The Samsung HW-Q800C is a 5.1.2 channel soundbar compatible with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. It includes all the characteristics of its predecessor HW-Q800B and only provides compatibility with the Q-Symphony 3.0 functionality.
Strong points
Homogeneous and balanced sound reproduction.
Side surround effects accurately reproduced.
Absolutely incredible sound power.
Remarkable subwoofer (responsiveness, precision, power).
Careful design.
Weak points
Slightly messy elevation effects.
Tiny display, no interface on the TV.
Does not support 4K/120Hz streams and VRR.
Perfectly identical to its predecessor HW-Q800B, the Samsung HW-Q800C still offers honorable performance with breathtaking power and an immersive soundstage, which however still lacks a little precision. If you are the lucky owner of an HW-Q800B, this HW-Q800C is of no interest. On the other hand, if you are looking for a high-performance soundbar, equally at home with cinematic, musical and video game content, it will delight you.
NB: The reported price drop is calculated by comparing the lowest price of the day with the average of the lowest prices charged by all merchants for the product last month, with security rules to exclude the prices of stores whose the VAT policy is not clear (so-called “gray” stores, typically in the case of imports from China).
Alternatively
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is certainly only a very minor evolution of the first Beam of the name, but it does not need more to remain one of the most recommendable compact soundbars on the market. Its remarkably musical and immersive sound (despite anecdotal Dolby Atmos compatibility) combines with a connected audio ecosystem of unparalleled completeness and maturity to form a very attractive whole. Be careful, however, with its ultra-minimalist connectivity, which could be a source of frustration in certain installations.