Introduction
When it comes to purchasing a smart TV, picture quality often takes center stage. However, one factor that is often overlooked but equally important is the sound quality. A TV with exceptional sound can provide an immersive viewing experience, allowing you to fully enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows, and sports events.
With advancements in technology, many smart TVs now come equipped with powerful built-in speakers or advanced audio systems that deliver crystal-clear sound and deep bass. But which smart TV truly stands out from the rest in terms of sound quality?
In this article, we will explore the top contenders in the smart TV market that offer exceptional sound. We will consider factors such as speaker configuration, audio processing technology, and overall sound performance to determine which smart TV has the best sound.
It’s important to note that sound perception is subjective, and what may sound great to one person may not have the same impact on another. Therefore, it is recommended to audition the TV models in person, if possible, to truly appreciate their sound capabilities.
Before we dive into the individual smart TVs, let’s talk about the factors to consider when evaluating the sound quality of a smart TV.
Factors to Consider
When assessing the sound quality of a smart TV, there are several key factors to consider. Understanding these aspects will help you make an informed decision and choose a TV that provides an immersive and enjoyable audio experience.
Speaker Configuration: The number and arrangement of speakers greatly impact the sound quality. TVs with multiple speakers, such as a 2.1 or 5.1 channel setup, tend to offer a more immersive audio experience compared to those with a single speaker.
Audio Processing Technology: Advanced audio processing technologies, such as Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, can significantly enhance the sound quality by creating a three-dimensional audio experience. These technologies simulate sound coming from different directions, providing a more realistic and captivating audio performance.
Frequency Response and Range: The frequency response refers to the range of audio frequencies a TV can reproduce. A wider frequency response indicates the TV can handle a broader range of sounds, delivering more detail and accuracy. Look for TVs that can reproduce low frequencies (bass) as well as high frequencies (treble) to ensure a balanced and rich sound.
Sound Modes and Equalizers: Smart TVs often come with various sound modes and equalizer settings that allow you to customize the audio output based on your preferences. Look for TVs that provide a range of presets and manual adjustments, enabling you to optimize the sound according to the content you are watching or your personal taste.
Connectivity Options: Consider the available audio connectivity options on the smart TV. HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) allows you to connect external audio devices, such as soundbars or home theater systems, for a more immersive sound experience.
User Reviews and Expert Recommendations: It’s always helpful to read user reviews and seek expert recommendations to gain insights into the sound quality of a particular smart TV model. Keep in mind that individual preferences may vary, so take multiple opinions into account.
Now that we have a better understanding of the factors to consider, let’s explore the top contenders in the smart TV market that offer exceptional sound.
LG OLED CX
The LG OLED CX is renowned for its exceptional picture quality, but it also delivers an impressive sound performance. It features a 2.2 channel speaker system with a total output of 40 watts, ensuring a powerful and immersive audio experience.
With support for Dolby Atmos, the LG OLED CX can create a virtual surround sound experience, making you feel like you’re in the midst of the action. The upward-firing speakers add height to the audio, delivering a more three-dimensional soundstage.
Additionally, the OLED technology in this TV allows for precise sound reproduction. It can handle both the delicate nuances and the deep bass notes with clarity and accuracy, resulting in a balanced and immersive audio experience.
The LG OLED CX also offers an AI Sound Pro feature that automatically analyzes and optimizes the audio based on the content you’re watching. This ensures that the dialogues are clear, the background sound effects are distinct, and the overall audio quality is enhanced.
Furthermore, the TV has HDMI eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) support, allowing you to connect compatible external sound systems and take advantage of their advanced audio processing capabilities.
In user reviews and expert assessments, the LG OLED CX consistently receives praise for its remarkable sound quality, complementing its stunning visual performance. Whether you’re watching a thrilling action movie or enjoying a live sports event, this smart TV delivers an audio experience that truly enhances your viewing pleasure.
In summary, the LG OLED CX stands out for its powerful speakers, Dolby Atmos support, precise sound reproduction, AI Sound Pro feature, and HDMI eARC compatibility. It’s a top choice for those seeking a smart TV that excels in both picture and sound quality.
Samsung QLED Q90T
The Samsung QLED Q90T is a high-end smart TV that not only delivers stunning visuals but also boasts an impressive sound performance. With its 4.2.2 channel speaker system and a total audio output of 60 watts, this TV offers a rich and immersive audio experience.
Equipped with Object Tracking Sound+ technology, the Q90T creates a sense of movement and directionality in the sound, making it feel like the audio is coming from the specific objects on the screen. This provides a more realistic and engaging audio experience, especially in action-packed movies or games.
The TV also supports Dolby Atmos, enhancing the soundstage and adding depth to the audio. The upward-firing speakers produce overhead sound, creating a captivating three-dimensional effect that envelops you in sound.
Furthermore, the QLED Q90T features Adaptive Sound+, which automatically adjusts the audio settings based on the content and the TV’s surroundings. It analyzes the audio signal and optimizes it to deliver crystal-clear dialogues, distinct sound effects, and an overall balanced audio experience.
In terms of connectivity, the Q90T offers HDMI eARC, allowing you to connect compatible soundbars or home theater systems for a more immersive sound experience. It also supports Bluetooth connectivity, enabling you to connect wireless headphones or speakers effortlessly.
When it comes to sound quality, the Samsung QLED Q90T receives high praise from both users and experts. The combination of its powerful speaker system, Object Tracking Sound+ technology, Dolby Atmos support, and Adaptive Sound+ feature makes it a top contender in terms of audio performance.
In summary, the Samsung QLED Q90T offers a superior sound experience with its 4.2.2 channel speaker system, Object Tracking Sound+, Dolby Atmos support, Adaptive Sound+ technology, and versatile connectivity options. Whether you’re watching movies, playing games, or enjoying music, this smart TV delivers an immersive and captivating audio experience.
Sony A8H BRAVIA OLED
The Sony A8H BRAVIA OLED is a premium smart TV known for its exceptional picture quality, and it doesn’t disappoint in terms of sound performance either. With its Acoustic Surface Audio technology, this TV offers a unique and immersive sound experience.
Unlike traditional TVs, the A8H BRAVIA OLED has actuators behind the screen that vibrate to emit sound directly from the panel itself. This innovative approach eliminates the need for dedicated speakers, resulting in sound that feels like it’s coming from the exact source on the screen. It creates a truly captivating audio experience that complements the stunning visual display.
With support for Dolby Atmos, the Sony A8H delivers an expansive and three-dimensional soundstage. The upward-firing speakers, combined with the Acoustic Surface Audio technology, provide a sense of height and depth to the audio, creating a truly immersive experience.
Additionally, the TV features Clear Phase technology, which ensures accurate and balanced audio reproduction across different frequencies. This results in precise and natural sound, allowing you to hear every detail of the audio content with clarity.
The A8H BRAVIA OLED also offers various sound modes, including Cinema, Music, Game, and Voice. These presets optimize the audio settings based on the type of content, delivering the best possible sound experience for each scenario.
Furthermore, the TV supports HDMI eARC, allowing you to connect external sound systems and take advantage of advanced audio processing technologies. It also features Bluetooth connectivity, enabling you to easily connect wireless headphones or speakers.
Users and experts alike have praised the Sony A8H BRAVIA OLED for its impressive sound quality. The combination of Acoustic Surface Audio technology, Dolby Atmos support, Clear Phase technology, and versatile sound modes make it a top choice for those seeking a premium smart TV with exceptional audio performance.
In summary, the Sony A8H BRAVIA OLED sets itself apart with its innovative Acoustic Surface Audio technology, Dolby Atmos support, Clear Phase technology, and customizable sound modes. Whether you’re watching movies, listening to music, or gaming, this smart TV delivers a captivating and immersive sound experience.
Vizio P-Series Quantum X
The Vizio P-Series Quantum X is a top contender when it comes to both picture quality and sound performance. With its 2.1.2 channel speaker system and a total audio output of 40 watts, this TV delivers impressive audio immersion.
With built-in DTS Virtual:X technology, the Quantum X creates a virtual surround sound experience without the need for additional speakers. The audio is processed to simulate a multi-channel setup, enhancing the spatial sound and bringing the action to life.
In addition, the TV supports Dolby Atmos, allowing for a more immersive soundstage with overhead sound effects. The upward-firing speakers further enhance the audio experience, delivering a more captivating and three-dimensional sound performance.
Furthermore, the Vizio P-Series Quantum X features a dedicated audio processor that optimizes the sound quality based on the content. It analyzes the audio signals and adjusts the settings to ensure clear dialogues, rich sound effects, and an overall balanced audio experience.
The TV also offers a variety of sound modes, including Movie, Music, Game, and Sports, allowing you to customize the audio settings to suit your preferences and the content you’re watching.
In terms of connectivity, the Quantum X supports HDMI ARC, enabling you to connect compatible soundbars or home theater systems for enhanced audio performance. It also features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily connect wireless headphones or speakers.
User reviews and expert evaluations consistently highlight the Vizio P-Series Quantum X’s impressive sound quality. Its advanced audio technologies, virtual surround sound capabilities, Dolby Atmos support, and customizable sound modes make it a strong competitor in terms of audio performance.
In summary, the Vizio P-Series Quantum X stands out with its 2.1.2 channel speaker system, DTS Virtual:X technology, Dolby Atmos support, dedicated audio processor, and versatile sound modes. Whether you’re watching movies, playing games, or enjoying sports, this smart TV delivers an immersive and engaging sound experience.
TCL 6-Series QLED
The TCL 6-Series QLED is a budget-friendly smart TV that offers impressive sound performance alongside its stunning visuals. With its built-in Onkyo speakers and a total output of 20 watts, this TV delivers a well-rounded audio experience.
The QLED technology in the TCL 6-Series ensures vibrant and lifelike colors on the screen, and the audio quality is also optimized to match the visual experience. The Onkyo speakers produce clear and balanced sound, immersing you in the action and enhancing your overall viewing experience.
While the TV does not have dedicated support for advanced audio technologies like Dolby Atmos, it still creates an immersive effect with its dual speakers. The sound is projected forward, creating a more focused and direct audio experience.
The TCL 6-Series QLED also features various sound modes, including Standard, Movie, Music, and Sports, allowing you to tailor the audio settings to suit different content genres. This customization enables you to optimize the sound output based on your preferences and the specific content you’re watching.
In terms of connectivity, the TV offers HDMI ARC support, allowing you to connect external sound systems such as soundbars or home theater systems for a more immersive audio experience.
Although the TCL 6-Series QLED may not offer the same level of audio performance as higher-end models, it provides a notable sound experience considering its affordable price point. The combination of Onkyo speakers, QLED technology, sound modes, and HDMI ARC support makes it a solid choice for those on a budget without compromising on the audio quality.
In summary, the TCL 6-Series QLED stands out with its Onkyo speakers, QLED technology, customizable sound modes, and HDMI ARC support. It offers a good audio experience at an affordable price, making it a great option for those who want impressive sound performance without breaking the bank.
Hisense H9G Quantum Series
The Hisense H9G Quantum Series is a smart TV that not only delivers stunning visuals but also boasts impressive sound quality. With its built-in speakers and a total audio output of 20 watts, this TV offers an immersive and enjoyable sound experience.
The H9G Quantum Series features a 2.0 channel speaker configuration, which produces clear and balanced sound. While it may not have the same power as higher-end models, it still delivers a satisfying audio performance, making it ideal for everyday viewing.
In terms of audio technologies, this TV supports Dolby Atmos. Although it doesn’t have dedicated upward-firing speakers, it uses advanced audio processing to create a virtual surround sound effect. This helps to create a more immersive and spacious audio experience.
Furthermore, the H9G Quantum Series offers various sound modes, including Standard, Theater, Music, and Sports. These presets allow you to optimize the audio settings based on the content you’re watching, ensuring an enhanced sound experience tailored to your preferences.
Connectivity options for the Hisense H9G Quantum Series include HDMI ARC, which enables you to connect external sound systems and take advantage of more advanced audio capabilities if desired.
User reviews of the Hisense H9G Quantum Series praise its impressive sound quality considering its price point. While it may not offer the same level of audio performance as higher-end models, it still delivers a satisfying and immersive sound experience that enhances the overall viewing experience.
In summary, the Hisense H9G Quantum Series stands out with its clear and balanced built-in speakers, support for Dolby Atmos, customizable sound modes, and HDMI ARC connectivity. It offers an immersive audio experience at an affordable price, making it a solid choice for those seeking both impressive visuals and sound quality in a smart TV.
Philips OLED 804
The Philips OLED 804 is a premium smart TV that offers not only exceptional picture quality but also impressive sound performance. With its built-in speaker system and a total audio output of 50 watts, this TV provides a rich and immersive audio experience.
The OLED technology in the Philips OLED 804 allows for precise sound reproduction. The speakers are strategically placed to provide a wide soundstage, ensuring that the audio fills the room and creates a captivating and immersive effect.
With support for Dolby Atmos, this TV delivers a three-dimensional audio experience. The upward-firing speakers create overhead sound effects, adding depth and realism to the audio, enhancing your overall viewing experience.
The Philips OLED 804 also features Philips’ proprietary Ambilight technology, which projects ambient light onto the wall behind the TV. This not only enhances the visual experience but also contributes to the immersive sound by creating an atmosphere that complements the audio.
In terms of sound customization, the TV offers multiple sound modes, including Movie, Music, Game, and Sports. These presets optimize the audio settings for different content genres, ensuring an enhanced sound experience tailored to your preferences.
Connectivity options for the Philips OLED 804 include HDMI ARC, allowing you to connect external sound systems for an even more immersive audio experience. It also supports Bluetooth connectivity, enabling you to easily connect wireless headphones or speakers.
The sound quality of the Philips OLED 804 is highly regarded by both users and experts. The combination of its built-in speaker system, Dolby Atmos support, Ambilight technology, customizable sound modes, and versatile connectivity options makes it a top choice for those seeking a premium smart TV with impressive sound performance.
In summary, the Philips OLED 804 stands out with its precise sound reproduction, Dolby Atmos support, Ambilight technology, customizable sound modes, and versatile connectivity options. Whether you’re watching movies, gaming, or enjoying music, this smart TV delivers a captivating and immersive sound experience.
Panasonic HZ2000
The Panasonic HZ2000 is a high-end smart TV that excels in both picture quality and sound performance. With its custom-designed Technics speakers and a total audio output of 140 watts, this TV offers a truly immersive and powerful sound experience.
The HZ2000 features a 3.0 channel speaker configuration with upward-firing speakers, allowing for a more expansive and enveloping audio experience. The custom-designed Technics speakers deliver exceptional clarity and detail, producing rich and dynamic sound across a wide frequency range.
In addition to its impressive speaker configuration, the HZ2000 supports Dolby Atmos, enabling a three-dimensional audio experience. The upward-firing speakers and advanced audio processing techniques create a sense of height and depth, immersing you in a realistic and engaging soundstage.
What sets the Panasonic HZ2000 apart is its unique Intelligent Speaker concept. It uses AI-powered sound processing to analyze the audio content in real-time and adjust the sound settings accordingly. This ensures that the sound output is optimized for the specific content you’re watching, resulting in enhanced dialogues, distinct sound effects, and an overall balanced audio experience.
Furthermore, the TV offers various sound modes, including Cinema, Music, and Sports, to suit different content genres and personal preferences. The sound modes can be further customized to fine-tune the audio settings according to your liking.
In terms of connectivity, the HZ2000 supports HDMI eARC, allowing you to connect compatible external sound systems and take advantage of their advanced audio processing capabilities. Bluetooth connectivity is also available, enabling wireless connections to headphones or speakers.
The sound quality of the Panasonic HZ2000 is highly regarded by both users and experts. Its custom-designed Technics speakers, Dolby Atmos support, Intelligent Speaker concept, customizable sound modes, and versatile connectivity options make it a top choice for audiophiles and those seeking an exceptional sound experience to complement the stunning visuals.
In summary, the Panasonic HZ2000 stands out for its powerful custom-designed Technics speakers, Dolby Atmos support, Intelligent Speaker concept, customizable sound modes, and versatile connectivity options. Whether you’re watching movies, listening to music, or immersing yourself in gaming, this smart TV delivers an unmatched and immersive sound experience.
Sony X950H
The Sony X950H is a premium smart TV that offers exceptional picture quality, and its sound performance is equally impressive. With its built-in speaker system and a total audio output of 20 watts, this TV delivers a clear and immersive audio experience.
The X950H features a 2.2 channel configuration, which includes two dedicated tweeters and two full-range drivers. This speaker setup produces balanced sound, ensuring that dialogues are clear, sound effects are detailed, and the overall audio performance is immersive.
Furthermore, the TV supports Sony’s signature Sound-from-Picture Reality technology, which aligns the sound with the on-screen action. This creates a more synchronized audio-visual experience, enhancing your immersion in the content.
In terms of audio technologies, the X950H supports Dolby Atmos, adding a three-dimensional dimension to the soundstage. While the TV does not have dedicated upward-firing speakers, it uses advanced audio processing to create a virtualized audio effect, delivering an immersive and spacious sound experience.
The X950H also offers various sound modes, including Cinema, Music, Game, and Sports, allowing you to choose the preset that best suits the content you’re watching or customize the audio settings based on your preferences.
Connectivity options for the Sony X950H include HDMI ARC, enabling you to connect external sound systems such as soundbars or home theater systems for a more immersive sound experience.
In both user reviews and expert evaluations, the Sony X950H receives praise for its impressive sound quality. Its built-in speaker system, Sound-from-Picture Reality technology, Dolby Atmos support, customizable sound modes, and HDMI ARC connectivity contribute to delivering a captivating audio experience.
In summary, the Sony X950H stands out with its clear and immersive built-in speakers, Sound-from-Picture Reality technology, Dolby Atmos support, customizable sound modes, and HDMI ARC connectivity. Whether you’re watching movies, playing games, or enjoying sports, this smart TV offers an impressive audio performance that complements its stunning visuals.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing a smart TV with outstanding sound quality, there are several options worth considering. Each of the TVs mentioned in this article offers impressive audio performance, enhancing your overall viewing experience.
For those seeking a top-tier option, the LG OLED CX stands out with its powerful speakers, Dolby Atmos support, precise sound reproduction, AI Sound Pro feature, and HDMI eARC compatibility. It delivers an immersive audio experience that complements its stunning visuals.
The Samsung QLED Q90T is another excellent choice with its 4.2.2 channel speaker system, Object Tracking Sound+ technology, Dolby Atmos support, Adaptive Sound+ feature, and versatile connectivity options. It offers a captivating and three-dimensional audio performance.
In the mid-range category, the Sony A8H BRAVIA OLED impresses with its Acoustic Surface Audio technology, Dolby Atmos support, Clear Phase technology, versatile sound modes, and HDMI eARC connectivity. It provides a unique and immersive sound experience.
The Vizio P-Series Quantum X, TCL 6-Series QLED, and Hisense H9G Quantum Series are all budget-friendly options that still offer remarkable sound quality. Each model comes with its own strengths, such as built-in speakers, virtual surround sound capabilities, customizable sound modes, and HDMI ARC connectivity.
For those seeking a premium choice, the Philips OLED 804 and Panasonic HZ2000 are worth considering. The Philips OLED 804 offers precise sound reproduction, Dolby Atmos support, Ambilight technology, customizable sound modes, and versatile connectivity options. The Panasonic HZ2000 stands out with its custom-designed Technics speakers, Dolby Atmos support, Intelligent Speaker concept, customizable sound modes, and versatile connectivity options. Both models provide a truly immersive and powerful sound performance.
Lastly, the Sony X950H offers clear and immersive sound, sound synchronization with the on-screen action, Dolby Atmos support, customizable sound modes, and HDMI ARC connectivity. It delivers a great audio experience that complements its exceptional picture quality.
Remember, sound perception is subjective, and it’s recommended to listen to the TVs in person if possible to truly appreciate their sound capabilities. Consider factors such as speaker configuration, audio processing technology, frequency response, sound modes, and connectivity options when making your decision.
Whether you opt for a high-end model or a budget-friendly option, investing in a smart TV with exceptional sound quality will undoubtedly enhance your entertainment experience and bring your favorite content to life.
