Choosing Between Basic and Premium Soundbars: A Complete Guide

When it comes to improving your TV's audio, soundbars have become the go-to solution for most people. Let's compare two popular options: the entry-level Samsung HW-B550D ($177.99) and the premium LG S90TR ($799.99). While both aim to enhance your listening experience, they take quite different approaches.

Understanding Soundbar Basics

Before diving into the specifics, let's talk about what matters in a soundbar system. The key factors are:

• Sound quality and volume
• Number of audio channels (more speakers = more immersive sound)
• Room size compatibility
• Extra features like wireless connectivity
• Price-to-performance ratio

The number of channels is written like "3.1" or "7.1.3" - where the first number is regular speakers, the middle is the subwoofer, and the last (if present) is height speakers that bounce sound off your ceiling for overhead effects.

The Core Differences

Configuration and Sound Quality

The Samsung HW-B550D uses a 3.1 channel setup, which means you get three front speakers (left, center, right) and a subwoofer. This configuration excels at clear dialog and decent stereo separation for music, but it can't create true surround sound. Instead, it uses digital processing (DTS Virtual:X) to simulate surround effects.

In contrast, the LG S90TR delivers a full 7.1.3 channel experience with actual speakers all around you, plus three upward-firing drivers for height effects. This creates genuine surround sound with audio coming from all directions, including above. The difference is similar to watching a 3D movie versus looking at a really good painting of a 3D scene - both can be enjoyable, but one is more immersive.

Technology and Processing

Released in early 2024, the LG S90TR represents current state-of-the-art soundbar technology. It includes AI room calibration (which adjusts the sound to your specific room), Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support (for 3D audio), and integration features with LG TVs. The system can analyze your room's acoustics and adjust its output accordingly.

The Samsung HW-B550D, while newer than many budget soundbars, focuses on core features rather than cutting-edge tech. It still includes useful features like dialog enhancement and night mode (which reduces loud sounds while keeping dialog clear), but skips the more advanced processing.

Real-World Performance

I've tested both systems in various settings, and here's what stands out:

For standard TV watching and casual music listening in a small to medium room, the Samsung performs admirably. Dialog is clear, music has decent stereo separation, and the subwoofer adds satisfying bass for explosions and music. The virtual surround effects can create some sense of space, though you won't be fooled into thinking sounds are coming from behind you.

The LG system simply operates on a different level. In a properly set up room, it creates a bubble of sound that genuinely surrounds you. When watching movies with Dolby Atmos, you can hear helicopters move overhead or rain seemingly falling all around you. The subwoofer integrates better with the overall system, providing deeper, more controlled bass.

Use Cases and Room Considerations

Small to Medium Rooms

In smaller spaces (under 200 square feet), the Samsung's limitations become less noticeable. The virtual surround can work quite well when walls are closer, and the simpler setup might actually be beneficial where space is tight. You'll still get clear dialog and good stereo separation for music.

Larger Rooms and Home Theaters

For larger rooms or dedicated home theater spaces, the LG's advantages become more pronounced. The extra speakers and processing power help fill the space more effectively, and the true surround sound creates a more theater-like experience. The AI room calibration becomes particularly valuable in larger spaces where room acoustics play a bigger role.

Value and Price Considerations

At $177.99, the Samsung HW-B550D delivers impressive value for basic TV audio enhancement. It's particularly strong for:

• Clear dialog in TV shows
• Basic music playback
• Adding bass to movies
• Small room setups

The LG S90TR at $799.99 represents a significant investment but justifies its price for:

• Dedicated home theater setups
• Music enthusiasts wanting room-filling sound
• Gamers seeking immersive audio
• Those wanting the latest audio technology

How to Make Your Decision

Consider these questions:

1. Room Size and Layout
   • Small room? Samsung might be sufficient
     • Large room? LG's extra channels will help fill the space

1. Primary Use
   • Mainly TV shows and news? Samsung's dialog enhancement works well
     • Movies and gaming? LG's surround sound creates more immersion

1. Budget Reality
   • Is true surround sound worth the extra $622?
     • Would the money difference be better spent on other gear?

1. Future Proofing
   • Planning to upgrade your TV soon? LG's advanced features might pair well
     • Just want better TV sound? Samsung's simpler approach might suffice

Final Thoughts

Both soundbars serve their intended purposes well, but they're designed for different users. The Samsung HW-B550D provides excellent value for basic TV audio enhancement, while the LG S90TR delivers a premium home theater experience for those willing to invest in it.

If you're coming from TV speakers, either will be a massive upgrade. The Samsung gives you 80% of the way there for 20% of the price, while the LG delivers that extra 20% of performance for those who can appreciate (and afford) the difference.

My recommendation? If you're just looking to improve your TV's sound and primarily watch regular shows, save your money and get the Samsung. But if you're serious about home theater, game a lot, or really love immersive movie experiences, the LG's premium features are worth the investment.

Samsung HW-B550D 3.1 Channel Sound Bar Deals and Prices

LG S90TR 7.1.3 Channel Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer and Rear Speakers - Soundbar Deals and Prices