.

Conclusion

The Monoprice SB-300 presents spectacular options, together with extra connectivity choices than anticipated, and a modicum of digital Dolby Atmos. It will enlarge the soundstage and supply higher efficiency than what you might be getting along with your tv at an important worth. 

The SB-300 carried out competently for my tv viewing and background music wants. However, if you’re trying to make use of this soundbar as your essential music or film playback system, and you’ve got the price range, I’d advocate paying a bit extra for one of many higher-end fashions from Monoprice or others. 

The submit Monoprice SB-300 Soundbar Review – Atmos on the Cheap first appeared on HouseTheaterReview and is written by Brian Kahn

The Denon Home Sound Bar 550 ($650) is a lovely, smaller-sized soundbar that simply suits into most rooms. Despite the compact measurement the soundbar is function wealthy and filled with a robust digital sign processing (DSP) system. The built-in HEOS performance additionally permits the 550 to behave as a part of a zoned music system along with its function as a tv soundbar. We put the soundbar to the take a look at, together with trying out its digital spatial audio expertise, to see if it lives as much as its comparatively excessive value level.

High Points

• Great connectivity choices 
• Stylish and trendy design
• High-resolution music help
• Good sound high quality, particularly with the non-obligatory subwoofer 

Low Points

• Can get harsh at louder volumes
• Limited digital spatial audio immersion

Design and options

The 550 shares its industrial design with the remainder of the present Denon Home lineup, a darkish grey fabric overlaying the entrance and sides, rounded corners, and a matte black exterior. A proximity-sensing contact panel on the highest lights up when your hand approaches. Overall, the looks is delicate, elegant, and trendy. 

The Sound Bar measures roughly 26 inches large, three inches tall and about 5 inches deep. The chassis seems to be largely plastic however feels stable and weighs in at 7.3 kilos. The 550 comes with a small distant however I believe you’ll find yourself utilizing your tv’s distant and the HEOS App to manage your 550. Under the hood are six lively drivers and two passive radiators. 

Denon packs quite a lot of options and know-how within the 550’s comparatively compact chassis. Those Include Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, HEOS multi-room audio, and Amazon Alexa help through onboard microphones. The soundbar can also be Roku TV Ready, which means it’s optimized to work with TVs powered by the Roku TV OS. Unlike the competing Sonos Beam (gen 2), the 550 provides two HDMI ports, one among which provides 4K/HDR video passthrough, and one with HDMI eARC for connection to your TV. Sonos’ cheaper bar provides just one HDMI eARC port so you may’t join an exterior supply machine straight.  The 550 additionally helps high-resolution audio as much as 192kHz/24-bit FLAC, WAV, ALAC information, or 5.6MHz DSD audio information.

All the soundbar’s audio system hearth ahead so any of the peak channel sound results for spatial audio codecs like Dolby Atmos are dealt with nearly through a DSP engine. This means it received’t be as immersive as soundbars with devoted upfiring audio system. 

If you aren’t conversant in HEOS, it’s Denon’s Sonos-like multi-room audio system that’s integrated in lots of new Denon and Marantz elements in addition to a line of Denon Home audio system. Most Denon Home audio system can be utilized alone or paired with an similar second speaker to type a stereo pair or join a number of audio system all through your own home community.

The Denon Home Sound Bar 550 takes {that a} step additional, capable of join with the Denon Home Subwoofer ($599) in addition to a pair of Denon Home audio system which might be arrange as rear channels, once more, much like Sonos. For this evaluate, I used a pair of Denon Home 150 audio system ($249, every). 

The subwoofer has an eight-inch, downward-firing woofer in a clear, black enclosure that measures roughly 13 inches large and deep and simply over fourteen inches tall. The Denon Home 150 is the smallest speaker within the lineup with a 3.5-inch midrange driver and 1-inch tweeter in an enclosure that stands about 5 inches large, 6 inches deep, and eight inches excessive.

Setup and efficiency

I related the Denon Home Sound Bar 550 to my LG OLED through HDMI with eARC. There are additionally Toslink and analog 3.5mm inputs if wanted, however solely the HDMI connection will help Dolby Atmos content material. Network connectivity is on the market through the Ethernet port or dual-band Wi-Fi. 

At first, I did my listening with solely the Denon Sound Bar 550 related with out the subwoofer or rear audio system. The Sound Bar 550 was nice with the morning information or dialogue-intensive exhibits, particularly with the dialogue enhancement mode set to low or medium. I discovered the excessive setting to be clear with dialogue however at the price of making the general tonal stability too mid-forward. 

In addition to Dialogue Enhancer mode (off, low, medium, and excessive), there’s a Night mode (on or off) and a Sound mode (Stereo, Pure, Dolby and DTS). There is an EQ setting that has changes for Bass and Treble. Watching “Wheelman” on Netflix, the dynamic Atmos soundtrack expanded horizontally a lot additional than the 550’s compact measurement would recommend. But as anticipated, it would not create the identical sense of immersion as you may get with extra superior bars that make use of devoted upfiring drivers, akin to Vizio’s cheaper M-series 5.1.2 soundbar.

Bass and dynamics have been a bit restricted, this was most noticeable as I elevated the quantity. When I bought near most quantity the standard of the sound started to degrade and change into harsh. Then once more, there ought to be little motive for most folk to push the quantity to these ranges.

The subwoofer is modest in measurement, so it was not shaking the room, however after I added it to the system it reproduced sufficient bass to supply weight to the soundtrack to maintain it partaking. I believe including the subwoofer engages a crossover within the 550 as having the subwoofer within the system elevated dynamics and enabled the bar to play louder whereas sustaining its composure. 

The subsequent step was including the Denon Home 150s for the rear channels. In watching the chase scene on the finish of “Wheelman” the 150s did an excellent job reproducing the rear results which created a way more enveloping sonic expertise. 

I additionally used the 550 and Denon Home Subwoofer mixture to take heed to music. With Laura Marling’s “Only the Strong” from the album Song For Our Daughter (Qobuz, Chrysalis Records) the soundstage expanded barely past the soundbar’s bodily boundaries, and the subwoofer supplied sufficient oomph for the bass on the acoustic soundtrack to maintain it balanced even at increased ranges. 

Kicking it up a notch with Dominique Fils-Aimé’s “Rise” from the album anonymous (Qobuz, Ensoul Records), the Denon Home 550 and subwoofer’s soundstage opened up, particularly entrance to again. It did an excellent job of reproducing the vocals however there was some thickening of the bass.

Lastly, the Eagle’s “Hotel California” from the album of the identical title (Tidal, Elektra) was reproduced with a good larger soundstage. Closing my eyes, I may inform the place the artists have been positioned relative to one another however not with the identical solidity as I can with my free-standing speaker programs. 

Competition and comparability

In trying by means of present choices, there have been a few choices that have been aggressive. (See our Soundbars web page for all of the soundbars we now have reviewed.)

The Sonos Beam Gen 2 ($449) can be the closest competitor. The Sonos additionally comes with Trueplay, which provides room connection for these with an iPhone (it’s at present not obtainable for Android). These soundbars are comparable in measurement and each can help you add audio system in a encompass setup or for multi-room audio. Sonos additionally provides its bigger and extra succesful Arc soundbar ($849) with upward-firing audio system.

If you are searching for more practical Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersion, you could possibly additionally take a look at the Vizio M-series 5.1.2 soundbar, which provides upfiring drivers and in addition comes with encompass audio system and a subwoofer for a beginning value of round $500. However, it doesn’t supply the advantages of Wi-Fi streaming or the flexibility so as to add and join a number of audio system all through your own home.

Conclusion

The key phrase in Denon Home Sound Bar 550 System is “system.” The Denon Home 550 is extremely versatile in that it may be used alone for a primary set up however may also 0be integrated with encompass audio system and/or a subwoofer, or as a part of a whole-house audio system. The sound high quality is sweet at decrease and reasonably loud volumes however you’ll need to add the Denon Home Subwoofer if you’d like impactful bass response and better quantity playback.

The publish Denon Home Sound Bar 550 Review – A Versatile Sonos Alternative first appeared on HomeTheaterReview and is written by Brian Kahn