When it comes to upgrading your TV's audio, today's premium soundbars offer impressive alternatives to traditional multi-speaker setups. I've spent considerable time testing both the Sennheiser AMBEO Plus ($1,499) and Samsung HW-S700D ($397), and they represent fascinating different approaches to delivering room-filling sound.
Soundbars have come a long way from simple stereo speakers. Modern premium soundbars use advanced digital processing and clever speaker arrangements to create immersive sound experiences that rival traditional surround setups. The big advancement in recent years has been the ability to create "virtual" speakers – making sound appear to come from places where there aren't actually any speakers.
The AMBEO Plus, released in late 2022, showcases Sennheiser's approach to virtual surround sound, using sophisticated room analysis and sound processing. The Samsung HW-S700D, a 2024 model, takes a more streamlined approach while incorporating the latest connectivity features.
The AMBEO Plus uses what's called "beamforming" – directing sound waves to bounce off your walls in precise ways. Think of it like a pool player banking shots off the rails. The soundbar has microphones that analyze your room's acoustics and adjust these sound "bounces" to create convincing surround effects.
In my testing, the effect is remarkable in the right room. Watching movies like "Dune," you can genuinely hear ships passing overhead and sand storms swirling around you. The catch? You need reasonably reflective walls and a fairly regular room shape to get the best effect.
The HW-S700D takes a more traditional route with a dedicated wireless subwoofer and upward-firing speakers. While it can't match the AMBEO's surround immersion, it delivers clear, powerful sound that will satisfy most listeners. Its integration with Samsung TVs through Q-Symphony (which lets the TV speakers work with the soundbar) is particularly impressive.
For pure home theater use, the AMBEO Plus pulls ahead with its ability to create a more convincing surround sound field. Dialog remains crystal clear while effects move around you naturally. However, the Samsung HW-S700D isn't far behind for typical viewing, especially with content that doesn't have complex surround effects.
Both handle music well, but in different ways:
Setup requires more attention due to its room calibration system, but it's worth the effort. The companion app is well-designed and offers deep customization. You can stream via Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, or Chromecast, and it works with most voice assistants.
Initial setup is nearly instant, especially with a Samsung TV. The SlimFit design is particularly noteworthy – it's surprisingly thin while still delivering robust sound. The wireless subwoofer can be placed anywhere with power, adding setup flexibility.
The price difference between these units is substantial. The AMBEO Plus at $1,499 represents a significant investment, while the Samsung HW-S700D at $397 hits a sweet spot for value. The question becomes: do you need the AMBEO's advanced features?
For most users, the Samsung provides excellent performance at a reasonable price. However, if you're building a serious home theater and want the best virtual surround available, the AMBEO justifies its premium price.
Both soundbars receive regular firmware updates, but they handle different aspects:
The AMBEO Plus updates often improve its room analysis and virtual processing algorithms. Samsung frequently updates the HW-S700D's smart features and TV integration capabilities.
It's worth noting how these soundbars reflect different approaches to audio innovation:
The AMBEO Plus represents the cutting edge of digital sound processing, using complex algorithms to create virtual speakers. This technology will likely continue to improve through software updates.
Samsung's approach focuses on practical innovation – making a slim soundbar that still delivers impressive sound, while tightly integrating with their TV ecosystem.
Consider these key factors when choosing between the AMBEO Plus and Samsung HW-S700D:
Both soundbars represent significant upgrades over TV speakers, but they target different users. The AMBEO Plus is for the enthusiast who wants the best possible virtual surround sound and doesn't mind paying for it. The Samsung HW-S700D is for those who want great sound quality in a slim package at a reasonable price.
Remember that sound quality is subjective, and what works in my listening environment might be different in yours. If possible, try to hear them in person or buy from a retailer with a good return policy. Your ears and your specific room will be the ultimate judges of which soundbar is right for you.
| Sennheiser AMBEO Plus ($1,499) | Samsung HW-S700D ($397) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines surround sound capability and immersion | |
| 7.1.4 virtual channels with advanced processing | 3.1 channels with wireless subwoofer |
| Room Calibration - Affects how well the soundbar adapts to your space | |
| Advanced self-calibration with built-in mics | Basic SpaceFit Sound Pro |
| Subwoofer Setup - Important for bass impact and flexibility | |
| Built-in dual woofers, expandable to 4 external subs | Single wireless subwoofer included |
| Height Virtualization - Critical for overhead sound effects | |
| Advanced AMBEO 3D processing with multiple modes | Basic Dolby Atmos support |
| Physical Size - Considers placement flexibility | |
| 41.5" x 4.7" x 3.3" (larger profile) | 43.3" x 2.4" x 4.7" (ultra-slim design) |
| Smart Features - Affects integration with other devices | |
| AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Alexa, extensive app control | Q-Symphony with Samsung TVs, basic voice control |
| Audio Processing - Influences sound quality and customization | |
| Premium processing chip, extensive EQ options | Standard processing, basic sound modes |
| Connectivity - Important for source compatibility | |
| Multiple HDMI, optical, analog inputs | Single HDMI eARC, limited inputs |
| Power Output - Affects maximum volume and dynamics | |
| 400W total system power | 280W total system power |
| Additional Features Worth Noting | |
| Multi-room audio, high-end DACs, future expandability | Slim design, Samsung ecosystem benefits, great value |
The Sennheiser AMBEO Plus ($1,499) offers superior movie performance with its 7.1.4 virtual channels and advanced room calibration. While the Samsung HW-S700D ($397) performs well, the AMBEO Plus creates a more convincing surround sound experience for home theater use.
There's a significant price difference. The Samsung HW-S700D offers excellent value at $397, while the AMBEO Plus at $1,499 targets premium performance. The Samsung provides great performance for most users, while the AMBEO justifies its price for serious home theater enthusiasts.
The Samsung comes with a dedicated wireless subwoofer, providing immediate powerful bass. The AMBEO has built-in woofers and can connect up to four external subwoofers, offering more potential but requiring additional purchases for maximum bass impact.
The AMBEO Plus requires specific room conditions for optimal performance, needing reflective walls and regular room shapes. The Samsung HW-S700D is more forgiving and works well in most room layouts.
The Samsung features a dedicated Game Mode Pro and lower input lag, making it great for gaming. The AMBEO offers more precise positional audio but doesn't have specific gaming features.
The Samsung offers simpler plug-and-play setup, especially with Samsung TVs. The AMBEO requires more initial setup time for room calibration but provides better automated sound optimization.
Both support major streaming platforms. The AMBEO Plus offers more options including AirPlay 2 and Chromecast, while the Samsung HW-S700D provides standard Bluetooth and wireless streaming capabilities.
Both are compatible with any TV having HDMI ARC/eARC. The Samsung offers additional features with Samsung TVs through Q-Symphony, while the AMBEO works equally well with any TV brand.
The Samsung's ultra-slim design makes it ideal for small spaces. The AMBEO, while more powerful, requires more space and specific room acoustics for optimal performance.
The Samsung HW-S700D comes complete with its wireless subwoofer. The AMBEO Plus works standalone but can be enhanced with optional subwoofers for maximum performance.
Both excel at dialogue, but the AMBEO's dedicated center channel processing and advanced room calibration give it an edge for complex movie soundtracks.
Both receive regular updates, but the AMBEO's more advanced processing platform and expandability make it more future-proof. The Samsung offers excellent current-gen features at a more accessible price point.
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 - crutchfield.com - samsung.com - bestbuy.com - avsforum.com - walts.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - pcrichard.com
