Sound quality: Samsung's HW-S50A/ZA has Good overall sound quality - this model reproduces music and dialog reasonably well despite the obvious shortcomings in its sound. In the Standard sound mode, the bass has good impact, but is slightly prominent and boomy, and the deep bass is lacking. Midrange is fairly even, but is somewhat grainy, and slightly hazy and soft. Treble is fairly extended, but is somewhat subdued and slightly smeared. Does a decent job of recovering room ambience, but sounds somewhat congested. With stereo program material the sound field extends somewhat above and a bit beyond the width of the speaker array, and lacks front to back depth. The various sound modes have a noticeable effect on the sound field and tonal balance. In the Standard sound mode with Dolby digital and DTS multi-channel program material the sound field may extend well past the sides and above the soundbar, but still lacks depth. Other than the DTS: Virtual X sound setting, the other sound mode settings had a subtle effect, if any, on the sound field and tonal balance; the DTS: Virtual X setting had a more noticeable effect. There was no significant difference in sound quality between the HDMI, optical, USB and BT inputs. The system can provide satisfying volume in a medium sized room.
TV setup and ease of use: Very Good overall.
Features setup and ease of use: Good overall.
