LG has unveiled the S95QR, a flagship soundbar system configured for 9.1.5-channel playback and rated at 810W total output. The package includes the main soundbar, a wireless subwoofer and two rear satellite speakers, with its design placing particular emphasis on height effects for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X soundtracks.
Five up-firing drivers across the system
The defining feature of the LG S95QR is its five upward-firing drivers. One is positioned centrally in the soundbar, while two further up-firing units sit at its sides. The remaining two are integrated into the supplied rear satellite speakers.
LG says the centrally positioned upward-firing driver contributes to cleaner dialogue, while the wider five-driver arrangement is intended to create a more enveloping overall presentation. In practical terms, distributing height drivers between the front soundbar and the rear speakers is designed to give Atmos and DTS:X mixes a more complete sense of sound above and around the listening position.
Rear speakers do more than provide surround effects
The included satellite speakers are a key part of the S95QR system rather than simple rear-channel add-ons. Alongside their built-in upward-firing drivers, they incorporate drivers handling the side and rear channels. This helps the package deliver its 9.1.5-channel configuration without relying solely on processing from the soundbar itself.
Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and gaming-friendly pass-through
The S95QR is designed to handle both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, the two principal object-based surround formats used across films, TV and streaming content. LG also says it should work seamlessly with modern set-top boxes, turntables and media players.
For setup, the soundbar includes an automatic room-calibration system, intended to tailor its output to the acoustics of the room. It can also pass through HDR signals with VRR and ALLM, features of particular relevance to users connecting current games consoles and other gaming hardware through their AV system.
Voice control and multichannel lossless music
Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant are supported for voice control. LG also highlights multichannel playback of lossless music through Meridian Audio Horizon technology, although this requires the optional Wowcast module.
The LG S95QR is due to be unveiled at CES 2022. Pricing and a launch date had not been announced at the time of unveiling.
