For weeks, the Samsung HW-B650/ZN Black soundbar has been the soundtrack to my movie nights and music listening sessions. This review aims to provide a detailed and honest assessment of this mid-range offering, considering its features, performance, and overall value. I’ve subjected it to a rigorous testing regime, encompassing various audio sources and listening scenarios to give you a comprehensive perspective.

The HW-B650/ZN boasts several key features designed to enhance the listening experience. Its headline feature is undoubtedly the DTS Virtual:X technology, which aims to deliver a convincing 3D surround sound experience without the need for multiple speakers. The included subwoofer contributes a satisfyingly deep and powerful bass response, adding weight and impact to movies and music. The Adaptive Sound Lite feature automatically adjusts the audio to optimize for different content types, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable sound regardless of the source. Clear dialogue is also a priority, thanks to the inclusion of a center channel speaker. Finally, the option for Bluetooth connectivity eliminates the need for messy cables when connecting to compatible Samsung TVs.

In terms of performance, the HW-B650/ZN delivers on its promises. The DTS Virtual:X does create a palpable sense of spaciousness, though purists might find it doesn’t quite match a true multi-speaker setup. However, for its price point, the virtual surround effect is impressive, enveloping the listener with sound and enhancing the cinematic experience considerably. The subwoofer provides a robust and controlled bass response, complementing the clarity of the mid and high frequencies. I found the Adaptive Sound Lite worked well, seamlessly adjusting the audio levels to suit different content, preventing dialogue from being lost during loud action sequences. The center channel speaker ensures dialogue remains clear and intelligible, even at lower volumes.

I tested the soundbar with various sources, including movies streamed from Netflix and Disney+, music from Spotify, and gaming on my PlayStation 5. Across all sources, the HW-B650/ZN performed admirably, demonstrating its versatility and capability. The Bluetooth connection was seamless and stable throughout my testing.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Immersive 3D surround sound, powerful bass, clear dialogue, Adaptive Sound Lite, Bluetooth connectivity, easy setup.
• Cons: Virtual surround sound doesn’t match a dedicated multi-speaker system, may lack high-end audiophile quality.

The Samsung HW-B650/ZN Black soundbar offers a compelling blend of features and performance at a competitive price. Its DTS Virtual:X and Adaptive Sound Lite technologies provide a significant upgrade over standard TV speakers, making it ideal for users seeking an enhanced audio experience without breaking the bank. While it doesn’t reach the heights of high-end soundbars, its strengths in clarity, bass, and convenience make it a strong contender in its class. I would wholeheartedly recommend the HW-B650/ZN to anyone looking for a significant improvement in their TV’s audio without the complexity or cost of a more elaborate home theater system.