When setting up a home theater, sound quality can make or break your experience. Today, we're comparing two popular premium soundbar systems: the JBL Bar 1000 ($1,139.95) and the Samsung HW-Q800D ($697.99). Both promise theater-like sound, but they take different approaches to delivering it.
Today's premium soundbars are far more sophisticated than the simple speaker bars of a few years ago. They now include multiple speakers, wireless subwoofers, and upward-firing drivers that bounce sound off your ceiling to create a dome of audio around you. This technology, along with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, helps recreate the immersive experience you get in a movie theater.
The number of channels in a soundbar system tells you how many separate speakers it has and in what configuration. For example, in a 7.1.4 system like the JBL Bar 1000, you get seven surround channels, one subwoofer, and four upward-firing speakers. This creates a more detailed and precise sound field compared to simpler systems.
Released in late 2022, the JBL system introduces an innovative approach with detachable wireless rear speakers. These speakers charge when attached to the main soundbar and can be placed anywhere in your room when you want the full surround experience. This flexibility is particularly valuable in rooms where running speaker wire isn't practical.
The system includes a substantial 10-inch wireless subwoofer, which provides deep, room-filling bass. In my experience testing various systems, larger subwoofers like this tend to deliver more natural-sounding low frequencies, especially in larger rooms.
The newer Samsung model, released in 2023, takes a more conventional approach. Its single-piece soundbar design is sleeker and less obtrusive, making it ideal for smaller spaces. The 8-inch subwoofer is slightly smaller but still delivers impressive bass response.
While rear speakers are available separately, the basic package focuses on front and height channels. This design choice helps keep the initial cost lower while allowing future upgrades.
The JBL Bar 1000 truly shines with movies and TV shows. Its 7.1.4 channel configuration creates a more precise sound field, and those detachable rear speakers make a noticeable difference in how immersive the experience feels. When watching action movies like "Dune" or "Top Gun: Maverick," you can clearly hear sounds moving around and above you.
The Samsung HW-Q800D handles movies impressively too, especially considering its price point. Its 5.1.2 channel setup creates a convincing virtual surround effect, though it's not quite as precise as the JBL's true rear speakers. However, its dialogue clarity is excellent, thanks to a well-designed center channel.
Both systems handle music well, but in different ways. The JBL's larger subwoofer and additional channels create a more room-filling sound that works particularly well for classical and orchestral music. The Samsung system offers a more focused soundstage that excels with vocal-heavy music and modern productions.
The price difference between these systems (about $440) is significant, but the value proposition depends on your needs:
The JBL Bar 1000 at $1,139.95 offers:
The Samsung HW-Q800D at $697.99 provides:
Consider these factors when choosing between these systems:
In my testing, both systems impressed me with their ability to create immersive sound environments. The JBL's additional channels and rear speakers create a more theater-like experience, especially in larger rooms. However, the Samsung's performance in smaller spaces is remarkable, and its dialogue clarity is among the best I've heard.
For home theater use, both systems support the latest Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats, ensuring compatibility with current and future content. The JBL's additional channels provide more precise placement of sound effects, while the Samsung creates a surprisingly wide soundstage even without rear speakers.
Both systems represent significant improvements over previous generations of soundbars, with better room optimization, more sophisticated processing, and improved connectivity options.
The JBL Bar 1000 is the clear choice for enthusiasts who want the best possible sound and don't mind paying for it. Its flexible rear speakers and powerful subwoofer create a more complete home theater experience.
The Samsung HW-Q800D offers exceptional value, delivering most of the features home theater fans want at a more accessible price point. It's particularly appealing for Samsung TV owners and those with smaller spaces.
Remember, the best choice depends on your specific needs, room size, and budget. Either system will dramatically improve your TV audio experience compared to built-in speakers.
| JBL Bar 1000 ($1,139.95) | Samsung HW-Q800D ($697.99) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines how precisely sounds can be placed around you | |
| 7.1.4 (true surround with 4 height channels) | 5.1.2 (virtual surround with 2 height channels) |
| Subwoofer Size - Larger woofers generally produce deeper, more natural bass | |
| 10-inch wireless subwoofer | 8-inch wireless subwoofer |
| Rear Speakers - Critical for true surround sound immersion | |
| Included detachable wireless speakers | Optional separate purchase |
| Total System Power - Impacts maximum volume and dynamic range | |
| 880W | 360W |
| Room Size Optimization - Helps ensure best performance in your space | |
| JBL One app calibration | SpaceFit Sound Pro with automatic calibration |
| Video Passthrough - Important for gaming and future-proofing | |
| 4K/60Hz with Dolby Vision | 4K/60Hz HDR10+ |
| Special Features - Can add significant value depending on your setup | |
| MultiBeam surround technology, detachable battery-powered rears | Q-Symphony (syncs with Samsung TV speakers) |
| Streaming Options - Convenient for music playback | |
| AirPlay, Chromecast, Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.2, SmartThings integration |
| Expandability - Consider future upgrade paths | |
| Complete system, no expansion needed | Can add wireless rear speakers later |
The JBL Bar 1000 ($1,139.95) provides better movie performance with its 7.1.4 channel configuration and included rear speakers. While the Samsung HW-Q800D ($697.99) delivers good performance, the JBL's true surround sound creates a more immersive movie experience.
The $440 price difference is worth it if you want true surround sound and have a larger room. The JBL Bar 1000 includes rear speakers and a larger subwoofer, while the Samsung HW-Q800D offers excellent value for smaller spaces.
The JBL Bar 1000 is better suited for larger rooms due to its more powerful 880W output, larger 10" subwoofer, and dedicated rear speakers. The Samsung HW-Q800D is more appropriate for rooms under 300 square feet.
While both systems create surround effects, true rear speakers (included with the JBL Bar 1000) provide the most authentic surround experience. The Samsung HW-Q800D can add rear speakers later but they're an extra purchase.
The JBL Bar 1000 has superior bass performance with its larger 10" subwoofer compared to the 8" subwoofer in the Samsung HW-Q800D. This difference is particularly noticeable during action movies and music with deep bass.
Both systems excel at dialogue clarity. The Samsung HW-Q800D features excellent voice enhancement technology, while the JBL Bar 1000 uses PureVoice technology for clear dialogue even during loud scenes.
The Samsung HW-Q800D has a simpler initial setup with fewer components. The JBL Bar 1000 requires more setup due to its rear speakers but offers helpful automatic calibration.
Both support 4K/60Hz passthrough, making them suitable for gaming. The JBL Bar 1000 offers more precise sound positioning due to its additional channels, while the Samsung HW-Q800D provides good gaming performance at a lower price point.
Yes, both systems support music streaming. The JBL Bar 1000 offers AirPlay and Chromecast built-in, while the Samsung HW-Q800D provides Bluetooth and SmartThings integration.
The Samsung HW-Q800D works best with Samsung TVs due to Q-Symphony features. The JBL Bar 1000 works equally well with all TV brands.
Both perform well for sports, but the JBL Bar 1000's wider soundstage and rear speakers create a more stadium-like atmosphere. The Samsung HW-Q800D still provides excellent crowd effects and clear commentary.
Yes, both support Dolby Atmos, but the JBL Bar 1000 provides more immersive Atmos effects with four up-firing speakers compared to two in the Samsung HW-Q800D.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: zdnet.com - jbl.com - jbl.com - pcrichard.com - rtings.com - d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net - ro.harmanaudio.com - target.com - harmanaudio.com - dell.com - mm.jbl.com - dolby.com - jbl.com.my - videoandaudiocenter.com - techradar.com - valueelectronics.com - samsung.com - rtings.com - samsung.com - crutchfield.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - shidirect.com
