In 2024, LG unveiled the S95TR soundbar, featuring a 9.1.5 sound configuration that includes a soundbar, rear speakers, and a subwoofer. Despite minimal changes on paper, can this new model effectively compete with other soundbars in the market? Has LG managed to outperform its predecessor, the LG S95QR, or does the performance remain consistent? Our evaluation of the LG S95TR will address these inquiries and more.
LG S95TR review
Design and equipment
LG has implemented some design enhancements in the S95TR soundbar compared to its predecessor. While the subwoofer and rear speakers have remained unchanged, the soundbar itself has undergone a modernization process. The central speaker at the top stands out, while the other two are discreetly integrated. The overall shape of the soundbar appears more streamlined.
The predominant material used in the S95TR is plastic, with LG claiming that the internals are made from recycled plastic. The build quality is commendable and consistent across all components of the set.
The dark gray color of the soundbar complements LG TVs perfectly and can also seamlessly blend in with other television sets. Setting up the S95TR is a straightforward process – simply power on each component, connect the TV via eARC, and you’re good to go.
Following the setup, it is recommended to download the LG Soundbar app for Android or iOS to update the software and fine-tune the sound settings. The app allows users to adjust sound preferences and even conduct room measurements. The AI Room Calibration feature helps optimize sound quality in challenging environments. Additionally, users can customize various settings using the app.
With a wide range of sound modes and equalizer settings available, users can easily tailor their audio experience. The remote control included with the soundbar resembles a TV Magic Remote and is user-friendly. However, due to the lack of a display on the soundbar, navigating through menus can be slightly challenging.
The soundbar features three multi-colored LEDs that indicate the source based on color and quantity. Furthermore, the voice prompts provide information on the selected sound mode. Touch-sensitive buttons are also present on the soundbar, located at the top for convenient access to changing sources or adjusting volume levels.
Configuration
LG is committed to delivering a cutting-edge 9.1.5 sound system for the S95TR. The inclusion of the number “5” in the setup may raise eyebrows for many consumers, as typically the number of high-altitude channels is a multiple of two. LG aims to impress with its fifth speaker, strategically positioned in the center of the soundbar to enhance the center channel. This feature mirrors what was promised in the LG S95QR model. However, one question remains unanswered – why elevate dialogues, which are meant for the central channel, to a higher position?
Surround Sound
With 9.1.5 channels and five integrated speakers, the S95TR soundbar is undeniably equipped with Dolby Atmos technology. To fully utilize this feature, it is recommended to provide the device with content that is directly compatible. Typically, such content can be sourced from discs.
Netflix also offers Dolby Atmos support, albeit with some minor compromises. When watching scenes set in rainy city streets, every sound is distinctly audible, and the nuances in the characters’ dialogues are crystal clear. The dialogue appears to be emanating directly from the screen, showcasing the soundbar’s exceptional performance.
However, a comparison with competitors like the LG SG10TY reveals that the bass on the LG S95TR may be overpowering. Fortunately, this can be adjusted using the accompanying app, allowing users to decrease the subwoofer volume by up to ten decibels. Ultimately, the preference for bass intensity is subjective and varies from one user to another.
By default, the bass levels may overshadow the intricate details that the other speakers in the soundbar’s surround system are capable of delivering. The app provides various test scenes for users to fine-tune the settings. Increasing the side speaker level by two decibels enhances the spaciousness of the sound output.
Playing music
The S95TR soundbar excels in music, showcasing clear bass, well-balanced sound, and excellent stability even at high volumes. Listening to music in Dolby Atmos format is truly enjoyable with this model. Nevertheless, it falls short of the exceptional quality offered by the Sennheiser Ambeo Plus, particularly in terms of pure stereo reproduction.
Connections
The S95TR acoustic panel offers a wide range of connectivity options. It features a USB port for direct playback, as well as wireless connectivity through Bluetooth. You can easily stream music directly or via Wi-Fi. Lossless streaming is made effortless with Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect. Additionally, Chromecast and AirPlay allow you to share your music seamlessly.
In addition to the aforementioned wireless options and USB port, the S95TR panel also includes an optical digital input and two HDMI jacks. One of the HDMI ports supports eARC, enabling easy connection to your TV. The other HDMI port serves as an input for connecting a PlayStation5. Notably, this port is equipped with all the expected features of HDMI 2.1.
To elaborate further, the S95TR panel supports VRR and ALLM, making it compatible with various devices. It can process 4K signals at a refresh rate of 120Hz, and even supports games with Dolby Vision. If you have a compatible LG TV, you can conveniently control the LG S95TR speaker bar wirelessly. Moreover, starting from 2022, all soundbars and OLED TVs support WOW Cast over Wi-Fi.
For older TV models, there is an alternative WOW Cast key available. With a reliable network connection, the stability of the connection is ensured, working seamlessly at the HDMI level. You can also adjust the soundbar sound modes using your LG TV. Additionally, the WOW Orchestra feature combines the sound of your TV and soundbar, enhancing your listening experience even further.
Conclusion
The S95TR from LG surpasses its predecessor in numerous aspects, particularly in terms of sound quality. However, in order to achieve the ultimate audio experience, the S95TR requires fine-tuning.
LG S95TR specifications:
| Soundbar | LG S95TR |
| Channel configuration | 9.1.5CH |
| Front speaker power | 35 W × 2 Surround + 35 W (center). + 35 W |
| Rear speaker power | 40 W x 2 |
| Subwoofer | |
| Power | 220 W |
| Connection | Wireless |
| Functional | |
| Amazon Alexa | Yes |
| Apple AirPlay 2 | Yes |
| Dolby Vision and HDR10 pass-through | Yes |
| Individual room setup | Yes |
| Spotify Connect | Yes |
| Connections | |
| Wireless | Bluetooth |
| Wi-Fi dual band | |
| Ports | 2 x HDMI 2.1 (HDCP 2.3) input |
| 1 x HDMI 2.1 (HDCP 2.2) output | |
| 1 x Digital optical input | |
| 1 x USB (5V/500mA) | |
| Formats | |
| Audio types | DTS Digital Surround, DTS-HD, DTS:X, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, LPCM, IMAX Enhanced |
| File formats | FLAC, AAC, OGG, WAV, MP3 |
| High Definition Audio | Up to 24bit/192kHz |
| Sound Modes | |
| Auto mode selection for content | AI Sound Pro |
| Effects | ASC, Standard (Meridian), Bass Blast +, Movie / DTS:X / Dolby Atmos |
| Modes | Night, Dynamic range control, AGC, equalizer |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 1250 x 63 x 135 mm |
| Subwoofer Dimensions (W x H x D) | 202 x 407 x 403 mm |
| Weight | 5.6 kg (soundbar), 10 kg (subwoofer), 4.1 kg (rear speakers) |