Let's dive into two very different soundbars that might catch your eye while shopping: the $278 Samsung B-Series and the $1,500 LG S95TR. While both improve your TV's sound, they serve different purposes and users. I'll help you understand which one makes sense for your setup.
Before we dive deep, let's get our bearings. Soundbars have become incredibly popular because most modern TVs, despite their amazing pictures, have tiny speakers that can't deliver impressive sound. A soundbar is the simplest way to fix this, but the options range from basic stereo upgrades to complete home theater replacements.
The numbers in soundbar names (like 5.1 or 9.1.5) tell you how many speakers are inside:
The Samsung B-Series, released in late 2022, takes a straightforward approach to better TV sound. It's a 5.1 system, meaning you get five main speakers and a subwoofer. It focuses on the basics: clearer dialogue, better bass, and some surround effects.
In contrast, the LG S95TR, released in early 2024, represents the current state of the art. Its 9.1.5 configuration includes upward-firing speakers that bounce sound off your ceiling, creating a dome of sound above you. This is especially noticeable with Dolby Atmos content, where sounds can appear to come from precise locations in three-dimensional space.
Having tested numerous soundbars, I can tell you the real-world difference is significant, but context matters enormously.
The Samsung delivers solid performance for everyday viewing:
The LG takes everything further:
But here's the key: your room layout and viewing habits matter more than raw specifications. The Samsung might actually be better in a small room where the LG's advanced features would be wasted.
The Samsung keeps things simple:
The LG requires more thought:
This is crucial: not all content takes advantage of advanced audio features. Here's what works with each:
Samsung B-Series:
LG S95TR:
The Samsung B-Series delivers excellent value for most users. At $278, it solves the core problem of poor TV audio while adding useful features like dialogue enhancement and wireless music streaming.
The LG S95TR at $1,500 requires more justification. You're paying for:
If you're building a dedicated home theater, the decision becomes clearer. The LG's advanced features really shine in a properly set up room where you can:
The Samsung works in a home theater but won't deliver the same immersive experience. It's better suited to mixed-use living rooms where convenience matters more than absolute performance.
Consider these factors in order:
The Samsung B-Series represents an excellent value for most users. It solves the fundamental problem of poor TV audio without overwhelming you with features or breaking the bank.
The LG S95TR delivers a premium experience for enthusiasts who will appreciate and use its advanced features. It's an investment in better audio that will remain relevant for years.
Choose based on your specific needs rather than specs alone. Either can be the "better" choice depending on your situation.
Remember: the best soundbar is the one that fits your space, budget, and listening habits while providing noticeable improvement over your TV's built-in speakers.
| $278 Samsung B-Series 5.1 | $1,500 LG S95TR |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines how precisely sounds can be placed around you | |
| 5.1 channels (basic surround setup) | 9.1.5 channels (full 3D audio positioning) |
| Dolby Support - Affects compatibility with modern streaming content | |
| Basic Dolby Digital | Full Dolby Atmos (significant upgrade for movies) |
| Height Channels - Enable overhead sound effects | |
| None (virtual processing only) | 5 dedicated up-firing speakers |
| Room Size Suitability - Crucial for optimal sound coverage | |
| Small to medium rooms (up to 350 sq ft) | Medium to large rooms (up to 800 sq ft) |
| Subwoofer Performance - Impacts movie impact and music bass | |
| 6.5" driver (good for TV, basic movies) | 8" driver (theater-level bass response) |
| Power Output - Determines maximum volume and headroom | |
| 430W total (sufficient for most use) | 810W total (exceptional headroom) |
| Setup Complexity - Consider your comfort with tech | |
| Simple plug-and-play setup | Advanced calibration required for best results |
| Gaming Features - Important for next-gen consoles | |
| Basic game mode | VRR support, low latency mode |
| Future Proofing - Consider long-term value | |
| Basic features, may want upgrade later | Full feature set, relevant for 5+ years |
| Additional Features Worth Noting | |
| Basic app control, Bluetooth | WiFi, AirPlay, Voice assistants, Room correction |
The $1,500 LG S95TR is significantly better for movies, especially in a home theater setting. Its 9.1.5 channel configuration and Dolby Atmos support create a more immersive experience than the $278 Samsung B-Series. However, for casual movie watching, the Samsung still provides good performance.
There's a substantial price gap - the Samsung B-Series costs $278, while the LG S95TR is priced at $1,500. This $1,222 difference reflects their different target markets and capabilities.
If you're building a dedicated home theater, Dolby Atmos (available on the LG S95TR) makes a noticeable difference in sound quality and immersion. For casual viewing rooms, the standard surround sound of the Samsung B-Series is adequate.
The Samsung B-Series is much simpler to set up, requiring just one HDMI cable and minimal configuration. The LG S95TR needs more setup time and consideration for speaker placement.
Both soundbars can be wall-mounted. However, the Samsung B-Series is lighter and simpler to mount, while the LG S95TR requires more careful installation due to its up-firing speakers.
The Samsung B-Series is more suitable for small rooms under 350 square feet. The LG S95TR's advanced features might be overkill in a small space.
The LG S95TR offers superior gaming features including VRR support and low latency modes. The Samsung B-Series has basic gaming features that work fine for casual gaming.
While both provide good sound, the LG S95TR delivers noticeably better quality with more precise sound positioning and overhead effects. The Samsung B-Series offers good but basic surround sound.
Both support Bluetooth streaming, but the LG S95TR adds WiFi, AirPlay, and voice assistant support. The Samsung B-Series is limited to Bluetooth only.
The Samsung B-Series creates virtual surround sound without rear speakers. The LG S95TR includes wireless rear speakers for true surround sound, making it better for home theater use.
Both soundbars handle dialogue well, but the LG S95TR has more advanced processing and a dedicated center channel. The Samsung B-Series includes a basic dialogue enhancement mode that works effectively.
The LG S95TR is more future-proof with its Dolby Atmos support and advanced features. The Samsung B-Series covers current basic needs but may need upgrading sooner if you want advanced features later.
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: bestbuy.com - abt.com - avsforum.com - crutchfield.com - camelcamelcamel.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - images.samsung.com - samsung.com - avblinq.avbportal.com - samsung.com - samsung.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
