Samsung HW-QS90H, 7.1.2 configuration without satellites or subwoofer
The Samsung QS90H, a 7.1.2 model boasting a total power of 330W, stands out for its ability to deliver immersive sound without a separate subwoofer. The upward-firing speakers are true transducers directed towards the ceiling, not a software virtualization, which improves the perception of height. The four internal woofers provide more physical bass than traditional soundbars, even if they can't compete with a dedicated subwoofer. Spatialization is naturally limited by the absence of rear speakers, but Samsung offers the optional SWA-9500S kit to complete the setup.
Convertible Fit: horizontal or wall mounting with integrated gyroscope
The Convertible Fit feature is one of the key features of the QS90H. Placed flat on a TV stand, it operates in a 7.1.2 configuration. Mounted vertically on the wall, it switches to 3.1.2 mode to blend seamlessly under a wall-mounted TV. An internal gyroscope automatically detects the orientation and redistributes the speaker roles accordingly, adapting the soundstage to maintain maximum coherence. There is some channel loss in wall-mounted mode, but this compromise is intended for minimalist setups where no TV stand is present.
Connectivity and ecosystem: HDMI eARC, Wi-Fi 5, AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Roon. Wired connectivity remains intentionally minimalist with an HDMI eARC/ARC output, an additional HDMI input, and an optical input. Unfortunately, 4K/120Hz pass-through is not included, a significant drawback for gamers. Wireless connectivity, via Wi-Fi 5, supports AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and Roon compatibility. Bluetooth 5.3 enables mobile pairing, while the Wireless Dolby Atmos feature allows for wireless transmission of an Atmos stream from a compatible Samsung TV without an HDMI cable. Integration into the brand's ecosystem is achieved through Q-Symphony, which combines the TV and soundbar speakers, and the SmartThings app for setup and updates. Alexa and Bixby are also natively integrated.
Samsung HW-QS90H, Acoustic Calibration and AI Processing
The QS90H uses SpaceFit Sound Pro to automatically analyze the room and correct the acoustic response based on its shape, volume, and furnishings. The internal microphone measures the frequency response and adjusts the equalization to compensate for resonances and early reflections. AI Dynamic Bass Control limits woofer distortion in real time, while Adaptive Sound mode modulates the equalization based on the content. Game Mode Pro activates automatically when a console is detected via a connected Samsung TV. Available now. Suggested retail price: €849. Key features of the Samsung HW-QS90H soundbar: • Type: Soundbar • System: 7.1.2 • Amplification: Class D • Total power: 330 W • Speakers: 13 • Subwoofer: No • Q-Symphony technology • AirPlay 2 compatibility • CEC compatibility • eARC compatibility • Wi-Fi ac compatibility • Bluetooth 5.3 compatibility • MP3 and AAC compatibility Ogg, Flac, Alac, AIFF, Wav; • Pro Game Mode; • SmartThings; • Spotify Connect; • Adaptive Sound; • SpaceFit Sound Pro; • Tidal Connect; • Chromecast (built-in); • Roon Tested; • Sound Elevation; • AVA Pro; • Input: 1 optical; • Outputs: 1 HDMI 2.0 (with eARC); • Other: surround speakers Optional SWA-9500S wireless; • App: SmartThings; • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Eclipsa Audio decoders; • Google Assistant; • Alexa Built-in, Bixby; • HDCP 2.3 certification; • Hi-Res Audio certification; • Dimensions (W x H x D, mm): 1245 x 68.8 x 125 mm; • Power consumption: 65 W (0.5 W standby); • Weight: 8.9 kg