Samsung, has launched its new line of soundbars for 2023, presenting a wide range of products designed to meet the needs of all types of users. After the success achieved in 2022, Samsung is once again positioned as the leader in soundbar sales thanks to its diverse and updated offer.
There are really no major changes from last year and the design is maintained in most models, as well as the same models of the Ultra Slim line that debuted in 2022. The Ultra Slim line is characterized by its slim and elegant profile, ideal for wall mounting without taking up too much space. This option guarantees a quality sound experience without compromising the aesthetics of your home.
For the most demanding audiophiles, Samsung has revamped the Q series, offering models with Dolby Atmos sound and a greater number of speakers for a more immersive and powerful experience. The flagship model, the Q990C, stands out with its advanced 11.1.4 channel system.
The S-series continues the three models we saw last year and are products with more compact dimensions, ideal for small spaces. The optional subwoofer has also been retained for those who want to boost the bass even more and achieve a superior sound.
But if you are looking for a more economical option, the new Samsung C Series offers a selection of affordable but efficient sound bars, perfect for all types of users.
Before delving into each model, it is important to understand the main features of the Samsung 2023 sound bars, which will help you choose the most suitable model according to your needs and preferences.
Main features of the Samsung 2023 soundbars
Before analyzing the new Samsung soundbars for 2023, it is important to understand the main features and functions they offer. This way, you will know if you are more interested in one model or another based on your budget, regular use, design preferences, etc.
Wireless Dolby Atmos experience
One of the most exciting new features introduced by the brand last year is the ability to play Dolby Atmos sound wirelessly. Samsung’s Q and S series models support this feature, allowing them to stream Dolby Atmos audio over Wi-Fi or via an HDMI cable.
It is important to note that the audio is transmitted in Dolby Digital Plus format, which means it is compressed. However, over HDMI, it can be transmitted in uncompressed Dolby True HD.
Currently, Dolby Atmos is available on content platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus with Dolby Digital Plus compression. On Blu-ray players, Dolby Atmos can be enjoyed in uncompressed True HD for the highest audio quality.
Subwoofer with Acoustic Lens design
We saw this last year in the Q990B series, and the new flagship Q990C continues the trend. It is a wireless subwoofer that features a new design that the brand calls “Acoustic Lens” that allows for better clarity and bass uniformity, providing an unparalleled audio experience.
Wireless rear speakers
Another standout feature of the 2023 is the option to purchase a wireless rear speaker kit. Unlike previous versions, these speakers do not require a separate wireless module. Instead, they connect directly to the power supply.
In the past, there were two versions of rear speaker kits: one that was only compatible with the Q700A and Q800A models (SWA-9500S), and one that required a wireless module to which the speakers were wired (SWA-9100S), which was compatible with all lower-end models.
For this year, Samsung is marketing the SWA-9200S kit, which is fully wireless and compatible with the Q600C and earlier models, and the SWA-9500S, which is compatible with both the 2021 and 2022 Q700 and Q800 series, as well as the new HW-Q700C and HW-Q800C series.
Acoustic Beam technology
This feature was previously more common and available on more models, but is now only found on the HW-Q600C series. Acoustic Beam offers a more immersive and panoramic sound experience for models that do not include physical overhead speakers as is the case with this Q600C series. This technology uses a series of holes at the top of the soundbars to project different sound frequencies upwards, creating a dynamic and immersive soundscape.
With up to 56 holes of different sizes, a panoramic sound effect is achieved that seems to come from the part of the screen where the action is taking place. This feature enhances immersion in any type of content, but is especially noticeable in action movies, sporting events and games.
It is not able to achieve the same feeling as having overhead speakers, but it is an effective way to at least achieve a more immersive experience but at a lower cost.
Q-Symphony gen. 3
For this year, Samsung has enhanced its Q-Symphony system to offer a more immersive audio experience. Q-Symphony combines sound from the soundbar and the TV to create a surround sound effect.
All 2023 Samsung TVs starting with the CU7175 series are compatible with the third generation of Q-Symphony. However, compatible soundbars are only the Q, Ultra Slim and S series.
The Q-Symphony system combines the front, side and top speakers of the soundbar with the TV speakers to create more immersive audio that seems to emanate from the screen itself. From the year all of the TV’s speakers are activated together for a more immersive sound experience. In addition, Q-Symphony activation is easier, as a notification is displayed on the screen when the soundbar is connected to the TV.
Q serie
Samsung’s Q line of sound bars offers the most exclusive models with the best sound quality. These products have been developed in the audio laboratory located in California, where engineers from Harman Kardon, a company acquired by Samsung in 2016, work.
The Q range includes a total of 5 series: Q990C, Q930C, Q800C, Q700C and Q600C. All models share features such as Dolby Atmos support, 3rd generation Q-Symphony function, HDMI eARC, Tap Sound and Pro Game mode.
Below are the features of each model for comparison.
Q990C
HW-Q990C – New Samsung Soundbars 2023
The flagship soundbar for 2023 is the HW-Q990C, which replaces the HW-Q990B series. There are no major new features and we still have identical sound performance, which is not a bad thing at all, as the sound delivered by the previous models was impressive.
One thing we like is that the design is still completely metallic, dispensing with the fabric present in previous years’ models. The fabric finish tends to get dirtier and is more difficult to clean.
This soundbar features an 11.1.4-channel audio system and a total of 22 speakers. There are 15 speakers integrated into the body of the bar, while the rear speakers have a total of 6 speakers. Finally, a wireless subwoofer is included.
The configuration translates into a 7.1.2 channel speaker array in the main body, 4.0.2 channel rear speakers and the wireless subwoofer. In addition, two angled woofers have been incorporated on the sides to deliver a more enveloping sound.
The Samsung HW-Q990C is the perfect soundbar for an immersive sound experience. With 22 speakers and 11.1.4 channels, you’ll enjoy home theater to the fullest.
To adapt to room conditions, the Samsung HW-Q990C features the SpaceFit Sound+ system. This system uses sensors built into the bar to analyze the environment and adjust the audio parameters based on that analysis.
- 11.1.4-channel system
- 22 speakers in total
- Center channel for dialogue
- Ceiling-facing speakers in bar and rear speakers
- Power output: 656W
- Acoustic Lens subwoofer
- Q-Symphony 2nd generation
- Dolby Atmos wireless
- SpaceFit Sound+ 2nd generation
- Game Mode Pro
- 4K and HDR pass-through
- Wi-Fi
- Chromecast integrated
- Alexa compatible
- Spotify Connect
- Bluetooth
- Tap Sound
- HDMI eARC
- Connections: 2 HDMI (1 input / 1 output), optical output and USB (service only).
- Dimensions of the bar (body): 1232.0 x 70 x 138.0 mm
- Dimensions subwoofer: 225 x 413 x 410 mm
- Rear speaker dimensions: 130 x 200 x 140 mm (1.2 x 2.2 x 1.4 in. x 1.4 x 1.4 in.)
See Samsung HW-Q990C price
Q910C
Samsung HW-Q910C 9.1.4 channels
The Samsung HW-Q910C series is a powerful and quality choice in the world of soundbars. With a 9.1.4 channel system, this bar includes a pair of rear speakers, a front driver and a top driver, providing a realistic surround sound experience.
The main difference between the HW-Q910C and its top model, the HW-Q990C, is the lack of the Acoustic Lens subwoofer, which may slightly affect bass quality. However, the HW-Q910C series still features a total of 17 speakers spread across the bar, rear speakers and wireless subwoofer, ensuring excellent sound performance.
In addition, like the top model, the HW-Q910C features superior speakers in the bar and rear speakers for an immersive experience with Dolby Atmos content.
The Samsung HW-Q910C is an ideal choice if you are looking for top quality in a more compact body, especially for 65-inch and 55-inch TVs.
- 9.1.2-channel system
- 17 speakers in total
- Center channel for dialogue
- Ceiling-facing speakers in bar and rear speakers
- Output power: 540W
- Q-Symphony 2nd generation
- Compatible with rear speaker kit
- Dolby Atmos
- SpaceFit Sound 2nd generation
- Game Mode Pro
- 4K and HDR pass-through
- Wi-Fi
- Chromecast integrated
- Alexa compatible
- Spotify Connect
- Bluetooth
- Tap Sound
- Connections: 2 HDMI (1 input / 1 output), optical output and USB (service only).
- Dimensions of the bar (body): 1110 x 60 x 120 mm
- Subwoofer dimensions: 210 x 403 x 403 x 403 mmm
- Dimensions of rear speakers: 130 x 200 x 140 mm
See Samsung HW-Q910C price
Q800C
Dolby Atmos 5.1.2-channel soundbar HW-Q800C Series
The HW-Q800C series has been significantly improved compared to its predecessor, the Q800A. It now features a 5.1.2 sound system that includes two side speakers and physical ceiling-facing speakers, instead of using Acoustic Beam technology.
To enhance the superior sound, the Q800C has replaced the Acoustic Beam technology with two wide-range tweeters, which cover a wider frequency spectrum, especially in the 900 Hz to 350 Hz range.
Thanks to the side speakers, the Q800C series offers a more enveloping sound compared to the 2021 Q800A series.
In terms of design, the Q800C has a polygonal shape that enhances audio output and features a total of 10 speakers distributed throughout its body.
- 5.1.2 channel system
- 11 speakers in total
- Center channel for dialogues
- Ceiling facing speakers
- Output power: 360W
- Q-Symphony 2nd generation
- Compatible with rear speaker kit
- Dolby Atmos
- SpaceFit Sound 2nd generation
- Game Mode Pro
- 4K and HDR pass-through
- Wi-Fi
- Chromecast integrated
- Alexa compatible
- Spotify Connect
- Bluetooth
- Tap Sound
- Connections: 2 HDMI (1 input / 1 output), optical output and USB (service only).
- Dimensions of the bar (body): 1110 x 60 x 120 mm
- Dimensions subwoofer: 210 x 403 x 403 mm
See Samsung HW-Q800C price
Q700C
Samsung HW-Q700C with Dolby Atmos
We continue to discover the new range of Samsung 2023 soundbars with the HW-Q700C model, an option that will provide you with exceptional sound quality. This soundbar features a 3.1.2 channel system and is the latest model to keep superior speakers in the body of the bar to maximize performance with Dolby Atmos.
In addition, the HW-Q700C has advanced features such as wireless Dolby Atmos, SpaceFit Sound function, Wi-Fi connectivity and voice assistant support.
- 3.1.2 channel system
- 8 speakers in total
- Center channel for dialogue
- Ceiling facing speakers
- Output power: 320W
- Q-Symphony
- Compatible with rear speaker kit
- Dolby Atmos
- 4K and HDR pass-through
- Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth
- Alexa compatible
- Spotify Connect
- Connections: 2 HDMI (1 input / 1 output), optical output and USB (only service)
- Dimensions of the bar (body): 1110 x 60 x 120 mm
See Samsung HW-Q700C price
Q600C
Samsung HW-Q600C with Acoustic Beam and 3.1.2 channels
The Samsung HW-Q600C soundbar is another interesting option in the lineup. With a 3.1.2 channel system and Dolby Atmos compatibility, this soundbar offers an excellent sound experience.
Unlike the HW-Q700C series, it does not include upward-facing speakers, which makes Dolby Atmos playback less spectacular. It does, however, use the Acoustic Beam system, which emits sound upward through ported tubes, providing virtual Dolby Atmos playback. It also features HDMI eARC, 3rd generation Q-Symphony support, and the option to add rear speakers for a surround sound system.
- 3.1.2 channel system
- 9 speakers in total
- Center channel for dialogues
- 360W output power
- Acoustic Beam
- Q-Symphony 2nd generation
- Compatible with SWA-9200S and SWA-9100S Rear Speaker Kit
- Dolby Atmos
- 4K and HDR pass-through
- Bluetooth
- HDMI eARC
- Connections: 2 HDMI (1 input / 1 output), optical output and USB player
- Dimensions of the bar (body): 1030 x 57 x 105 mm
- Dimensions subwoofer: 184.0 x 343.0 x 295.0 mm
See Samsung HW-Q600C price
Q60C
Samsung HW-Q60C – Samsung 2023 soundbars lineup
We continue our review of the new Samsung Q range soundbars for 2023 with the HW-Q60C series, which is the most affordable option. Although it loses the Acoustic Beam system to emit sound upwards, it still offers Dolby Atmos support virtually.
With a 3.1-channel system and a center channel for dialogue, the HW-Q60C has 340W of power. In addition, you can expand your sound system to 5.1 by adding SWA-9200S rear speakers.
- 3.1 channel system
- 7 speakers in total
- Center channel for dialogues
- 340W output power
- Q-Symphony 2nd generation
- Compatible with rear speaker kit SWA-9200S and SWA-9100S
- Dolby Atmos
- 4K and HDR pass-through
- Bluetooth 4.2
- HDMI eARC
- Connections: 2 HDMI (1 input / 1 output), optical output and USB player
- Dimensions of the bar (body): 1030 x 57 x 105 mm
- Dimensions subwoofer: 184.0 x 343.0 x 295.0 mm
See Samsung HW-Q60C price
Ultra Slim series
In the Samsung soundbars market for 2023, we find the interesting option of the Ultra Slim range. This product line is distinguished by its ultra slim design, perfect for those looking for a more stylish look, especially if you want to hang it on the wall. In addition, these bars also include the Slim bracket in the box, which allows a separation of only 6 mm from the wall.
Within this range, we will find two different models, although in reality they are practically identical and only vary in color. The HW-S800B is available in black, while the HW-S801B is available in white.
S800B / S801B
Let’s start by highlighting the design of the S800B and S801B bars, which present a similar style to the Sonos sound bars, but with more stylized lines and an ultra-thin thickness. Undoubtedly, they are an attractive aesthetic choice for any environment.
When examining the interior of these bars, we can appreciate that they feature two long-throw woofers, combined with two passive radiators. This allows for powerful bass, especially when used in conjunction with the included wireless subwoofer.
In addition, these soundbars are Dolby Atmos compatible, ensuring a high-quality surround sound experience. To achieve maximum fidelity with this format, they have also been equipped with two top speakers capable of emitting sounds towards the ceiling.
- 3.1.2 channel system
- 10 speakers in total
- Center channel for dialogues
- 330W output power
- Acoustic Beam
- Q-Symphony 2nd generation
- Compatible with rear speaker kit
- Dolby Atmos
- 4K and HDR pass-through
- Bluetooth
- Connections: 2 HDMI (1 input / 1 output), Optical output and USB player
- Dimensions of the bar (body): 1030 x 57 x 105 mm
- Dimensions subwoofer: 238.0 x 240.8 x 238.0 mm
See Samsung HW-S800B price
S series
If you are looking for a more compact soundbar, Samsung offers its S series with two different models although they are essentially the same model but in different colors (black and white, respectively). These are the S60B and S61B series and they are distinguished from the rest by the lack of an external subwoofer, although it can be purchased separately if desired.
S60B / S61B
Samsung HW-S60B and S61B
If you are looking for a smaller soundbar with a minimalist design, the S61B and S60B series are perfect. They have a sleeker look with rounded shapes.
This new series has stopped using fabric, as was the case in the previous version S60A of 2021, and we think it is a success, as we like this new design much more. In addition, it now has a more compact size, going from 76.4 cm wide and 6.6 cm high to 67 cm wide and 6.2 cm high. It is available in two different versions: the S61B in white and the S60B in black.
As for the sound, they have a 5.0 channel system with speakers on the sides, and are compatible with Dolby Atmos. The only difference is that since they do not have two ceiling-facing speakers, the experience will not be the same as the S800B/S801B model, which does include such speakers. In addition to supporting Dolby Atmos via HDMI, it is also wirelessly compatible.
- 3.1 channel system
- 7 speakers in total
- Center channel for dialogues
- 430W output power
- Compatible with rear speaker kit
- DTS Virtual: X
- Game mode
- Bluetooth
- Connections: 2 HDMI (1 input / 1 output), optical output and USB player
- Dimensions of the bar (body): 980 x 58 x 105 mm
- Dimensions subwoofer: 205 x 353 x 303.2 mm
See Samsung HW-S60B / S61B price
Option to add a subwoofer: SWA-W510
To complement Samsung’s 2022 S series soundbars, a new optional subwoofer has been launched. This subwoofer is compatible with the S50B, S60B and S61B series, although it is only available in black. If you intend to purchase the white S61B model, please note this detail.
C series
If you are looking for a more affordable option, Samsung has launched four new models within its B series, which offer slightly lower performance than previous models but maintain excellent value for money.
C650
Samsung HW-C650 with center channel for dialogues
The most advanced model in the B-range is the HW-B650, which features a 3.1-channel sound system. It incorporates a dedicated center speaker for dialogues, thus ensuring greater clarity in its reproduction. Unlike its predecessor, this model no longer supports Dolby Atmos and offers support for DTS Virtual:X instead.
Compared to the previous year’s B650 series, in addition to its new design, a night mode and dialogue reinforcement mode have been added.
- 3.1 channel system
- Output power: 430W
- Center channel for dialogue
- 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer
- Compatible with rear speaker kit
- DTS Virtual:X
- Dolby Digital 5.1
- Game mode
- Night mode
- Dialog Boost Mode
- Adaptive Sound Lite
- Bluetooth
- HDMI ARC
- Connections: 2 HDMI (1 input / 1 output), optical output and USB player
- Dimensions of the bar (body): 1030.0 x 59.4 x 105.0 mm
- Dimensions subwoofer: 184.0 x 346.0 x 295.0 mm
C550
HW-C550 Samsung 2023 soundbar
As for the differences between the HW-C650 and the HW-C550, the C550 model no longer includes a center speaker for dialogues and only has a 2.1-channel sound system. However, this model does offer the interesting DTS Virtual:X feature, which provides a virtual surround sound experience, a night mode for undisturbed sleeping hours and improved dialog playback for clearer listening.
- 2.1 channel system
- Power output: 410W
- 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer
- Compatible with rear speaker kit SWA-9200S
- DTS Virtual: X
- Game mode
- Night mode
- Dialogue Booster Mode
- Bluetooth
- HDMI ARC
- Dimensions of the bar (body): 860 x 59.4 x 75 mm
- Subwoofer dimensions: 184.0 x 346.0 x 295.0 mm
C450
Samsung 2023 soundbars – HW-C450 with 2.1 channels audio system
The HW-C450 soundbar has received some improvements over last year’s model, especially in terms of design. Now, instead of having the entire bar covered in fabric, the top is made of metallic plastic, giving it a sleeker and more dirt-resistant look. Also, like other models in the B series, it has a polygonal design instead of being flat, and the speakers are visible.
It features a 2.1-channel sound system with a total output power of 300W. If you want to create a surround sound system, you can add the rear speaker kit.
- 2.1 channel system
- Output power: 300W
- 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer
- Compatible with rear speaker kit SWA-9200S
- Dolby Digital 2.0 and DTS 2.0
- Game mode
- Night mode
- Dialogue Booster Mode
- Bluetooth
- Connections: 1 optical input, USB player
- Dimensions of the bar (body): 858.8 x 59 x 75 mm
- Dimensions subwoofer: 184.0 x 346.0 x 295.0 mm
See Samsung HW-C450 price
C430
New HW-C430 series
It features a 2.1-channel sound system, a wireless subwoofer and 270W of power. It comes with essential features such as Bluetooth, Dolby Digital 2.0 and DTS 2.0 connectivity, as well as an optical input. It is very similar to the HW-C450, but with slightly lower power and is only available in selected stores.
- 2.1 channel system
- Power output: 270W
- 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer
- 3 speakers in total
- Dolby Digital 2.0 and DTS 2.0
- Game mode
- Night mode
- Dialogue Booster Mode
- Bluetooth
- Connections: 1 optical input, USB player
- Dimensions of the bar (body): 858.8 x 59 x 75 mm
- Dimensions subwoofer: 184.0 x 346.0 x 295.0 mm
C400
Samsung HW-C400 – Soundbar with compact size
And we finish the review of the new range of Samsung soundbars for 2023 with the C400 series. This model replaces the T400 that had already been on the market for a few years, although there have not really been major changes in design or performance.
This is a very simple 2.0 channel soundbar which, unlike the other models in the C series, has no external subwoofer. It has very compact dimensions which makes it perfect for small spaces and to accompany small inch TVs. It houses two woofers and two front tweeters and has a Bass Reflex output. The sound quality is more than decent for its small size and affordable price.
It obviously has its shortcomings as it has no external subwoofer and the sound is flatter and is quite direct. The design does not follow the current line of Samsung bars and uses a fabric covering the front instead of using a metal grille.
- 2.0 channel system with 4 speakers
- Power: 40W
- 2 Woofers and 2 Tweeters
- Wide range tweeter
- 4 integrated speakers with amplifiers
- Frequency range: 60 Hz- 20,000 Hz
- Surround Sound Expansion
- Bluetooth 4.2
- Dolby Digital
- 2 sound modes
- One Remote Control
- Connections: 1 Optical, 1 USB, 1 Aux
- Dimensions: 641.0 x 65.0 x 107.0 mm
- Weight: 2 kg
So far, our review of the new Samsung soundbars for this 2023. If you want to know what are our recommendations of the best sound bars, you can see it here: https://en.tvhifipro.com/soundbars/best-soundbars-buying-guide/
