Choosing Between Modern Soundbars: Klipsch vs Samsung in 2024

Looking to upgrade your TV's audio? Let's compare two popular but very different approaches to better sound - the new Klipsch Flexus Core 100 ($349.99) and the Samsung B-Series 5.1 Channel Soundbar ($277.99).

Understanding Today's Soundbar Market

Soundbars have come a long way from simple speaker bars. Modern options range from single-unit solutions to complex home theater replacements. The core mission remains the same though - delivering better audio than your TV's tiny built-in speakers can provide.

When shopping for a soundbar in 2024, you'll encounter terms like Dolby Atmos (which creates a 3D-like sound field), eARC (an enhanced audio connection over HDMI), and various channel configurations (like 2.1 or 5.1, where the numbers represent regular speakers plus subwoofers). Don't worry - we'll explain these as we go.

Two Different Approaches to Better Sound

The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 and Samsung B-Series represent two distinct philosophies in soundbar design. Klipsch, released in early 2024, takes an innovative approach by packing everything into one premium bar. Samsung follows the traditional path with separate components for a more theater-like experience.

Design and Setup

Klipsch has created something special with their wooden construction - a rarity in soundbars. Most competitors, including Samsung, use plastic enclosures. While this might seem minor, wood actually helps reduce unwanted vibrations and can produce warmer sound. The Klipsch is also remarkably simple to set up - just one bar to place and one cable to connect.

The Samsung system requires more planning. You'll need spots for the main bar, wireless subwoofer, and potentially rear speakers. While this means more complexity, it also enables true surround sound that a single bar can't match.

Sound Quality Deep Dive

Having tested many soundbars over the years, I can tell you that both these units punch above their weight class, but in different ways.

The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 excels at music reproduction. Its wooden cabinet and premium drivers deliver exceptional clarity in the mid-range (where voices and most instruments live). The built-in subwoofers provide surprisingly capable bass, though they can't match a separate powered sub for sheer impact.

Samsung's approach with the B-Series delivers a more cinematic experience. The dedicated subwoofer creates deeper bass you can feel during movies, while the additional channels provide true surround effects. When watching action movies or playing games, this immersion is hard to beat.

Technical Innovations

Klipsch partnered with Onkyo (known for their high-end receivers) to develop their latest soundbar platform. This collaboration shows in the sound quality and processing capabilities. The bar includes sophisticated digital signal processing that helps it sound bigger than its size would suggest.

Samsung leverages their long history in home theater, including technologies like DTS Virtual:X, which creates virtual surround effects even without rear speakers. They've also focused on wireless technology, making their multi-component system easier to set up than older surround sound systems.

Real-World Performance

Music Listening

For music, the Klipsch Flexus Core 100 is the clear winner. Its stereo separation and tonal accuracy make everything from classical to rock sound more natural. The wooden cabinet adds warmth that's particularly noticeable with acoustic music.

The Samsung system can play louder and produce more bass, but it's tuned more for movie effects than musical accuracy. That said, it's perfectly capable for casual listening.

Movie and TV Performance

This is where things get interesting. The Klipsch delivers excellent dialogue clarity and a wide soundstage (the perceived width of the sound field). However, the Samsung's true surround sound capabilities create a more immersive experience for movies and TV shows.

Gaming performance follows similar lines - the Klipsch provides precise audio positioning in stereo, while the Samsung creates a more enveloping experience.

Value Consideration

At $349.99, the Klipsch represents premium pricing for a single-bar solution. However, its build quality, expandability, and performance justify the cost for the right user. The $277.99 Samsung system offers more immediate impact for less money, especially for movie lovers.

Living With Each System

Space and Aesthetics

The Klipsch's single-bar design is ideal for smaller rooms or clean setups. Its wooden finish adds a premium touch that many appreciate. The Samsung system requires more space and planning but can better fill larger rooms with sound.

Daily Use

Both systems offer modern conveniences like Bluetooth for music streaming and HDMI-ARC for easy TV control. The Klipsch Connect app provides detailed EQ control, while Samsung offers various sound modes for different content.

How to Make Your Choice

Choose the Klipsch Flexus Core 100 if:

• Music quality is a top priority
• You want a premium, single-unit solution
• You appreciate the craftsmanship of wooden speakers
• You might want to expand the system later
• Your room is small to medium-sized

Choose the Samsung B-Series if:

• Movies and gaming are your main focus
• You want immediate surround sound
• Maximum bass impact matters
• You have space for multiple components
• You're working with a larger room

Final Thoughts

Both these soundbars represent excellent choices for different users. The Klipsch shows where single-bar design is heading, with impressive technology packed into a premium package. The Samsung demonstrates the benefits of a traditional multi-speaker approach at a more accessible price point.

For my personal setup, I'd choose the Klipsch for its versatility and build quality, particularly since I listen to a lot of music. However, if I were building a dedicated home theater room, the Samsung's surround capabilities would make it the better choice.

Remember that sound is subjective, and room acoustics play a huge role in performance. If possible, try to hear these systems in person before making your final decision. Both manufacturers offer solid warranties and support, so you can buy with confidence either way.

Klipsch Flexus Core 100 Soundbar Deals and Prices

Samsung B-Series 5.1 Channel Soundbar with Subwoofer Deals and Prices