SAMSUNG ATMOS SOUNDBAR Samsung Q950A Review - Rethinking Home Theater!

[@KristiWright]

To all the folks dropping by from "The Sip" - hello and thank you so much for showing us some love!!

[@KristiWright]

Somebody needs to tell "Matt" to say hello so we can thank him personally! 😃

[@jdibbles143]

@13:50 🤍

[@heavenlyxtacy]

Hello Kristi, can you please help me choose, as you said in the video you really don't care about the surrounds, there is a good deal I am getting for the model Q900A which don't have surrounds but rest of the things are same as Q950A, so should I take it or surrounds are a must?..please advice cause I may not buy another for another 5 years....

[@KristiWright]

@@heavenlyxtacy I think you can get by without them but without being in your space and knowing your listening habits/preferences, I cannot make that call for you.

[@heavenlyxtacy]

@@KristiWright Thank you very much for the quick reply, my space is small like from my seating space the TV and the current speakers (Yamaha yas 108 with added subs ) are at 12 Ft distance but wide like 22 Ft sideways and those soundbars will only be used for movie watching on a weekends.. upgrade is for atmos effects

[@AmanOSingh]

13:45 for the SIP squad

[@chris32656]

Yeees! Hahaha!

[@KristiWright]

OMG, people who get the reference!! 😍😍😍

[@KristiWright]

I can't believe they mentioned us! This is wild!

[@breedeltoro8316]

Thank you lol

[@GerineKateJohnston]

Yay! Thank you! From the sip too 🙋🏻‍♀️

[@ObsessedN]

Hands down you are the best electronics reviewer. Your easy to listen to and understand plus we can feel your passion for this field. No over exaggerated, over excited reviews just simple to understand, facts and true thoughts/experiences. I only wish you'd review more stuff, maybe talk about setting these products up or the best way to. Keep up the great great work!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Appreciate that and will see what I can do to flesh out the reviews even further.

[@kebongski]

This is the only audio review channel I can really trust--because I know that these praises are coming from someone who really knows Hi-Fi, yet, isn't just entirely snobbish like most audiophiles. You guys definitely earned a sub.

[@alexinhoFCB]

I just want to say I’m like easy 10+ years on tech KZbin and this is hands down one of the best review videos I’ve watched. The sound, the picture, the content and the reviewer- everything is point on.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Wow, thanks!

[@EliasAnto]

I still remember the day I changed my perception on soundbars. There was a theatre room in store with all different speaker systems setup and they had some F1 video playing. The audio was strong, clear, and all around the room. I would walk up to the various speakers and couldn’t hear any sound coming out of them. I was wondering just where the sound was coming from until I walked up to the front of the room and realised it was all from the soundbar. I was instantly converted.

[@paulsammut6176]

I have had this for 2 weeks and sounds superb. Better than my mates 5.1 sonos arc. And, to me , music sounds perfectly fine.

[@bunnyayy6184]

Came to hear Lizzie's name get mentioned and also learn about soundbars I guess

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Welcome! So happy to have you.

[@KristiWright]

Thanks for joining us today!

[@davidthanos]

Always love your opinions.

[@chrischy]

Thanks for your great feedback Kristi

[@SeanVedell]

Happy Sunday @Kristi Wright

[@luisarsuaga7637]

@@davidthanos yeah, having a second perspective adds a lot of value to the review.

[@lamecasuelas2]

Always!

[@Amogh-Dongre]

The meme in the intro is the most accurate and truly shows how "open-minded" audiophile/home theater actually community is...I'm with you Andrew on that soundbars can sound like a dedicated system in a small room...as I have setup in my small study/lounge a small TV+soundvar and it sounds as much as My 5.1.1 setup in my home theater room

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for sharing! I agree that soundbars have gotten very good in their performance. Which brand/system are you using in your 5.1.1 set up?

[@Amogh-Dongre]

I put together q acoustics 3050i q acoustics 3090ci as centre 3010i as surround and taga harmony ceiling atmos and taga harmony 12"sub woofer

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Awesome!

[@hardkoreangirl]

Here from The Sip to hear about Lizze addressing her audience 🤣🙋‍♀️

[@J_Peace]

Bought a VIZIO S5430W-C2 54-Inch sound bar + sub years ago, was blown away by the sound (after a great deal of time EQ’ing) - I was in a small apartment at the time, and I still use it today in my larger home’s living room. Still holds up

[@4fastdrs]

Watched this review three times before making a decision. Just installed the Q950A...and my wife smiled during an Atmos demo. Many men won't know what that means, but if you're married there is no higher praise when it comes to adding stereo equipment to any part of your life. It is leagues above the Soundbar we replaced, a four-year-old Samsung unit that was starting to have connectivity issues with its wireless sub. While it is no match for reference klipsch system with dual svs 3000 micros in the theater room. For a living room addition I must say it's good enough not to have to go into the theater room every time to watch movies. Thank you

[@juniorlopez2319]

Hi! i almost get my Q950A! i have never heard this sistem, how did you do to play ATMOS DEMO?

[@paulgayron6088]

@@juniorlopez2319 They have atmos demo discs on ebay. An Xbox or newer blu ray player will output atmos through hdmi to the soundbar.

[@Trumpet1ification]

I have the 950t which I love but was just too curious about the 950a that I bought it. Not sure what they did but it is unbelievable! Amazes me every time I listen to it. And man, those rear surrounds...WOW! Also just bought the Sony A8H OLED TV and man oh man, I'm all set!!!

[@Prophet_4u2]

Hi - I was researching about surround systems and came accross your channel. Specifically this review. I decided to go for the Q950A following your comments at 8:10 "they're just good" :-). About the surround and your comment 16:22 "shouldn't be aware of surround channels" : I had the rear speakers placed too much to my left and right side and was experiencing exactly what you describe 16:30 "it's coming, it's coming and boom" lol... I moved them more to the back rather than having them left and right and wau - that just made the surround and dolby atmos so much better. Cheers and keep the great reviews.

[@blurrypenguin8028]

I currently own a Bose 700 series sound bar with wired dual Bose Bass Modules and it absolutely smacks. I ran ADAPTiq and placed the subs in the best part of the room acoustically and good lord all mighty. I tell you what, this thing does not disappoint. The movies sound so full and deep while musics sound stage opened up and made you feel like you were front row.

[@mando3205]

Hi Andrew I was a hater of sound bars until I demoed the Samsung in your review. Wow, it has completely changed my view particularly for small to medium rooms. I have now bought one for a small living area in our house and it hasn’t disappointed

[@jarntzjr]

My current system is over 6 years old. I really want to upgrade to an atmos system. This video makes me feel better spending the money on it. Thanks

[@steelerJ]

Andrew…definitely value your knowledge and thoroughness. Like others on your site, I am interested in your review of the new Q990B. Then your comparison to the HT-A9.

[@Monsux]

Great review! There are plenty of people that also like soundbars. I just took my AV receiver to the repair shop and installed LG 5.1.2 bedroom soundbar in the living room. In my head I was like: "This sounds so good... I could totally live with this as my main system".

[@KristiWright]

That’s great!

[@jessicasamora9881]

Part of The Sip Crew showing Lizzie and Ryland our support 😁 ♥️

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Seriously amazing! Thank you for stopping by! Please don't be a stranger!

[@jmcc2736]

Love it. The 5 people that are still watching this video. When it come to normal TV watching. The family uses a Samsung soundbar. Pretty decent one, that basically acts as a centre channel. When it comes to music or movies, we switch to the Polk Tower speakers on a stereo setup. That setup is used more for music than movies and is so pleasant to listen to. Thing is, I still have a lot to add and upgrade to my dedicated stereo setup. I am more likely to do that than upgrade my soundbar.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I'm curious why you opt to use your Polk speakers for movies but not for TV watching. Do they not handle the dialogue well enough in your opinion?

[@jmcc2736]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews they handle dialogue perfectly. Centre image is really solid. It is a bit of a combination of volume and ease. My wife and kids just want to watch TV with something better than TV sound and that’s what we have been using for sometime now (soundbar). The Polk speakers, which is a recent addition, does get used, when it is not showing Kid shows (aka normal TV) or masterchef. Not that it is not preferred, it comes down to a ease for them. But when I am purposely watching a Movie or listening to Music, it is always switched on. From a volume perspective. The Polk speakers also get better and better as the amp volume goes up. They scale well and really do better with more space for the sound to fill the room. That kinda become impractical once the kids are asleep. The sound whilst excellent, really penetrates through the house.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Gotcha. Thanks for explaining further! I haven't had the opportunity to hear the new Polk speakers yet but glad to hear you're liking them.

[@jmcc2736]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews I got the Polk S60E towers. But if you do get a chance at Polk, see if you are able to test the “Reserve collection”. Recently launched or announced and takes parts and elements from the Legend series. I got my S60E speakers just before the Reserve was announced. It happens I guess. Love the channel and keen to always hear Kristi’s point of view

[@baka_ja_nai]

Good to hear Samsung keeps improving! I'm not a fan of that mesh though - they usually gather dust and not very easy to clean.

[@levihambrick]

This is the video that convinced me to buy the Q950A

[@ClearSmoke100]

I got the Q950T and the sole reason was I wanted surround sound and no wires and great sound and sound bars do all that and take up no space. I just wanted something I can turn on and forget. Plus soundbars give you that movie experience they get loud the base shakes my house. Anybody that says otherwise hasn't heard the more expensive soundbars. Between my 85 inch tv and Q950T shipping and handling I spent just under 5k and i get the best movie experience without breaking the bank on 5-8k on just speakers and gear to pair with a small 55-65in tv, no way!!!

[@CC-bu1uj]

Just upgraded from my old HW-Q90R to this year's HW-Q950A, and the result has been night and day, this soundbar not only sounds much better than my older Q90R, it has much better sound stage with clearer channel separations which I suspect it due to the extra drivers, the high is no long overly sharp it sometimes left ringing in my ears, and the mid tones are now warm and punchy, I'm still amazed with what this Q950A can do especially now that it's connected to my Samsung TV, totally recommended to anyone who has any doubts on todays soundbar technology and yet to convinced to make the jump!

[@chrispomplun1511]

Do u have the q series tv that uses the tv speaker?

[@CC-bu1uj]

@couldn't think of a username I'm fortunate to be able to place the surround speakers at the back of the room on either side and have them turned slightly toward where I'm sitting "around 5 feet away" in the center of the room. I have seen a youtuber reviewing the Q950T who placed them on the side of the sofa and against the wall, I don't remember if he mentioned about how it affect his system though, I imagine you would have to turn the volume way down on the surround speakers so it doesn't interfere with the front channel effects!

[@CC-bu1uj]

@@chrispomplun1511 Yes I do, in fact the reason I ungraded to the Q950A is because I bought a new Qled Neo TV, the Q symphony do work wonders!

[@aggieamy]

Came here from the Sip and the husband is hooked!

[@KristiWright]

😍

[@JustXavier]

Here is what I *LOVE* about this channel. 1 - You only talk about what we care about as consumers BUT you make it seem conversational. So I don't feel like I'm being spoken to, but rather like I'm having a conversation where my turn to speak just hasn't come yet 🙃 2 - I like how you break down the pros and cons at the end and you're not afraid so say what you don't like OR what you think we,as the audience, won't like. 3 - You seem to _truly_ be pro consumer and you're not hiding any flaws or sugarcoating deficiencies. And conversely, you highlight the best parts of item. 4 - Kristi's breakdown at the end. *I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS.* It's like a bonus review within a review. I love the 2nd opinion and how even if the two of you don't agree, you don't hide it.

[@Dog3D]

Loved having the convo with your wife included, it's a great addition and good insight from a different perspective.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@AnkurSikka]

This had a substantial hand in me moving away from a more conventional system to Q950A, and lack of wires of course, and boy does it sound great.

[@chris32656]

Came from the sip! New subbie here!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Welcome!!

[@KristiWright]

[@armancultures3491]

I got the Q990B and boy I'm blown away coming from a 5.2.1 Sony DN 1080 with Focal SIB Evo 2.0 Dolby Atmos, want to know what Andrew thinks of it

[@LizzeGordonVlogs]

OMG!!! MY AUDIENCE !!! 😍😍😍

[@RonkeyRong]

I have the older Q90 and still loving it. It's soooo much better than budget soundbars and completely obliterates my TV's audio

[@chickenraiser2002]

Here from the sip but glad I stayed. The audio edit you did was immaculate and also. I don't even own a sound bar but now I want one😊😊😊

[@MrMangel888]

Hi guys, Longtime viewer, first time writing. Let me start by saying that thanks to your channel, my interest in music and video system was sparked again, a hobby that I had to put aside years ago when life matters got in the way. In my younger days, I was into separates. Now, I like practicality and high quality in one, so an excellent soundbar it’s all I need and care for. I believe that a great soundbar for a small space can deliver the best of both worlds, including a more appealing design language, even for people like me who use their system mainly for music (75/25). Please keep up the great work and the simplicity of your reviews because they reassure me that I don’t need a degree in engineering or physics to enjoy and understand then. Looking forward to celebrating those 200,000 subscribers with you.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you so much, M A! We appreciate you watching.

[@Abhitips224]

I have a Bose 700 Soundbar. I like it. It’s simple, sounds great and is out of the way. More than enough sound than what I require. I have to keep it turned down.

[@typhoon2970]

Finally ! Well said guys. I used to sit down and be consumed with tweaking this and tweaking that, all while missing the movie. I was always so concerned with speaker placement volume , remotes and lights, but never really enjoyed the movie. Now I sit down, put the movie in and focus on the screen. I currently use Polk Speakers, Sony Receiver and the LG TV.

[@peterhannan3816]

So, i purchased this bar for the most part because i trust your reviews. Sacrificing “stereo music” but introducing Dolby atmos or spacial audio. And i have to say I’m not completely sorry! I’m now very close to retiring my onkyo tx8252 and trusty old kef iQ5Se (not completely they will go into another room)

[@mckaylaann09]

Here from the SIP!!! Love you Ryland and Lizzie!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@ΣΥΜΕΩΝΖΑΙΡΗΣ]

Andrew and Kristi my name is Simon and i am from Greece big fan of yours thank you for this review I've been waiting for someone to review this sound bar and I'm very happy that you're the first your professional but honest always giving your knowledge about a product the good the bad and your advice on how to make our purchase better your conversation at the end of every review is very helpful you give an honest opinion of what you think for me it's like listening to friends exchanging ideas

[@KristiWright]

That’s so kind of you. Thank you for watching!

[@hasbro35]

I waited for years to get the right 7.1 channel setup that would work for me from a sound perspective and my wife from an asthetic perspective and I ended up not buying anything for 10 years... your review has confirmed that I made the right choice getting the Samsung Q950A. Now I just have to be patient enough to wait till Christmas to set it up.

[@WizeGuyDezignz]

It's excellent man! Did you set it up yet? If so, what do you think?

[@johnnyvegas5681]

I feel sorry for the few people who already gave a thumbs down. I mean they must be really miserable people where they feel the need to be so negative. I mean if you didn’t enjoy it then leave. If you get some semblance of joy in such an action than what small people they are and what small worlds they must live in. I wish them the best and I hope they can turn their lives around 😉

[@alexlanning712]

You just "ooze" positivity Buddy, "see you in jail"

[@garretts431]

I like how you still mention the ambeo in your vids. It tells me it really hit you different and you were really impressed which is why i bought one with a dedicated sub. Perfect solution. I also wanted to add i have a 5.1.4 klipsch setup and the ambeo is right on track. Yeah i cant hear a laser being shot directly from a rear speaker, but its the dynamics, the organic tones, and the overall power that matches the klipsch system let alone adding a dedicated sub to the soundbar is just unmatched all without extra wires and shoeboxes surrounding me, so i do agree with you on this.

[@peterchan7417]

Hi, when will you review the new 2022 Q990B soundbar? Thanks!

[@Kemenyan73]

I just got this Q950a for USD 950 in my country. Lucky me. I just wished Samsung could have put Google Assistant built in as Alexa is not supported in my country. This soundbar is beyond amazing. Worth every cent. And the Subwoofer is ample enough rumbling the floor

[@MOTHCAT3o4]

Visiting from The Sip

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Did they mention us?

[@allanawolfe4247]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews yes!

[@jennifersanders1897]

Me too!!!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Welcome, everyone! So happy to have you.

[@AlessandroBertolucci]

I'm just about done with my 5.1 home theatre - AV receiver-based system. Your channel has convinced me that on my next a/v revision - I'll sell my speakers and move to a soundbar / family-friendly setup. I'll miss my vintage Mirage speakers, but I won't miss the hassles, wire-fishing or wire-mess involved. I'm all for simplifying my life.

[@1959ludo]

I am 61 years old and I was 6 when I got my first record. In that time listening to music was very easy. Now the music industry is making things complicated. Every month or so there are new developments. And the use of those features is becoming more like using a computer. First there was mono, then there was stereo and came quadrafonie and so on. It never stops I have a 5.1 surround system for listening music blue-ray music not for films. I have an oled tv and a soundplate. My tv is connected to my surround system and I could watch Netflix in surround but I don’t care any more and use my soundplate. Easy to use and sounding not so bad. Music I listen in stereo without a subwoofer. If you buy today new equipment tomorrow it’s old. I gave up. Greetings Ludo

[@gedunsworth3191]

Great reviewer. I'm not a person who pays too much attention to opinions over specs, but Andrew gave me a great deal of confidence that his opinions were honest and considered. Great job.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you.

[@breedeltoro8316]

We’re all here from the sip. 😂❤️

[@thegreenyamo1995]

Hi Andrew. I pulled the trigger on the LG SN11RG based on your review of that system despite wanting to wait for this Samsung system to be released and reviewed. Super impressed with my choice and thank you for your review that convinced me to buy it.

[@anbucleric]

As someone who uses my home theater system to also listen to music, and a large variety of other stereo content, the lack of stereo separation from a soundbar will just never work for me. That being said, my parents have a soundbar and love the simplicity.

[@RichBriere]

I clearly and thoroughly enjoyed this for a number of reasons and thanks for doing it. I own a Klipsch R10-B Soundbar w/sub and it has only one purpose: I have it placed near my bedroom window and every night I put on a KZbin or other app-based program and, via bluetooth, it spits out the sound of Rainfall which helps my brain to slowly stall and I can sleep. While that model is now Elderly, in its day I found it to be rather amazing. ...... Special Note. The high point of your review today was, for me, Kristi stating/validating that when Frustration raises its Ears it's OK to simply turn OFF the side or rear speakers (on ANY system)...something I did after spending HOURS trying to turn down the rear speakers in my main living room system. Do I miss them? Yup.....so I'm now limited to Left, Center, Right and Sub.....but MUCH less Sonic Stress. Cyber Sonic Hugs to you both. RB 🔊

[@normagazcon3423]

The Sip sent me here. Loved it haha

[@marksilgalis9400]

I think the flexibility and opportunities for listening to music and/or movies these days are amazing. I went surround to sound bar to stereo; because my life went no kids, to twins, to I really like critically listening to music more than movies. There’s no wrong answers. It’s great that the tech will fit into your life now.

[@ricksmith7659]

Another great review. I'm a dedicated home theater guy but because of your review on the Klipsch cinema 600 I've opened my eyes to sound bar systems but only because of bluetooth surrounds and the simple setup primarily not having to wall fish speaker wire. I've been patiently waiting for Klipsch to release the 800 and 1200 or even the surrounds for the 600 for my bedroom. Tic Tok Klipsch otherwise Samsung may get my money.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We are all having to be patient for the Cinema 1200 :). I hope it is worth the wait!

[@thngzys]

Wireless surrounds without a dedicated media receiver/amp opened up the path to soundbar for myself. You can't beat the convenience and ease of setup, with minimal compromises. Also, I'm probably the only one in the family that's gonna complain (and fix) any sound quality issues. You're definitely right about the 'Home Theatre' experience. P.S. Haven't touched hi-fi systems since almost a decade ago so wireless surrounds are still like black magic to me.

[@TheTaulusPaulus]

So I have one for about a week now and couldn’t be happier! Thanks for the review and recommendation

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Glad I could help!

[@chappelli7035]

Do the small rear surround sound speakers come with wall mounting brackets?

[@TheTaulusPaulus]

@@chappelli7035 not that I saw. It did have a screw hole that I used to mount onto the floor speaker stands I use

[@toastsniffer]

I used to be a manager at a 1000 seat movie theater in chicago and I have seen every speaker in the room and still can't remember how many we had. I have had tower speakers, I have klipsch sixes with subs on my basement tv and run through a couple sound bars and will say with my hearing loss and how easy sound bars are to set up they are my first choise.

[@iPhi-YT]

finally a soundbar that can handle all the 11.1.4 media out there... and for such a competitive price :D

[@MAIcrosoft]

I have the Q950T, using it with a Windows PC as main media box. If you turn on Dolby Atmos mode in Windows 10 it only plays sound if there's sound data for the specific channels, so if you play something in stereo it only uses L, R and the sub. If you put Windows 10 on Stereo mode, it will upscale the sound to play on all speakers. I do really like the upscaling though for listening to music, it's pretty immersive imo. But then again, I am not an audiophile at all. I went with a soundbar because it looks better in my living room, and no amp, no additional cables except power. When I heard the Q950T sounded like I am in a cinema while watching a movie I was totally satisfied. I also got it during a special promotion, with discounts and rebates I paid around $650 for it, which is a pretty sweet deal!

[@nessa13jay]

Coming from The Sip!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Welcome! So happy to have you.

[@Adam-vx6to]

Even as a home theater enthusiast I have to admit many high end soundbars provide fantastic sound for what they are. The tech has evolved so much recently. End of the day the more people listening to higher quality sound the better.

[@snowpuppy77]

Excellent video. The fact that soundbars are becoming so immersive with movies is great news. Especially excellent is that this Samsung bar is doing a convincing job with Dolby Atmos! I saw A Quiet Place Part 2 at a Dolby Atmos theater last Friday night and it was amazing! I could see at least 4 subwoofers on the ceiling. Best sound I have heard in any theater for any movie. I have a high end HT system in my basement that truly delivers the theater experience and I will be adding Atmos soon. But it is very expensive and the install was also expensive running the wires and stuff. Worth it but I do not have the tolerance or funds to do that in more than one room. My wife wanted a Bose 700 complete surround system for the Family room and I indulged her and let her do it despite my low expectations. I must admit it exceeded my expectations and it was well worth the price. When I upgrade the Family room TV to 4k I may upgrade the soundbar to the Samsung also to get the Atmos mix. Then I can move the Bose 700 to the bedroom TV. Love how soundbars have wireless surrounds and subs. Makes installation in any room so much simpler and cheaper. They are totally legit.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for sharing your experiences. This is going to be really helpful to someone reading through the comments!

[@xonecinema]

What began changing my mind was the LG SP8YA. Then what solidified my change of heart for soundbars was the Klipsch Cinema 600. And now I'm an owner of a few Samsung Q Series Soundbars.

[@ashutoshsharma328]

How much better is Q950A over Q950T in your opinion?

[@michaelprice7566]

My opinion changed when I heard that sound bars just sounded as good or better than speakers and an amp. Maybe not always the best for music, but the concept of running wire, plugs and speakers just sounds exhausting. Give me an easy button. Thanks for reviewing these. In the market and your videos help give me options to consider. Cheers.

[@aapjeisbaas]

How would this compare to the Sonos Arc + surrounds?

[@toms8393]

IMO Sonos Arc has much nicer overall sound with surrounds. I find the samsung bar is too bright and unnatural sounding.

[@archwaytech]

Hey Stein. I'm currently making a video on the Arc VS Q950A. Are there some specific things you are wanting to know about each system?

[@NickKhoo]

Bought this on your recommendation. Was not disappointed. Your reviews are always informative and entertaining + your audio is always so crispy! Thanks again!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

So happy to hear this worked out for you!

[@brie9119]

Here from the sip now I’m here to stay😂😂 great channel!!

[@JP-Channel01]

Guys Congratulations! I have been watching reviews for some years now. But your concept is just amazing having both deep technical features discussed plus Christies comments that gives another perspective without deviation from the subject. Waw keep up the good work! if all the reviews of different products I have watched and subscribed to (that must be by thousands...) this is my first written comment. Thank you!

[@armcyn5]

Agreed

[@augustinesob4476]

Hi Andrew, what do you think about Sonos arc and subwoofer compared to the Q950A if cost is not a factor? Thank you

[@rodneypotts6586]

Didn’t know soundbars could be so gooooood! Appreciate the review!

[@sudhendupandey]

I sold my Bose Lifestyle V135 Soundbar + Sub woofer 5.1 from 10+ years back and have been testing the top rated sound bar based immersive systems since the past 2 months. Online reviews seem to be pushing one against the other without a clear winner across a majority. Bose 900 with Sub and Rears was the first one to come and go back, Sonos is the most beautifully designed system with the Arc, Sub and One SLs but its a 5.1.2 setup with fewer speakers than the Sony A7000 or the Samsung Q950A, which causes it to miss some details in the background sounds (birds, crickets, waterfalls, etc.) For the size of my family room, soundbar based immersive systems produce a good outcome vs considering a hard wired multi speakers, amplifier and Sub setup. Looking forward to the delivery of the Q950 in Jan 2022 and hopefully that is the end of my research. Just with retail stores had working setup to check them out in person vs having to test and return them.

[@rajeshdhimancul]

I have recently bought Q950A, and I have been impressed. Especially the movies experience. Watched Black widow the other day in DDP Atmos and the experience was just amazing, so immersive. The Bass is chest thumping at times, I had to tweak it down to minus 3 for my liking. It brings smile on your face during some scenes.

[@RamakrishnanR21]

Great, I am on a similar juncture but couldn’t find a dealer who sells at the right price in India (costs roughly 70-80k INR in Europe and NA). Did you manage a good deal on q950a?

[@rajeshdhimancul]

@@RamakrishnanR21 I got a great deal on it from Ludhiana Punjab. Got it under 80k without much bargaining. Offline stores would give better prices. Never buy such items online, they are always priced 25-30% higher in India especially most of the times.

[@RamakrishnanR21]

@@rajeshdhimancul long shot, but worth a try I guess! Can I get his contact so that I can check if he knows a guy who can get me a deal in Bangalore?

[@rajeshdhimancul]

@@RamakrishnanR21 i will check with him and let you know.

[@rdelilkhan9522]

Dear Kristi and Andrew, once again a spot on review. Congrats. I agree very much that you need to be open minded about these things today, and I feel what Kristi mentioned about time and convenience also holds true. When I first bought a soundbar for one of the rooms in our house back in 2011 I was really appalled by the lack of musicality in it (and it was an expensive unit) compared to my stereo system or my 5.1 setup in the basement for the kids. So I never thought I would ever consider a soundbar again. Come last year in summer and my being stuck away from home due to covid19 and I got a samsung qt 900 soundbar and was frankly taken aback by how good it sounded... you are quite right, it also seems to me that miniaturisation and technology are changing the parameters rapidly when it comes to speakers and items like soundbars. And boy, are they convenient!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Today's offerings really have progressed well beyond the sound bars of the past! Thanks for watching and sharing your experience!

[@carolclayton6442]

The Sip brought me here!

[@AfiKreative]

Thanks for the great explanation and review of the Q950A. I bought the Q900A (without the rear speakers) to save some coin. It's essentially the same bar as the Q950A (again minus the rear speakers)

[@sylvestermcgovern]

I work in Samsung’s sales department and I can certainly say that this soundbar has been a tough sell without a demo, but once someone heard it in person, the sale was made. It’s been interesting seeing how the emotion this one delivers can change someones mind on the heavy price.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I can't say I'm surprised. I know it took a few quality sound bar demos to sway me towards sound bars. Now I'm no longer as shocked when they perform so well. Appreciate you tuning in!

[@Zoranurai13]

But we all know that samsung products tank in price insanely quickly. The ht-q950t dropped from €1499 at release to €1299 about a month and a half later and half a year later it was €1000 with a €200 cashback. Now it is €899 with €300 additional discount if you buy a samsung tv which is also on sale. I mean products always drop in price but samsung is always the fastest meaning msrp is not really an accurate pricing for samsung products

[@alexlanning712]

@@Zoranurai13 I "had" one and gratefully took up the "return if not 100% satisfied" offer (which was generous by Samsung)

[@convicttattooswi]

Bro I stumbled apon your review on my own search to upgrade from the hw q70r. An I must say the independent truth in your dialog you sell well your story! New follower here. Keep up the great honest reviews!

[@nebuchadnezzar6913]

Your reviews are so well polished.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks!

[@keronfarrier2198]

And he almost seems to do these in one take sometimes. He puts his words together well. Not alot of fluff in what he says.

[@Ic3Arena]

Great review, as always. Love the channel. Just wanted to give people a heads up on my experience with my Q950T (last year's model, i.e. not this review). Most of these issues only started to appear after a few weeks of using it so it's understandable that they don't show up in the review window. I picked up the Q950T, 3 months ago and have experienced a while bunch of problems; - The rear right speaker randomly dies and you need to unplug it from power to get it to connect again. - The whole system stopped receiving eARC signal and wasn't connecting to the wireless speakers at all. Needed to power cycle all the speakers. - The wireless speakers very often don't power off with the main system, they'll just flash waiting for main system to power back on. - When they do all power off, I'll wake up in the morning to find the system has somehow powered itself on again overnight. - The app is often slow to discover the soundbar and connect on my Pixel 3XL. On Samsung S20+ it was mostly fine. - The subwoofer occasionally loses it's volume setting going back to default of 0 so you need to set it again. All of these could probably be fixed with a firmware update, but long time Samsung customers will know how bad Samsung is with updates so there hasn't been one since October 2019. As per usual for Samsung, the focus to fix stuff is in the next product, not the stuff they've already sold. Also, there haven't been any enhancements such as using your phone to auto calibrate which could other vendors do. Andrew is right, the sound quality is top class when it works, such a shame it's plagued with issues. I think this is where manufacturers such as Onkyo have the upper hand, they release regular firmware updates and support their systems for years with fixes and enhancements. As I mentioned, this is no slight on Andrew and the review. You would likely only see these issues after living with the system and using it everyday for weeks / months.

[@KristiWright]

Really appreciate you sharing your experience with the Q950T. Just clarifying for anyone else reading this that this review is for the newer model, the Q950A. I'm definitely not trying to discount your experiences, Michael. I just know how well people pay attention 😂 in general.

[@tomtsai]

I have the same system and there is an April 2021 firmware update on the online support page that doesn’t show up via the app. Have a try to see if it fixes some of the issues for you.

[@Ic3Arena]

@@KristiWright Oh yes! My apologies, I meant to mention it but slipped my mind. Let me edit it to clarify.

[@Ic3Arena]

@@tomtsai Nice one! Will try it when I get home tonight. Thanks!

[@KristiWright]

@@Ic3Arena 😍

[@scottsolomon7579]

How does this new one compare to the Sonos Arc w/Sub and rear Sonos One SLs? I had the original Samsung Atmos bar with wireless rears and the sound from the rears, even at the highest levels, was barelyt audible. It died about six months ago and I replaced it with the Sonos system. I guess from your video you prefer quieter rears, so maybe you cannot answer that question.

[@bethose9484]

The full Arc setup is fantastic, but the Q950a bests it by a decent margin when it comes to movies and/or video games. Also having DTS support on the Samsung has made life quite a bit easier.

[@shigowbt]

bought one because of your review... you are a good dam critic... and fortunatly Samsung looked us in Brazil and lunched here that has only bad models... thanks... this soundbar is amazing

[@benjaminqilafku5714]

I haven't got any bias towards the sandbars but I'm sure at 1.7 K asking price I have better alternatives going with separates speakers that can be used for both movies and music with a sonic upper hand performance. Admittingly my main interest is music but I greatly enjoy a movie accompanied with fine audio gear.

[@prestond]

This review convinced me to pull the trigger on the Q950a. Such a great job you guys do on this channel.

[@jordycaicedo3700]

Great review, looking forward to watch your review about the Klipsch 1200 Cinema and Sonos Arc full setup.

[@chongliangooi9801]

After watching the review, I finally bought it on 8/8 sales at about US$850… I’m totally impressed! The subwoofer is shaking my ceiling! Great for movies. Going to buy the NVidia Shield TV for full Dolby Atmos experience.

[@eloneatmyshorts]

@Chong Liang Ooi mind if I asked where you bought yours at that price?

[@OmegaGrape]

What a deal where'd you get it?

[@padhyemihir]

Hi. Is it absolutely necessary that walls should be present on both the sides for this sound bar to work? If one wall is closer to sound bar than the other then won't it work?

[@r2henley]

Great review! I returned my Sonos setup for the 950a and have no regrets! Love this bar!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

That's the first time I think I've heard anyone say they returned their Sonos. Thanks for sharing!

[@r2henley]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews don’t get me wrong the arc was good I just don’t think the atmos effect came even half as close as the 950a does!

[@chrispomplun1511]

Does the soundbar calibrate with out a samsung tv?

[@igorgocalinski1792]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Seconded... I've been shopping in cheaper market - replaced Sonos Beam with Q70T and I am a very happy man.

[@luisarsuaga7637]

I have my eye for the longest time on the Cinema 1200, but it keeps getting delayed 😩. Since we do not have the Cinema 1200 to compare, do you think the Cinema 600 sounds better with music than the Q950A?

[@SeanVedell]

I've gambled a lot of money on the Cinema 1200 having bought it a month ago. It sure would be nice if Klipsch gave a hint at what the delays are and when I can expect to see the product I've already paid for. I'm sure it'll be worth the wait but the silence from Klipsch is not encouraging.

[@luisarsuaga7637]

@@SeanVedell at least Andrew told me a few days ago that Klipsch let him know that he should be receiving the Cinema 1200 in a couple of weeks. Let's hope that still holds true 🙏

[@SeanVedell]

@@luisarsuaga7637 Just saw this. I’m sure Andrew will get his before I do. Klipsch finally answered me last week saying they were just getting their first unit in the US and told me to connect with my vendor for info on Canadian orders. They blew me off, basically. With all the shipping lags globally I’ll be happy if the sound bar goes from an April birthday present to a Christmas present!

[@thepeddle]

Stellar review as always. I got the 900t last year without surrounds based on your 950t review and imo you don't need em! The bar fills my man cave. I can't even unleash it's full potential without my wife getting mad at me.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for sharing your personal experience. So happy that our Q950T review helped you out!

[@jayharp919]

Great review ! I have the Q950T an love it!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Good choice!

[@joshuadunlap8492]

Great review, how much of an upgrade is this over Q959T which I own and love? I think the 950T sounds pretty solid for music streaming HD through Amazon.

[@GerineKateJohnston]

Came from the sip! ☺️❤️

[@Leoleome]

It is a freaking amazing sound bar. I bought one with some hesitation and I love it. I really wish I can tweak the drivers via the app instead of the remote control. Unlike you Andrew, my surround sound didn’t sound too loud. So I needed to crank up the volume all the way.

[@allanawolfe4247]

The sip sent me here

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Welcome! So happy to have you.

[@wattheheck6010]

Firstly, terrific review. I'm looking to upgrade to an ATMOS surround system from a 7-yr old Sony HT790 soundbar. I checked out the Bose 900 soundbar. Interesting. I drool over the Sonos Arc. It seems $weet. Today, I discovered the Samsung HWQ950A, watched one review that left me still curious about HWQ950A. Then I broke straight to your page as I respect your unvarnished opinions. Your male + female perspectives with Miss Kristi helps immensely as I want the ATMOS theatre experience. However, I also want an impressive music playback system for my open 16’ x 16’ great room. I wear hearing aids. I am frustrated often with movie center channel dialogue that comes over as mush --- especially English (England) accents --- requiring me to rewind, raise the volume to hear conversations, and then lower the volume for the overhead helicopter/explosions that follow. I have Sonos tastes, but a blue-collar pension. Could the Samsung HWQ950A be the best fit? Are there any other systems I should consider? Thanks.

[@ChileanSpartanUSA]

Just bought it. Can't wait to test it. Thank you for your review!

[@dericslab]

Really keen to get the 950A. Please let me know what you think of it. The music comments about the 950A worries me a bit though, even though that's a subjective point of view.

[@ChileanSpartanUSA]

@@dericslab I sold my smaller vizio sounds bar (5.1.2) and got this one. Today I listened to my Peter Gabriel Blu-ray Secret World live and it sounded amazing! I was able to hear stuff that I wasn't able to distinguished before over my surround sounds, and I loved the clarity and separation of the bar. Definitely the bar shines more with movies, but I don't think that the bar isn't good with music. I am very happy with my purchase.

[@dericslab]

@@ChileanSpartanUSA Great to hear (excuse the pun) ! I need some prep for my man cave to be ready, but I am really keen to get it. Thanks for replying :-)

[@fantom789]

Dolby Labs is here in SF and they have their own ideal Dolby Cinema inside. I was lucky enough to see a private screening there. They put all of their atmos channels behind acoustically transparent material so it's just sound in space seemingly coming from nowhere. The Metreon down the street has a Dolby Cinema screen. They decided to put a red light on each atmos speaker until the movie starts just to show off.