Samsung HW-Q800B Review: Premium Soundbar and Subwoofer Combo

Experience immersive home audio with the Samsung HW-Q800B soundbar, featuring rich surround sound and powerful bass in a sleek package.

When it comes to upgrading your home theater audio, the Samsung HW-Q800B soundbar is a standout choice. Nestled near the top of Samsung’s lineup, it offers many of the flagship features found in higher-end models like the Q990B—without that steep price tag. If you’ve ever dreamed of enveloping your space with cinematic surround sound, this 5.1.2 channel system, equipped with a wireless subwoofer, might just be your ticket.

Samsung HW-Q800B: Price and Availability

Priced at around $699, the HW-Q800B competes strongly in the premium segment. This makes it an enticing option, especially since its price aligns closely with the HW-Q700B, which only offers a 3.1.2 channel setup. For those seeking the full immersive experience, optional wireless rear speakers (SWA-9500S) can be added for about $199, transforming the system into a formidable 7.1.4 surround sound setup—an upgrade that rivals even the pricier HW-Q900B (9.1.4).

Key Specifications at a Glance

• Configuration: 5.1.2 channels, expandable to 7.1.4
• Power Output: 360 watts
• Speakers: 11 built-in drivers
• Subwoofer: 8-inch wireless unit
• Supported Formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
• Connections: HDMI eARC, HDMI input, optical, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
• Soundbar Dimensions: 1111 x 60 x 120 mm
• Subwoofer Dimensions: 210 x 403 x 403 mm

Features to Know and Love

Building on the success of its 2021 predecessor, the HW-Q800A, the Q800B boasts a significant upgrade: shifting from a 3.1.2 to a 5.1.2 speaker arrangement. This means a richer, fuller sound stage with more channels dedicated to both surround and overhead audio.

It supports the dazzling object-based audio formats Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, perfect for those who crave cinematic sound. Audiophiles will appreciate the high-resolution audio compatibility, making it a versatile device not only for movies but music too.

One of the coolest tech features? Built-in microphones in both the soundbar and subwoofer allow the system to calibrate itself automatically with Samsung’s SpaceFit Sound Gen II technology. No need to rely on having a Samsung TV—the unit measures your room’s acoustics and optimizes the sound accordingly.

Multiple sound modes cater to different moods and uses, including AI Adaptive, Standard, Surround, and Game mode. For clearer dialogue, the Active Voice Amplifier feature shines, while Samsung’s Q Symphony technology blends the soundbar with compatible Samsung TV speakers, expanding the audio landscape even further.

Sound Quality That Commands Attention

The HW-Q800B takes a confident leap over its predecessors, offering a front soundstage that’s not only powerful but richly textured. Side speakers widen the audio, and the upward-firing drivers create a convincing sense of overhead space.

Thanks to premium components housed in a sturdy chassis, the music sounds natural, and the central channel ensures voices remain crystal clear. Right out of the box, the sound is impressively balanced, with the SpaceFit Sound Gen II feature ironing out any room-related acoustic quirks.

The wireless subwoofer is no slouch either. Its ported design delivers deep, responsive bass that feels both punchy and well-controlled. Just a heads-up: placing it in a corner might muddy the bass a bit, so some tweaking may be necessary to get the perfect balance.

Several preset sound modes cater to different content types and preferences. The Standard mode offers a clean, natural sound, ideal for most listening scenarios, while Adaptive Sound dynamically tweaks audio settings on the fly to maximize the 5.1.2 setup’s potential.

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X deliver impressive spatial effects, though the spotlight remains on the front channels. Add the optional rear speakers to unlock the full 7.1.4 experience, and suddenly you’re surrounded by sound from every direction.

Additional features include Voice Enhance for clearer dialogue, Virtual Surround for an even wider sound field, and lip-sync adjustment to keep audio perfectly in time with the action on screen. Music lovers will be pleased with its excellent stereo separation, crisp detail, and instrument placement.

Design and User Experience

The HW-Q800B features a sleek, angular design finished in matte black, complemented by a sturdy metal grille that protects the drivers. It’s sized generously at 1111 x 60 x 120 mm and weighs 5.1 kg, making it a perfect aesthetic match for large TVs.

The wireless subwoofer is hefty and robust, measuring 210 x 403 x 403 mm and weighing nearly 10 kg. It sports a side-firing driver and a rear port, all wrapped in a matte black enclosure with a fabric grille.

Connectivity options are solid, featuring an HDMI input and an HDMI output with eARC support—perfect for Blu-ray players and streaming devices that use DTS:X. Both HDMI ports support 4K at 60fps and HDR formats including HDR10, HLG, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. Gamers might be a bit disappointed by the lack of 4K at 120fps or VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) support, which are increasingly crucial for next-gen consoles.

Physical connections are rounded out with an optical digital input, while wireless options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2. The Tap Sound feature is a nice touch, enabling quick Bluetooth pairing with Samsung Galaxy smartphones with just a tap. Voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant add smart home convenience, though Alexa’s function can be limited in some regions.

Unlike previous models that housed their displays on top, the HW-Q800B places its LED display at the front, making it easier to read. However, the metal grille sometimes obscures the text slightly. Basic controls live on the top panel, but most users will prefer the included remote or the SmartThings app for setup and adjustments.

The SmartThings app mostly works well, although some settings like channel volume adjustments are only accessible through the soundbar’s display. Thankfully, the automatic SpaceFit Sound Gen II feature simplifies room tuning, delivering a well-integrated soundstage with balanced bass.

Final Thoughts on the Samsung HW-Q800B

The Samsung HW-Q800B is a well-equipped, highly capable soundbar that will delight movie buffs and music fans alike. Its soundstage leans forward as expected but offers enough width, height, and depth to immerse listeners fully. The subwoofer shines with punchy bass, though it might need minor volume tweaks to blend perfectly.

For a more enveloping experience, adding the wireless rear speakers is a smart move. Plus, thanks to Q Symphony, the soundbar pairs seamlessly with compatible Samsung TV speakers, although owning a Samsung TV is not mandatory to enjoy the system’s Atmos and DTS:X benefits.

Packed with handy features and priced competitively, the HW-Q800B stands out as a top-tier option for those seeking a balance between price and performance.

Worth Considering

Samsung HW-Q800A: If you’re hunting for a bargain, last year’s 3.1.2 channel HW-Q800A might fit the bill. Keep in mind, though, that some sound processing features work best with a modern Samsung TV.

Samsung HW-Q990B: Finding a better value-packed soundbar than the HW-Q800B can be tough. When paired with rear speakers, the system rivals the HW-Q990B flagship but at a significantly lower price—roughly $900 total.

The HW-Q800B confidently delivers a cinematic audio experience with rich detail and powerful bass, making it a stellar choice for home theater enthusiasts.

FAQ

• What channels does the Samsung HW-Q800B support?
  It features a 5.1.2 channel configuration, expandable to 7.1.4 with additional rear speakers.
• Does it support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X?
  Yes, the system fully supports both advanced 3D audio formats.
• Can I use it with non-Samsung TVs?
  Absolutely! While some features are optimized with Samsung TVs, the soundbar works well with any TV.
• Is the subwoofer wired or wireless?
  The subwoofer connects wirelessly, allowing flexible placement in your room.
• What connectivity options are available?
  The HW-Q800B offers HDMI eARC, HDMI input, optical input, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2.

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