Tag: Dolby Atmos

April 3, 2025
Samsung HW-Q990F Soundbar 2025 Now Available in the US
Key Takeaways
1. The Samsung HW-Q990F soundbar is now available in the US, priced at $1,999, with a limited-time discount bringing it down to $1,799.
2. Amazon offers the best deal for Prime members, allowing an additional $100 discount, making the final price $1,698.
3. The revamped subwoofer is half the size of its predecessor and features dual 8-inch active drivers for improved bass performance and reduced distortion.
4. The soundbar supports all key audio formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and includes features like SpaceFit Sound Pro and Active Voice Amplifier Pro.
5. Connectivity options include two HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K 120Hz HDR passthrough, Bluetooth 5.3, and compatibility with various streaming services and SmartThings app integration.
After first revealing it at CES 2025, Samsung is now set to offer its 2025 top-of-the-line soundbar: the HW-Q990F. This new soundbar is now readily available across the US and takes the title as the company’s most luxurious option. It comes alongside the HW-Q930F that was launched last month.
The Samsung HW-Q990F has an official price of $1,999, the same as the model from last year. However, as is typical with new product launches, there are some discounts available. Samsung is currently offering a 10% discount for a limited time, reducing the price to $1,799. Major retailers like Best Buy and B&H Photo Video are also selling this soundbar. Nonetheless, Amazon appears to have the best offer at this time; Prime members can apply an additional $100 discount, making the final price $1,698.
Key Features
The standout feature of the HW-Q990F is certainly its revamped subwoofer. Samsung has succeeded in making it about half the size of the previous model while incorporating newly designed dual 8-inch active drivers that face opposite directions. The company asserts that this configuration reduces distortion and provides accurate bass down to 32Hz using 300W of power.
Design and Compatibility
The main soundbar and satellite speakers remain similar to the HW-Q990D, and you still get support for all key audio formats such as Dolby Atmos (including Wireless Dolby Atmos with compatible Samsung TVs), Dolby TrueHD, and DTS:X. Samsung’s typical range of audio enhancements is also included. For instance, SpaceFit Sound Pro utilizes microphones on both the bar and subwoofer to fine-tune audio for your specific environment, while Active Voice Amplifier Pro improves dialogue clarity in noisy settings.
Finally, the HW-Q990F features two HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K 120Hz HDR video passthrough, eARC support, Q-Symphony compatibility with select Samsung TVs, Bluetooth 5.3, Roon Ready certification, Spotify Connect, AirPlay, Chromecast, SmartThings app integration, and an optical audio input.
Source:
Link

Tags: Dolby Atmos, flagship soundbar, Samsung HW-Q990F
April 2, 2025
Sony Bravia 1000W Dolby Atmos Soundbar and Theatre System 6 Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. The Sony Bravia Theatre Bar 6 features a 37-inch soundbar with 350 watts output and a wireless subwoofer, creating a 3.1.2-channel audio system with three forward-facing drivers and two upward-firing speakers.
2. The compact Bravia Theatre System 6 offers a powerful soundbar without upward-firing speakers, featuring a more robust subwoofer and two wireless speakers, totaling 1,000 watts output.
3. Both soundbars support HDMI eARC connectivity and wireless music streaming via Bluetooth 5.3, enhancing user convenience.
4. Users can customize sound preferences and manage the systems through a dedicated smartphone app, with easy control available for compatible Sony smart TVs.
5. The Bravia Theatre Bar 6 is expected to be priced at €499, while the Theatre System 6 will retail for €599; US pricing has yet to be announced.
The new Sony Bravia Theatre Bar 6 brings together a 37-inch soundbar that delivers a powerful output of 350 watts, along with a wireless subwoofer to form a 3.1.2-channel audio system. To enhance the surround sound experience, Sony has included three forward-facing drivers and two upward-firing speakers.
Compact Alternative
The Bravia Theatre System 6 offers a similar soundbar but in a more compact design without the upward-firing speakers. Instead, it boasts a much more powerful subwoofer and two wireless speakers, which improves the surround sound experience. However, it lacks dedicated ceiling speakers for authentic Dolby Atmos. Even so, the Bravia Theatre System 6 impresses with a total power output of 1,000 watts.
Connectivity and Control Features
Both of Sony’s soundbars can connect via HDMI eARC, and they also allow for wireless music streaming through Bluetooth 5.3. Additionally, users can customize their sound preferences and manage the home theater systems through a dedicated smartphone app. For those who have a compatible Sony smart TV, like the newly launched Bravia 8 II OLED, it’s easy to control the audio system using the regular TV remote and adjusting settings directly on the screen.
The Sony Bravia Theatre Bar 6 soundbar (HTB600) is anticipated to be released soon at a price of €499. Meanwhile, the Theatre System 6 (HTS60) will retail for €599. More information is available on the official product page, although pricing for the US market is still yet to be announced.
Source:
Link

Tags: Dolby Atmos, Sony Bravia Theatre Bar 6, Sony Bravia Theatre System 6
March 31, 2025
TCL Z100 Soundbar: Modular Design with Dolby Atmos Support
Key Takeaways
1. Powerful Audio Performance: The Z100 features a 1.1.1 channel setup with four speaker drivers, producing up to 170W of dynamic power for clarity and rich spatial sound.
2. Dolby Atmos Compatibility: The speaker supports Dolby Atmos FlexConnect for immersive 3D sound, syncing wirelessly with compatible TCL TVs.
3. Smart Calibration Technology: It includes a built-in spatial audio optimization system that adjusts sound output in real-time based on the room’s acoustics.
4. Modular Expansion Options: Users can connect up to four Z100 speakers and one subwoofer, allowing for versatile setups that can exceed standard surround sound configurations.
5. Stylish Design and Connectivity: The Z100 features a celestial-inspired design, available in multiple colors, and supports Bluetooth 5.3 for easy wireless setup.
TCL has unveiled the Z100 Smart Panoramic Sound Speaker, an advanced audio device crafted for an immersive home sound experience. The price tag is 1,499 yuan ($206), and it’s currently up for grabs on JD.com. Let’s dive into its important specs.
Key Features of the TCL Z100 Speaker
The Z100 comes with a 1.1.1 channel setup and is equipped with four expertly tuned speaker drivers, capable of producing up to 170W of dynamic power. Its design focuses on delivering not just loudness, but also clarity, depth, and a rich spatial sound experience.
It is compatible with Dolby Atmos FlexConnect, a feature created in partnership with Dolby’s audio experts and TCL’s Golden Ear team, enabling wireless sync with compatible TCL TVs. This creates an immersive three-dimensional sound environment.
Smart Technology and Performance
The speaker is fitted with a built-in spatial audio optimization system along with integrated microphones that assess the room’s acoustic characteristics. This smart calibration tech adjusts the sound output in real-time, ensuring excellent performance no matter the room’s dimensions, shape, or arrangement.
On the hardware front, the Z100 is outfitted with oversized voice coils, high-performance ferrite magnets, and silk dome tweeters that can reproduce ultra-high frequencies beyond 20kHz. Each speaker unit can output up to 94dB, providing ample power to fill larger rooms effortlessly. If users desire a more robust bass experience, TCL offers an optional Z100-SW subwoofer, which adds 130W of low-end output and descends to 45Hz for richer audio.
Flexible Expansion and Design
The Z100 allows for modular expansion, giving users the option to connect up to four Z100 speakers along with one subwoofer. This setup can create up to 14 channels and 18 individual speaker units, which includes four tweeters, allowing configurations from a compact stereo to a full surround sound system that surpasses standard 7.1.4 setups.
In terms of its look, the Z100 has a celestial-inspired design and is available in grey, gold, and teal colors. It features a starburst-patterned front grille, premium fabric mesh, and hidden cable management for a tidy and elegant appearance. Plus, it offers adjustable horizontal angles and discreet mounting options, making it simple to fit into various interior styles.
For connectivity, the Z100 supports Bluetooth 5.3 and includes automatic calibration for a smooth and wireless setup right from the moment it’s turned on.
Tags: Dolby Atmos, Smart Sound Speaker, TCL Z100
March 31, 2025
TCL Launches T7L Mini LED TV: 144Hz 4K, 2200 Nits, Dolby Vision
Key Takeaways
1. TCL’s T7L series features QD-Mini LED panels with peak brightness of 2200 nits, a 7000:1 contrast ratio, and a native refresh rate of 144Hz (overclockable to 288Hz).
2. The TVs utilize Quantum Dot Pro 2025 technology for a 98% DCI-P3 color gamut and come in sizes ranging from 55 to 85 inches, starting at 3,499 yuan (around $480).
3. Audio is enhanced by a 2.1.2-channel Hi-Fi system in collaboration with Onkyo, providing an immersive Dolby Atmos experience, along with gaming features like HDMI 2.1 and AMD FreeSync support.
4. The T7L runs on TCL’s Lingkong OS 3.0, equipped with a quad-core A73 processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB storage, along with smart features powered by TCL’s TSR AI chip.
5. The design is modern and slim, with multiple connectivity options, and TCL also introduced the Z100 Soundbar, a modular audio system with Dolby Atmos support.
TCL has launched its new T7L series of QD-Mini LED TVs during an event in China, setting a new standard for mid-range premium television. This series is notable for its state-of-the-art QD-Mini LED panels, which can achieve peak brightness levels of up to 2200 nits, a 7000:1 static contrast ratio, and a high native refresh rate of 144Hz, which can be overclocked to 288Hz. The T7L series comes in four different sizes—55, 65, 75, and 85 inches—with prices starting at a competitive 3,499 yuan (around $480).
T7L Series Specs
The T7L series is powered by TCL’s Quantum Dot Pro 2025 technology, providing a 98% DCI-P3 color gamut that makes the visuals colorful and accurate. The TVs use high-end HVA panels from Huaxing, featuring polyimide-enhanced liquid crystal alignment to offer great contrast and wide 178° viewing angles.
Moreover, TCL’s Matrix Backlight Zone technology allows for precise local dimming. The number of zones varies, from 480 in the 55-inch model to 840 in the 85-inch variant. While this may be fewer zones than some premium TVs, TCL asserts that its backlight control and contrast capabilities are superior to the standard 1000-zone Mini LED setups.
Audio and Gaming Features
For sound, TCL has collaborated with Onkyo to include a 2.1.2-channel Hi-Fi system in all T7L models. This setup has upward-firing speakers and a built-in subwoofer, providing an immersive Dolby Atmos experience that’s perfect for movies and gaming. In terms of gaming, the T7L supports HDMI 2.1 on all ports, 4K 144Hz input, AMD FreeSync, and MEMC motion compensation for ultra-smooth visuals without tearing during high-frame-rate gaming sessions.
The smart features of the T7L TVs run on TCL’s Lingkong OS 3.0, which provides a clean, ad-free interface with a customizable 4K resolution user interface. These TVs are equipped with a quad-core A73 processor, a Mali-G57 GPU, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. They also support Wi-Fi 6 and come with TCL’s TSR image quality AI chip along with the new Fuxi AI Model, which is designed specifically for smart TVs. This AI assistant enhances voice interaction, personalizes recommendations, and offers generative content capabilities.
Design and Connectivity
In terms of design, the TVs feature a sleek, modern look with an 8mm ultra-thin bracket that allows for flush wall mounting. There are plenty of connectivity options available, including USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports, LAN, AV input, optical output, and an antenna port.
In addition to the new TVs, TCL has unveiled the Z100 Soundbar, which is a modular audio system that adapts to the room and includes Dolby Atmos support.
Tags: Dolby Atmos, QD-Mini LED TV, TCL T7L
March 5, 2025
Optoma HCPro-4400: 4K Dual-Laser Projector with 5000 Lumens
Key Takeaways
1. The Optoma HCPro-4400 is a 4K UHD dual-laser projector with 5,000 lumens brightness and a lifespan of 30,000 hours.
2. It covers 95% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum and 100% of Rec. 709 for reliable color accuracy.
3. Features like eARC support and WiSA SoundSend Certification enhance audio quality and enable wireless connections to surround sound systems.
4. Installation is made easy with vertical/horizontal lens shift, 1.6x zoom, and keystone correction to ensure properly aligned images.
5. The projector supports HDMI 2.1, LOW latency gaming with ALLM, and has a price point of $5,999.
Home theater projectors have significantly improved over the years, boasting higher resolution, enhanced brightness, and better color precision. One notable model is the Optoma HCPro-4400, which incorporates these advancements into home cinema experiences, featuring a stunning 4K UHD resolution, impressive brightness levels, and accurate color rendering.
Specifications and Features
The HCPro-4400 functions as a 4K UHD dual-laser projector, delivering a brightness of 5,000 lumens along with an impressive lifespan of 30,000 hours. It covers 95% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum and 100% of Rec. 709, ensuring consistent and reliable color accuracy. With PureEngine Ultra technology, it enhances contrast and motion clarity, while PureMotion interpolation works to minimize motion blur during fast scenes.
Audio and Connectivity
On the audio front, the HCPro-4400 includes eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) support, enabling the direct transmission of high-quality audio formats like Dolby Atmos to an AV receiver or soundbar without any loss of signal quality. This feature leads to improved synchronization between audio and video while cutting down on the need for additional cables. Moreover, the projector is WiSA SoundSend Certified, allowing for a wireless connection to compatible surround sound systems, ensuring multi-channel audio without any latency.
Installation and Gaming
For installation convenience, the projector offers vertical and horizontal lens shift, a 1.6x zoom, and keystone correction. Keystone correction is particularly useful as it adjusts the image to counteract distorted projection angles, providing a properly aligned rectangular display even if the projector is slightly tilted or not centered. The throw ratio of the device permits placement at various distances without causing image distortion.
In terms of connectivity, the HCPro-4400 comes equipped with HDMI 2.1, HDMI 2.0, USB-A ports, an RJ45 LAN port, and S/PDIF audio output. The projector also features ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), which automatically fine-tunes settings to minimize input lag, achieving as low as 8.4ms at 1080p 240Hz, making it an excellent choice for fast-paced gaming.
The price point for the Optoma HCPro-4400 projector is set at $5,999.
Tags: 4K UHD Projector, Dolby Atmos, Optoma HCPro-4400
March 5, 2025
GTA V Enhanced: Visual Upgrades and Better Anti-Cheat Features
Key Takeaways
1. The Enhanced Edition of GTA V requires higher system specs, including an RTX 3060 or Radeon RX 6600XT graphics card and an Intel i5-9600K or Ryzen 5 3600 processor.
2. Major visual improvements include ray tracing and upscaling support through AMD FSR 1 and 3, as well as Nvidia DLSS 3.
3. Load times have significantly improved due to DirectStorage support, and audio has been enhanced with Dolby Atmos.
4. The update introduces new features in GTA Online, such as the Career Builder and an upgraded anti-cheat system, along with a GTA+ membership option for PC gamers.
5. The Enhanced Edition update is free for existing owners of GTA V on PC, but new players must purchase the legacy version to access it, available on Steam and Epic Games starting March 4, 2025.
Rockstar has brought back Grand Theft Auto once again, but this time it’s been “Enhanced.” The studio has rolled out a major update designed to utilize the extra power of PCs while also improving the GTA Online mode. Here’s everything you should know.
What’s Included in the 90GB Update for GTA V?
The Enhanced Edition of GTA V has raised the bar on system requirements. Now, to get the best experience, you’ll need at least an RTX 3060 or a Radeon RX 6600XT, paired with either an Intel i5-9600K or a Ryzen 5 3600. One of the biggest changes is to the game’s visuals and graphics settings. This 12-year-old title now features ray tracing, along with upscaling support through AMD FSR 1 and 3, as well as Nvidia DLSS 3.
Global Launch of GTA V Enhanced Edition
Thanks to DirectStorage support, load times have seen a noticeable improvement. Beyond visuals, the audio has also been enhanced with Dolby Atmos support. This update is applicable to both Story Mode and GTA Online, although HDR is still not available. Within the GTA Online mode, players can explore a new Career Builder feature, alongside an upgraded anti-cheat system. Moreover, PC gamers can now sign up for the GTA+ membership.
The Grand Theft Auto 5 Enhanced Edition update comes at no cost for those who previously owned GTA 5 on PC. However, you will have to purchase the legacy version to access this update. The re-release of GTA V officially went live on March 4, 2025. If you already possess the base game, the enhanced edition can be found on Steam and Epic Games.
Tags: Dolby Atmos, GTA V Enhanced Edition, RTX 3060
February 25, 2025
Philips 7600 Series 4K Gaming TVs: 43″ & 50″ with 144Hz Refresh
Key Takeaways
1. 144Hz Refresh Rate: The 7600 Series features a native refresh rate of 144Hz for smoother motion and reduced stuttering during fast-paced gaming.
2. 4K UHD Resolution: Both models offer 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160) resolution with support for Dolby Vision and HDR10.
3. Low Input Lag: The TVs include Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and a rapid 1ms response time on the 50-inch model to minimize input lag.
4. Immersive Audio and Connectivity: Equipped with Dolby Atmos and multiple connectivity options, including four HDMI ports and Bluetooth 5.0.
5. Smart Features: Powered by Google TV, providing access to streaming services and voice control through Google Assistant.
Philips has launched their newest gaming TVs in the 7600 Series, boasting impressive 144Hz refresh rates and 4K UHD resolution. These TVs come in two sizes—43 inches (model 43PUG7674/F7) and 50 inches (model 50PUG7674/F7)—and are designed to deliver ultra-smooth motion and minimal input lag.
Enhanced Gaming Experience
The 7600 Series is equipped with a native refresh rate of 144Hz, which helps to cut down on stuttering during fast-paced gaming sessions. It also has AMD FreeSync Premium support to reduce screen tearing across various resolutions. Thanks to Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and a rapid 1ms response time on the 50-inch model, input lag is expected to be quite low.
Stunning Visuals
Both models display 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160) resolution, supporting Dolby Vision and HDR10. The LED screen offers a wide 178-degree viewing angle, ensuring clear visuals from any position. Additionally, the panel includes gaming-centric features like Game Mode and HLG, which enhance motion handling and HDR capabilities.
Immersive Audio and Connectivity
On the audio side, these TVs are equipped with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Audio, providing a surround sound experience reminiscent of a movie theater. In terms of connectivity, there are four HDMI ports, three USB ports (1x USB 3.0 and 2x USB 2.0), and an Optical (TOSLINK) digital audio output. For wireless connections, Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 802.11ac are also available, making it easy to connect headphones, soundbars, and other devices.
Smart Features and Convenience
Powered by Google TV, users can access a variety of streaming services, live television, and gaming apps from a single interface. The built-in Google Assistant lets users control their TVs and smart home gadgets using voice commands. Other handy features include parental controls, automatic screen adjustments, and a guided setup process for quick installation.
The Philips 7600 Series gaming TVs have settings focused on reducing input lag and improving response times, making them ideal for both solo and multiplayer gaming experiences. Pricing and availability may differ by region, and these TVs can be found at major retailers.
Source:
Link

Tags: 4K UHD Gaming TV, Dolby Atmos, Philips 7600 Series
January 23, 2025
Ultimea Apollo S80: 5.1 Soundbar with Dolby Atmos & Subwoofer
Ultimea is adding to its wide range of audio products with the launch of a new Dolby Atmos-capable speaker system. The Apollo S80 soundbar is available for pre-order on the manufacturer’s website for just under $180. Shipping for customers in the US is expected to begin in early February. However, Canadian buyers won’t have to wait, as the soundbar is already in stock and ready for immediate shipment. Eventually, the Apollo S80 is also likely to be listed on Amazon.
Soundbar Features
This soundbar offers surround sound, but unlike other audio products from Ultimea, it does not come with rear satellite speakers. Instead, the soundbar itself contains five speakers. Each of these drivers has a diameter of 2 inches. It’s quite surprising that the entire soundbar can be split into three sections — one for the center and one each for the left and right channels.
Mounting and Setup
All three sections can be mounted on the wall separately. Completing this 5.1-channel setup is a dedicated subwoofer measuring 5.25 inches. All components of this soundbar need to be linked together using cables, and while the soundbar officially supports Dolby Atmos, the surround sound experience might be somewhat limited due to the absence of rear speakers.
Additional Features
Moreover, the Ultimea 5.1 soundbar and subwoofer come with LED ambient lighting, which can be customized for color and brightness through a dedicated smartphone app. This audio system also supports HDMI eARC and includes an optical audio input, a 3.5mm headphone jack, a USB port, and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.
Source:
Link

Tags: Apollo S80, Dolby Atmos, Ultimea
November 15, 2024
Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus: Built-in Subwoofer & Surround Sound
Along with the release of the Fire TV Omni mini-LED series, a new soundbar has been introduced by Amazon. The Fire TV Soundbar Plus is positioned as a more premium option compared to the Fire TV Soundbar that came out in 2023.
Design and Size
The design of the Fire TV Soundbar Plus is sleeker and flatter than its earlier version. Notably, it’s much bigger, measuring 37” in length, while the original Fire TV Soundbar is only 24” long. The larger size allows for a built-in subwoofer, which supports a 3.1 speaker channel.
Audio Features
This soundbar is equipped with advanced audio technologies such as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS TruVolume, along with a special dialogue channel. It has a Dialogue Enhancer feature that boosts voice clarity, making them stand out against background noise.
While the integrated subwoofer certainly provides an advantage for the Fire TV Soundbar Plus over its predecessor, Amazon also gives consumers the choice to buy it with an external sub-woofer, or even with both an external sub-woofer and surround speakers for a true home theater vibe. The soundbar can either be mounted on the wall (a mount kit is included) or set on a TV stand.
Connectivity and Control
Being an audio-only product, the Fire TV Soundbar Plus doesn’t come with built-in Alexa or Fire TV capabilities. It includes its own remote and has physical buttons on top, but users who own a compatible Fire TV device can control the soundbar with its remote as well. Connectivity options include an optical port, an HDMI eARC port, and a USB port. Plus, it supports Bluetooth, allowing you to link it to your smartphone or tablet.
The Fire TV Soundbar Plus is now available on Amazon for $249.99. This is more than double the price of the Fire TV Soundbar, which retails for $104.99. If you opt for the Soundbar Plus with an external sub-woofer, the cost rises to $374.99, and if you choose to add the external sub-woofer along with two surround sound speakers, the total comes to $489.99.
Source: Link
Tags: Amazon, Dolby Atmos, Fire TV Soundbar Plus
October 30, 2024
Xiaomi Launches 4K Mini LED Google TV in Europe
Xiaomi is launching the TV S Mini LED 2025 across Europe. This model was first seen on the company’s global website back in August, and it comes in three different sizes: 55-inch, 65-inch, and 75-inch. Each size features QD-Mini LED technology, providing 308, 392, and 512 local dimming zones, respectivly.
Stunning Display Features
The TV S Mini LED boasts a 4K resolution with a refresh rate of 144Hz, and it includes 4K 120Hz MEMC motion smoothing along with a 240Hz Game Boost mode. The screen is said to cover 94% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum, with a peak brightness of 1,200 nits and a dynamic contrast ratio of 12,000,000:1. It also supports advanced features like Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, IMAX Enhanced, and Filmmaker Mode. Powered by Google TV, this model provides access to various streaming services and allows for voice control through Google Assistant. Additionally, users can share content wirelessly from devices like phones or laptops using Apple AirPlay, Chromecast, and Miracast.
Gaming and Audio Enhancements
For gamers, the TV includes an HDMI 2.1 port, VRR, a low latency of 4ms, and compatibility with AMD FreeSync Premium. It also features a built-in speaker system with four drivers that support Dolby Atmos. The pricing for the Xiaomi TV S Mini LED 55 2025, Xiaomi TV S Mini LED 65 2025, and Xiaomi TV S Mini LED 75 2025 in Europe is set at €599, €799, and €999, respectively. This price point is higher than that of the Xiaomi TV A Pro 75 2025, which is available on Amazon for €799 right now.
Xiaomi’s innovative approach to television technology is evident in this new offering, making it a compelling choice for consumers looking for high-quality viewing experiences.
Tags: 4K TV, Dolby Atmos, Xiaomi TV S Mini LED 2025