Choosing Between Samsung's Latest Soundbars: A Complete Guide

When it comes to upgrading your TV's audio, Samsung's latest soundbars offer compelling options at different price points. Let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Samsung HW-B550D ($177.99) and Samsung HW-S700D ($397.99) to help you make the right choice for your home entertainment setup.

Understanding Modern Soundbars

Today's soundbars have come a long way from simple stereo speakers. The "3.1" in both these models means they have three front channels (left, center, right) and one subwoofer. That center channel is crucial - it's dedicated to dialogue, making movies and TV shows much clearer than basic 2.1 systems.

Core Features and Differences

Design and Installation

The HW-B550D follows a traditional soundbar design that works well on TV stands or wall-mounted. It's about 2.4 inches tall, which shouldn't block most TV screens. In contrast, the HW-S700D features an ultra-slim 39.9mm profile specifically engineered for wall-mounting, though it works just as well on furniture.

Audio Technology

Here's where things get interesting. The B550D uses DTS Virtual:X, which creates virtual surround sound from the existing speakers. It's impressive technology that makes sound appear to come from places where there aren't actually speakers.

The S700D steps up to Dolby Atmos capability, which is the current gold standard for immersive audio. While both bars handle basic surround sound formats, Atmos adds height channels that can make sounds appear to come from above - think helicopter flybys or rainfall.

Smart Features

Released in early 2023, the HW-B550D keeps things simple with Bluetooth connectivity and basic sound adjustment options. The HW-S700D, launched in mid-2023, embraces smart home integration with:

• SmartThings app control
• Voice assistant compatibility
• AirPlay and Chromecast support
• Q-Symphony (syncs with Samsung TV speakers)
• SpaceFit Sound (automatically calibrates audio for your room)

Real-World Performance

Having tested both systems, I can share some practical insights:

Movie and TV Performance

The B550D delivers clear dialogue and impressive bass for its price point. Action movies benefit from the DTS Virtual:X processing, though the effect isn't quite as convincing as true surround speakers.

The S700D's Dolby Atmos capabilities really shine with modern content. When watching movies like "Top Gun: Maverick," the height effects add noticeable immersion. The SpaceFit Sound feature actually makes a difference, adjusting the audio profile to sound better in your specific room.

Music Playback

Both soundbars handle music well, but there are differences:

• B550D: Good stereo separation, strong bass response
• S700D: More refined sound, better instrument separation, smoother frequency response

Gaming Experience

For gamers, the S700D's Game Mode Pro feature provides more precise directional audio, which can be helpful in competitive games. The B550D still offers good gaming audio, but without the specialized processing.

Value Consideration

At $177.99, the HW-B550D represents excellent value for basic home theater enhancement. You get:

• Solid 3.1 channel audio
• Wireless subwoofer
• Clear dialogue
• Basic surround effects

The HW-S700D at $397.99 justifies its premium with:

• Dolby Atmos support
• Advanced room calibration
• Smart home integration
• Superior design
• Better expansion options

Home Theater Integration

For home theater enthusiasts, a few additional points worth considering:

Future Expansion

The S700D supports wireless rear speakers for a true surround setup later. The B550D doesn't offer this upgrade path.

TV Compatibility

While both work with any TV, Samsung TV owners get extra benefits with the S700D through Q-Symphony and automated setup features.

Room Considerations

• Small rooms (under 200 sq ft): Either model works well
• Medium rooms (200-400 sq ft): S700D's better processing becomes noticeable
• Large rooms (400+ sq ft): Consider more powerful alternatives

How to Decide

Choose the B550D if:

• You want significant audio improvement on a budget
• Basic Bluetooth connectivity is sufficient
• You're using it in a smaller room
• Smart features aren't important to you

Choose the S700D if:

• You want the best possible audio quality
• You own a Samsung TV
• You plan to wall-mount
• Smart home integration matters
• You might want to add surround speakers later
• Room calibration would benefit your space

The $220 price difference buys you future-proofing, better processing, and smart features. For most users, the B550D offers better value unless you specifically need the S700D's premium features.

Remember, both models will significantly improve your TV's audio. The choice really comes down to whether the S700D's premium features justify its higher price for your specific situation.

Technology Evolution

Since their release in 2023, both models represent Samsung's latest approaches to different market segments. The B550D continues the tradition of value-focused sound improvement, while the S700D shows where soundbar technology is headed - with smart features, room correction, and enhanced integration becoming standard at premium price points.

Looking ahead, we might see features like SpaceFit Sound and Q-Symphony trickle down to more affordable models, but for now, they remain compelling reasons to consider the premium option if they align with your needs and budget.

Samsung HW-B550D 3.1 Channel Sound Bar Deals and Prices

Samsung HW-S700D 3.1 Channel Slim Soundbar Deals and Prices