LG SC9S 3.1.3-Channel Soundbar: Tested and Reviewed

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The LG SC9S 3.1.3-Channel Soundbar is designed to deliver a powerful and immersive audio experience, particularly when paired with LG OLED evo C Series TVs. It boasts advanced features such as Dolby Atmos, triple up-firing channels, WOW Orchestra capabilities, and AI Room Calibration Pro, elevating home audio to near-cinematic levels. In this detailed review, we explore its features, performance, pros, and cons to help you decide if the LG SC9S is the right soundbar for your space.

LG SC9S 3.1.3-Channel Soundbar
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LG SC9S Key Features and Specifications

Below is a table summarizing the key features and specifications:

FeatureDetails
BrandLG
Channels3.1.3-Channel
Audio Output ModeSurround
Triple Up-Firing SpeakersIncludes up-firing center channel for enhanced dialogue clarity
ConnectivityBluetooth, HDMI, Wi-Fi
WOW OrchestraCombines soundbar and LG OLED TV audio for a harmonized sound experience
AI Room Calibration ProOptimizes audio settings to the room environment
Smart Up-MixerEnhances stereo audio to multi-channel surround sound
Mounting TypeTabletop or Wall Mount (via included Synergy Bracket)
Eco-Friendly DesignContains 12% post-consumer recycled materials, validated by UL
Remote ControlAllows unified control of both TV and soundbar
Wireless SubwooferIncluded for deep bass performance
Input Voltage240 volts
Special FeaturesDolby Atmos, Clear Voice Plus, Triple Level Spatial Sound, WOWCAST
LG SC9S 3.1.3-Channel Soundbar
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LG SC9S Performance

Sound Quality

Immersive Sound Experience with Dolby Atmos

The LG SC9S takes surround sound to the next level with triple up-firing speakers, delivering a wide soundstage and height effects that fill the room for an immersive cinematic experience. The inclusion of an industry-first up-firing center channel focuses on dialogue clarity, ensuring that voices in movies and shows are crisp and stand out against background sounds—a boon for avid movie watchers and gamers.

However, customer feedback is mixed regarding dialogue clarity, with some users reporting voices as difficult to hear without adjusting manual settings, suggesting that the Clear Voice Plus feature might not cater equally to all types of audio content.

WOW Orchestra and WOWCAST

The WOW Orchestra harmoniously syncs the soundbar’s audio with the speakers of LG OLED evo C TVs, boosting sound depth and clarity. This feature produces richer sound by using both the TV and soundbar as complementary audio sources. Additionally, WOWCAST ensures wireless Dolby Atmos streaming, removing the need for HDMI cables while maintaining high-quality sound output.

This functionality is particularly advantageous for users who prioritize a clean, clutter-free setup. That said, the requirement for LG TVs to utilize these features fully could be limiting for non-LG users.

AI Room Calibration Pro

The enhanced AI Room Calibration Pro allows the soundbar to optimize its settings based on the room’s dimensions and acoustics. This ensures that regardless of your space’s shape or size, audio is fine-tuned to your environment. Thanks to this intelligent calibration feature, even first-time users can achieve optimal sound without spending hours fiddling with manual adjustments.

Bass and Subwoofer Performance

The included wireless subwoofer provides robust bass performance, enhancing low-frequency sounds for action scenes, music, and gaming. The wireless connectivity ensures hassle-free placement flexibility, but placement away from walls or in acoustically poor areas may result in weaker bass perception.

Design and Build

Built to complement LG OLED evo C Series TVs, the soundbar is sleek and modern. The LG OLED Synergy Bracket provides a versatile mounting solution, either as a TV stand or a wall-mount option, ensuring clean alignment and optimal sound positioning. Beyond aesthetics, the eco-friendly design containing 12% recycled materials aligns well with environmentally conscious consumers.

Connectivity and Usability

With Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HDMI connectivity, the SC9S supports seamless integration with modern devices such as smartphones, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. The ability to control both the soundbar and LG TV with a single remote through the WOW Interface is a convenient touch, simplifying audio settings and volume adjustments.

However, for non-LG TV users, some features like WOW Orchestra and WOWCAST are unavailable, limiting the soundbar’s full potential.

LG SC9S 3.1.3-Channel Soundbar
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LG SC9S Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Triple up-firing speakers, including center channel, for clearer dialogueMixed feedback on Clear Voice Plus and dialogue clarity
WOW Orchestra enhances sound depth by syncing with LG OLED TVsExclusively optimized for LG TVs, limiting functionality for other brands
AI Room Calibration Pro delivers tailored sound adjustments
Eco-friendly design with recycled materials
Wireless Dolby Atmos via WOWCAST eliminates cable clutter
LG SC9S 3.1.3-Channel Soundbar
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FAQ About LG SC9S Soundbar

1. What makes the LG SC9S soundbar unique?

The LG SC9S is the world’s first soundbar with triple up-firing speakers, including a center channel for improved dialogue clarity. It also features WOW Orchestra, allowing it to sync with LG OLED evo C Series TV speakers for a more immersive audio experience.

2. How does the AI Room Calibration Pro work?

The AI Room Calibration Pro analyzes your room’s dimensions and acoustics, automatically adjusting the soundbar’s audio settings to provide the best sound experience tailored to your environment.

3. Does the soundbar work with non-LG TVs?

Yes, the soundbar works with non-LG TVs via Bluetooth, HDMI, or Wi-Fi connections. However, certain features like WOW Orchestra and WOW Interface are exclusive to LG OLED TVs.

4. Is the wireless Dolby Atmos feature available for all users?

The WOWCAST feature enables wireless Dolby Atmos if paired with compatible LG TVs. For non-compatible TVs, Dolby Atmos can still be accessed via HDMI ARC or eARC, provided your audio source supports it.

5. Does the soundbar support rear speakers?

Yes, the LG SC9S is rear speaker ready, allowing users to expand their audio setup for true surround sound. Rear speakers are sold separately.

Conclusion

The LG SC9S 3.1.3-Channel Soundbar is an impressive and feature-packed audio solution, particularly for LG OLED evo C Series TV owners. Its triple up-firing speakers, Dolby Atmos, and advanced technologies like AI Room Calibration Pro and WOW Orchestra elevate the viewing and listening experience to cinematic levels. Furthermore, eco-conscious users may appreciate its recycled material design.

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