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Home theater systems: Samsung Q990D vs. Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3

Quick Verdict

The Samsung Q990D is a high-end soundbar system designed for immersive audio experiences, featuring more channels, higher power output, discrete rear speakers, and room calibration. The Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3 is a standalone soundbar that prioritizes simplicity and ease of use, with integrated subwoofer and Alexa built-in, but lacks DTS:X support and room calibration.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeSamsung Q990DBowers & Wilkins Panorama 3
Number of Channels11.1.43.1.2
Dolby Atmos SupportYes (Wireless Dolby Atmos with compatible 2022-2024 Samsung TVs)Yes (Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, Dolby TrueHD)
DTS:X SupportYesNo
Total Power Output (Watts)656W400W
Subwoofer Type (Wireless/Wired)WirelessIntegrated
Subwoofer Size (inches)8-inch4 inches
HDMI eARC SupportYesYes
Number of HDMI Inputs2 (All HDMI ports are 2.1 and support 4K/120Hz)1
Voice Assistant CompatibilityAmazon Alexa, Google Assistant, BixbyAmazon Alexa Built-in
Room Calibration TechnologySpaceFit Sound ProNo
Rear Speaker Configuration (Discrete/Virtual)Discrete (Up/Side-Firing Rear Speakers Included)Not applicable (standalone soundbar)
Soundbar Dimensions (W x H x D)48.5 x 2.7 x 5.4 inches (1232.0 x 69.5 x 138.0 mm)47.4" (120.3 cm) x 2.5" (6.4 cm) x 5.3" (13.5 cm) or 46.6" (1210 mm) W x 2.5" (65 mm) H x 5.5" (140 mm) D
PriceNot availableNot available
RatingsNot availableNot available

Overall Comparison

Samsung Q990D: 11.1.4 channels, 656W power, DTS:X support, discrete rear speakers. Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3: 3.1.2 channels, 400W power, integrated subwoofer, Alexa built-in.

Pros and Cons

Samsung Q990D

Pros:
  • Delivers sound from every angle with 11 front and surround channels, a subwoofer channel, and 4 up-firing channels for an immersive experience.
  • Creates an outstanding immersive experience with expert reproduction of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X soundtracks.
  • Delivers thumpy and punchy bass.
  • Bass is more present and seamlessly integrated, adding more weight to effects while sounding natural.
  • Delivers Dolby Atmos and DTS:X in a way that very few soundbar packages can match.
  • Has dedicated up-firing and side-firing drivers in both the sound bar and rear surround speakers, which gives true wraparound and overhead effects for sound that feels like it’s coming from every direction.
  • Setup is almost effortless.
  • Excels in delivering crystal-clear dialogue.
  • Adaptive Sound optimizes the audio settings based on each scene to keep voices clear, even at low volumes.
  • SpaceFit Sound Pro analyzes the room and tailors the sound to the space, and even fuses the heightened clarity and immersion with a dose of optimized bass.
  • Included rear speakers make use of your ceiling and walls to create dense layers of all-around sound.
  • Rear speakers have a more wide soundstage.
  • One of the best soundbars on the market.
Cons:
  • Some advanced features like wireless connectivity and room analysis require a recent Samsung TV.

Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3

Pros:
  • Easy setup
  • Clear dialogue reproduction
  • Responsive Alexa integration
  • Pronounced, punchy, and impactful bass (in some reviews)
Cons:
  • Narrow soundstage
  • Recessed treble
  • Lacks low-bass
  • No DTS:X support
  • Sound can be muddy (in some reviews)
  • Voices aren't always reproduced with complete clarity (in some reviews)
  • Limited physical inputs
  • Height sensation can be underwhelming

User Experiences and Feedback