Samsung has always had a line of devices the average person would find unattainable, devices that are full of features not ready for a consumer level. And the Samsung HW-Q90R finds itself on that border. Not only does it sound incredible, it has features that are just now starting to enter the market. It’s one of the best home theater systems to have, if you can afford it.
Why We Like It – Samsung HW-Q90R Review
With this 7.1.4-channel surround sound theater system, Samsung didn’t put the breaks on audio quality. Instead, Samsung crammed its soundbar and speakers full of features that only deep pockets can take advantage of.
- 7.1.4 channel audio quality
- Compatible with Dolby Atmos & DTS X
- Compatible with HDR 10 sources
- The best experience limited to select Samsung TVs
- Expensive
Performance
For example, the Samsung HW-Q90R is built with eARC support, which doesn’t compromise the quality of the audio. Pair that with Dolby Digital and you can imagine the heaven you’ll be in. This superb audio quality permeates the entire system, including the height channels. One amazing feature are the surround sound modes. Surround modes give you the option to pick which sounds you want amplified. For example, Game Mode Pro boosts video game sound effects, or object based modes such as dialogue, giving it a boost to vocal audio.
Related: Check out our Sabrent 3.5mm Male to Male Aux cable review
Design
It isn’t surprising to us that the Samsung Harman Kardon 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos Soundbar HW-Q90R is built with some of the highest quality material, unlike the JBL Bar 5.1. It isn’t just sound quality that’s superb—it’s how the Samsung soundbar and speakers were manufactured. The mesh that lines the speakers feels tough, strong and rather heavy; in fact, it’s nearly identical in looks to the HW N950. Seventeen speakers are packed together, with 4 upward firing speakers and two side firing drivers. Then you have upward firing drivers in the rear for optimal surround speakers. In the back are two HDMI inputs, one HDMI output and Optical.
See Also: Our Scandyna Micropod SE Active Speaker review for a pair of great computer speakers
Value
What the Samsung HW-Q90R wireless speakers, wireless subwoofer, and wireless rear speakers have most of all is a forward thinking mindset. It’s bursting at the seams with features to bring you the most immersive audio on the market—if you have a compatible Samsung TV. For Samsung owners, this might not be an issue, but for others, it leaves features off the table and unattainable. It makes that $1500 price tag hard to swallow, just like the Nakamichi Shockwafe Elite Home Theater System. But if you can afford it, you’ll have arguably the most immersive sounding high end theater system. If not, the Logitech Z906 5.1 is a wonderful alternative.
Samsung HW-Q90R Review Wrap Up
The Samsung HW-Q90R 7.1.4-channel System is looking to the future. Our Samsung HW Q90R Soundbar review reveals that, as does its expensive price tag. Only deep pockets and select Samsung TVs are going to experience the 7.1.4 channel soundbar audio quality and entire surround sound system, HDR 10, Dolby Atmos & DTS X compatibility. If that’s you, you’ll have entered audio heaven.
