Looking for an honest Samsung HW-S60B review? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Samsung’s compact 5.0 channel sound bar, from its impressive Dolby Atmos capabilities to real-world performance testing. Whether you’re a Samsung TV owner looking to unlock Q-Symphony features or simply seeking an affordable sound bar upgrade, we’ll help you decide if the HW-S60B is the right choice for your home theatre setup.
What Makes the Samsung HW-S60B Special?
The Samsung HW-S60B represents a sweet spot in the sound bar market – offering premium features like wireless Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support in a remarkably compact form factor. Released in April 2022, this 5.0 channel all-in-one sound bar has garnered attention for its ability to deliver expansive sound from a package that measures just 67cm wide and 6.2cm tall.
Key Features at a Glance:
- 5.0 Channel Configuration: No subwoofer needed
- Wireless Dolby Atmos: Virtual 3D audio without extra speakers
- Q-Symphony Compatibility: Works with Samsung TV speakers
- Compact Design: Perfect for small to medium rooms
- Smart Features: Alexa, Google Assistant, AirPlay 2
- Current Price: Around $249-299 (down from $499 MSRP)
Detailed Samsung HW-S60B Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Channels | 5.0 (L, R, C, SL, SR) |
| Dimensions | 670 x 62 x 105mm (26.4 x 2.4 x 4.1 inches) |
| Weight | 2.7kg (5.9 lbs) |
| Power Output | Not officially specified |
| Connectivity | HDMI ARC, Optical, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Audio Formats | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Digital, DTS |
| Streaming | AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Wi-Fi |
| Voice Control | Alexa, Google Assistant |
| App Control | Samsung SmartThings |
Sound Quality Performance: What to Expect
The Good: Impressive Spatial Audio
The Samsung HW-S60B punches well above its weight class in terms of sound quality. Despite its compact size, this sound bar creates a surprisingly wide soundstage that significantly improves upon built-in TV speakers.
Dialogue Clarity: The dedicated centre channel excels at reproducing clear, intelligible dialogue – even in challenging content like Christopher Nolan films. The Voice Enhancement feature works particularly well for movies and TV shows.
Virtual Surround Sound: The Dolby Atmos and DTS:X processing creates a convincing sense of spatial audio. While it can’t match dedicated height speakers, the virtual surround effect is noticeable and immersive.
Music Performance: In Music mode, the sound bar delivers balanced audio with good separation between instruments, though audiophiles may notice some compression in dynamic range.
The Limitations: What It Can’t Do
Bass Response: As expected from a subwoofer-free design, deep bass is limited. Action movies and bass-heavy music reveal this limitation most clearly.
Volume Scaling Issues: User reports indicate inconsistent volume scaling – the jump from 50% to 60% volume can be dramatically louder than expected.
Dynamic Range: Compared to premium alternatives like the Sonos Beam Gen 2, the S60B exhibits a more compressed dynamic range, particularly noticeable with high-quality audio sources.
Design and Build Quality
Minimalist Aesthetic
The HW-S60B features Samsung’s signature minimalist design philosophy. The rounded edges and matte black finish (or white for the S61B variant) ensure it blends seamlessly with most TV setups without drawing attention.
Build Materials: The sound bar uses high-quality plastic construction with a metal bottom plate. While not premium materials, the build feels solid and durable.
Footprint: At just 62mm tall, the sound bar won’t block your TV’s infrared sensor or bottom portion of the screen – a common issue with bulkier alternatives.
Control Options
- Physical Controls: Power, volume, connectivity, and mic mute buttons on top
- Remote Control: Dedicated remote with quick access to sound modes and settings
- SmartThings App: The most intuitive control method with visual feedback
Samsung-Specific Features: Q-Symphony and More
Q-Symphony: Game-Changing for Samsung TV Owners
If you own a compatible Samsung TV (2022 models and newer), Q-Symphony transforms the audio experience by using both the TV’s built-in speakers and the sound bar simultaneously.
Performance Impact: Testing with high-end Samsung TVs like the QN700B shows dramatic improvements in soundstage width and height perception. The effect is particularly noticeable in movies with complex audio tracks.
Compatibility: Limited to Samsung TVs with Q-Symphony support – a significant limitation for non-Samsung TV owners.
SpaceFit Sound Calibration
Samsung’s room calibration technology attempts to optimize audio based on your room’s acoustics, though the effectiveness varies significantly depending on room size and furnishing.
Setup and Connectivity: User Experience
Installation Process
Setup is refreshingly straightforward:
- Physical Setup: Place sound bar, connect power
- HDMI Connection: Single HDMI ARC connection to TV
- SmartThings App: Download app for full control
- Wi-Fi Configuration: For Samsung TV owners and streaming
Notable Limitation: Only one HDMI port with ARC support (no eARC), which may limit connectivity for users with multiple HDMI devices.
Connectivity Options Breakdown
- HDMI ARC: Primary TV connection method
- Optical: Alternative digital connection
- Wi-Fi: Streaming and Samsung TV wireless connection
- Bluetooth 5.0: Device pairing and music streaming
- AirPlay 2: iOS device streaming
Common Issues and Solutions
Based on user feedback and our research, here are the most reported issues:
Audio Sync Problems
Issue: Lip-sync delay when connected via HDMI ARC Solution: Enable TV pass-through mode and adjust audio delay settings in the SmartThings app
Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
Issue: Disconnections after extended use or stuttering after 90 minutes Solution: Reset Bluetooth settings and ensure the sound bar firmware is updated
Network Disconnection Messages
Issue: “Network is disconnected” errors with red LED indicator Solution: Check Wi-Fi router settings and ensure 2.4GHz network availability
Auto-Sleep Behaviour
Issue: Sound bar enters sleep mode after 30 seconds of silence Solution: This is normal behavior but can be disruptive when switching between content quickly
Samsung HW-S60B vs. Competitors
vs. Sonos Beam Gen 2
Samsung Advantages: Lower price, DTS:X support, Samsung TV integration Sonos Advantages: Better build quality, wider soundstage, superior app ecosystem, eARC support
vs. Bose Smart Sound bar 600
Samsung Advantages: More compact, better value, wider format support Bose Advantages: True up firing speakers, better Atmos implementation, superior build quality
vs. JBL Bar 5.0
Samsung Advantages: Samsung ecosystem integration, SmartThings app, wireless capabilities JBL Advantages: More balanced sound signature, consistent volume scaling
Pricing and Value Analysis
Current Market Position
- MSRP: $499 (launch price)
- Current Street Price: $249-299
- Best Value Point: Under $275
Value Proposition
For Samsung TV Owners: Excellent value due to Q-Symphony and wireless connectivity features For General Users: Good value at current pricing, but consider alternatives if paying full MSRP
Who Should Buy the Samsung HW-S60B?
Ideal Candidates:
- Samsung TV owners seeking ecosystem integration
- Small to medium room setups where a subwoofer isn’t practical
- First-time sound bar buyers wanting premium features at an accessible price
- Renters or apartment dwellers who need compact, neighbour-friendly audio
Consider Alternatives If:
- You prioritize true Dolby Atmos with up firing speakers
- Your room is large (over 300 sq. ft.)
- You’re an audiophile seeking reference-quality sound
- You need multiple HDMI inputs
- You don’t own a Samsung TV and want maximum features
Setup Tips for Optimal Performance
Placement Recommendations
- Cabinet Placement: Ensure side speakers have walls to reflect off for better surround effect
- Height: Keep at ear level when seated
- Distance: Maintain 1-2 feet clearance on sides
- Surface: Use foam pads to prevent vibration on hard surfaces
Audio Settings Optimization
- Standard Mode: Best for general TV watching
- Adaptive Sound: Automatic optimization for content type
- Game Mode: Reduced latency for gaming
- Voice Enhancement: Enable for dialogue-heavy content
Final Verdict: Samsung HW-S60B Review Summary
The Samsung HW-S60B succeeds as a compact sound bar that delivers impressive audio performance for its size and price point. While it has limitations in bass response and some connectivity quirks, it offers genuine value, especially for Samsung TV owners who can leverage Q-Symphony and wireless connectivity features.
Pros:
✅ Excellent dialogue clarity
✅ Compact, TV-friendly design
✅ Strong virtual surround sound
✅ Great Samsung TV integration
✅ Easy setup and intuitive controls
✅ Good current pricing
Cons:
❌ Limited bass without subwoofer
❌ Volume scaling inconsistencies
❌ Single HDMI input only
❌ Best features require Samsung TV
❌ Some Bluetooth reliability issues
Our Rating: 4/5 Stars
Bottom Line: The Samsung HW-S60B is a solid choice for anyone seeking a compact sound bar upgrade, particularly Samsung TV owners. At current pricing around $250-275, it offers excellent value, though full MSRP buyers should consider alternatives. The combination of virtual Dolby Atmos, Q-Symphony compatibility, and premium smart features make it a standout in the affordable sound bar category.
Alternatives to Consider:
- Sonos Beam Gen 2: Better overall audio quality, premium build
- Bose Smart Sound bar 600: True up firing Atmos speakers
- Samsung HW-S60D: 2024 successor with eARC support
- Sony HT-S2000: Includes wireless subwoofer at similar price