Soundbar Showdown: Premium vs Value Home Audio in 2024

When it comes to upgrading your TV's sound, two compelling options have emerged since late 2023: the slim and budget-friendly Samsung HW-S700D ($397.99) and the premium LG S95TR ($999.99). Let's dive into how these soundbars stack up and which might be right for your setup.

Understanding Soundbar Basics

Before we compare these systems, let's talk about what matters in a soundbar. The number of channels (like 3.1 or 9.1.5) tells us how many separate speakers are working together. More channels generally mean better surround sound, but they also mean a higher price and more complex setup.

Think of channels like this: the first number is your main speakers (front and sides), the second is your subwoofer, and the last number (if present) represents upward-firing speakers that bounce sound off your ceiling for that overhead effect.

The Core Differences

The Samsung HW-S700D takes a minimalist approach with its 3.1 setup - you get left, right, and center channels, plus a subwoofer (that's the ".1"). This configuration excels at clear dialogue and stereo music but doesn't try to create a full surround effect.

In contrast, the LG S95TR goes all-in with a 9.1.5 configuration. Those extra channels create true surround sound with dedicated rear speakers and multiple upward-firing drivers for Dolby Atmos effects. If you're wondering what Dolby Atmos is, imagine sound objects moving freely in three-dimensional space - like hearing a helicopter actually pass overhead in a movie.

Space and Setup Considerations

Having installed numerous soundbars in various spaces, I can tell you that room size and layout matter tremendously. The Samsung's slim design (just 2.3 inches tall) makes it perfect for tight spaces or wall-mounting under a TV. It's also simpler to set up since you're only dealing with the main bar and a wireless subwoofer.

The LG system requires more thought in placement. You'll need space for the main bar, subwoofer, and two rear speakers, plus power outlets for each. However, this fuller setup is what enables that immersive surround sound experience that can transform your living room into a mini theater.

Performance Deep-Dive

Everyday TV Watching

For regular TV viewing, both systems perform admirably. The Samsung HW-S700D particularly shines with dialogue clarity thanks to its dedicated center channel and Active Voice Amplifier technology, which automatically boosts dialogue when background noise is detected.

The LG offers similar features but adds spatial awareness - background sounds can actually move around your room. While watching nature documentaries, for instance, you might hear birds calling from different corners of your room.

Movie Performance

Here's where the differences become stark. The Samsung delivers solid performance for movies, with clear dialogue and decent stereo separation. However, the LG creates a truly cinematic experience with its additional channels and Dolby Atmos support. When a plane flies overhead in a movie, you'll actually hear the sound move from front to back and overhead.

Gaming Experience

For gamers, the LG has a clear advantage. Its multiple channels create precise spatial audio that can help you locate enemies by sound in competitive games. Both soundbars support gaming features like variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode (ALLM), but the LG's fuller surround sound creates more immersion.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Both soundbars are thoroughly modern in terms of connectivity. They support HDMI eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), which allows high-quality audio to pass from your TV back to the soundbar through a single cable. They also both offer WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music.

The Samsung integrates especially well with Samsung TVs through Q-Symphony, which lets the TV speakers work in harmony with the soundbar. Similarly, the LG offers special features when paired with LG TVs. Both support popular voice assistants and streaming services.

Value Proposition

At $397.99, the Samsung HW-S700D represents excellent value for anyone wanting significantly better TV audio without breaking the bank. Its slim design and straightforward setup make it particularly appealing for apartments or smaller living rooms.

The LG S95TR at $999.99 requires a bigger investment but delivers a premium home theater experience that could otherwise cost thousands more with separate components. If you're serious about movie watching or gaming, this price difference might be justified by the immersive experience it provides.

How to Decide

Choose the Samsung if:

• You're primarily watching news, sports, and TV shows
• Your room is small to medium-sized
• Budget is a primary concern
• You value simplicity in setup and operation
• Wall-mounting is important

Choose the LG if:

• You watch lots of action movies or play immersive games
• Your room is medium to large
• You want the best possible audio experience
• You have space for rear speakers
• Budget allows for a premium system

Real-World Perspective

Having spent time with both systems, I can say they each excel in their intended use cases. The Samsung continues to impress me with how much sound quality it delivers from such a slim package. The LG, while more expensive and complex, creates an audio experience that genuinely rivals commercial theaters in some aspects.

The technology in both has improved significantly over previous generations. The Samsung's slim design doesn't compromise sound quality like earlier thin soundbars did, while the LG's wireless rear speakers are more reliable than past versions that often suffered from connectivity issues.

Remember, the best soundbar is the one that fits your space, budget, and listening habits. Either of these options will dramatically improve your TV's audio - it's just a matter of choosing the right level of investment for your needs.

Samsung HW-S700D 3.1 Channel Slim Soundbar Deals and Prices

LG S95TR 9.1.5 Channel Soundbar with Dolby Atmos Soundbar Deals and Prices