TV Evaluator Prefers Specific Feature Over OLED, Willing to Spend Extra
In today's economy, not everyone is willing to spend several thousand dollars on a high-end AV receiver, speakers, and subwoofer setup. Thankfully, some TV manufacturers are stepping up their game when it comes to built-in speaker technology, aiming to provide a more immersive audio experience without breaking the bank.
One such manufacturer is Panasonic, whose flagship OLED models like the Z95B and Z95A have made significant strides. The Z95B features redesigned speaker placement, including up-firing and side-firing speakers positioned wider apart near the top frame, enabling a wider and more immersive soundstage. It incorporates a 30W subwoofer integrated inside the TV, which enhances bass reproduction—an uncommon feature in built-in speakers. Panasonic's partnership with Technics contributes to dynamic, immersive Dolby Atmos sound, offering clear dialogue, a spacious soundstage, and relatively deep bass for TV speakers.
Sony, on the other hand, employs a different approach with its Acoustic Multi-Audio system found in TVs like the Bravia 7 and Bravia 8 II OLEDs. It uses actuators that turn the entire screen into a speaker, which enhances the spatial accuracy of sound, locking audio closely to onscreen images. The system delivers around 40W from four speakers (two full-range bass reflex drivers and two tweeters), producing a clean, well-positioned soundstage and good dialogue clarity.
Hisense has also improved its sound quality in recent flagship mini-LED models such as the U9N, noted for better audio than mid-range offerings like the U8N. However, while Hisense is recognized for pushing display technologies, its built-in sound systems still generally lag behind Panasonic and Sony’s premium setups.
When it comes to comparison, Panasonic’s built-in speakers, especially on high-end OLEDs, are among the best for immersive Dolby Atmos experiences without external sound equipment, helped by Technics collaboration and innovative speaker placement incorporating internal subwoofers. Sony’s screen-as-speaker design creates exceptional audio-visual synchronization with respectable power and clarity, favored for accurate dialogue and decent spatial sound, but with less bass impact than Panasonic’s. Hisense offers improved audio for its category but generally does not reach the advanced acoustic engineering present in Panasonic or Sony flagship TVs.
It's important to note that most other manufacturers still prioritize external audio systems (soundbars or surround setups) for best performance, often delivering TV speakers that are "just adequate." However, TV brands like Panasonic and Hisense are focusing on improving built-in TV speakers to complement the display at a nominal cost.
In the world of TVs, Sony makes some of the best OLED TVs, featuring Acoustic Surface Audio+ for improved audio performance. Acoustic Surface Audio+ requires an OLED display to function properly, and it uses special actuators behind the screen for dynamic sound effects and has two subwoofers for punchy, gritty audio.
Setting up a new TV correctly is also crucial to ensure an optimal viewing experience. Many people make common mistakes when setting up a new TV, and it's essential to ensure the audio settings are correctly adjusted for your room size and preferences.
In summary, Panasonic’s and Sony's advancements position their TVs' built-in speakers at the higher end of the market, with Panasonic slightly edging out in bass and immersion, Sony excelling in clarity and spatial accuracy, while Hisense improves but remains behind these leaders. These advancements are a welcome change for those who seek a more immersive audio experience without the need for additional equipment.
[1] Panasonic Z95B OLED TV Review: A Great All-Rounder [2] Sony Bravia 8K OLED TV Review: A Stellar Performance [3] Hisense U9N Mini-LED TV Review: A Step Up in Quality [4] Sony Bravia OLED TVs with Acoustic Surface Audio+: A Game Changer [5] Hisense U8QG Mini-LED TV Review: A Strong Contender in the Market
Home-and-garden enthusiasts may also appreciate the advancements in built-in speaker technology found in modern TVs, such as the Panasonic Z95B OLED and Sony Bravia series. This technology offers a more immersive audio experience without the need for additional gadgets, like speakers or subwoofers, that often require home setup. Furthermore, some TV brands, like Panasonic, are collaborating with audio pioneers, like Technics, to provide clear dialogue, spacious soundstages, and relatively deep bass for an immersive lifestyle enhancement, especially in high-end OLED models.
