When it comes to creating an immersive home theater experience, today's premium soundbars offer impressive alternatives to traditional multi-speaker setups. Let's dive into a detailed comparison of two leading options: the Sennheiser AMBEO Plus ($1,499.95) and the LG S90TR ($799.99).
The home theater landscape has changed dramatically in recent years. While traditional surround sound systems dominated the 2000s and early 2010s, advanced sound processing and speaker technology have made soundbars increasingly compelling. Both products we're comparing represent different philosophies in achieving immersive sound.
The AMBEO Plus, released in late 2022, showcases Sennheiser's focus on advanced virtualization technology. Using sophisticated audio processing (think of it like having an audio supercomputer), it creates convincing surround sound from a single unit. Meanwhile, the LG S90TR, released in early 2024, takes a more traditional approach by combining a soundbar with wireless speakers and a subwoofer.
Sennheiser's AMBEO technology is fascinating - it uses microphones to analyze your room's acoustics and then precisely times sound reflections off your walls. Imagine throwing a perfect bounce pass in basketball; that's essentially what the AMBEO does with sound waves. This creates a surprisingly convincing surround effect without requiring multiple speakers.
Having tested similar systems, I can say the technology has come a long way. While early virtual surround often felt artificial, the AMBEO's processing creates a genuinely immersive experience. However, it works best in rooms with regular shapes and solid walls - if you have an open floor plan or lots of sound-absorbing furniture, you might lose some of that magic.
The LG S90TR takes a more conventional route with physical speaker separation. Its 7.1.3 channel configuration means you get seven surround channels, one subwoofer channel, and three height channels for Dolby Atmos effects (those exciting overhead sounds in modern movies). The advantage here is genuine sound separation - when something moves from left to right in a movie, you hear it actually travel through space.
The AMBEO Plus excels at creating a cohesive sound field. Its integrated subwoofers deliver surprisingly impactful bass, though they can't quite match a dedicated subwoofer's depth. Where it really shines is in its ability to create a bubble of sound that extends above and around you.
The LG S90TR offers more traditional excellence. Its dedicated subwoofer provides deeper bass impact - you'll feel those movie explosions in your chest. The separate rear speakers create true surround effects, and the height channels add that extra layer of immersion for Dolby Atmos content.
Both systems offer room correction, but they approach it differently. The AMBEO's correction is more sophisticated, using multiple measurements to create a detailed acoustic map of your space. The LG uses a simpler but effective system that balances speaker levels and timing.
For gamers, the LG S90TR has a slight edge with its support for Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) - features that help keep games running smoothly and reduce input lag. The AMBEO Plus focuses more on pure audio performance but handles gaming content well enough for most users.
The price difference between these systems ($700) is significant enough to warrant careful consideration. The AMBEO Plus justifies its premium with cutting-edge virtualization technology and simplified setup. You're paying for incredible engineering that eliminates the need for multiple speakers and wiring.
The LG S90TR offers excellent value, delivering true surround sound with modern features at a more accessible price point. It's particularly compelling if you're upgrading from a basic soundbar or looking to build your first serious home theater setup.
In smaller spaces (up to about 200 square feet), the AMBEO Plus often performs better. Its single-unit design is more practical, and the virtualization technology works exceptionally well when sound reflections don't have to travel too far.
For larger rooms, the LG S90TR's physical speaker separation becomes more valuable. The dedicated subwoofer and rear speakers maintain their impact across bigger spaces, where virtualized surround might start to lose its effect.
Apartment dwellers might prefer the AMBEO Plus for its single-unit design and integrated subwoofers, which are less likely to disturb neighbors. Homeowners with more space might appreciate the LG's flexibility in speaker placement and more powerful bass response.
Consider these key factors when making your choice:
Both the Sennheiser AMBEO Plus and LG S90TR represent different but valid approaches to modern home theater audio. The AMBEO Plus showcases where single-unit technology might be heading, while the LG S90TR refines the traditional multi-speaker approach with modern conveniences.
Technology in this space continues to evolve rapidly. While virtual surround processing improves year by year, there's still something special about true physical speaker separation. Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, room constraints, and how you prioritize simplicity versus maximum performance.
Remember, either choice represents a significant upgrade over basic TV speakers or entry-level soundbars. Both will deliver an immersive audio experience that can transform your home entertainment - they just take different paths to get there.
| Sennheiser AMBEO Plus ($1,499.95) | LG S90TR ($799.99) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines how sound is distributed around your room | |
| Virtual 7.1.4 from single unit | True 7.1.3 with physical speakers |
| Subwoofer Approach - Affects bass impact and room setup | |
| Integrated dual 4" woofers | Separate 8" wireless subwoofer |
| Room Size Sweet Spot - Critical for optimal performance | |
| Small to medium rooms (up to 200 sq ft) | Medium to large rooms (200+ sq ft) |
| Sound Processing - Influences audio quality and adaptability | |
| AMBEO 3D virtualization with advanced room correction | Basic room correction with true speaker separation |
| Installation Complexity - Consider setup time and cable management | |
| Single unit, minimal cables | Multiple units, wireless rear speakers |
| Gaming Features - Important for serious gamers | |
| Basic HDMI 2.0 support | Advanced gaming features (VRR/ALLM) |
| Height Channel Implementation - How overhead sounds are created | |
| Virtual height channels using reflections | Physical up-firing drivers |
| Power Output - Affects maximum volume and headroom | |
| 400W total system power | 520W total system power |
| Smart Features - Convenience for daily use | |
| Built-in Alexa, extensive streaming support | LG AI Sound Pro, WOW Orchestra with LG TVs |
| Value Proposition - Cost vs Performance | |
| Premium price for advanced virtualization | Better value for true surround separation |
For movies, the LG S90TR ($799.99) typically provides a more cinematic experience due to its physical rear speakers and separate subwoofer. However, the Sennheiser AMBEO Plus ($1,499.95) offers excellent virtual surround that works especially well in smaller rooms.
It depends on your room and preferences. The AMBEO Plus offers simpler setup and clean aesthetics, while the LG S90TR provides true surround separation. For dedicated home theaters, the LG's physical speaker separation typically delivers a more authentic cinema experience.
The LG S90TR delivers stronger bass impact thanks to its dedicated wireless subwoofer. While the AMBEO Plus offers impressive bass from its integrated woofers, it can't match the depth and power of a separate subwoofer.
The LG S90TR performs better in larger spaces due to its physical speaker separation and more powerful output. The AMBEO Plus virtual surround effects work best in smaller, more contained rooms.
While the AMBEO Plus creates convincing virtual surround, the physical rear speakers of the LG S90TR provide more accurate surround effects. For the most authentic experience, physical rear speakers typically perform better.
The Sennheiser AMBEO Plus offers simpler setup with its single-unit design. The LG S90TR requires more setup time to position multiple speakers, though its wireless design minimizes cable management.
The LG S90TR has an edge for gaming with features like VRR and ALLM support. While the AMBEO Plus works well for gaming, it lacks these specific gaming-focused features.
Room correction is crucial for optimal sound. The AMBEO Plus offers more sophisticated room correction technology, while the LG S90TR provides basic but effective correction.
Both can provide excellent home theater sound. The LG S90TR comes closer to traditional home theater setup with its multiple speakers, while the AMBEO Plus offers impressive virtual surround from a single unit.
Both perform well, but the AMBEO Plus offers more streaming options and sophisticated audio processing. The LG S90TR provides good music playback with the advantage of a separate subwoofer for bass.
The $700 premium for the AMBEO Plus is worth it if you value advanced virtualization and simpler setup. The LG S90TR offers better value for those wanting true surround sound with physical speakers.
The Sennheiser AMBEO Plus is generally better for apartments due to its single-unit design and controlled bass. The LG S90TR might be overkill for apartment living, with its powerful subwoofer potentially causing neighbor issues.
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 - pocket-lint.com - moon-audio.com - stereonet.com - rtings.com - abt.com - projectorscreen.com - youtube.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - crutchfield.com - sennheiser-hearing.com - newsroom.sennheiser.com - rtings.com - abt.com - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - microcenter.com - buydig.com - bestbuy.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - oceanstateappliance.com - youtube.com - avsforum.com - lg.com
