Samsung’s 2021 soundbars have subwoofer microphones because bass


    
    Samsung
    


    This story is part of CES, where CNET covers the latest news on the most incredible tech coming soon.
    


    Samsung has unveiled its soundbars for CES 2021?and key features include calibration microphones, Dolby Atmos playback and even better matching with QLED?TVs.
    The company is planning a range of S series and Q series soundbars?in 2021. These include more models compatible with Dolby Atmos, such as the HW-Q800A pictured above.
    Features of the 2021 range include a new, one-click Bass Boost mode and Tap Sound, which lets you tap your mobile device to your soundbar to wirelessly pair it. The soundbars will also be compatible with Apple AirPlay 2.
    


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    Though Samsung’s Bixby voice assistant is seemingly lost in the weeds when it comes to home audio, a number of the company’s high-end soundbars will now support?Amazon’s Alexa with onboard microphones.
    The entry-level S series offers onboard (sub)woofers but the company says they can be paired with the existing W500 for $299 if you want more bass. Samsung said the S series offers more power than previous models — they now go up to 70 watts.
    Certain bars will also include Space Fit Sound which is an autocalibration routine with microphones on the soundbar as well as on the subwoofer. Samsung says mounting the mic on the subwoofer itself helps improve bass performance.
    The company has upgraded its integration with Q series TVs with?Q-Symphony, which allows the onboard TV speakers (Q60, Q70 and AU8000) to act as heights. It’s also added Object Tracking Sound Pro. In 2021, flagship models’ sound will be upgraded from OTS Plus to OTS Pro, with two additional tweeters for better surround placement and clarity.
    The company is also producing a wireless Dolby Atmos rears kit for use with the Q series bars.
    Pricing, model numbers and availability are yet to be announced, but more is expected to be revealed in the coming weeks.