The Samsung HW-Q800C uses two up-firing drivers built into the bar to bounce sound off the ceiling for the illusion of height. The frequency response on these channels is even, though it falls below our target curve, so some effects are less clear in the mix. It doesn’t come with rear speakers, so unless you add them on separately, you don’t notice the same all-around feel with sound effects.
Subjectively, we found the bar provides a pleasant listening experience. Details are crisp and clean in the mix, so you notice sound effects with clarity. The sub provides good rumble in the bass, too. As expected, though, there’s only some feeling of height, but you don’t get a very overhead feel, especially compared to the Samsung HW-Q990C. For example, a helicopter flying overhead seems like it’s coming from a place in front of you instead.
