Home audio systems equipped with Dolby Atmos are receiving a significant enhancement, deviating from typical expectations.
This year, the Dolby Atmos soundbar market is seeing a significant shift.
For instance, Marshall has entered the fray with its first-ever soundbar, the Heston 120, aiming right at the Sonos Arc Ultra, our top pick in our best Dolby Atmos soundbars buying guide.
Moreover, there's been a surge of new wireless systems, like the JBL Bar 1300MK2 we recently covered, which is geared to challenge the Samsung HW-Q9990F for the premium sector.
However, what's truly piquing my interest is the enhancement of a less-discussed but crucial aspect of soundbar systems – their subwoofers.
Revamped subwoofers are making waves. For instance, the Samsung Q9990F sports a smaller, cube subwoofer with dual 8-inch opposing drivers. Samsung claims these have been designed to lessen vibrations, resulting in cleaner, more precise bass[1][5].
The JBL system's subwoofer, too, has undergone improvements, with a focus on enhancing precision and packing a mighty 1200W of power, contributing significantly to the system's overall 2470W[1][5].
My fascination with these upgrades stems from the fact that subwoofer and low-end performance were areas the older Samsung HW-Q990D and JBL Bar 1300 struggled with to some degree.
The Q990D, for example, suffered from occasional bass crackle, which could mar its otherwise powerful, room-filling sound[2]. On the other hand, the JBL Bar 1300 lacked precision, especially at higher volumes, and had trouble handling rhythmically complex scenes[2].
If the promised enhancements in the new models hold up during our full review, we're in for a treat. This enthusiasm is particularly well-founded considering the positive experiences we've had with awardee-winning Q990D and generally decent Bar 1300[2].
So, here's to better bass and more immersive audio experiences!
FUN FACT: Previous iterations of the Samsung HW-Q990F showcased a large, tower-like subwoofer. The new model is designed with a more compact, cube shape, appealing more to modern interior aesthetics while delivering improved sound quality[1][5].
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- The news about the upgrade of subwoofers in soundbar systems is creating quite a buzz, as brands like Samsung and JBL are taking significant strides to improve the precision and power of their low-end performances.
- The Heston 120 from Marshall, with its debut into the soundbar market, is directly challenging the Sonos Arc Ultra, reflecting the competition in this growing sector.
- The recent preview of the JBL Bar 1300MK2 suggests its potential to dethrone the Samsung HW-Q9990F for the premium sector of the wireless systems category.
- This year's shifting Dolby Atmos soundbar market also includes a variety of hi-fi gadgets, with several brands introducing innovative features to cater to tech-savvy consumers.
- The forthcoming reviews of these improved soundbar systems, including the JBL Bar 1300MK2 and the Samsung Q9990F, are eagerly awaited by tech enthusiasts and audio aficionados alike.
- With the enhancement in bass technology, these updates promise to provide a more immersive audio experience, making it an exciting time for individuals considering a purchase of a new speaker system or amplifier.
