LG S95QR Soundbar Review: Unleashing Dolby Atmos for Immersive Home Audio

In the ever-evolving world of soundbars, intense competition is brewing among brands to deliver the ultimate Dolby Atmos experience. thriving to outdo one another, major players are pushing the boundaries by incorporating an increasing number of drivers in unconventional locations. Joining this race earlier this year, LG introduced a range of soundbars, including their flagship model, the LG S95QR.

Sporting a formidable 9.1.5 configuration complete with a dedicated subwoofer, the LG S95QR aims to redefine home audio. Equipped with two up-firing drivers on the bar itself, this soundbar delivers immersive Dolby Atmos content, accompanied by a distinctive up-firing center channel. Furthermore, the rear speakers boast a 4.0.2 setup, comprising two front-firing channels and one up-firing height channel on each speaker. But how does this 810W LG soundbar fare in real-life performance? Join us as we delve into our comprehensive review to find out.

LG S95QR SoundBar review: Design

In terms of design, the LG S95QR soundbar presents a sleek and low-profile appearance, measuring 47.2 x 2.5 x 5.3 inches (L x H x D). Its slim form ensures that it won’t obstruct the view or interfere with the bottom of your TV screen. Its dimensions ensure it seamlessly complements TV sizes ranging from 55 to 65 inches. Additionally, the powered subwoofer boasts dimensions of 7.9 x 15.9 x 15.9 inches, while the surround speakers measure 6.3 x 8.8 x 5.6 inches.

All components of the LG S95QR feature a uniform gray finish, with no alternative color options available. The soundbar incorporates a total of ten drivers, effectively delivering a superior audio experience. The left and right audio channels are skillfully handled by two 20mm silk dome tweeters and two 52 x 99mm woofers. To enhance the surround sound experience, a pair of 50mm drivers are strategically positioned at both ends of the soundbar, providing captivating side effects. Additionally, two 63mm units positioned on the top surface contribute height effects, adding depth and immersion to various sound formats. Located at the center, a 63mm driver directly faces forward, complemented by a 20mm silk dome tweeter positioned on the top surface.

As we shift our focus to the rear speakers, they are intelligently designed with an apex shape to facilitate even sound distribution across a claimed 135-degree soundscape. This design enhancement enables more forgiving speaker placement options, ensuring a well-rounded and immersive surround sound experience. Each rear speaker incorporates three 63mm drivers strategically positioned to deliver precise surround effects from the front, side, and overhead directions.

The build quality is satisfactory, although it doesn’t exude the premium aesthetics or refined styling often associated with flagship soundbar models. While the materials used ensure durability, the overall design lacks the luxurious touch that one might expect from a top-tier offering within LG’s soundbar lineup.

LG S95QR SoundBar review: Setup and Installation process

Here’s everything that you get within the box:

• One soundbar
• One wireless subwoofer
• Two wireless rear speakers
• One HDMI cable
• Four AC power cables 
• One remote

We decided to pair the LG S95QR with Sony’s recently launched Bravia x82L series 75 inches television. The setup process is really simple. All you have to do is attach power cord to Soundbar, Sub-Woofer and Rear Speakers. Next, attach the given HDMI cable to HDMI In port in Soundbar and eARC port on your TV. With eARC you will be able to enyou Dolby Atmos content from various OTT streaming apps.

Unlike Samsung HW-Q990B and Sony HT-A9, the LG flagship soundbar doesn’t come with on-screen guide to optimize your soundbar sound according to your surroundings. However, it does have a dedicated app called LG Sound Bar on Google Play Store and Apple App store. This dedicated app facilitates seamless connectivity between your LG S95QR soundbar and your device via Wi-Fi.

Upon successful pairing, the app provides an overview of the speaker connections, ensuring all components are properly linked. Moreover, the app offers a range of features, including speaker connectivity testing, individual speaker volume adjustment, LCD display brightness customization, and more. However, it is worth noting that the default setting for the surround sound feature is unexpectedly turned off, which raises eyebrows considering the system’s surround sound capabilities. Additionally, the app allows you to fine-tune the volume of each speaker, particularly the overhead speaker of the soundbar, enhancing audio clarity and delivering an immersive listening experience.

The S95QA has a simple room calibration system onboard which can be triggered from the app. It will beam sound in different directions which are picked up up by inbuilt microphones. Following those readings, AI automatically optimizes the system for a better listening experience.

LG S95QR SoundBar review: Audio Performance

The LG S95QR packs a total of 17 speaker drivers which together deliver an impressive 9.1.5 channels, culminating in a robust 810W output. It supports most of popular audio formats including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced support, delivering an immersive audio experience. Additionally, it attains Hi-Res Audio certification, incorporates SBC and AAC Bluetooth codecs, and ensures compatibility with Dolby Vision, 4K, and HDR10 content. It also supports VRR/ALLM that will ensure allows for smooth, lag-free viewing and interactivity when connected with TV that also supports VRR and ALLM out of the box. However, it is worth noting that certain notable codecs like aptX HD and LDAC are absent, which could have further elevated the audio streaming quality over Bluetooth.

Our testing commenced with re-streaming the film “RRR” on the Netflix app through the Apple TV 4K. Notably, this movie stands out for its exceptional sound mixing within the realm of recent Indian Cinema. We were captivated by the fidelity exhibited, particularly during the opening sequence, where a classical music composition resonated with the harmonious interplay of various instruments. As the song, sung by a young girl named Malli, filled the air, the soundbar delivered an impactful rendition of background nuances, effectively complementing the flagship-grade sound experience.

Listening to the bass-heavy score, it becomes evident that LG’s modifications to enhance the S95QR’s low-end performance have been a commendable step in the right direction. The system demonstrates improved attack and seamless integration, effectively contributing to the overall audio quality. During instances of sudden impactful sounds, such as explosions or gunfire when Ram and Bheem confront the British Empire, the soundbar delivers a satisfying dose of cinematic rumble and dynamic depth, without drawing excessive attention to its performance. The result is an immersive experience that truly enhances the on-screen action.

We played Top Gun: Maverick via Bluray as the Prime Video version only had 5.1 audio. While immersing ourselves in the cinematic experience of Top Gun: Maverick, we couldn’t help but notice the artful manipulation of the soundscape, seamlessly shifting between speakers as Tom Cruise executes daring maneuvers in his F16 fighter jet. However, it is worth mentioning that the mid-range, particularly in relation to vocals, is average by default. Nevertheless, minor adjustments in the settings will fix that issue.

Regarding the gaming performance, we conducted extensive sessions playing Forza Horizon 5 and GTA5, during which we observed a commendable audio experience. The distribution of sound across the front, rear left, and right speakers was executed with precision, impeccably aligning with the in-game sound sources. However, it is worth noting that the vocals, once again, seemed somewhat subdued. Nevertheless, this minor concern can be readily addressed by adjusting the speaker volume levels via the designated application.

LG S95QR Review Verdict: Should you buy it?

Undoubtedly, our admiration for the S95QR is unequivocal. LG’s flagship soundbar system impresses with its exceptional audio quality, characterized by deep, rich, punchy, and crystal-clear sound reproduction. Notably, it showcases an unparalleled ability to generate immersive surround sound effects from a single unit, setting a new standard in realism and effectiveness.

While the LG S95QR delivers a commendable Dolby Atmos experience, when comparing it to the Samsung HW-Q990B and Sony HT-A9 systems, it ranks third. It is worth mentioning that the Sony HT-A9 commands a significantly higher price point, making it a premium option. However, the main competitor to the LG S95QR is the Samsung hwsystem, which poses a notable challenge.

Considering the overall assessment, we firmly recommend the LG S95QR. Its exceptional audio performance, combined with its attractive features, make it a worthwhile investment. In summary, if you are seeking an outstanding soundbar system, the LG S95QR unequivocally deserves your consideration.