The LG S95TR offers a comprehensive range of performance features necessary for a home theater experience. Incorporating surround sound and spatial audio, it brings convenience in the form of a soundbar. However, the LED display is notably basic, and accessing certain features mandates the use of LG’s control app.
Pros:
- Complete immersion with spatial audio
- Impressive power and intricate detailing
- Gaming functionalities such as 4K 120Hz pass-through
Cons:
- Considerably pricey
- Basic LED display falls short
- Dependency on the app for accessing certain features
Exploring the LG S95TR Soundbar: A Brief Overview
Let’s dive right in: The LG S95TR presents an exceptional soundbar option. Arguably, it stands out as one of the top choices currently available. Additionally, its integration with select LG TVs offers a noteworthy first-party feature set, though we’ll only touch on this briefly.
In essence, finding faults with the LG S95TR proves challenging. Any imperfections, aside from its steep price point, stem from the simplicity of its LED display or the necessity to access certain features through the accompanying app. For instance, activating the “Night Time” mode via the phone may pose a slight inconvenience. (Yet, LG TV owners can conveniently access this function through the onscreen menu using the TV’s remote control.)
Nonetheless, the advantages of this soundbar far outweigh any drawbacks. Despite being a 9.1.5-channel system, both setup and calibration, especially with multiple units, are remarkably straightforward. Moreover, its feature set rivals that of the finest Dolby Atmos soundbars. Of course, all these features pale in comparison if the sound quality disappoints. However, the LG S95TR excels in this aspect as well, offering immersive, captivating, and compelling audio.
Considering its price tag of $1,499 / AU$1,699 (approximately £1,200), the LG S95TR stands competitively against its counterparts. Comparatively, investing in a separate Dolby Atmos speaker system alongside a top-tier AV receiver would incur even higher costs. Hence, despite its premium price, the S95TR’s value appears justifiable when placed in context.
Determining whether the LG S95TR suits your preferences hinges on your specific requirements. If your space or setup is modest, this system might be excessive for your needs. Alternatively, a more budget-friendly option might suffice. However, if you seek the blend of convenience offered by a soundbar system with the immersive performance of a genuine home theater speaker setup, the LG S95TR proves an excellent choice.
LG S95TR Soundbar Review: Pricing and Availability
The LG S95TR made its debut in March 2024, initially hitting the markets in the US and Australia. Priced at $1,499.99 in the US and AU$1,699.01 in Australia (approximately £1,200), it’s a recent addition to LG’s 2024 AV lineup.
Despite its novelty, the LG S95TR has yet to reach the UK market, where its predecessor, the S95QR, remains available for £1,699. However, for consumers in the US and Australia, the S95TR became accessible in May 2024.
Considering its 9.1.5-channel configuration, the LG S95TR’s price appears reasonable, especially when compared to the cost of assembling a traditional home theater system with multiple speakers, a subwoofer, and an AV receiver. This affordability is particularly evident when factoring in the additional expense of acquiring upward-firing Dolby Atmos speakers.
LG S95TR Soundbar Review: Exploring Features
Let’s delve into the distinctive features of the LG S95TR:
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Specific Features for LG TVs | WOW Orchestra, WOW Interface, WOWCAST (for LG B4, LG C4, and LG G4 Series OLED TVs) |
| Wireless Connectivity | Rear speakers and subwoofer pair wirelessly with the soundbar, reducing visible cables |
| Immersive Surround Sound | Five upward-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X soundtracks, offering room-filling audio |
| Stereo Content Enhancement | Stereo content can be enjoyed in surround sound, enhancing the overall audio experience |
| Streaming and Voice Control | Wi-Fi streaming for high-quality audio, voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant |
| Advanced AI Room Calibration | Automatically adjusts sound projection based on speaker placement, enhancing audio performance |
| Night Time Mode | Reduces audio peaks and flattens sound for quieter late-night viewing, accessible through the app or LG TV menu |
For LG TV owners, the S95TR offers tailored features like WOW Orchestra, WOW Interface, and WOWCAST, enhancing the integration between TV and soundbar. Even without an LG TV, the S95TR impresses with its wireless connectivity, ensuring a clutter-free setup.
Furthermore, its immersive surround sound capabilities, stereo content enhancement, and advanced AI room calibration contribute to an exceptional audio experience. Additionally, features like Wi-Fi streaming and voice control add convenience and versatility to the user experience.
Notably, the Night Time mode provides a quieter viewing experience during late-night sessions, catering to those concerned about disturbing others. With a range of innovative features, the LG S95TR soundbar elevates home entertainment to new heights.
LG S95TR Soundbar Review: Performance Evaluation
Let’s examine the performance of the LG S95TR soundbar:
| Performance Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Clear sound, maintains clarity even at low volume |
| Dolby Atmos Immersion | Provides excellent immersion, particularly noteworthy during movie playback |
| Power Output | With 810 watts of power, the LG S95TR delivers ample volume without sacrificing sound quality |
| Audio Modes and Testing | Various audio modes, including AI room calibration, tested across a range of content types |
| Cinema Mode Experience | Enhanced bass response in Cinema mode, delivering rumble without sacrificing clarity |
| Lower Volume Performance | Remarkable performance at lower volumes, maintaining even sound reproduction and clarity |
| Surround Sound and Dolby Atmos | Robust surround sound capabilities, offering immersive experiences with clear spatial dimension |
| Night Time Mode | Effective compression of audio in Night Time mode, ensuring audibility without disturbing others |
| Stereo Up-mixing for Music | Engaging stereo up-mixing for music playback, utilizing all speaker drivers for an immersive experience |
| Frequency Response | Slightly forward mid-range response, suitable for enhanced audio in movies, TV shows, and games |
During testing, the LG S95TR excelled across various scenarios, from movie playback to music listening. Its Dolby Atmos immersion and power output impressed, while its clear sound quality remained consistent even at lower volumes.
Additionally, the system’s surround capabilities and night-time mode effectiveness further enhance the viewing experience, ensuring clarity and immersion without disruption. With a slight emphasis on the mid-range, the LG S95TR delivers a balanced profile, ideal for a wide range of audio content.
LG S95TR Soundbar: Design Overview
Let’s delve into the design aspects of the LG S95TR:
| Design Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Aesthetic Appearance | Matte black finish with discreet wireless subwoofer and rear speakers, blending seamlessly into any environment |
| LED Indicators | Limited information provided by LED lights, lacking clarity on settings and modes |
| Remote Control | Many features are accessible only through the LG control app, requiring additional steps for adjustment and configuration |
| App-Based Controls | Many features accessible only through the LG control app, requiring additional steps for adjustment and configuration |
| Port Selection | Minimal port selection, including two HDMI ports (one with eARC), a USB port, and an optical digital input |
| HDMI Port Capabilities | HDMI ports support 4K 120Hz and HDR10 passthrough, catering to the needs of PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X gamers |
In terms of design, the LG S95TR adopts a discreet and mostly wireless approach, ensuring seamless integration into any space. While its aesthetic may not be groundbreaking, its functionality shines through.
However, concerns arise regarding the limited information provided by the LED indicators, leaving users in the dark about various settings and modes. Similarly, the remote control lacks clarity, necessitating reliance on the LG control app for comprehensive control.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the LG S95TR offers a streamlined user experience with its minimalistic port selection and HDMI port capabilities, catering to the demands of modern gaming consoles. Overall, while not without its flaws, the design of the LG S95TR strikes a balance between simplicity and functionality.
LG S95TR Soundbar Review: Setup and Usability
Let’s explore the setup process and usability of the LG S95TR:
| Setup & Usability Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Well-packaged system, ensuring components are secure and protected during transit |
| Setup Process | Quick and straightforward setup, with clear instructions provided in the manual |
| Speaker Placement | Rear speakers require careful placement as per the manual’s instructions, ensuring optimal audio performance |
| Initial Configuration Prompt | The ability to customize sound settings per speaker adds versatility and personalization to the audio experience |
| System Configuration | Setting up the system takes minimal time, typically around five to ten minutes, offering convenience and ease of use |
| Remote Control and App Integration | Seamless integration with TV remote for volume control, intuitive app interface for adjusting settings and features |
| Custom Sound Settings | Ability to customize sound settings per speaker adds versatility and personalization to the audio experience |
Upon unboxing, the LG S95TR impresses with its well-packaged components, ensuring a secure and hassle-free setup experience. Despite its size, the setup process is quick and straightforward, thanks to clear instructions provided in the manual.
During setup, the soundbar provides helpful prompts, such as voice announcements for correct speaker placement, enhancing accuracy. Once configured, using the system is effortless, with convenient features like a TV remote volume control and an intuitive app interface for adjusting settings.
Moreover, the ability to customize sound settings per speaker adds versatility and personalization to the audio experience, catering to individual preferences. Overall, the setup and usability of the LG S95TR exemplify convenience and user-friendliness.
LG S95TR Soundbar Review: Value Assessment
Let’s evaluate the value proposition of the LG S95TR:
| Value Considerations | Details |
|---|---|
| Price Point | Although pricey, the LG S95TR offers a 9.1.5-channel system, providing enhanced audio immersion and dimension |
| Competition Comparison | Faces stiff competition from high-end brands like Samsung and JBL, offering comparable features at varying prices |
| Alternative Options | Consideration of standalone soundbars like Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar for a more budget-friendly option |
| High-End Home Theater Experience | For those seeking a complete home theater experience, the LG S95TR offers compelling features at a premium price |
| Comparison with Competitors | Competitors like Samsung HW-Q990D and JBL Bar 1300X offer similar features at comparable or slightly higher prices |
While the LG S95TR commands a premium price, it delivers exceptional value with its comprehensive 9.1.5-channel system, catering to audiophiles seeking immersive audio experiences.
However, consumers have alternatives such as standalone soundbars like the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar, offering a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. Additionally, high-end competitors like Samsung HW-Q990D and JBL Bar 1300X present formidable options with comparable features at similar price points.
Ultimately, the value of the LG S95TR lies in its ability to provide a complete home theater experience, albeit at a higher cost compared to its competitors.