Samsung HW-Q990D vs Sony BRAVIA Theater Quad with Bass Module

The Samsung HW-Q990D and the Sony BRAVIA Theater Quad + Bass Module are both top-of-the-line offerings from their respective manufacturers. The Sony is configured as four discrete speakers with a subwoofer and control box, whereas the Samsung is an 11.1.4 setup with a subwoofer, two satellite speakers, and a more conventional bar at the center. While both setups are good options for a home theater system, the Samsung represents better value. It has a more balanced default frequency response, with more sound enhancement options, plus it can get louder with less compression. The Sony's configuration means that it has a wider, more immersive soundstage, but this comes at the expense of clarity in the center. The Sony is also hampered somewhat by high latency across all connection types, which could prove troublesome for gamers.