When it comes to improving your TV's audio in 2024, soundbars offer an incredible range of options. Today, we're comparing two very different approaches: the new entry-level premium Klipsch Flexus Core 100 ($349.99) and the flagship LG S95TR 9.1.5 Channel Soundbar ($999.99). Both launched in early 2024, but they take quite different approaches to solving your audio needs.
Before diving into the specifics, let's talk about what makes modern soundbars different from their predecessors. Today's soundbars use advanced digital signal processing (which shapes and enhances the sound) and sophisticated driver arrangements to create immersive audio experiences. The biggest recent advancement has been Dolby Atmos, which adds height channels to create a three-dimensional sound field - imagine hearing a helicopter actually moving overhead in your favorite action movie.
The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 takes a minimalist approach with a 2.1 channel configuration. This means it has left and right channels for stereo, plus built-in subwoofers (the ".1" in 2.1) for bass. It's a single unit that sits under your TV, making setup as simple as plugging in power and connecting an HDMI cable.
In contrast, the LG S95TR employs a 9.1.5 channel setup - that's nine surround channels, one subwoofer, and five height channels for Dolby Atmos effects. You're getting wireless rear speakers and a separate subwoofer, which means more power outlets needed but also much more immersive sound.
Having tested numerous soundbars, I can say both units excel in their intended use cases. The Klipsch delivers surprisingly robust sound from its compact frame. The built-in subwoofers provide impressive bass without requiring a separate unit - I've found it particularly good with music and TV shows where dialog clarity is crucial.
The LG system, however, creates a true home theater experience. When watching movies like "Dune" or playing games like "Horizon Forbidden West," the difference is dramatic. Sound moves around and above you, creating a sphere of audio that matches the action on screen. The dedicated up-firing speakers make a real difference when things like rainfall or overhead aircraft are part of the scene.
Your room setup should heavily influence your choice. The Klipsch excels in smaller spaces (under 200 square feet) where a single unit makes more sense. Its built-in subwoofers mean you don't need to find space for a separate unit, and it can be wall-mounted if needed.
The LG system needs more breathing room to shine. You'll want at least 300 square feet to properly space the rear speakers and subwoofer. The up-firing Atmos speakers also work best with flat ceilings between 7.5 and 12 feet high. If you have vaulted ceilings, you'll lose some of the height effect.
Value isn't just about price - it's about what you get for your money. The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 delivers exceptional performance per dollar for everyday TV watching and music listening. It's particularly impressive that Klipsch included features like HDMI eARC (which allows for high-quality audio transmission) and Bluetooth at this price point.
The LG S95TR justifies its higher price through superior technology and versatility. The additional speakers and processing power create a more cinematic experience, and features like AI room calibration (which automatically adjusts the sound to your room's acoustics) add real value for home theater enthusiasts.
Both systems offer different approaches to future-proofing. The Klipsch can be expanded with wireless surrounds and a subwoofer later, letting you build your system gradually. It also includes modern connections like USB-C, which is increasingly common on new devices.
The LG comes fully equipped but offers different kinds of expandability through software updates and smart home integration. It supports multiple voice assistants and can be part of a whole-home audio system.
Choose the Klipsch if:
Go for the LG if:
Both the Klipsch Flexus Core 100 and LG S95TR represent excellent choices for their respective price points. The Klipsch offers remarkable value and simplicity, while the LG delivers a premium home theater experience. Your choice should ultimately depend on your space, budget, and how you plan to use the system.
Remember that both systems are significant upgrades over built-in TV speakers. The Klipsch will transform your TV watching experience, while the LG will create a true home theater environment. Either way, you're making a solid investment in your home entertainment setup.
| Klipsch Flexus Core 100 ($349.99) | LG S95TR 9.1.5 ($999.99) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines surround sound capability and immersion | |
| 2.1 channels (stereo + built-in subs) | 9.1.5 channels (full surround + height) |
| Dolby Atmos Support - Critical for modern movie soundtrack reproduction | |
| Basic Atmos decoding, no height effects | Full Atmos with dedicated up-firing speakers |
| Subwoofer Configuration - Impacts bass performance and placement flexibility | |
| Dual 4" built-in subwoofers | Separate wireless 8" subwoofer |
| Room Size Suitability - Affects buying decision based on space | |
| Small to medium rooms (up to 200 sq ft) | Medium to large rooms (300+ sq ft) |
| Total System Power - Influences maximum volume and dynamic range | |
| 100W total system power | 810W total system power |
| Additional Speakers - Consider space and setup complexity | |
| None included (can add later) | Includes wireless rear speakers |
| Connectivity - Important for future compatibility | |
| HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, USB-C, Optical | HDMI eARC, Multiple HDMI in, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Optical |
| Smart Features - Affects integration with other devices | |
| Basic app control | Voice assistants, room correction, Apple AirPlay, Chromecast |
| Installation Complexity - Consider setup time and expertise needed | |
| Simple single-unit setup (15 minutes) | Multiple units requiring placement optimization (1 hour) |
| Value Proposition - Price vs. Performance | |
| Excellent value for basic needs | Premium price for full home theater experience |
For movies, the LG S95TR ($999.99) is significantly better due to its 9.1.5 channel configuration and true Dolby Atmos support. While the Klipsch Flexus Core 100 ($349.99) performs well, it lacks the immersive surround sound experience critical for home theater use.
If you're building a home theater and want full surround sound, yes. The LG S95TR delivers a premium experience with dedicated rear speakers and height channels. However, if you mainly watch TV shows or news, the Klipsch Flexus Core 100 offers better value.
The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 is ideal for small spaces due to its single-unit design with built-in subwoofers. The LG S95TR requires more space for optimal speaker placement and may be overkill in smaller rooms.
While not essential, Dolby Atmos adds significant value for movie watching. The LG S95TR offers full Atmos support with dedicated height channels, while the Klipsch Flexus Core 100 only provides basic Atmos processing without height effects.
The LG S95TR delivers stronger bass through its dedicated wireless subwoofer. However, the Klipsch Flexus Core 100 provides surprisingly good bass from its built-in subwoofers, sufficient for most users.
Both systems are expandable. The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 can add wireless surrounds and a subwoofer, while the LG S95TR comes complete but can integrate with smart home systems.
The LG S95TR is superior for gaming due to its surround sound capabilities and height channels, creating a more immersive experience. The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 works well for casual gaming but lacks positional audio benefits.
Both support Bluetooth, but the LG S95TR offers additional options like Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay, and Chromecast. The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 is limited to Bluetooth connectivity.
The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 offers simpler setup with just power and HDMI connections. The LG S95TR requires more setup time to position multiple speakers and optimize settings.
Neither requires professional installation. The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 is particularly user-friendly. While the LG S95TR is more complex, its setup is still manageable for most users.
Both perform well, but the LG S95TR has a dedicated center channel for superior dialogue clarity. The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 uses advanced processing to enhance dialogue through its stereo speakers.
Yes, both can be wall-mounted. The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 is lighter and easier to mount, while the LG S95TR requires more consideration for multiple speaker placement.
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: cnet.com - klipsch.com - klipsch.com - bestbuy.com - sweetwater.com - assets.onkyo-av.com - youtube.com - worldwidestereo.com - avnirvana.com - target.com - techradar.com - bestbuy.com - youtube.com - trustedreviews.com - zdnet.com - rtings.com - lg.com - lambcotvandappliance.com - valueelectronics.com - romomattressfurniture.com - dolby.com - youtube.com
