A Complete Guide to Premium Soundbars: Comparing the TCL Q85H Q Class and Klipsch Flexus Core 100

The State of Soundbars in 2024

Home theater audio has come a long way from the basic stereo TV speakers of the past. Modern soundbars now pack impressive technology into streamlined packages, offering immersive sound without the complexity of traditional surround sound systems. While a dedicated speaker setup with a receiver still delivers the ultimate audio experience, today's premium soundbars come remarkably close while being far more practical for most homes.

The TCL Q85H ($599-999) and Klipsch Flexus Core 100 ($252) represent two different approaches to this challenge, each with distinct advantages. Let's explore how these 2024 releases stack up against each other and help you decide which might work best for your setup.

Understanding the Key Differences

Configuration and Room Setup

The most obvious difference between these soundbars is their physical configuration. The TCL Q85H is a true surround sound system with a main soundbar, wireless subwoofer, and two rear speakers. Each rear speaker contains both standard and up-firing drivers (speakers that bounce sound off your ceiling for height effects). This 7.1.4 configuration means you get seven surround channels, one subwoofer channel, and four height channels for Dolby Atmos effects.

In contrast, the Klipsch Core 100 takes an all-in-one approach. It packs dual 4-inch built-in subwoofers and multiple drivers into a single, elegant bar. While this means less physical clutter, it also means you won't get the same level of surround immersion. However, Klipsch's engineering delivers surprisingly robust sound from this compact package.

Audio Performance Deep-Dive

Sound Quality and Balance

The TCL Q85H excels at creating a cinematic experience, with its dedicated subwoofer delivering deep, room-filling bass that you can feel during explosive movie scenes. The separate rear speakers provide true surround effects, making you feel like you're in the middle of the action. However, user reviews consistently mention that the system can sometimes overwhelm dialogue with bass and effects.

The Klipsch Core 100 takes a more balanced approach. Its integrated subwoofers provide tight, controlled bass that complements rather than dominates the sound mix. The bar's acoustic design prioritizes clarity, especially for dialogue, making it particularly strong for regular TV watching and music listening. While it can't match the TCL's surround immersion, many users might prefer its more natural sound signature.

Processing and Audio Formats

Both soundbars support Dolby Atmos, which creates three-dimensional sound by precisely placing audio in virtual space around you. The TCL handles this through physical up-firing speakers, while the Klipsch uses advanced digital processing to simulate height effects. Both also support DTS:X, another popular 3D audio format.

Room Calibration and Adjustability

One of the most important recent advances in home audio is automatic room calibration - technology that measures your room's acoustics and adjusts the sound accordingly. The Klipsch Core 100 uses Dirac Live, a sophisticated system that creates detailed measurements of your room and makes precise adjustments. This helps overcome common acoustic problems like room reflections and standing waves.

The TCL Q85H uses its own AI Sonic calibration system, which is simpler but still effective. However, users report limited ability to fine-tune settings afterward, which can be frustrating if you want to adjust the balance between different speakers.

Connectivity and Future-Proofing

Both soundbars feature HDMI eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), which allows high-quality audio to pass from your TV back to the soundbar. The TCL adds multiple HDMI inputs, Bluetooth 5.1, and WiFi connectivity with Apple AirPlay support. The Klipsch focuses on core connections with HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, and digital optical inputs.

Real-World Usage Scenarios

Home Theater Performance

If you're primarily building a movie-watching setup, the TCL Q85H has clear advantages. Its separate subwoofer and rear speakers create a more theater-like experience, particularly in medium to large rooms. The physical separation of speakers allows for true surround effects that can't be replicated by a single bar.

However, the Klipsch Core 100 might actually be preferable in smaller rooms where multiple speakers would be overwhelming. Its superior room calibration can help it sound better in challenging spaces, and the balanced sound signature works well for both movies and everyday TV watching.

Music Listening

For music, the Klipsch tends to be more accurate and natural-sounding. Its controlled bass and clear midrange make it excellent for various musical genres. The TCL can deliver more impact for electronic music or rock, but some might find its bass response too aggressive for acoustic or classical music.

Gaming

Both soundbars support modern gaming features through HDMI 2.1, including variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode (ALLM). The TCL's surround speakers can provide a competitive advantage in games where directional audio matters, while the Klipsch's precise sound might help you better hear dialogue and subtle audio cues.

Value Consideration

At nearly half the price, the Klipsch Core 100 represents exceptional value if you don't need true surround sound. Its superior room correction and balanced performance make it a versatile choice that works well for most content. The TCL Q85H justifies its higher price if you specifically want the immersion of separate surround speakers and don't mind some compromise in overall sound balance.

How to Decide

Choose the TCL Q85H if:

• You have space for multiple speakers
• Maximum surround immersion is your priority
• You watch mostly action movies and play games
• You have a medium to large room
• Your budget allows for the premium price

Choose the Klipsch Core 100 if:

• You want excellent sound without complexity
• Clear dialogue is important to you
• You listen to a lot of music
• You have a smaller room
• You prefer natural, balanced sound
• Value is a key consideration

Final Thoughts

Both soundbars represent significant improvements over basic TV audio, but they serve different needs. The TCL Q85H delivers a more theatrical experience at the cost of some refinement and setup complexity. The Klipsch Core 100 provides exceptional sound quality in a simpler package that will satisfy most users, especially those prioritizing clarity and balance over maximum impact.

For most people, I'd recommend the Klipsch Core 100. Its superior room correction, balanced sound, and excellent value make it a versatile choice that will enhance any content you play through it. However, if you're specifically building a home theater setup and have both the space and budget, the TCL Q85H's true surround capabilities deliver a more immersive experience that might be worth the premium price.

TCL Q85H Q Class 7.1.4 Channel Sound Bar System Deals and Prices

Klipsch Flexus Core 100 Soundbar Deals and Prices