The Samsung HW-Q990D soundbar system, while boasting impressive audio capabilities, suffers from several usability drawbacks that detract from the overall experience, especially given its premium price point. Control and customization are primarily managed through the SmartThings app, a more convenient alternative to the included remote and onboard display. The app interface is straightforward, allowing users to select sound modes, tweak the equalizer settings, activate features like Active Voice Amplifier, and crucially, adjust individual channel levels. However, this seemingly granular control becomes a point of contention due to the absence of automatic calibration. Manually balancing the numerous audio channels, particularly when accommodating specific room layouts and speaker placement, can be a tedious and frustrating process.
The lack of auto-calibration is a glaring omission in a system of this caliber and price range. Competitors like Sonos offer TruePlay, a sophisticated room calibration feature that optimizes the audio output based on the surrounding environment. This feature greatly simplifies setup and ensures optimal sound quality regardless of speaker placement. Samsung’s attempt at room correction, the SpaceFit feature, proves ineffective and fails to deliver any noticeable improvement. This deficiency forces users to painstakingly adjust individual channel levels, a laborious task that highlights the need for an automated solution. The absence of such a fundamental feature in a near-$2,000 system is perplexing and ultimately undermines the user experience.
Further compounding the usability issues is a persistent volume control problem when using Spotify Connect. Adjusting the volume in this mode results in erratic jumps, making it difficult to find the desired listening level. Coupled with the lack of Chromecast support, Android users face a cumbersome workflow, relying either on the SmartThings app or the physical remote for basic volume control. This seemingly minor issue becomes a significant annoyance, highlighting a lack of attention to detail in an otherwise feature-rich system. The absence of a smooth, intuitive volume control for a commonly used streaming service detracts from the overall user experience.
Despite these shortcomings, the Q990D delivers exceptional sound quality. The four-piece system works harmoniously to create a powerful, balanced, and immersive soundstage. While it may not achieve the same level of detail as high-end competitors like the Sonos Arc Ultra, the Q990D offers a rich, tactile audio experience that elevates movies and music alike. The system excels in reproducing the nuances of Dolby Atmos content, creating a truly enveloping listening experience.
The “Amaze” scene from a Dolby Atmos demo disc served as a prime example of the Q990D’s capabilities. The intricate soundscape, from the subtle buzzing of insects to the booming thunder and cascading rain, was reproduced with remarkable clarity and precision. The immersive soundstage created a palpable sense of presence, transporting the listener into the heart of the jungle. This immersive quality is a testament to the system’s ability to accurately reproduce the three-dimensional audio effects of Dolby Atmos.
In conclusion, the Samsung HW-Q990D soundbar system offers a compelling audio experience, delivering a powerful and immersive soundstage. However, several usability issues, namely the lack of auto-calibration and the erratic Spotify Connect volume control, detract from the overall experience. While the sound quality is undeniably impressive, the absence of these key features, particularly at this price point, is a significant drawback. The cumbersome manual calibration process and the frustrating volume control quirks undermine the otherwise premium feel of the system. Addressing these issues would significantly enhance the user experience and solidify the Q990D’s position as a top-tier soundbar system.
