As a digital technology expert with a passion for audio equipment, I‘ve had the pleasure of testing numerous soundbars over the years. Recently, I had the opportunity to extensively review the Samsung HW-S60B, a 3.1-channel soundbar that promises to deliver an immersive audio experience with its compact design and advanced features. In this comprehensive review, I‘ll share my honest opinion on the Samsung HW-S60B soundbar, diving deep into its technical specifications, performance, and overall value.
Design and Build Quality
The Samsung HW-S60B showcases a sleek and modern design that seamlessly blends with any home entertainment setup. Measuring just 26 inches in length, 2.4 inches in height, and 4.1 inches in depth, this soundbar is remarkably compact, making it an ideal choice for those with limited space. Despite its small size, the HW-S60B feels sturdy and well-built, with high-quality plastic materials that give it a premium look and feel.
One of the standout design features of the HW-S60B is its low-profile form factor. The soundbar can easily fit under most TV sizes without obstructing the screen or drawing unnecessary attention to itself. The minimalist design, with its rounded edges and subtle Samsung branding, ensures that the soundbar complements your existing décor rather than detracting from it.
Technical Specifications
To truly appreciate the Samsung HW-S60B‘s audio performance, it‘s essential to understand its technical specifications. The soundbar boasts an impressive total power output of 200W, with the front speakers delivering 50W each and the subwoofer providing an additional 100W. This power output ensures that the HW-S60B can fill small to medium-sized rooms with rich, dynamic sound.
The soundbar supports a wide frequency response range of 45Hz to 20kHz, allowing it to reproduce deep, thunderous lows and crisp, detailed highs. This wide frequency range is essential for delivering a balanced and immersive audio experience across various content types, from movies and TV shows to music and gaming.
In terms of audio formats, the Samsung HW-S60B supports Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS Virtual:X, and Dolby Atmos. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos is particularly noteworthy, as it enables the soundbar to create a three-dimensional soundscape that envelops the listener, providing a more realistic and immersive audio experience.
| Specification | Samsung HW-S60B |
|---|---|
| Channels | 3.1 |
| Total Power Output | 200W |
| Front Speakers | 50W x 2 |
| Subwoofer | 100W |
| Frequency Response | 45Hz – 20kHz |
| Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS Virtual:X, Dolby Atmos |
Table 1: Technical specifications of the Samsung HW-S60B soundbar
Audio Performance
The Samsung HW-S60B delivers impressive audio performance that belies its compact size. The soundbar‘s Acoustic Beam technology plays a significant role in creating a wide and immersive soundstage. This technology utilizes a series of precisely placed speakers and advanced audio processing to direct sound both horizontally and vertically, effectively filling the room with rich, detailed audio.
In my testing, I found that the Acoustic Beam technology worked exceptionally well in various room setups and acoustics. Whether I placed the soundbar in a small bedroom or a larger living room, it consistently delivered a spacious and enveloping sound that made me feel like I was part of the action.
The HW-S60B‘s performance shines across different content types. When watching movies, the soundbar‘s Dolby Atmos support creates a truly immersive experience, with sound effects seamlessly moving around the room, placing you in the center of the action. The dedicated center channel ensures that dialog remains clear and intelligible, even during busy action sequences.
For music lovers, the Samsung HW-S60B offers a surprisingly well-balanced and detailed audio performance. The soundbar‘s wide frequency response range allows it to handle a variety of musical genres with ease, from bass-heavy electronic tracks to delicate classical pieces. The subwoofer provides a solid, well-controlled low-end that adds depth and impact to the music without overpowering the other frequencies.
Gaming enthusiasts will also appreciate the HW-S60B‘s audio capabilities. The soundbar‘s DTS Virtual:X technology creates a virtual surround sound experience that enhances the immersion in gaming environments. The precise and responsive sound effects make it easier to pinpoint the location of enemies or other important audio cues, giving you a competitive edge in your favorite games.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The Samsung HW-S60B offers a range of connectivity options that make it compatible with a wide variety of devices. The soundbar features an HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) port, allowing you to connect it directly to your TV and enjoy high-quality audio without the need for additional cables. This is particularly convenient for those who want a clean and clutter-free setup.
In addition to HDMI ARC, the HW-S60B also includes an optical input, providing an alternative connection method for older TVs or devices that don‘t support HDMI ARC. The soundbar is compatible with most modern gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices, ensuring seamless integration with your existing home entertainment setup.
One potential limitation to keep in mind is that the Samsung HW-S60B doesn‘t include a dedicated HDMI input. This means that if you want to connect multiple devices directly to the soundbar, you‘ll need to use an external HDMI switcher or rely on your TV‘s HDMI ports for switching between sources.
Smart Features and Integration
The Samsung HW-S60B comes equipped with a range of smart features that enhance its functionality and convenience. The soundbar boasts built-in Amazon Alexa support, allowing you to control it using voice commands. With Alexa, you can easily adjust the volume, change input sources, play music, and even control other smart home devices, all without lifting a finger.
In addition to Alexa, the HW-S60B also supports Apple AirPlay 2, enabling you to wirelessly stream audio from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. This feature is particularly useful for those who are heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem and want a seamless way to enjoy their favorite music or podcasts through the soundbar.
The HW-S60B is also compatible with Samsung‘s SmartThings ecosystem, allowing you to control the soundbar through the SmartThings app on your smartphone or tablet. The app provides an intuitive interface for adjusting settings, equalizer presets, and sound modes, making it easy to customize the soundbar‘s performance to your liking.
While these smart features are undoubtedly convenient, it‘s worth noting that some users may have privacy concerns regarding the always-listening nature of voice assistants like Alexa. Additionally, the setup process for these smart features can be a bit more involved compared to the basic connectivity options, which may be a drawback for less tech-savvy users.
Environmental Impact
In today‘s environmentally conscious world, it‘s essential to consider the ecological impact of our technology purchases. The Samsung HW-S60B has taken steps to reduce its environmental footprint by incorporating eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies.
The soundbar‘s packaging is made from recyclable materials, minimizing waste and reducing its impact on landfills. Additionally, the HW-S60B features an auto-power-off function that automatically turns the soundbar off after a period of inactivity, helping to conserve energy and reduce unnecessary power consumption.
While these eco-friendly features are commendable, it‘s important to note that the overall environmental impact of the Samsung HW-S60B, like any electronic device, will depend on factors such as manufacturing processes, transportation, and eventual disposal. As a responsible consumer, it‘s always a good idea to properly recycle or dispose of the soundbar when it reaches the end of its lifespan to minimize its ecological footprint.
Setup and Placement
Setting up the Samsung HW-S60B is a straightforward process that most users should be able to complete without any issues. The soundbar comes with a clear and concise user manual that guides you through the setup process step by step. The included remote control and the Samsung SmartThings app also make it easy to configure the soundbar and adjust its settings to your liking.
When it comes to placement, the HW-S60B‘s compact size and low-profile design offer a great deal of flexibility. The soundbar can be easily placed on a TV stand or mounted on a wall using the included wall-mount kit. For optimal performance, it‘s recommended to position the soundbar centrally, directly below or above your TV screen.
If you have a larger room or an irregularly shaped space, you may want to experiment with the soundbar‘s placement to find the sweet spot that provides the best audio experience. The HW-S60B‘s Acoustic Beam technology helps to create a wide and immersive soundstage, but the specific room acoustics can still impact the overall performance.
For those who want to take their audio experience to the next level, the Samsung HW-S60B also supports wireless surround sound expansion. By adding compatible Samsung wireless rear speakers (sold separately), you can create a true 5.1-channel surround sound system that delivers an even more immersive and cinematic audio experience.
Value and Competition
The Samsung HW-S60B is positioned as a mid-range soundbar, with a focus on delivering high-quality audio performance and advanced features at a competitive price point. At its regular price of $349, the HW-S60B offers excellent value for money, considering its Dolby Atmos support, Acoustic Beam technology, and built-in Alexa functionality.
However, it‘s worth noting that the soundbar market is highly competitive, with numerous options available at various price points. Some of the Samsung HW-S60B‘s closest competitors include the Sonos Beam, the Bose Smart Soundbar 300, and the LG SN7Y.
The Sonos Beam, for example, offers a similar compact design and smart features, including support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. However, it lacks Dolby Atmos support and doesn‘t include a dedicated subwoofer, which may be a drawback for those who prioritize a more immersive and bass-heavy audio experience.
The Bose Smart Soundbar 300, on the other hand, boasts a sleek design and advanced audio technologies, such as Bose‘s proprietary Quiet Port and PhaseGuide technologies. While it offers comparable smart features to the Samsung HW-S60B, it comes at a higher price point, which may be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers.
Ultimately, the choice between the Samsung HW-S60B and its competitors will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. The HW-S60B strikes a compelling balance between performance, features, and value, making it a strong contender in the mid-range soundbar market.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the warranty coverage for the Samsung HW-S60B soundbar?
- The Samsung HW-S60B comes with a standard 1-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. For more detailed information on the warranty terms and conditions, it‘s best to refer to the official Samsung website or contact their customer support.
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Does the Samsung HW-S60B support Bluetooth connectivity?
- Yes, the HW-S60B supports Bluetooth 4.2, allowing you to wirelessly stream audio from compatible devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
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Can the Samsung HW-S60B be used with non-Samsung TVs?
- Absolutely. The HW-S60B is compatible with any TV that has an HDMI ARC or optical output, regardless of the brand. However, some features, such as the Q-Symphony technology, may only be available when paired with compatible Samsung TVs.
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How often should I update the firmware on my Samsung HW-S60B soundbar?
- Samsung periodically releases firmware updates for the HW-S60B to improve performance, fix bugs, and add new features. It‘s recommended to check for updates regularly and install them when available to ensure the best possible experience with your soundbar.
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What is the maximum sound output of the Samsung HW-S60B?
- The Samsung HW-S60B has a total power output of 200W, with the front speakers delivering 50W each and the subwoofer providing an additional 100W. This power output is sufficient to fill small to medium-sized rooms with rich, dynamic sound.
Conclusion
After extensive testing and evaluation, it‘s clear that the Samsung HW-S60B is a highly capable and versatile soundbar that delivers impressive audio performance and a range of advanced features. Its compact design, Dolby Atmos support, and Acoustic Beam technology make it an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive and cinematic audio experience without the clutter and complexity of a traditional home theater system.
The HW-S60B‘s smart features, including built-in Amazon Alexa support and compatibility with Samsung‘s SmartThings ecosystem, add an extra layer of convenience and functionality, allowing you to control your audio experience with ease. The soundbar‘s wide compatibility with various devices and its flexible placement options make it a great fit for a variety of home entertainment setups.
While there are certainly other competitive options in the mid-range soundbar market, the Samsung HW-S60B stands out for its compelling balance of performance, features, and value. Its ability to deliver a rich and immersive audio experience across different content types, from movies and TV shows to music and gaming, is a testament to its well-rounded capabilities.
In conclusion, if you‘re in the market for a high-quality soundbar that offers advanced features, excellent audio performance, and a sleek, compact design, the Samsung HW-S60B is definitely worth considering. With its competitive pricing and impressive feature set, it‘s a strong contender in the mid-range soundbar market and a solid choice for anyone looking to elevate their home audio experience.
