TCL Q85H Sound Bar Review Powerful Dolby Atmos Audio with Wireless Subwoofer and Surrounds

Description

Immersive AUDIO Experience with the TCL Q85H Q Class 7.1.4 Channel Sound Bar

As someone who values crisp, clear sound for both movies and music, testing the TCL Q85H Q Class 7.1.4 Channel Sound Bar was a treat. This sound bar promised a cinema-like experience, and I was eager to see how it stacked up. From Dolby Atmos to the Ray Danz Technology, this system packs a punch, but like any product, there are some aspects worth considering.

Design and Setup

What struck me first was the sleek, modern design. The minimalist appearance makes it an excellent fit for nearly any living room setup. It doesn’t scream for attention, but its presence is undeniably premium and well-crafted. Setting it up was straightforward thanks to the single HDMI cable connectivity, which eliminates the typical clutter of wires. I also appreciated the wireless components, like the subwoofer and surround speakers, keeping the space tidy.

The sound bar itself features up-firing speakers, which are cleverly designed to reflect audio off the ceiling. The result? An immersive soundstage that envelops you in audio. The built-in center channel speaker is another thoughtful addition, ensuring that dialogue remains crystal clear—even during those chaotic action scenes.

Key Benefits

• Dolby Atmos and DTS:X deliver spatial audio, making you feel like you’re at the center of the action.
• The Ray Danz Technology creates a broader soundstage, enhancing the listening experience for larger rooms.
• Built-in tweeters add a layer of precision to high-frequency sounds, elevating music playback.
• Wireless components like the subwoofer and surround speakers make setup more flexible and less messy.

Performance and Sound Quality

Testing the sound bar with action-packed movies, the 860 watts of total power truly made an impression. Explosions were felt as much as they were heard, thanks to the wireless subwoofer with Bass Boost. The 6.5-inch driver does a stellar job of delivering those deep, rumbling tones, while the tweeters bring out the finer details like whispers and subtle sound effects.

Listening to music was equally satisfying. Streaming via Bluetooth worked seamlessly with my smartphone, and the sound was rich and full-bodied. What I loved most was how balanced the audio felt—neither too bass-heavy nor too tinny. Whether I played jazz, classical, or pop, the sound bar handled it all effortlessly.

Boons

• User-friendly Bluetooth streaming makes it easy to play music directly from your smartphone or tablet.
• The wireless subwoofer adds depth without requiring complicated wiring.
• Dialogue clarity is excellent, even in bass-heavy scenes, thanks to the built-in center channel.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its impressive features, there are a few things to keep in mind. While the Ray Danz Technology does widen the soundstage, it may feel a bit overwhelming in smaller spaces. The wireless surround speakers, though convenient, occasionally had slight syncing issues during my testing, which could be frustrating during critical scenes. And while the overall build quality feels robust, the remote control could use a bit of an upgrade—it felt somewhat cheap compared to the rest of the system.

• Syncing issues may occur with the wireless surround speakers.
• Ray Danz Technology might not be ideal in compact rooms.
• The remote control’s design feels less premium than the rest of the product.

Alternative Products

Comparing this sound bar to other high-end audio systems, it stands out for its Dolby Atmos support and wireless functionality. Competing models like those from Sonos and Bose offer similar features but tend to be more expensive. The Sonos Arc, for example, delivers remarkable audio clarity but lacks a wireless subwoofer unless purchased separately. Bose systems, while sleek and compact, don’t offer the same expansive soundstage as the Ray Danz-equipped TCL.

Where the TCL excels is its balance of power and price. The 860-watt output and up-firing speakers are features you’d typically find in systems costing significantly more. That said, brands like Samsung offer stiff competition, especially with models featuring adaptive sound technology that’s better suited for smaller room acoustics.

Financial Value

For the price, this system offers great value for its features. The 7.1.4 channel configuration, coupled with Dolby Atmos, puts it in a category of premium sound systems without the exorbitant cost. While some competitors might have a slight edge in compactness or syncing reliability, the TCL sound bar delivers a well-rounded experience that feels worth the investment.

If you’re looking for a versatile system that excels in both movies and music, this product is a solid contender. From the Ray Danz Technology to the wireless surround speakers, it’s a sound bar built to impress. However, it’s worth considering the room size and occasional syncing quirks before making a decision.