What exactly is the Samsung Q930C?
Benefits of using this soundbar
- Immersive audio experience: With its 17 speakers, including up-firing ones, the Q930C envelops you in sound, making you feel like you’re in the heart of the action, whether you’re watching a film or playing a video game.
- Seamless smart home integration: Thanks to its built-in Alexa and support for various connectivity options like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HDMI, this soundbar is a dream for those looking to streamline their smart home setup.
- Easy setup: Samsung promises an easy setup process, especially with Samsung TVs, which could be a relief for those of us who’d rather not spend hours fiddling with cables and settings.
Un-boxing & First Impressions
Upon unboxing the Samsung Q930C, my first thought was, “Blimey, this is hefty!” Weighing in at 23 kg and stretching over a metre in width, it’s clear this soundbar means business. The build quality is robust, with a sleek design that should complement most modern living rooms. But it’s not just about looks; the promise of a true 3D Dolby Atmos experience had me itching to set it up and test it out.
Features: Quick overview of what you’re getting
- Brand: Samsung
- Alexa voice control: Yes
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HDMI, Airplay 2
- Dimensions: 111.07 cm (W) x 6.04 cm (H) x 12 cm (D); Weight: 23 kg
- Immersive audio: With smart home integration
- 17 speakers: For outstanding sound quality
- Up-firing rear speakers: For a true 3D Dolby Atmos experience
- Seamless connectivity: Easily connects to various devices
- Dolby Atmos support: For an immersive surround sound experience
- Easy setup: Especially with Samsung TVs
- Good balance: Of front and back sound for movies and games
- Sturdy and reliable: Built to last
While the features list is impressive, it’s a real shame that the surround sound capability may not fully meet the expectations set by its multi-speaker system. Additionally, the need for extra stands and cables for a full setup can add to the cost and complexity, which is a bit disappointing.
Smart Features
In the realm of smart home tech, the Samsung Q930C soundbar isn’t just a device that emits sound; it’s a hub of smart features that seamlessly integrate into your digital life. Let’s delve into the main attractions that make this soundbar a smart choice for tech enthusiasts.
Alexa Voice Control – Having Alexa built into the Samsung Q930C is like having a personal assistant ready to cater to your every whim. Whether it’s playing your favourite playlist, checking the weather, or controlling other smart home devices, all it takes is a simple voice command. The integration is so seamless that it feels like Alexa was always meant to be a part of your sound system.
What we liked about the Samsung Q930C
After spending some quality time with the Samsung Q930C, there are several features that stood out, making this soundbar a noteworthy addition to any smart home setup. Here are the highlights:
Immersive Audio Experience
The Samsung Q930C’s 17-speaker array, including up-firing rear speakers, delivers an audio experience that is nothing short of cinematic. The Dolby Atmos support elevates this further, creating a 3D soundscape that envelops you in whatever you’re watching or listening to. It’s not just about the volume; it’s the clarity, depth, and dimension of the sound that truly impresses.
Seamless Connectivity
One of the most appealing aspects of the Q930C is its effortless connectivity. Whether it’s Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HDMI, or Airplay 2, this soundbar makes it incredibly easy to connect to a wide range of devices. This flexibility is a boon for users with multiple devices or those who frequently switch between audio sources.
Easy Setup
Setting up the Samsung Q930C is a breeze, especially if you’re pairing it with a Samsung TV. The intuitive interface and straightforward instructions mean you can go from unboxing to enjoying immersive sound in no time. This ease of setup is a significant plus, removing one of the biggest hurdles people face with new tech.
Good Balance of Sound
The balance of sound between the front and back speakers is commendable. Whether you’re immersed in the latest blockbuster or lost in your favourite video game, the Q930C ensures that you’re in the centre of the action, with sound coming at you from all directions. This balance is crucial for an immersive experience, and Samsung nails it.
What we were disappointed with
Despite its many strengths, the Samsung Q930C is not without its flaws. Here are a few areas where we felt it could improve:
Surround Sound Capability
While the Q930C offers an impressive audio experience, its surround sound capability doesn’t always live up to expectations, especially when compared to dedicated multi-speaker systems. For those seeking the ultimate home theatre experience, this might be a slight letdown.
Additional Purchases Required
To fully utilise the Q930C’s capabilities, you might find yourself needing extra stands or cables, particularly for the rear speakers. This not only adds to the overall cost but also to the complexity of the setup, which is a real shame.
Price Point
There’s no denying that the Samsung Q930C comes with a hefty price tag. When compared to competitors, the cost might seem steep, especially considering the additional purchases required for the optimal setup. This could deter potential buyers who are looking for value for money.
Getting Set Up
Setting up the Samsung Q930C soundbar was a journey that had its ups and downs. While the manufacturer promises an “easy setup,” my experience, and that of other buyers, suggests you might need a bit more patience and possibly a tech-savvy friend. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide based on my experience:
- Unbox and place the soundbar under your TV or on the designated shelf. Remember, its dimensions are quite generous, so ensure you have ample space.
- Connect the soundbar to your TV using the HDMI ARC port for the best audio quality. If your TV lacks this, opt for an optical connection, though you might miss out on some advanced features.
- Power on the soundbar and follow the on-screen instructions to connect it to your Wi-Fi network. This step is crucial for updates and smart features.
- Download the Samsung SmartThings app on your smartphone to complete the setup, including integrating Alexa and connecting to your Spotify account.
- For the full 3D Dolby Atmos experience, position the up-firing rear speakers (included) at the back of your room. This might require additional stands or wall mounts, not included in the box.
While the process is straightforward on paper, I encountered some hiccups with the Wi-Fi connection and had to reset the soundbar twice to get it right. Other buyers have reported similar issues, so it’s not an isolated incident. However, once set up, the soundbar works seamlessly.
Build Quality and Extras
Regarding extras, it’s a real shame that you need to purchase additional stands or cables for the optimal setup of the rear speakers. This adds to the overall cost and might be a point of contention for some buyers. On the warranty front, Samsung offers a standard warranty, but the duration is unspecified, which is somewhat disappointing. I would advise checking this detail at the point of purchase to avoid any surprises down the line.
Who is this product best suited to?
If You’re an Audiophile Seeking Immersive Sound
With its 17 speakers, including up-firing rear speakers, the Samsung Q930C is a dream for audiophiles. The soundbar delivers a rich, immersive audio experience that truly shines with Dolby Atmos content. Whether you’re watching movies, playing video games, or streaming music, the sound quality is outstanding.
If You’re a Smart Home Enthusiast
The seamless integration with Alexa and compatibility with Spotify accounts make the Samsung Q930C a smart choice for those invested in smart home technology. Voice commands work flawlessly, allowing for easy control over your entertainment setup without lifting a finger.
If You Value Aesthetic and Functionality
The soundbar’s sleek design and compact dimensions make it an ideal choice for those who have limited space but refuse to compromise on sound quality. Its wireless connectivity options also help reduce cable clutter, keeping your living space tidy and stylish.
Who should avoid this
Value for Money
Considering its price point, the Samsung Q930C soundbar offers a robust set of features and performance that justify its cost to a large extent. However, when compared to competitors, it’s apparent that you’re paying a premium for the brand and the advanced features like Dolby Atmos and smart home integration. Whether it’s worth the investment depends on how much value you place on these features. For gaming and movie enthusiasts seeking a top-tier audio experience, it’s a compelling choice. However, for those with simpler needs or tighter budgets, there might be more cost-effective options available.
