Sound quality:
Samsung's HW-B550D has acceptable overall sound quality - this model reproduces music and dialog reasonably well despite the obvious shortcomings in its sound. In the Standard sound mode with the tone controls set to provide the most even tonal balance the bass has good impact and goes deep, but is a bit prominent and somewhat tubby. Midrange is fairly even and is a bit grainy, somewhat hazy, and congested and a touch plasticky. Treble is extended, but is a bit subdued, smeared and sizzly. Does a decent job of recovering room ambience, but is somewhat congested. The two channel sound field extends somewhat above and a bit to the sides of the speaker enclosure and lacks front to back depth. Individual instruments and voices are easy to identify but are two-dimensional.
The various sound modes, voice enhancement, and night mode have a noticeable effect on the sound field and/or tonal balance.
5.1 channel
When 5.1 channel program material is played back in the Standard sound mode the sound field may extend somewhat past the sides and well above the soundbar, but still lacks depth.
Sound Modes
The various sound modes, voice enhancement, and night mode have a noticeable effect on the sound field and/or tonal balance.
TV ease of use: Very good overall.
Features ease of use: Very good overall.
