When it comes to upgrading your TV's sound in 2024, premium soundbars offer an elegant solution that bridges the gap between basic TV speakers and complex home theater setups. Let's dive into a detailed comparison of two leading options: the Samsung HW-Q800D ($699) and the LG S95TR ($999).
Today's premium soundbars have evolved far beyond simple stereo sound enhancement. They now incorporate multiple speakers, wireless subwoofers, and sophisticated audio processing to create immersive sound experiences. Both models we're comparing are prime examples of this evolution, featuring Dolby Atmos (which creates 3D sound that can move around and above you) and various smart features.
The Samsung HW-Q800D represents a streamlined approach, released in early 2024 with focused improvements in room calibration and audio processing. Its 5.1.2 channel configuration means you get five main channels (front left, center, front right, and two surrounds), one subwoofer, and two upward-firing speakers for height effects.
In contrast, the LG S95TR, launched in late 2023, takes a "more is more" approach with its 9.1.5 channel setup. This includes additional side-firing speakers and three upward-firing channels, aiming to fill larger spaces with more precise sound placement.
In my experience testing both units, room size plays a crucial role in their performance. The Samsung excels in spaces up to about 350 square feet, delivering clear, balanced sound that feels immersive without overwhelming the space. The SpaceFit Sound Pro feature (which automatically adjusts sound based on your room's acoustics) works remarkably well, especially for maintaining clarity during quiet dialogue scenes.
The LG's additional channels really show their worth in larger spaces, particularly rooms over 350 square feet. Its triple up-firing speakers create a more defined height effect, which I noticed particularly during scenes with overhead audio like rainfall or aircraft flyovers.
Both soundbars handle different types of content well, but they have distinct strengths:
The Samsung HW-Q800D offers:
The LG S95TR provides:
Both systems offer smart features, but they work best within their respective ecosystems. Samsung's Q-Symphony feature lets the soundbar work in harmony with Samsung TV speakers, while LG's WOW Orchestra does the same with LG TVs. This ecosystem lock-in is worth considering if you already own a TV from either brand.
When we talk about value, it's not just about the price tag. The Samsung HW-Q800D delivers impressive performance at its $699 price point, making it an excellent choice for most users. Its feature set and sound quality compete well with systems costing hundreds more.
The LG S95TR at $999 requires a bigger investment, but that premium gets you:
For dedicated home theater use:
For those using their system for various content:
Consider these key factors in order of importance:
Both systems support modern audio formats and should remain current for years to come. Samsung's newer release date might mean slightly more refined processing, but both units are well-positioned for future content formats.
The soundbar market continues to evolve, with improvements in wireless connectivity and room correction technology leading the way. Both these models represent the current state of the art in their respective price brackets.
For most users, the Samsung HW-Q800D provides the best balance of performance and value. Its recent release means it incorporates the latest audio processing improvements, and its practical approach to channel configuration works well in typical living spaces.
The LG S95TR makes sense for those with larger rooms who want maximum channel separation and don't mind paying a premium for it. Its expanded speaker array provides a more theater-like experience in the right space.
Remember, the best soundbar is the one that fits your space, budget, and usage patterns. Both these options represent excellent choices within their respective niches, and either can significantly upgrade your audio experience.
| Samsung HW-Q800D ($699) | LG S95TR ($999) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines how precisely sound can be placed around your room | |
| 5.1.2 channels (ideal for small/medium rooms) | 9.1.5 channels (better for larger spaces) |
| Power Output - Affects maximum volume and sound clarity at high levels | |
| 360W total (sufficient for most rooms) | 810W total (excellent for large spaces) |
| Height Channels - Important for overhead sounds in Dolby Atmos content | |
| 2 up-firing speakers (good overhead effects) | 5 up-firing speakers (more precise height effects) |
| Room Calibration - Helps optimize sound for your specific space | |
| SpaceFit Sound Pro (works automatically) | AI Room Calibration (requires setup process) |
| TV Integration - Enhanced features when paired with same-brand TV | |
| Q-Symphony with Samsung TVs | WOW Orchestra with LG TVs |
| Subwoofer Size - Impacts bass performance and room placement | |
| 8-inch driver (compact, flexible placement) | 10-inch driver (more powerful, needs more space) |
| Additional Speakers - Affects surround sound coverage | |
| No rear speakers included | Includes wireless rear speakers |
| HDMI Ports - Determines connectivity options | |
| 1 input, 1 output with eARC | 2 inputs, 1 output with eARC |
| Voice Enhancement - Critical for clear dialogue | |
| Active Voice Amplifier (automatic) | AI Sound Pro (content adaptive) |
| Room Size Recommendation - Key factor in choosing between models | |
| Up to 350 sq ft (optimal performance) | 350+ sq ft (better for larger spaces) |
The LG S95TR ($999) is generally better for dedicated home theaters due to its 9.1.5 channel configuration and included rear speakers. However, the Samsung HW-Q800D ($699) is excellent for smaller home theaters under 350 square feet and offers better value.
The Samsung HW-Q800D costs $699, while the LG S95TR is priced at $999, making it $300 more expensive.
The LG S95TR delivers more impressive Dolby Atmos performance with its 5 up-firing speakers compared to the Samsung HW-Q800D's 2 up-firing speakers, though both provide good overhead effects.
No, but you'll get additional features with matching brands. The Samsung HW-Q800D works best with Samsung TVs (Q-Symphony feature), while the LG S95TR pairs best with LG TVs (WOW Orchestra feature).
Both excel at movie playback, but the LG S95TR offers more immersive surround sound with its additional channels and rear speakers. The Samsung HW-Q800D provides excellent movie performance at a lower price point.
Both perform well, with the Samsung HW-Q800D featuring Active Voice Amplifier technology and the LG S95TR using AI Sound Pro. Both systems make dialogue clear and intelligible.
The Samsung HW-Q800D is generally easier to set up due to fewer components and automatic room calibration. The LG S95TR requires more setup time due to additional speakers but offers more placement flexibility.
Yes, both include wireless subwoofers. The Samsung HW-Q800D has an 8-inch subwoofer, while the LG S95TR features a larger 10-inch subwoofer for deeper bass.
The LG S95TR is better suited for larger spaces due to its additional channels and higher power output. The Samsung HW-Q800D is more appropriate for rooms under 350 square feet.
Yes, both support Bluetooth streaming and various wireless protocols. The Samsung HW-Q800D and LG S95TR both offer WiFi connectivity and support for popular streaming services.
Yes, both work well with gaming consoles. The Samsung HW-Q800D features a dedicated Game Pro mode, while the LG S95TR offers variable refresh rate support through HDMI 2.1.
The Samsung HW-Q800D offers better value for most users with its balance of features and performance at $699. The LG S95TR justifies its higher price if you need its additional channels and larger room coverage.
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: techradar.com - valueelectronics.com - samsung.com - rtings.com - samsung.com - crutchfield.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - shidirect.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
