I had a chance to test and compare two models: Sony HT-X8500 vs Samsung Q700B and this review should help people who are looking for a good soundbar. The Sony HT-X8500 was rated 6, while the Samsung Q700B has a rating 5.8.
Each of the models under consideration has active amplification type. A noticeable difference is the number of channels that HT-X8500 has 2.1 and Q700B has 3.1.2. A built-in subwoofer is available only in the Sony HT-X8500. Rate 6 out of 10 received the Sony HT-X8500 for audio features and specs, but the Samsung Q700B received 7 out of 10.
Soundbars do not have AirPlay support. The units in this comparison do not support Spotify.
Both models do not have a wireless Wi-Fi interface. Soundbars from this comparison have Bluetooth support. 1/1 HDMI inputs/outputs are in each of soundbars. As in the HT-X8500, so in the Q700B there is the HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC). Connecting devices via USB is possible in both models. The connectivity of each of the models was estimated at 8/10.
None of these soundbars can be controlled using the app. Soundbars in this review are not equipped with a microphone. The models under consideration cannot become part of a multiroom system.
Manufacturers equipped both units with Dolby Atmos audio decoder. Units from this comparison can process surround sound due to DTS:X support. The same score of 10/10 was put to the soundbars for multichannel surround support.