Samsung HW-N950 and HW-N850, Dolby Atmos and DTS: X sound bars

Samsung HW-N950 and HW-N850, sound bars with Dolby Atmos and DTS: X

Sound bars are an ideal complement to our television. They allow to achieve an improved sound without the need to resort to complicated installations. But, as in any other range of products, they are not all the same. The high-end models offer compatibility with the latest systems on the market, as well as a greater number of speakers. This is the case of the new Samsung HW-N950 and N850 HW-two bars high - end sound compatible with DTS and Dolby Atmos: X .

After a year without updating its most important sound bars, Samsung is launching two new models this year. The Samsung HW-N950 is the top of the line and features 7.1.4 channel audio . This is achieved through the two wireless rear speakers that it includes. On the other hand, the Samsung HW-N850 also supports Dolby Atmos tracks, but dispenses with the rear speakers . We are going to know its characteristics.

Comparative sheet

Samsung HW-N950Samsung HW-N850
Power512W372W
Number of channels7.1.45.1.2
Number of speakers1713
SubwooferYes, wirelessYes, wireless
Rear speakersYes, wirelessNot
Sound formatsDolby Digital, Dolby True HD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-X, DTS, DTS HDDolby Digital, Dolby True HD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-X, DTS, DTS HD
4K HDR videoCompatibleCompatible
Connectivity2 x HDMI 2.0, Optical2 x HDMI 2.0, Optical
WirelessBT 4.0, dual band WiFiBT 4.0, dual band WiFi
Dimensions (sound bar)1226 x 83 x 136 mm1226 x 83 x 136 mm
Weight8.8 kg8.8 kg
Release dateSeptember 2018September 2018
Price$ 1,700$ 1,200

Samsung HW-N950

Samsung HW-N950 dolby atmos soundbar launch

The Samsung HW-N950 soundbar is the company's new flagship. It is composed of no less than 7.1.4 channels, with a total of 17 speakers and a combined power of 512W .

The center unit has top and side speakers . The former “shoot” the sound towards the ceiling so that it appears that the sound is coming from above. The side speakers, located on each side of the bar, allow you to create a fuller surround sound, bouncing off the side walls of the room.

To complete the surround sound setup the Samsung HW-N950 includes two rear speakers and a wireless subwoofer . It is also compatible with HD audio playback and is equipped with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Samsung HW-N950 includes two HDMI inputs, one of them ARC, and one digital optical . The HDMI inputs are compatible with 4K HDR signal pass-through, although the manufacturer has not specified whether they will be compatible with Dolby Vision. It is very likely that this is not the case, as Samsung has decided to support the HDR10 + system.

In short, we are facing a very high-end sound bar, which allows you to have an surround audio system without the need to run cables throughout the room. The Samsung HW-N950 will arrive in Europe next September . Its price in euros has not yet been revealed, but we have located it in a North American dealer with a price of $ 1,700.

Samsung HW-N850

launch soundbar Samsung HW-N850 bar

The Samsung HW-N850 is pretty much the same soundbar, but without rear speakers. We thus have a 5.1.2 channel system, with a front system made up of 13 speakers . This includes the two height speakers and the two side projection speakers.

The HW-N850 includes the same wireless subwoofer as its big sister. It also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS: X sound . But the best thing is that, if we finally regret it and want to complete the set with some rear speakers, these can be purchased separately and include the system later.

By eliminating the two rear speakers the total power of the set is reduced to 372W. Otherwise we have the same features, including WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity . We also have two HDMI inputs compatible with 4K HDR signals and with a digital lens.

Both the Samsung HW-N950 and HW-N850 include Samsung's SmartThings system . This allows us to add wireless speakers to our network, giving us greater control over the audio throughout the house.

Like its older sister, the Samsung HW-N850 will hit the European market next September . Its official price in Europe has not been disclosed, but we know that in the United States it will cost $ 1,200.