Samsung HW-Q800C Review: An Upgrade of a Superb Soundbar

The Samsung HW-Q800C is a 5.1.2 channel soundbar compatible with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. It retains all the features of its predecessor, the HW-Q800B, and only adds compatibility with Q-Symphony 3.0 functionality.

Overview

For their 2023 range of soundbars, Samsung hasn’t significantly altered the grape variety, with models very similar to the 2022 vintage. The HW-Q800C is no exception, inheriting all the characteristics of the previous model, the HW-Q800B. Therefore, this test is essentially a summary of the HW-Q800B review. For comprehensive information, we refer you to our review of that model.

The sole new feature is compatibility with Q-Symphony 3.0 technology, which synchronises the TV’s speakers with those of the soundbar. Beyond that, the HW-Q800C is identical to the HW-Q800B, offering 5.1.2 channel rendering and compatibility with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats.

Build

The soundbar is physically identical to the older HW-Q800B. It’s covered in high-quality metal grilles with impeccable finishing and no undesirable reflections. Its size is substantial, but its height of 6 cm allows it to be easily placed under a television. The external subwoofer is also the same as the one accompanying the HW-Q800B. For more details, please refer to the review of that model.

Connectivity

There are no changes in connectivity. It includes an optical input, an HDMI eARC output, and an HDMI input that unfortunately still does not support 4K/120 Hz streams and VRR. A USB-A port is present, solely for updates and not for content playback.

Decoded Audio Formats Like the HW-Q800B, the HW-Q800C handles numerous cinematic audio formats, including 3D Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Here’s a list of audio formats decoded by the soundbar:

• Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos
• DTS, DTS-HD, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X
• LPCM 2.0, LPCM 5.1, LPCM 7.1

User Experience

Unsurprisingly, the ways to interact with the soundbar (controls on the device and remote, and the SmartThings app) remain identical to the previous version. We direct you again to its review for more information.

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are still present, along with AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Spotify Connect protocols. No assistant is natively integrated, but the soundbar can be controlled by Alexa and Google Assistant when connected to a smart speaker like Nest Audio or Amazon Echo.

Audio With the same acoustic architecture, it’s only natural that the HW-Q800C delivers sound performances identical to the HW-Q800B. Equipped with 11 speakers arranged to reproduce a 5.1.2 channel system, the soundbar and its subwoofer provide a beautiful extension in the lows and highs, with good precision and a satisfactory detail level. The ensemble continues to astonish with its excessive power and remarkable explosiveness.

Sound Spatialisation Surprisingly, the HW-Q800C also offers spatialisation identical to the HW-Q800B. The soundbar benefits from excellent side surround effects and some well-realised elevation effects, but don’t expect to hear sounds from behind you or above. For more immersion, it’s possible to add a pair of SWA-9500S rear satellites, which greatly enhance immersion. The novelty of the HW-Q800C is its compatibility with Q-Symphony 3.0, the new version of the technology that synchronises the TV’s speakers (only high-end Samsung models) with those of the soundbar. This allows for a bit more verticality, but sound precision is affected due to the lower quality of the TV’s built-in speakers.

Conclusion

Perfectly identical to its elder, the HW-Q800B, the Samsung HW-Q800C continues to offer commendable performances with staggering power and an immersive sound stage, albeit still lacking a bit in precision. If you already own a HW-Q800B, this HW-Q800C is of no interest. However, if you’re in search of a high-performing soundbar, equally adept at handling cinematic, musical, and gaming content, it will certainly delight you.