Samsung launched two soundbars, HW-Q990C and HW-G60C, at the CES 2023 exhibition, both of which support Dolby Atmos audio, but differ in size and format.
The HW-Q990C is Samsung’s flagship model this time, equipped with two rear speakers and a wireless subwoofer. The 11.1.4-channel setup uses Samsung’s own Q-Symphony 3.0 to “precisely direct individual audio elements” through the soundbar and TV speakers. Samsung says Q-Symphony can take advantage of up to 22 channels, supported by a compatible TV’s processor.
The Q990C also “auto-pairs” with the TV, tuning the entire system for optimal performance, the company says. When paired with a Samsung TV, the dialogue in the video can be played through the Q990C, while the background sound is played by the TV speakers. The company says this helps improve 3D audio.
To make the whole thing fit in your living room or home theater, Samsung has also included the SpaceFit calibration system. The technology, Samsung explains, uses artificial intelligence to adjust the frequency and gain levels of individual drivers to properly fill a room.
Night Mode adjusts for listening at low volumes, Adaptive Sound 2.0 uses artificial intelligence to optimize audio, and Gaming Pro 2.0 adjusts settings for various genres. The HW-Q990C is also a SmartThings hub, offering voice control and the ability to change things within the SmartThings app.
The HW-G60C is relatively more compact, and it uses a combination of beamforming technology and virtualized Dolby Atmos to create a 3D sensation. Samsung says the more compact device can also function as a computer speaker and smart speaker thanks to an echo-canceling microphone and two-way audio.
