As a movie scene starts, the air buzzes with excitement. Then, the room fills with sound, pulling you into the action. This is what the Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar offers, making it the top choice for 2023.
This soundbar has an amazing 11.1.4-channel setup. It’s made for a deep Dolby Atmos sound. With a strong subwoofer, wireless rear speakers, and advanced tech, it takes your home movies to the next level.
Key Takeaways
- 11.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos sound for an unparalleled immersive experience
- Premium price tag of £1,599 positions it as a top-tier soundbar option
- Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based audio formats for enhanced realism
- Comprehensive connectivity options, including HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi
- Packed with smart features like built-in Alexa, auto room calibration, and Q Symphony integration
Introduction to Samsung’s Flagship Soundbar
For those who love home theater, the Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar is a top choice. It has an 11.1.4-channel setup, giving you a surround sound like the movies. It works great with your Samsung audio systems and home theater setup, bringing your entertainment to life.
The HW-Q990C uses the latest tech, like Dolby Atmos and HDR formats. This means your movies and games will sound clear and deep. Its wireless speaker connectivity and room calibration make sure the sound is just right for your space.
“The Samsung HW-Q990C is a true marvel of engineering, delivering an unparalleled home theater experience that rivals the best commercial cinemas.”
The HW-Q990C looks sleek and fits well in any room. It’s not just about looks; it also packs a punch with its sound. If you want to take your entertainment to the next level, check out the Samsung HW-Q990C.
Design and Build Quality
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar has a sleek, modern look. It fits well with today’s home theaters. Its design is the same as before, but now it has a new “Titan Black” finish. This dark grey/graphite color adds elegance.
Even though it’s big, the soundbar looks slim. It’s 48.5 inches wide, 2.7 inches high, and 5.4 inches deep. It’s perfect for TVs 55 inches or bigger. The subwoofer and surround speakers match, making everything look great together.
Component Overview
The Samsung HW-Q990C system includes a soundbar, a wireless subwoofer, and two wireless surround speakers. You can place the rear speakers on stands or the wall. This lets you get the best sound and Dolby Atmos experience.
The HW-Q990C is built to last, with a strong and durable design. It shows off Samsung’s commitment to quality. This means you can enjoy great sound for many years.
Samsung HW-Q990C Soundbar Review: Core Features and Technology
The Samsung HW-Q990C is a top-notch Dolby Atmos soundbar. It offers an amazing 11.1.4-channel surround sound. This model has advanced features and technologies for a deep, cinematic audio experience.
At its core, the HW-Q990C has 22 speakers, including an 8-inch subwoofer and rear satellite speakers. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. This setup creates a three-dimensional soundstage that makes movies, TV shows, and music come alive.
The soundbar uses SpaceFit Sound Pro technology for the best sound in your room. It analyzes your space and adjusts the audio for a perfect experience.
The HW-Q990C also has Adaptive Sound 2.0, an AI technology that improves audio clarity and richness. It has advanced sound modes like Game Pro 2.0 and Night Mode for an immersive experience.
It’s easy to connect the soundbar with HDMI eARC for your 4K HDR TV. It also has a SmartThings Hub for controlling smart home devices from the soundbar.
For those who love voice control, the HW-Q990C supports Amazon Alexa. It also has Q Symphony Gen III for a unified audio experience with Samsung TVs.
In summary, the Samsung HW-Q990C is a top Dolby Atmos soundbar. It offers an immersive audio experience with its advanced technology. It’s a great choice for those looking for a premium, HDMI eARC compatible soundbar.
Speaker Configuration and Channel Layout
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar brings an immersive audio experience with its 11.1.4 channel setup. It includes a central soundbar, a wireless subwoofer, and two wireless rear speakers. This setup surrounds you with exceptional spatial audio.
11.1.4 Channel System Breakdown
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar’s 11.1.4 channel layout is designed for a cinematic-quality sound. It has:
- Front left and right channels
- Center channel
- Four up-firing height channels for overhead effects
- Two side surround channels
- Two rear surround channels
- One powerful subwoofer channel for deep, rumbling bass
Speaker Placement and Effects
The placement of speakers in the Samsung HW-Q990C system is key for an immersive audio experience. The soundbar’s front left, right, and center channels provide clear dialogue and sound effects. The up-firing height channels create a realistic sound hemisphere, depending on your room’s ceiling.
The side and rear surround channels, along with the subwoofer, deliver a cinematic-quality audio experience. This setup envelops you in sound.
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar offers an unparalleled audio immersion. It transports you into the heart of your favorite movies, TV shows, and video games.
Connectivity Options and Ports
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar has many ways to connect to your devices. It supports HDMI eARC for the best Dolby Atmos and DTS:X sound. It has two HDMI inputs and one output for 4K/60p video and HDR formats like HDR10 and Dolby Vision.
It also has an optical digital input, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay 2. These options let you stream music and podcasts wirelessly from your devices. This makes your listening experience better.
The HW-Q990C’s wireless setup is a big plus. The subwoofer and rear speakers connect wirelessly to the soundbar. This means no messy cables, making your home theater look neat and clean.
Even though it lacks VRR and 4K/120Hz support, it has Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). Samsung might add these features in updates or future models.
| Connectivity Options | Details |
|---|---|
| HDMI | 2 HDMI 2.0 inputs, 1 HDMI eARC output |
| Video Passthrough | 4K/60p, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision |
| HDMI Features | ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) |
| Optical Digital Input | 1 port |
| Wireless Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2 |
| Wireless Speaker Setup | Subwoofer and rear surround speakers |
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar is great for connecting to your devices. It has HDMI eARC compatibility and wireless speaker connectivity. This makes it a smart choice for your home entertainment.
Smart Features and Voice Control Integration
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar does more than just play great sound. It has smart features and voice control. This makes your home theater even better.
Alexa Integration
The Samsung HW-Q990C comes with Amazon Alexa built-in. You can control your smart home with just your voice. Adjust the volume or play music easily with voice commands.
SmartThings Hub Functionality
This soundbar is also a SmartThings hub. It lets you manage Samsung audio systems and other smart devices. It makes your home theater setup easier and more connected.
Mobile App Control
The Samsung SmartThings app lets you control your soundbar. You can connect it to Wi-Fi, set up Alexa, and get updates. It’s all about making your entertainment experience better.
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar makes your entertainment better. It lets you control your Samsung audio systems and home theater setup easily. Use voice commands or the app for a seamless experience.
Audio Performance with Dolby Atmos Content
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar is designed to give you a deep and immersive sound experience. It’s perfect for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content. With its 11.1.4 channel setup, it offers a sound bubble that’s as good as some top AV systems.
This soundbar has strong amplification, making it fill large rooms with premium sound quality. The subwoofer adds deep bass that doesn’t overpower the sound. This lets you enjoy a fully immersive audio experience. Even in quiet scenes, like in “A Quiet Place,” the soundbar’s clarity stands out.
“The Samsung HW-Q990C offers one of the highest channel counts available in the soundbar market, creating a truly enveloping Dolby Atmos experience.”
The HW-Q990C has advanced speakers and audio tech. It raises the bar for what a Dolby Atmos soundbar can do. It brings a movie theater sound to your home.
Gaming Capabilities and Performance
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar is made for better gaming at home. It has ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) to cut down on lag. This means your game actions match the sound perfectly, making games feel more real.
But, it doesn’t have VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) or 4K/120Hz passthrough. This might be a letdown for gamers who want the newest tech. Yet, it has a Game Pro 2.0 sound mode for gaming. It makes the sound more lively and fun to play with.
HDMI Features for Gaming
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar has two HDMI 2.0 inputs. You can plug in your gaming consoles or PC here. This way, the sound goes through the soundbar’s top-notch system, making games sound better.
Input Lag and Response Time
ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) in the Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar cuts down on lag. This means the sound and visuals of games match up well. It’s great for fast games where quick reactions are key.
Even though it’s not HDMI 2.1, the Samsung HW-Q990C works well for most gamers. It’s good for casual and mid-range gamers. But, gamers who need the lowest lag and the newest tech might find it lacking.
Q-Symphony Technology and TV Integration
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar brings home audio to new heights with Q-Symphony technology. This feature, part of the latest Q-Symphony Gen III, lets the soundbar and Samsung TVs work together. This creates an immersive audio experience that makes your home theater setup better.
Q-Symphony technology uses the TV’s speakers with the soundbar’s 11.1.4-channel system. This expands the soundstage, giving you a wider and more immersive audio experience. It works well whether you connect the soundbar wirelessly or through HDMI eARC.
The Q-Symphony technology uses the TV’s power to work with the soundbar. This ensures your Samsung audio systems and home theater setup work together perfectly. You get an immersive and captivating entertainment experience.
“The Q-Symphony technology in the Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar is a game-changer, blending the power of the soundbar with the capabilities of the connected TV to create an unparalleled audio experience.”
Whether you’re watching a movie, TV show, or playing a video game, Q-Symphony technology makes your home theater setup better. The TV and soundbar’s speakers work together to create a wider and more immersive soundscape. It brings your entertainment to life.
Room Calibration and SpaceFit Sound Pro
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar brings a new level of sound optimization with SpaceFit Sound Pro. This tech automatically adjusts the audio to fit your room’s acoustics. It ensures top-notch sound quality that matches your space perfectly.
Auto-Calibration Process
Setting up the Samsung HW-Q990C is easy thanks to its auto-calibration. The soundbar’s built-in microphone checks your room’s acoustics. Then, the SpaceFit Sound Pro algorithm tweaks the audio for the best sound.
This smart calibration fixes sound imbalances. It makes dialogue clear, surround effects immersive, and bass deep.
Acoustic Optimization Results
- Improved tonal balance and precise sound positioning throughout the room
- Enhanced dialogue intelligibility for a more engaging viewing experience
- Seamless integration of the subwoofer for a cohesive, powerful low-end performance
- Wider, more enveloping soundstage that transports you into the heart of the action
The Samsung HW-Q990C’s premium sound quality gets a boost from SpaceFit Sound Pro. Your home theater experience will be optimized for your space. Whether it’s a blockbuster or your favorite tunes, the Samsung HW-Q990C Soundbar Review offers an unmatched audio experience.
Music Playback Performance
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar is great for movies, but it’s also awesome for music. Its big drivers make sounds clear and detailed. The wide cabinet adds to the stereo effect, making music feel real.
The subwoofer is powerful and well-tuned, thanks to room calibration. It gives a solid bass that’s balanced and controlled. This makes the HW-Q990C good for all kinds of music.
Streaming your favorite songs or playing high-res audio files, the Samsung audio systems deliver top-notch sound. The speakers work together perfectly, creating a full and engaging sound. It takes your home entertainment to a new level.
“The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar provided a truly engaging and dynamic music listening experience, with exceptional clarity, detail, and a captivating soundstage. It’s a testament to Samsung’s audio engineering prowess.”
Even though it’s not made for music, the HW-Q990C is a great choice for those who want top sound quality at home.
Value Proposition and Price Analysis
The Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar is a top-notch home theater setup. It’s priced at $2,000 and offers a sound experience like a home cinema. But it’s more convenient and saves space.
Compared to separate AV receiver and speaker setups, the HW-Q990C is a simpler solution. It makes setting up your home theater easier.
When looking at the Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar, it’s a standout choice. It beats brands like Bose and Sonos in some ways. It comes with a strong subwoofer and wireless rear speakers, all at a lower cost.
For example, a Sonos system with the Arc, Sub, and two Era 300 speakers costs about $2,076. So, the Samsung is a better deal.
The previous model, the HW-Q990B, is now around $1,100. It has similar features and performance. This is great for those wanting a top-quality home theater without the high price.
In summary, the Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar is a great value. It offers an amazing Samsung HW-Q990C Soundbar Review and a top-notch home theater setup experience.
FAQ
What are the key features of the Samsung HW-Q990C Soundbar?
The Samsung HW-Q990C is the top soundbar for 2023. It has an 11.1.4-channel setup with wireless rear speakers and a strong subwoofer. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for an immersive sound.
It also has auto room calibration, built-in Alexa, and better Q Symphony integration with Samsung TVs.
What is the speaker configuration and layout of the HW-Q990C?
The HW-Q990C has an 11.1.4-channel setup. It includes front left/right, center, and front/rear overhead speakers. There are also width channels at the front and side channels at the front/rear.
The subwoofer has an 8-inch driver with an acoustic lens for clearer bass. The system creates a realistic sound hemisphere with up-firing speakers.
What are the connectivity options and ports available on the soundbar?
The HW-Q990C has two HDMI inputs and one HDMI output with eARC. It can pass through 4K/60p video and all HDR formats. It also has optical digital input, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay 2.
The subwoofer and rear speakers connect wirelessly, needing only a power connection.
What smart features and voice control capabilities does the HW-Q990C offer?
The soundbar has built-in Amazon Alexa for voice control. It also has a SmartThings Hub for controlling home devices, including ZigBee-based ones. The SmartThings app makes setup and updates easy.
It supports many music streaming services and Hi-Res Audio playback.
How does the HW-Q990C perform with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content?
The HW-Q990C offers an immersive sound experience with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. It creates a sound bubble that rivals some AV setups. The amplification is powerful, filling rooms well.
The subwoofer provides deep, powerful bass without overwhelming the sound.
How does the HW-Q990C perform with gaming?
The soundbar supports ALLM for reduced lag when gaming. But it lacks VRR and 4K/120Hz passthrough, which might disappoint gamers. The Game Pro 2.0 sound mode enhances gaming audio.
How does the Q Symphony feature work with compatible Samsung TVs?
The Q Symphony Gen III feature integrates the HW-Q990C with compatible Samsung TVs. It uses the TV’s processor and speakers for a bigger soundstage. It works with both wired and wireless connections, improving audio performance.
How effective is the auto room calibration feature on the HW-Q990C?
The SpaceFit Sound Pro feature optimizes audio for the room’s acoustics. It corrects dialogue, surround effects, and bass. The SmartThings app makes setup easy, calibrating soundstage and bass for better balance and sound positioning.
How does the HW-Q990C perform with music playback?
Despite being for home cinema, the HW-Q990C performs well with music. Its larger drivers offer clarity and detail. The wide cabinet ensures good stereo separation.
The subwoofer provides a solid bass foundation, thanks to room correction. It supports Hi-Res Audio formats for a satisfying musical experience.
Is the HW-Q990C a good value proposition?
Priced at £1,599, the HW-Q990C is a good value for its immersive sound. It offers a home cinema experience in a convenient package. It’s more affordable than separate AV setups and better value than competitors like Bose and Sonos.
The previous model (HW-Q990B) is also available at a lower price with similar features.
