The Samsung HW-Q800T is a mid-range soundbar that replaces the HW-Q70R. Like its predecessor, this new 3.1.2-channel model has three speakers at the front and Acoustic Beam 2.0 with upward beaming sound.
The HW-Q800T also has Dolby Atmos / DTS: X support and eARC return channel, but adds Q Symphony for better sound quality with compatible Samsung 2020 TVs. Commands can be sent via Amazon Alexa. In the following Samsung HW-Q800T review, we’ll look at the pros and cons of this soundbar.
Samsung HW-Q800T: Design
The Samsung HW-Q800T, like its predecessor, the HW-Q70R , is equipped with a body that retains the low form factor of previous generations. However, the width of the cabinet is slightly narrower, making this soundbar ideal for TVs from 43 to 65 inches. The design is slim and minimalist, with black trim and a round-cut metal grille.
Build quality at a decent level. The Acoustic Beam holes have been moved to the top front of the soundbar. This location ensures that they are not obscured by the top of the TV. The LED display is located on the right front of the soundbar. The font is large enough to be read from a distance.
The display lights up when you select inputs, change settings, adjust the volume, or select a sound mode. At the top rear of the soundbar are the main controls for multifunctional options, volume up / down and microphone on / off. Everything else is done with the supplied remote control.
The wireless active subwoofer has the same design as in 2019. The sub is equipped with a rear port and an 8-inch speaker located on the side. According to Samsung, low frequencies can “drop” down to 35 Hz. The sub can be placed anywhere in the room.
Power
The Samsung HW-Q800T soundbar supports Dolby Atmos and DTS: X and uses a 3.1.2 channel speaker configuration with three front channels, wireless subwoofer and upward firing channels using Acoustic Beam 2.0 technology. Acoustic Beam 2.0 is based on 56 holes that act as separate speakers to create a panoramic sound distribution.
The left and right speakers reproduce mid and high frequencies, while the center channel uses one wide tweeter. The total power of the amplifier is 330 W. The power is distributed as follows. The front left and right channels receive 60 watts, the center channel receives 20 watts, and each of the acoustic beams receives 20 watts.
The subwoofer receives 160 watts. There are no rear speakers, but the virtual setting allows Dolby and DTS mixers to add a surround sound effect. Should the need arise for surround speakers, an optional SWA-9000S Wireless Speaker Set is available.
Q Symphony by Samsung
In 2020, Samsung added a new feature called Q Symphony. This feature is designed to create a more expansive and immersive front soundstage. Q Symphony allows Samsung owners to get the most out of their soundbar.
As of 2019, the Samsung HW-Q800T soundbar has four sound modes. Standard mode leaves audio encoded. Surround sound expands the scene in movies. Game Pro is designed to be immersed in the gaming environment. Adaptive Sound optimizes sound through adjustments using real-time acoustic processing.
SmartThings and Amazon Alexa
SmartThings and Amazon Alexa apps enable streaming from a range of services including Apple Music, Amazon Music, Spotify, Deezer, TuneIn, and Samsung Music. The SmartThings app also simplifies setup and allows users to link directly to their Spotify, Deezer or TuneIn accounts. The Q800T supports high-resolution audio up to 24-bit / 192 kHz, as well as AAC, MP3, WAV, OGG, FLAC, ALAC and AIFF file formats.
Powered by Amazon Alexa technology, the Q800T soundbar has a built-in voice assistant that turns this soundbar into a fully functional smart speaker. It’s easy to set up using the Alexa app. A long-range microphone is built into the soundbar itself. It can be disabled for privacy if desired.
Acoustic Beam 2.0
The Samsung HW-Q800T uses Samsung Acoustic Beam 2.0 to create ceiling channels. 56 angle holes technology creates a panoramic effect that enhances the immersive experience. The wide-range tweeters in the front speakers also create an expansive soundstage.
The included subwoofer provides a solid bass base. Samsung’s HW-Q800T delivers great sound from user reviews. The upper channels work very confidently. The subwoofer gives explosions an extra low-frequency impact. For all the noise and destruction, the dialogue remains clear and focused.
However, it is also clear that the soundstage essentially fills the front third of the room, creating a so-called sound wall. This is roughly what you’d expect from a soundbar without rear speakers. All effects virtually disappear when the sound in the sound mix is routed from the front to the rear.
This problem will be solved by purchasing additional rear speakers. When watching news, game shows or documentaries, there is little need for rear speakers. Voice-overs are kept clear and music sounds natural.
The Q800T soundbar certainly packs a lot of power to fill even a large enough living room. This will make the sound sound loud and without distortion.
Connections
In terms of connections, there is an HDMI output and one HDMI input. Though it would be nice to see more than one HDMI input on the soundbar at this price point. The HDMI output supports eARC , so there is the ability to feed back lossless audio from a compatible TV. There is also an optical digital input.
Wireless connections have built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, which allow you to stream music from your home network or through third-party services. The Bluetooth connection is established using the pairing button on the remote, and Wi-Fi is simply configured using the SmartThings app. Unlike most of the competition, Samsung doesn’t include Chromecast or Apple AirPlay support.
Pros
Extensive soundstage.
Powerful subwoofer.
Great design.
Good build quality.
Easy to set up.
Cons
One HDMI input.
No Chromecast / AirPlay.
Conclusion
Samsung HW-Q800T is the ultimate soundbar that produces an expansive soundstage. Audio sounds detailed, dynamic and immersive. EARC support is a big plus, and Q Symphony is a great addition if you have a compatible Samsung TV.
Built-in Alexa turns Q800T into a fully functional smart assistant. Overall, this soundbar is undoubtedly pleasing. Soundbar with Acoustic Beam technology provides panoramic sound for Dolby Atmos / DTS: X formats. Samsung Q800T soundbar is ideal for watching TV, movies, music and games.