When it comes to home entertainment systems, soundbars have become an essential component for delivering an immersive and engaging audio experience. Samsung, a renowned brand in the electronics industry, offers a range of soundbars that cater to different needs and budgets. Among their top-of-the-line models, the HW-Q990C and HW-930 have garnered significant attention from audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike. But what sets these two soundbars apart, and which one is the better choice for your home entertainment setup?
Design and Build Quality
Both the HW-Q990C and HW-930 boast sleek and futuristic designs that will complement any modern living room. The HW-Q990C features a more aggressive and angular design, with a grey and black color scheme that exudes a premium feel. The soundbar itself is quite long, measuring 47.7 inches in width, making it suitable for larger TV screens. On the other hand, the HW-930 has a more curved and rounded design, with a slightly narrower width of 46.2 inches. The HW-930’s design is more minimalist, with a focus on clean lines and a compact form factor.
In terms of build quality, both soundbars exude a sense of solidity and durability. The HW-Q990C’s body is constructed from high-quality plastic, with a metal grille that adds a touch of elegance. The HW-930, on the other hand, features a more minimalist approach, with a fabric-wrapped grille that gives it a more understated look. While both soundbars are built to last, the HW-Q990C’s more robust construction makes it more suitable for larger rooms or households with multiple users.
Driver Configuration and Speaker Array
One of the most significant differences between the HW-Q990C and HW-930 lies in their driver configuration and speaker array. The HW-Q990C features a 11.1.4-channel speaker system, which includes:
- 11 drivers: 5 woofers, 4 tweeters, and 2 subwoofers
- 4 up-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
- 2 side-firing speakers for enhanced width and immersion
In contrast, the HW-930 features a 9.1.4-channel speaker system, which includes:
- 9 drivers: 4 woofers, 3 tweeters, and 2 subwoofers
- 2 up-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
- 1 side-firing speaker for enhanced width
While both soundbars offer an impressive speaker array, the HW-Q990C’s more extensive configuration provides a more immersive and engaging audio experience. The additional up-firing and side-firing speakers in the HW-Q990C help to create a more three-dimensional soundstage, making it ideal for watching movies or playing games.
Audio Performance and Sound Quality
When it comes to audio performance, both the HW-Q990C and HW-930 deliver exceptional sound quality. However, the HW-Q990C takes it to the next level with its more advanced acoustic design and processing capabilities. Here are some key differences:
Frequency Response and Dynamic Range
- HW-Q990C: 34Hz – 20kHz frequency response, 104dB dynamic range
- HW-930: 38Hz – 20kHz frequency response, 102dB dynamic range
The HW-Q990C’s extended frequency response and higher dynamic range result in a more detailed and nuanced sound, with deeper bass and more pronounced highs. This makes it better suited for music enthusiasts and those who demand the best possible audio fidelity.
Object-based Audio and Sound Modes
Both soundbars support object-based audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which allow for more precise and immersive sound placement. However, the HW-Q990C takes it further with its advanced audio processing capabilities, including:
- Adaptive Sound+: automatically adjusts the sound to the type of content being played
- Game Pro Mode: optimizes the sound for gaming, with enhanced dialogue clarity and immersion
- Voices Amplified: increases dialogue clarity and volume, making it ideal for voice-centric content like podcasts and talk shows
The HW-930, on the other hand, features more basic sound modes, including a Music Mode and a Movie Mode. While these modes do enhance the audio experience, they lack the sophistication and customization options of the HW-Q990C’s advanced audio processing features.
Smart Features and Integration
Both the HW-Q990C and HW-930 come equipped with a range of smart features that make it easy to integrate them with your existing home entertainment setup. Here are some key similarities and differences:
Voice Assistants and Multi-Room Audio
- Both soundbars support Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control
- Both support Samsung’s proprietary multi-room audio technology, allowing you to connect multiple Samsung speakers and soundbars for whole-home audio
However, the HW-Q990C takes it a step further with its support for Apple AirPlay 2, which allows for seamless music streaming from Apple devices. The HW-930, on the other hand, lacks AirPlay 2 support.
HDMI and Audio Connectivity
- Both soundbars feature 3 HDMI inputs, 1 HDMI output, and 1 optical digital input
- Both support eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) for seamless audio transmission between devices
However, the HW-Q990C features an additional USB port, which allows for music playback from external storage devices.
Price and Value
When it comes to pricing, the HW-Q990C and HW-930 occupy different segments of the market. The HW-Q990C is a premium soundbar that comes with a higher price tag, typically ranging between $1,500 to $2,000. The HW-930, on the other hand, is a more affordable option, usually priced between $800 to $1,200.
While the HW-Q990C is more expensive, it offers a more comprehensive feature set, advanced acoustic design, and superior audio performance. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line soundbar that can deliver an exceptional audio experience, the HW-Q990C is the better choice. However, if you’re on a budget and still want a high-quality soundbar with advanced features, the HW-930 is a more affordable alternative.
Warranty and Support
Both soundbars come with Samsung’s standard 1-year limited warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. Additionally, Samsung offers dedicated customer support, including online resources, phone support, and in-person support at authorized service centers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Samsung HW-Q990C and HW-930 are both exceptional soundbars that cater to different needs and budgets. While the HW-930 is a more affordable option with a more compact design and still-impressive audio performance, the HW-Q990C takes it to the next level with its advanced acoustic design, superior audio processing capabilities, and more comprehensive feature set. If you’re looking for the ultimate home entertainment experience, the HW-Q990C is the better choice. However, if you’re on a budget and still want a high-quality soundbar, the HW-930 is a more affordable alternative.
What is the main difference between the Samsung HW-Q990C and HW-930 soundbars?
The main difference between the Samsung HW-Q990C and HW-930 soundbars is their design and functionality. The HW-Q990C is a more advanced soundbar with a sleeker design and more features, such as wireless rear speakers and a wireless subwoofer. It also has a more powerful amplifier and supports more audio formats. On the other hand, the HW-930 is a more budget-friendly option with a simpler design and fewer features.
In terms of sound quality, the HW-Q990C is generally considered to be better, with clearer and more detailed sound. It also has a wider soundstage and better bass response. However, the HW-930 is still a good option for those on a budget, and it’s a great choice for smaller rooms or for those who don’t need all the advanced features of the HW-Q990C.
Which soundbar is better for home theater use?
The Samsung HW-Q990C is generally better for home theater use due to its more advanced features and better sound quality. It has a more immersive soundfield, with clearer dialogue and more detailed sound effects. It also has more HDMI inputs, making it easier to connect multiple devices such as a Blu-ray player, game console, and TV. Additionally, it has wireless rear speakers, which can be placed anywhere in the room to create a more immersive experience.
However, the HW-930 is still a good option for home theater use, especially for smaller rooms or for those on a budget. It still has good sound quality and can provide a decent home theater experience. But if you want the best possible experience, the HW-Q990C is the better choice.
Can I connect both soundbars to my TV wirelessly?
Yes, both the Samsung HW-Q990C and HW-930 can be connected to your TV wirelessly using the TV’s Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection. However, the HW-Q990C also has a feature called “Tap Sound,” which allows you to connect your TV to the soundbar by simply tapping the TV’s remote control on the soundbar.
This makes it easy to switch between different devices and control the soundbar from your TV’s remote. The HW-930 does not have this feature, so you’ll need to use the soundbar’s remote control or the TV’s remote control to adjust the volume and settings.
Do both soundbars support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X?
Yes, both the Samsung HW-Q990C and HW-930 support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which are advanced audio formats that can provide a more immersive listening experience. However, the HW-Q990C also supports additional formats, such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio.
This means that the HW-Q990C can provide a more detailed and accurate sound, with better sound effects and dialogue. The HW-930 still provides good sound quality, but it may not be as detailed or accurate as the HW-Q990C.
Can I use both soundbars with my gaming console?
Yes, both the Samsung HW-Q990C and HW-930 can be used with gaming consoles such as PlayStation and Xbox. They both have HDMI inputs, which allow you to connect your console directly to the soundbar. They also both support advanced audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which can provide a more immersive gaming experience.
However, the HW-Q990C has a feature called “Game Mode,” which can provide a more optimized gaming experience. It can automatically adjust the sound settings to provide better dialogue and sound effects, and it can also provide a more responsive sound with less lag.
Are both soundbars wall-mountable?
Yes, both the Samsung HW-Q990C and HW-930 are wall-mountable, and they both come with a wall-mount kit. This makes it easy to install them on your wall, either above or below your TV. They both have a sleek and modern design, which can fit well with most home decor.
However, the HW-Q990C is slightly larger and heavier than the HW-930, so it may require more effort to install it on the wall. But with the included wall-mount kit, it’s still a relatively easy process.
What is the warranty and customer support like for both soundbars?
Both the Samsung HW-Q990C and HW-930 come with a one-year warranty, which covers defects and repairs. They also both have good customer support, with online support resources and a customer service hotline.
However, the HW-Q990C has a more comprehensive warranty, which covers more aspects of the soundbar. It also has better customer support, with more online resources and a more responsive customer service team. This means that if you have any issues with the HW-Q990C, you’re more likely to get help quickly and easily.