Samsung has launched its latest mid-range soundbar, the HW-QS700F, priced at £649 / $649 / AU$999. This new model aims to deliver clear and dynamic audio, positioning itself between the premium Sonos Arc Ultra and the more affordable Sonos Beam Gen 2. While Samsung has enjoyed success with high-end models like the HW-Q990F, which won a What Hi-Fi? Award for its Dolby Atmos capabilities, its budget offerings have not consistently met consumer expectations.
The HW-QS700F features an 11.1.4 surround system with a total of 23 drivers, including 15 in the soundbar itself and dual 20cm force-cancelling drivers in the subwoofer. The system promises a powerful audio experience, but how well does it perform in real-world testing?
Positive Aspects of the HW-QS700F
One of the standout features of the HW-QS700F is its clear vocal performance. Viewers often struggle to hear dialogue through standard television speakers, but the soundbar effectively enhances vocal clarity. During a screening of the film “Thunderbolts” in Dolby Atmos, the dialog between characters was distinctly audible, providing a noticeable improvement over typical TV audio. However, while the soundbar delivers good tonality, it may lack the emotional depth found in higher-end models like the Sonos Arc Ultra.
Another advantage is the soundbar’s flexibility in positioning. Samsung’s Convertible Fit technology allows users to place the soundbar on a tabletop or mount it on a wall, with built-in sensors automatically adjusting speaker orientation based on placement. This feature simplifies setup and offers multiple options for optimal sound delivery, making it appealing to a wide range of users.
The subwoofer also deserves recognition for its powerful bass capabilities. Measuring the same as the one included with the HW-Q990F, it delivers a robust audio experience that enhances action scenes significantly. For example, in “Jurassic World,” the subwoofer effectively captured the intense sound of a Mosasaurus leaping from the water, adding excitement to the viewing experience.
Areas for Improvement
Despite its strong points, the HW-QS700F does exhibit some shortcomings. Under heavy load, the soundbar can become overly aggressive, resulting in a ‘shouty’ quality that detracts from quieter scenes. For instance, during the musical “Wicked,” softer vocal performances from characters Glinda and Elphaba lacked the nuance and emotional subtlety offered by competitors.
Additionally, the Dolby Atmos performance of the QS700F does not match the precision expected from a soundbar in this price range. In testing with “Unbroken,” the soundbar struggled to create an immersive audio environment during intense moments, such as the bombing raid scene. The explosions lacked the directional accuracy that would typically draw viewers into the action, limiting the overall impact of the soundstage.
In summary, while the Samsung HW-QS700F offers promising features such as clear vocals and powerful bass, it does not quite reach the performance levels set by its more expensive counterparts like the Sonos Arc Ultra. Nevertheless, for those on a budget, it remains a viable option that may see further discounts in the coming months. For a comprehensive review of the HW-QS700F and comparisons with other soundbars, visit What Hi-Fi?.