Flagship bar is better than ever

For its range-topping 2022 sound system, Samsung has adopted an 'evolution not revolution' approach. John Archer appreciates the new-found sense of refinement.

- John Archer

THE FIRST THING to point out about Samsung's HW-Q990B soundbar is actually something it doesn't do, which is add any new sound channels. It sticks with the 11.1.4 configuration introduced by last year's Q950A (HCC #324), bringing to an end a proud Samsung tradition of steadily increasing channel counts in its sound systems.

However, the number of channels the Q990B has stuck on is still a lot. In fact, no other soundbar system I can think of offers more. And the point of all these drivers is to get as much immersive power and surround sound joy from Dolby Atmos and DTS:X soundtracks as possible.

You're surrounded!

It comprises four components: the main soundbar to go under your TV, a portly wireless subwoofer, and two wireless rears. These latter enclosures each deliver three channels of sound - height, rear and rear-side. Back at the front of the room, Samsung's bar adds side and forward side channels to its LCR and Atmos arrays. Add in the subwoofer's 8in driver and that's how you get to the 11.1.4 channel count - without any being created 'virtually' by audio processing.

The rears revamp the design of those of the Q950A, including an angled top edge to improve directionality of their upfiring driver; an integrated pedestal stand said to better decouple them from whatever surface they're sat on; and a new metal grille-style finish to replace the rather dust-prone felt visage of its predecessor.

The Q990B subwoofer also has a new look, courtesy of an acoustic lens' standing about an inch proud of the side-facing bass driver.