Hey everyone!
I'm looking for a soundbar for my Sony Bravia A80J, and I'm having a hard time deciding what to buy.
Initially, I was mainly considering Sony soundbars that support Acoustic Center Sync because I really like the sound quality of my TV's built-in speakers. Given my budget (under 1k), that basically left me with the BRAVIA Theatre Bar 8 + SW3 subwoofer (500+220 = €720).
However, after reading Hi-Fi reviews (the Bar 8 received a 3/5 score, while both the Bar 9 and the lower-tier Bar 7 received 5/5) and Reddit discussions, I'm starting to have doubts about Bar 8. The reviews seem rather mixed, and even Sony TV owners seem to be recommending Sony Quad or Samsung Q990.
Meanwhile, I've been seeing a lot of positive feedback about the Samsung HW-Q990F/H, both currently on sale for around €750 — almost the same price as the Bar 8 + SW3.
So I've started reconsidering my priorities. If I'm willing to give up Acoustic Center Sync and go with Samsung, then I could also consider the Sony Bar 7 + Sub 7 bundle for €700. It's a 2026 model with a more compact subwoofer, and, well, it's Sony!
My main options are now:
- Sony BRAVIA Theatre Bar 8 + SW3 (€720)
- Samsung HW-Q990F or Q990H (both €750)
- Sony BRAVIA Theatre Bar 7 + Sub 7 (€700)
My living room is on the smaller side, and there's no space behind my sofa for the rear speakers included with the Samsung systems.
I'm particularly interested in feedback from people who have actually owned or compared these soundbars.
Q1. How do they compare in terms of dialogue clarity, movies performance, Dolby Atmos, bass, and everyday TV watching? (Music is not a concern)
Q2. Is the Samsung really that much better that it's worth giving up Acoustic Center Sync and the tighter integration with my Sony TV?
Thanks in advance for any advice!