Samsung Soundbar User Guide

Table of Contents

• 01 Component Verification
• 02 Product Overview
• 03 Remote Control Usage
• 04 Connecting the Soundbar to Other Units
• 05 Connecting to a TV
• 06 Connecting an External Device
• 07 Connecting a Mobile Device
• 08 Installing the Soundbar on the Wall
• 09 Installing the Soundbar Above the TV Stand
• 10 Software Update
• 11 Troubleshooting
• 12 License

01 Component Verification

Ensure you have all the following components:

• Soundbar
• Remote Control/Batteries
• Subwoofer
• Surround Speakers (Left/Right) (HW-Q990F/HW-Q930F only)
• Power Cable (HW-Q990F/HW-Q930F only)
• Power Cable (HW-Q900F/HW-Q800F only)
• HDMI Cable
• Wall Mounting Guide
• Fixing Screws (x2)
• Screws (M4 x L10) (x2)
• Wall Mount Bracket
• Rubber Feet

Note: For more information on power and power consumption, refer to the label on the bottom or back of the product. For additional components or optional cables, contact a Samsung service center or customer support. Refer to pages 21-23 for details on wall mounting or rubber feet. Product design, specifications, and application interface are subject to change without notice. Colors and shapes of parts may vary from the illustration.

02 Product Overview

Top Panel

• Multi Button: Press to turn on the Soundbar from standby mode. Press to change the source.
• Volume Buttons (+/-): Adjust the volume.
• Microphone Button: Press to activate or deactivate the microphone. The LED indicator lights up red when the microphone is off and turns off when it's on. Press and hold for at least 3 seconds to enter BT PAIRING mode.

Display

Shows the current status or mode. The sequence is TV ARC or eARC → HDMI or HDMI 1/HDMI 2 → Wi-Fi → BT → D.IN.

It may take 4-5 seconds for the Soundbar to produce sound after being turned on.

If sound is output from both the TV and the Soundbar, select 'External Speaker' in the TV's audio settings menu.

03 Remote Control Usage

How to Use the Remote Control

• Batteries: Slide the battery cover off, insert AAA batteries, and slide the cover back on.
• Power Button: Turns the Soundbar on or off. The Soundbar will automatically turn off after 18 minutes of inactivity in standby mode.
• Source Button: Selects the connected device.
• Mute Button: Mutes or unmutes the sound.
• PAIR Button (Bluetooth Connection): Puts the Soundbar into Bluetooth pairing mode.

Button Functions

• Directional Buttons (Up/Down/Left/Right): Used for precise adjustments. Use Left/Right to skip tracks.
• Play/Pause Button: Starts or pauses playback.
• Mute Button: Mutes or unmutes the sound.
• Sound Mode Button: Selects the desired sound mode (Standard, Surround, Game Pro, Adaptive Sound).
• Info Button: Displays codec information or current status. For Bluetooth mode, it shows the connected or pairing device.
• CH LEVEL (Channel Level): Adjusts the volume for each speaker (Center, Side, Wide, Front Top, Rear, Rear Top, Rear Side).
• TONE CONTROL (Tone Control): Adjusts treble and bass levels.
• WOOFER (Subwoofer Level): Adjusts the subwoofer volume.
• Volume Buttons: Adjusts the overall volume.

Sound Control Features:

• SpaceFit Sound Pro: Analyzes your listening space for optimal audio quality.
• AVA (Active Voice Amplifier) Pro: Enhances voice clarity by analyzing external noise.
• Voice Enhance: Improves dialogue clarity in videos and TV shows.
• Night Mode: Optimizes listening at night by lowering volume while maintaining dialogue clarity.
• Sound Grouping: Plays sound simultaneously from the Soundbar and rear speakers for group listening.
• Private Rear: Sends audio only to the rear speakers for undisturbed listening.
• Sync: Adjusts audio delay for synchronized video and audio playback.
• Virtual: Provides extended surround sound effects for Dolby/DTS content.
• Moderate Bass: Cuts the subwoofer and outputs bass through the Soundbar. When deactivated, the subwoofer is active and no bass is output from the Soundbar.

04 Connecting the Soundbar to Other Units

Connecting Power and Devices

1. Connect the power cord to the subwoofer.
2. Connect the power cords to the left and right surround speakers.
3. Connect the power cord to the Soundbar.

Note: Ensure all devices are connected to a power outlet. Refer to the power label for power and power consumption information.

05 Connecting to a TV

Connecting to a TV with HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel)

1. Turn off the Soundbar and the TV.
2. Connect the HDMI cable from the TV's HDMI OUT (ARC/eARC) port to the Soundbar's HDMI TO TV (eARC/ARC) port.
3. Turn on the Soundbar and the TV.
4. “TV ARC” will appear on the Soundbar display, and TV audio will be output through the Soundbar.

Note: If no sound is heard, press the Multi button on the Soundbar or the Source button on the remote to switch to TV ARC mode. If your TV supports eARC, “TV eARC” will appear. Ensure eARC is enabled in your TV's settings. Using HDMI cables certified by HDMI.org is recommended. If both HDMI and optical cables are connected, the HDMI signal takes priority.

06 Connecting an External Device

Connecting via HDMI Cable

1. Connect the HDMI OUT port of the external device to the HDMI port on the Soundbar.
2. Connect the HDMI cable from the TV's HDMI IN port to the Soundbar's HDMI TO TV (eARC/ARC) port.
3. Turn on the Soundbar, TV, and external device.
4. Press the Multi button on the Soundbar or the Source button on the remote to select HDMI or HDMI 1/HDMI 2 mode.
5. The selected HDMI mode will appear on the Soundbar display, and audio will be output.

Note: Ensure secondary audio settings are disabled on your TV. Check if the content supports Dolby Atmos®/DTS:X. Use an ultra-high-speed HDMI cable for UHD signals.

Connecting via Optical Cable

1. Use an optical cable to connect the OPTICAL OUT port of the external device to the DIGITAL AUDIO IN (OPTICAL) port on the Soundbar.
2. Turn on the Soundbar and the external device.
3. Select D.IN mode by pressing the Multi button on the Soundbar or the Source button on the remote.
4. Your Soundbar will play audio from the external device.

Note: Remove the protective cap from the optical cable before use. If both HDMI and optical cables are connected, the HDMI signal takes priority.

07 Connecting a Mobile Device

Bluetooth Connection

Connect your mobile device to the Soundbar via Bluetooth for wireless stereo sound.

1. Press the Pair button on the remote to enter BT PAIRING mode. Alternatively, press and hold the Microphone button on the Soundbar for at least 3 seconds until “BT PAIRING” appears.
2. On your mobile device, open the Bluetooth settings and select “Soundbar Q-Series” from the list.
3. Once connected, [Mobile device name] → “BT” will appear on the Soundbar display.
4. Enjoy music from your mobile device through the Soundbar.

Note: Place your mobile device within 1 meter of the Soundbar for optimal connection. If prompted for a PIN, enter “0000”.

Wi-Fi Connection (Wireless Network)

For SmartThings functionality, ensure your Soundbar and TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Refer to page 18 for detailed Wi-Fi connection instructions.

Q-Symphony Feature

If your TV supports Q-Symphony, sound will be emitted simultaneously from the Soundbar and the TV, providing a richer, more immersive audio experience.

SpaceFit Sound Pro

This feature analyzes your listening space using the Soundbar's microphone to optimize audio quality automatically.

Method 1: Soundbar Connection

1. Press the Sound Mode button to activate SpaceFit Sound Pro.
2. Press the Up button to turn it ON. Press the Down button to turn it OFF.

Method 2: TV Connection

Enable Adaptive Sound+ in your Samsung TV's settings menu (Home → Settings → All Settings → General → Expert Settings → Adaptive Sound+). This will automatically set the Soundbar to Adaptive Sound+ mode.

08 Installing the Soundbar on the Wall

Installation Precautions

• Mount the Soundbar vertically on a wall only.
• Avoid installing in areas with high temperature or humidity.
• Ensure the wall is strong enough to support the Soundbar's weight. Reinforce if necessary.
• Use appropriate screws and anchors for your wall type (drywall, steel, wood, etc.).
• Disconnect power before mounting.
• Connect all external cables before mounting.

Wall Mounting Steps

1. Attach the wall mounting guide to the wall, ensuring it is parallel to the floor. If mounting below a TV, ensure at least 5 cm clearance from the bottom of the TV.
2. Align the center line of the guide with the center of your TV or installation area and secure the guide with adhesive tape.
3. Use a pen to mark the center of the Type A hole, then remove the guide.
4. Drill a hole at the marked spot using an appropriate drill bit.
5. Insert and tighten the mounting screws into the wall.
6. Install the two wall mount brackets onto the bottom of the Soundbar using the provided screws, ensuring the suspension part faces the back of the Soundbar.
7. Once the brackets are securely attached, hang the Soundbar onto the wall mount screws. Insert the fixing screws into the large holes on the bottom of the brackets and push the brackets down to secure them.

Installing Surround Speakers on the Wall

Wall mount brackets for surround speakers can be purchased separately. Samsung Electronics does not sell wall mount brackets.

Notes for Wall Mounting Surround Speakers:

• The wall must be able to support at least 8 kg.
• Use screws suitable for 1/4-20 UNC thread size (6.35 mm diameter, 1.27 mm pitch, 18 mm length).
• Ensure the wall is solid before installation. Samsung Electronics is not responsible for damage caused by improper installation.
• Do not install speakers sideways or upside down.

09 Installing the Soundbar Above the TV Stand

Parts

• Rubber Feet (x4)

Installation Steps

1. Attach the rubber feet to the bottom of the Soundbar before placing it on the TV stand. Ensure the rubber feet do not extend beyond the width of the TV stand.
2. Place the Soundbar on your TV stand, aligning the center of the Soundbar with the center of the TV. Ensure the microphone is not blocked for optimal voice recognition. Keep the Soundbar at least 2 cm away from the TV for optimal microphone performance.

10 Software Update

Automatic Update

If your Soundbar is connected to the internet, the software will update automatically, even when the Soundbar is off. Ensure the Soundbar is connected to the internet for this feature.

USB Update

Samsung may provide firmware updates for performance improvements. You can update the Soundbar by connecting a USB storage device with the firmware update to the SERVICE port.

1. Visit the Samsung website (www.samsung.com), go to Customer Support, and search for your Soundbar model.
2. Download the USB update file.
3. Unzip the downloaded file into a folder with the same name.
4. Save the folder to a USB drive and connect it to the Soundbar.
5. Turn on the Soundbar. “UPDATE” will appear on the screen within 3 minutes, and the update will begin.

Caution: Do not turn off or disconnect the USB drive during the update. If “UPDATE” does not appear, reconnect the power cord. If the latest firmware is already installed, the update will not proceed. USB drive compatibility may vary.

Information Regarding Security Updates

Security updates are provided to enhance device security and protect personal data. For more information, visit https://security.samsungtv.com.

Reset

While the Soundbar is on, press and hold the Volume buttons (+/-) for at least 5 seconds. “INIT” will appear on the front display, and the Soundbar will reset.

Caution: All Soundbar settings will be reset. Reset the Soundbar only when necessary.

11 Troubleshooting

When the Soundbar Does Not Turn On

• Check if the power cord is properly connected.

When Certain Functions Do Not Work Correctly

• Disconnect and reconnect the power cord.
• Turn off and on the connected external device.
• The Soundbar may turn off automatically if there is no signal. Turn on the product.

When the Remote Control Does Not Work Correctly

• Point the remote control directly at the Soundbar.
• Replace the batteries.

When the Soundbar Indicator Light Remains Red

• The microphone is off. The indicator light turns off when the microphone is activated.

When the Soundbar Does Not Emit Sound

• Check the volume level or if the Soundbar is muted.
• Adjust the volume on connected external devices (STB, Bluetooth device, mobile device, etc.).
• Ensure the TV audio output is set to Soundbar. (Samsung TV: Home → Menu → Settings → All Settings → Sound → Audio Output → Select Soundbar)
• Check if the connected cable is loose. Reconnect the cable.
• Disconnect and reconnect the power cord, then turn on the Soundbar.
• Reset the Soundbar and try again. (See page 24.)

When No Sound is Emitted from the Subwoofer or Surround Speakers

• Check if the LINK LED indicator on the subwoofer or surround speaker is blue. If it is red or blinking blue, reconnect the Soundbar, subwoofer, and surround speakers. (See page 9.)
• Ensure there are no obstacles between the Soundbar and the subwoofer. Move the subwoofer to an area without obstructions.
• Interference from nearby radio frequency devices may disrupt the connection. Keep the Soundbar and speakers away from such devices.
• Disconnect and reconnect the power plug.

When the Subwoofer or Surround Speaker Emits Noise or Choppy Sound

• Obstacles between the Soundbar and subwoofer can cause issues. Move the subwoofer to an unobstructed area.
• Sound may be interrupted if the subwoofer and surround speakers are too far from the Soundbar. Move them closer.
• Sound may be choppy if the Soundbar is placed near electronic devices or devices causing radio interference (e.g., wireless routers). Keep the Soundbar away from such devices.
• Change the TV's network connection from wireless to wired.

When the Subwoofer Volume is Low

• The original volume of the content being played may be low. Adjust the subwoofer level using the Subwoofer Level button on the remote.
• Place the subwoofer closer to you.

When the TV Cannot Connect to the HDMI TO TV (eARC/ARC) Port

• Ensure the HDMI cable is securely connected to the ARC or eARC port. (See page 12.)
• Other devices (set-top boxes, game consoles, etc.) connected to the TV may prevent Soundbar connection. Connect only the Soundbar to the TV.
• HDMI-CEC may not be activated on the TV. Activate CEC in the TV's menu. (Samsung TV: Home → Menu → Settings → All Settings → Connection → External Device Manager → Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) → Enable)
• For eARC connection, eARC function should be enabled in the TV's menu. (Samsung TV: Home → Menu → Settings → All Settings → Sound → Advanced Settings → HDMI eARC Mode (Auto))

When No Sound is Emitted When the TV is Connected in HDMI TO TV (eARC/ARC) Mode

• The Soundbar cannot reproduce the input signal. Change the TV's audio output to PCM or Dolby Digital. (Samsung TV: Home → Menu → Settings → All Settings → Sound → Advanced Settings → Digital Audio Output Format)

When Bluetooth Connection Cannot Be Established

• When connecting a new device, switch to BT PAIRING mode. (Press the Pair button on the remote or the Microphone button for at least 3 seconds.)
• If the Soundbar is connected to another device, disconnect that device first.
• Remove the speaker from the Bluetooth speaker list on the device and reconnect. (Samsung TV: Home → Menu → Settings → All Settings → Sound → Bluetooth Speaker List)
• The TV CONNECT function may be disabled. While the Soundbar is in “BT READY” mode, press and hold the Left button on the remote for 5 seconds to select ON-TV CONNECT. If OFF-TV CONNECT appears, press and hold the Left button for 5 seconds to change the selection.
• Disconnect and reconnect the power plug.
• Reset the Soundbar and try again. (See page 24.)

When Sound is Choppy Due to Weak Bluetooth Connection

• Sound may be choppy if the Soundbar is placed near electronic devices or devices causing radio interference (e.g., microwave oven, wireless router, etc.).
• Sound may be interrupted if the connected device is too far from the Soundbar. Move the device closer.
• Sound may be choppy if your body contacts the Bluetooth transmitter/receiver or if the Soundbar is placed on a metal furniture. Check the environment and installation conditions.

When Wi-Fi Connection Cannot Be Established

• Check if your wireless router is turned on.
• Turn off the router, turn it back on, and try reconnecting.
• If the wireless router signal is weak, Wi-Fi connection may not be possible. Move the router closer to the Soundbar or place it in an open area.
• If you installed a new wireless router, you need to reconfigure the speaker's network settings. (Refer to page 19, “Changing Your Wi-Fi Connection (Wireless Network)”.)
• The Soundbar does not support Wi-Fi 6.

When the TV Turns On, but the Soundbar Does Not Turn On Simultaneously

• If you turn off the Soundbar first while watching TV, the Soundbar's Auto Power Link function will also be deactivated. Turn off the TV first.

AVA Pro Feature Not Available

• The AVA Pro feature cannot be used when the microphone is deactivated.

TV and Soundbar Connected, but No Sound from TV Speakers When Soundbar Mode is Selected

• If you connect your mobile device to the Soundbar while it's connected to the TV and audio is audible, the audio output will switch to your mobile device, but the Soundbar will remain connected to the TV. In this case, TV sound will not be emitted from any speakers. When you disconnect your mobile device, the Soundbar will output TV sound.

Soundbar Not Appearing in AirPlay

• To activate AirPlay on your Soundbar, you must first accept the Samsung SmartThings app's terms of use and register the device. (See page 20.)
• AirPlay will not function if the Soundbar is removed from the Samsung SmartThings app.
• Ensure your Soundbar and Apple device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
• The Soundbar is compatible with AirPlay when installed on iOS version 13.4 or later.

TV Not Displaying UHD Input Signal

• You may need to adjust the settings on your TV or source device. Refer to your TV or device manual for details.
• Ensure your HDMI ultra-high-speed cable is HDMI.org certified. (HW-Q990F/Q900F models only)

Group Play Feature Not Activated

• Verify that your audio device is a new model released from 2024 onwards.
• Ensure the host device (source) is connected to the Wi-Fi network.
• Audio devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network (5 GHz).

12 License

Dolby Atmos®

Dolby, Dolby Atmos, and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. Confidential unpublished works. Copyright © 2012-2024 Dolby Laboratories. All rights reserved.

dts:X

For DTS patents, see http://patents.dts.com. Manufactured under license from DTS, Inc. and its affiliates. DTS, DTS:X, and the DTS:X logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of DTS, Inc. and its affiliates in the United States and/or other countries. © DTS, Inc. and its affiliates. All rights reserved.

HDMI™ High-Definition Multimedia Interface

The terms HDMI, HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface, the HDMI trade dress, and the HDMI logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc.

Works with Apple AirPlay

Apple, AirPlay, iPad, iPhone, and Mac are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries and regions.

Spotify

• Use your phone, tablet, or computer as a remote for Spotify. Visit spotify.com/connect for more details.
• Spotify software is subject to third-party licenses available here: https://www.spotify.com/connect/third-party-licenses

Roon Ready

Roon Ready signifies that Samsung and Roon's streaming technology offer an incredible user interface, simple setup, daily reliability, and the highest levels of audio performance, without compromise.

Open Source Licenses Notice

Open source licenses used in this product are available on the following web page (http://opensource.samsung.com).