Samsung Soundbar User Guide

01 Checking the Components

Ensure all the following components are included:

• Soundbar
• Remote Control (AH81-15047A) / Battery
• Subwoofer
• Surround speaker (Left / Right) (HW-Q990F / HW-Q930F only)
• Power cable (for Soundbar, Subwoofer): (3903-001117)
• Power cable (for Surround speaker): (3903-001295) (HW-Q990F / HW-Q930F only)
• Power cable (for Soundbar, Subwoofer): (3903-001117) (HW-Q900F / HW-Q800F only)
• HDMI Cable (HW-Q990F / HW-Q930F: AH81-17772A) (HW-Q930F: BN39-02661A)
• Holder Screw (AH61-04110A)
• Wall-mounting Guide
• Screw (6001-001202)
• Wall-mounting Bracket (AH61-04119A)
• Rubber Foot (BN67-00398L)

For more information on power supply and power consumption, refer to the label attached on the bottom or back of the product.

To purchase additional components or optional cables, contact a Samsung Service Center or Samsung Customer Care.

For more details about the wall mount and rubber foot, see pages 21-23.

Product design, specifications, and app interface may change without prior notice.

The color and shape of parts may vary from what is depicted.

02 Product Overview

Top Side

• (Multi) Button: In Standby mode, press to turn on the soundbar. Press to switch the source.
• + (Volume) Button: Adjusts the volume.
• (Microphone) Button: Press to turn the microphone on or off. When off, the LED indicator turns red.
• Display: Shows the status or current mode (e.g., TV ARC, HDMI, Wi-Fi, BT, D.IN).

When you turn on the soundbar, it may take 4 to 5 seconds for sound to start.

If audio plays from both the TV and soundbar, open the TV's Audio Settings menu and select 'External Speaker' instead of 'TV Speaker'.

Bottom Side Connections

[HW-Q990F / HW-Q900F]

• SERVICE: For firmware updates via USB.
• DIGITAL AUDIO IN (OPTICAL): Connect to a digital (optical) output terminal of a TV or external device.
• HDMI TO TV (eARC/ARC): Connect to a TV's HDMI ARC/eARC port.
• HDMI 1 / HDMI 2: Connect to an HDMI output of external devices for digital video and audio.
• Power port: Connect the power cable.

[HW-Q930F / HW-Q800F]

• SERVICE: For firmware updates via USB.
• DIGITAL AUDIO IN (OPTICAL): Connect to a digital (optical) output terminal of a TV or external device.
• HDMI: Connect to an HDMI output of external devices.
• HDMI TO TV (eARC/ARC): Connect to a TV's HDMI ARC/eARC port.
• Power port: Connect the power cable.

03 Using the Remote Control

How to use the Remote Control

Install Batteries: Slide the battery cover off, insert 2 AAA batteries, and slide the cover back on.

• (POWER): Turns the soundbar on or off. The soundbar automatically turns off after 18 minutes of inactivity in certain modes (e.g., TV ARC, HDMI, Wi-Fi, BT, D.IN).
• (Source): Choose the connected device or switch modes. Press and hold for 5 seconds to turn voice feedback on/off.
• (Bluetooth connection): Puts the soundbar into Bluetooth pairing mode.

Remote Control Button Functions

• (Up/Down/Left/Right): Make fine adjustments. Use Left/Right to skip tracks. Press and hold the Up button for 5 seconds while powered off for ID SET (reconnecting subwoofer/surround speakers).
• (Play/Pause): Starts or pauses playback.
• (Mute): Mutes or unmutes the soundbar.
• (Sound mode): Selects sound modes: Standard, Surround, Game Pro, Adaptive Sound.
• (Info): Displays codec information or current status (e.g., Paired/Need Pairing for Bluetooth).
• (Woofer (bass) Level): Adjusts woofer (bass) levels.
• (Volume): Adjusts overall volume.
• (Channel level): Adjusts individual speaker volume (Center, Side, Wide, Front Top, Rear, Rear Top, Rear Side).
• (Sound Control): Accesses advanced audio features like SpaceFit Sound Pro, AVA Pro, Voice Enhance, Night Mode, Sound Grouping, Private Rear, Moderate Bass, Virtual.
• (Tone control): Adjusts treble and bass levels.

Setting the (Sound Control)

This section details various sound enhancement features:

• SpaceFit Sound Pro: Analyzes listening space for optimal audio quality.
• AVA (Active Voice Amplifier) Pro: Enhances voice clarity against external noise.
• Voice Enhance: Improves dialogue quality.
• Night Mode: Optimizes listening at night by lowering volume while keeping dialogue clear.
• Sound Grouping: Plays full sound through soundbar and rear speakers for group listening.
• Private Rear: Sends audio only to rear speakers for undisturbed listening.
• Sync: Adjusts audio delay for video/audio synchronization (0-300ms).
• Virtual: Provides extended sound effects for Dolby/DTS content.
• Moderate Bass: Mutes subwoofer and outputs bass through the soundbar when On.

Frequency Adjustment: Press and hold (Sound Control) for 5 seconds to adjust frequencies (150Hz to 10kHz) using Up/Down buttons (-6 to +6). This works only in Standard mode.

Output Specifications for Each Sound Mode

This section provides tables detailing input and output channel configurations for various sound modes (Standard, Surround, Game Pro, Adaptive Sound) and specific models (HW-Q900F, HW-Q800F, HW-Q990F, HW-Q930F) when using the subwoofer only, with surround speakers, or with optional rear speakers.

Note: For 2-channel output in Standard mode, surround speakers may not produce sound. Change to Surround mode for surround speaker output.

Adjusting the Soundbar Volume with the TV Remote Control

This feature allows TV remote control for soundbar volume, compatible with IR remotes from Samsung, VIZIO, LG, Sony, Sharp, PHILIPS, PANASONIC, TOSHIBA, Hisense, RCA.

Setup:

1. Turn off the soundbar.
2. Press and hold the Woofer Level button for 5 seconds to cycle through modes: OFF-TV REMOTE (default), SAMSUNG-TV REMOTE, ALL-TV REMOTE.

04 Connecting the Soundbar to Other Units

Connecting the Power and Devices

Connect the subwoofer, surround speakers, and soundbar to power outlets in the following order:

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.
4. Connect all units to a power outlet. The subwoofer and surround speakers will connect automatically when the soundbar is turned on.

Note: Always grip the plug firmly when disconnecting the power cord.

Manually Connecting the Subwoofer and Surround Speakers

If automatic connection fails:

1. Ensure all units are connected to power and the soundbar is on.
2. Press and hold the ID SET button on the rear of the subwoofer and surround speakers for 5 seconds or longer. The red indicator will turn off, and the blue indicator will blink rapidly.
3. Press and hold the Up button on the Remote Control for 5 seconds. The 'ID SET' message appears, and the soundbar powers on automatically.

Ensure the LINK LED indicator turns solid blue for a successful connection.

Troubleshooting Connection Status:

• Subwoofer/Surround Speaker Blue Indicator On: Connection successful (normal operation).
• Surround Speaker Blue Indicator Blinking: Restore connection. Check power cable or wait 5 minutes. If blinking continues, manually connect (see page 9).
• Subwoofer Red Indicator On: In standby. Check soundbar power cable.
• Surround Speaker Red Indicator On: Connection unsuccessful. Try reconnecting or manual connection (page 9).
• Subwoofer/Surround Speaker Red and Blue Indicators Blinking Simultaneously: Product malfunction. Contact Samsung Service Center.

Note: If the soundbar is turned off, the subwoofer enters Standby mode (STANDBY indicator blinks blue, then turns red).

Interference may occur from nearby devices using the same frequency.

Wireless signal range is up to 10 meters but can vary based on the environment. Steel walls or reinforced concrete can block the signal.

Caution: Keep the wireless antenna away from water and moisture. Avoid placing obstacles around the subwoofer or surround speakers for optimal sound quality.

Speaker Layout Guide

Recommended speaker layout diagrams are provided for optimal surround sound, illustrating placement for rear and front layouts (HW-Q990F, HW-Q930F). To activate Surround Speaker mode, select it via the Sound Control menu.

Note: Surround speakers may not be included depending on the product model.

05 Connecting to a TV

Connect to a TV that Supports HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel)

Use an HDMI cable to connect the soundbar to the TV's HDMI ARC/eARC port. Ensure the TV's speaker setting is set to 'External Speaker'.

Setup:

1. With the soundbar and TV off, connect the HDMI cable to the HDMI IN (eARC/ARC) port on the soundbar and the ARC/eARC port on the TV.
2. Turn on the soundbar and TV.
3. 'TV ARC' or 'TV eARC' will appear on the display, and TV audio will play through the soundbar.

If no TV sound, switch to TV ARC mode using the (Multi) or (Source) button. For eARC, ensure the eARC function is enabled in the TV menu (e.g., Samsung TV: Home → Menu → Settings → All Settings → Sound → Expert Settings → HDMI-eARC Mode).

If 'TV ARC' does not appear, check the HDMI cable connection.

TV remote volume buttons can control the soundbar volume.

Note: Using a coreless HDMI cable is recommended. Ensure the HDMI cable supports ARC. For Dolby audio, set the TV's 'Digital Output Audio Format' to Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital+, or Auto.

Connecting Using an Optical Cable

Use an optical cable to connect the DIGITAL AUDIO IN (OPTICAL) port on the soundbar to the OPTICAL OUT port on the TV or external device.

1. Connect the optical cable.
2. Turn on the soundbar and TV.
3. Select D.IN mode using the (Multi) or (Source) button.
4. TV sound will play through the soundbar.

Pre-connection Checklist: If both HDMI and optical cables are connected, HDMI takes priority. Remove the cap from the optical cable before use.

07 Connecting a Mobile Device

Connecting to Bluetooth

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

Connecting for the first time:

1. Press the Pair button on the Remote Control or press and hold the (Microphone) button on the soundbar for 3 seconds until 'BT PAIRING' is displayed.
2. Open the Bluetooth menu on your mobile device (e.g., Samsung TV: Home → Menu → Settings → All Settings → Sound → Sound Output → Bluetooth Speaker List).
3. Select 'Soundbar Q-series' from the list.
4. Once connected, '[Mobile device name] BT' will appear on the soundbar display.

You can now enjoy audio from your mobile device.

If the device fails to connect, remove previously connected soundbars from the device's speaker list and retry.

Disconnecting the Soundbar from the Samsung TV

Press the (Multi) or (Source) button to switch to a mode other than BT.

What is the difference between BT READY and BT PAIRING?

• BT READY: Connects to previously paired devices.
• BT PAIRING: Connects new devices.

Precautions when connecting to Bluetooth

• Position devices within 1 meter.
• Enter '0000' if a PIN is required.
• The soundbar turns off after 18 minutes of inactivity.
• Avoid interference from other electronic devices.
• Keep devices close for optimal quality.
• Bluetooth connection may be lost if devices are out of range or in areas with weak signal reception.
• Avoid body contact with signal transceivers or metal furniture.

Connecting via Wi-Fi (Wireless Network)

Use the SmartThings app to control the soundbar.

1. Install the app: Download the SmartThings app from your device's app store.
2. Register a device: Run the SmartThings app, follow on-screen instructions to register your soundbar. You can also scan the QR code on the soundbar.

If the device isn't found, connect via Bluetooth first, then use 'Connected Devices' in the SmartThings app to register.

Using the Q-Symphony Feature

When connected to a compatible Samsung TV, sound plays from both the soundbar and TV simultaneously for a richer experience. The Q-Symphony menu appears when the soundbar is connected to the TV.

Using SpaceFit Sound Pro

This feature analyzes your listening space using the soundbar's microphone for optimal audio quality.

Method 1 (Connecting the Soundbar): Turn on SpaceFit Sound Pro via the Remote Control (Sound Control button, then Up button). 'ON' will appear on the display.

Method 2 (Connecting to a TV): Enable 'Adaptive Sound+' mode in the Samsung TV menu. The soundbar mode will change accordingly.

Note: This feature works with some Samsung TVs connected to a soundbar.

06 Connecting an External Device

Connecting via HDMI Cable

Connect external devices (e.g., Blu-ray player, game console) to the soundbar using an HDMI cable.

1. Connect the HDMI OUT port of the external device to an HDMI port on the soundbar.
2. Connect the HDMI IN port of the TV to the HDMI TO TV (eARC/ARC) port on the soundbar using the included HDMI cable.
3. Turn on the soundbar, TV, and external device.
4. Select HDMI or HDMI1/HDMI2 mode using the (Multi) or (Source) button.

The selected mode will appear on the display, and audio will play.

Note: For Dolby Atmos®/DTS:X, refer to output specifications on page 7. 'DOLBY ATMOS' or 'DTS:X' will appear on the display when active. For bitstream output, select 'No Encoding' or 'Bitstream (Unprocessed)' in the audio output settings of the source device.

UHD Signal Support Specifications (3840 x 2160p)

Tables detail supported frame rates and color depths for UHD signals for HW-Q990F/Q900F and HW-Q930F/Q800F models.

Connecting using an Optical Cable

Connect external devices (e.g., BD/DVD player, set-top box, game console) to the soundbar using an optical cable.

1. Connect the DIGITAL AUDIO IN (OPTICAL) port on the soundbar to the OPTICAL OUT port on the external device.
2. Turn on the soundbar and external device.
3. Select D.IN mode using the (Multi) or (Source) button.
4. Audio from the external device will play through the soundbar.

08 Installing the Soundbar on a Wall

Precautions when installing

• Mount only on a vertical wall.
• Avoid high temperatures or humidity.
• Install on a sturdy wall capable of supporting the soundbar's weight. Reinforce if necessary.
• Use appropriate screws or anchors for the wall type (gypsum board, steel, wood). Install screws directly into the wall if possible.
• Turn off power and disconnect the soundbar before mounting to avoid electric shock.
• Connect all external device cables before mounting.

Wall Mount Components

Components include Wall-mounting Guide, Holder Screw, Screw, and Wall-mounting Bracket.

Installation Steps

1. Attach the Wall-mounting Guide to the wall, ensuring it is parallel. If mounting below a TV, align the center line with the TV's center. If not mounting below a TV, align with the center of the installation area. Ensure it is at least 5 cm from the bottom of the TV if the TV is wall-mounted.
2. Mark the center of the A-TYPE hole and remove the guide.
3. Drill a hole at the marked spot.
4. Insert screws through Holder Screws and fasten them into the wall.
5. Install 2 Wall-mounting Brackets at the bottom of the soundbar using screws. Ensure the bracket hanger part is behind the soundbar.
6. Hang the soundbar on the Holder Screws, securing the brackets by pushing them down.

Installing the Surround Speakers on a Wall

Wall mounts must be purchased separately. The wall must support at least 8 kg. Ensure the hole size fits 1/4-20 UNC screws.

Before installation, check wall sturdiness. Samsung Electronics is not responsible for damage due to improper installation. Do not install speakers sideways or upside down.

09 Installing the Soundbar on Top of the TV Stand

Parts

• Rubber Foot (x4)

Installation Steps

1. Attach the rubber feet to the bottom of the soundbar. Ensure they do not extend beyond the TV stand's width.
2. Align the center of the soundbar with the center of the TV and place it on the TV stand.

Note: Place the soundbar on a flat, solid surface. Keep it at least 2 cm away from the TV for optimal microphone performance. If too close, voice recognition may be affected.

10 Software Update

Automatic Update

If the soundbar is connected to the internet, software updates automatically, even when the soundbar is turned off.

USB Update

Samsung may provide firmware updates for performance enhancements.

1. Download the upgrade file from the Samsung website (www.samsung.com) for your model.
2. Unzip the file into a folder on a USB drive.
3. Connect the USB drive to the SERVICE port on the soundbar.
4. Turn on the soundbar. 'UPDATE' should appear within 3 minutes, and the update will begin.

Do not turn off power or disconnect the USB drive during the update. If 'UPDATE' does not appear, reconnect the power cord. The update may not run if the latest firmware is already installed or depending on the USB drive type.

Security Updates Information

Visit https://security.samsungtv.com for information on security updates.

Reset

Press both + (Volume) buttons on the soundbar for 5 seconds while it is turned on. 'INIT' will appear on the display, and the soundbar will reset all settings.

Caution: Reset only when necessary.

11 Troubleshooting

If the product does not function properly, refer to the following:

When the Power Doesn't Turn On

• Check if the power cord is securely connected.

When Some Functions Aren't Working Properly

• Disconnect and reconnect the power cord.
• Turn the connected external device off and on.
• If there is no signal input, the soundbar may turn off automatically after a period. Turn it back on.

If the Remote Control Isn't Working Properly

• Bring the remote closer and point it directly at the soundbar.
• Replace the batteries.

When the Soundbar Indicator Light Stays Red

• The microphone is turned off. The indicator turns off when the microphone is on.

If There is No Sound

• Check soundbar volume and mute settings.
• Adjust volume on connected external devices.
• Ensure the TV sound output is set to the soundbar (e.g., Samsung TV: Home → Menu → Settings → All Settings → Sound → Sound Output → Select Soundbar).
• Check cable connections and reconnect them.
• Disconnect and reconnect the power cord, then turn the soundbar on.
• Reset the soundbar and try again (see page 24).

If There is No Sound from the Subwoofer or Surround Speakers

• Check the LED indicator on the subwoofer/surround speaker. If red or blinking blue, reconnect the soundbar to the speakers (see page 9).
• Ensure no objects are blocking the signal path between the soundbar and subwoofer.
• Keep the soundbar/speakers away from devices emitting radio frequency signals.
• Disconnect and reconnect the power plug.

If the Subwoofer or Surround Speaker Emits Noise or a Stuttering Sound

• Ensure no objects are blocking the signal path.
• Place speakers closer to the soundbar if they are too far.
• Move the soundbar away from electronic devices causing radio interference (e.g., wireless routers).
• Change the TV network connection from wireless to wired if applicable.

When the Subwoofer Sound is Low

• The original audio may have low volume. Adjust the subwoofer level using the Woofer Level button.
• Bring the subwoofer closer.

When the TV Can't Connect to HDMI TO TV (eARC/ARC)

• Ensure the HDMI cable is securely connected to the ARC/eARC port (see page 12).
• Disconnect other devices connected to the TV (e.g., set-top boxes, game consoles) and connect only the soundbar.
• Enable HDMI-CEC in the TV menu (e.g., Samsung TV: Home → Menu → Settings → All Settings → Connection → External Device Manager → Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) ON).
• For eARC, ensure the eARC function is enabled in the TV menu.

There is No Audio When the TV is Connected in HDMI TO TV (eARC/ARC) Mode

• Change the TV's audio output to PCM or Dolby Digital (e.g., Samsung TV: Home → Menu → Settings → All Settings → Sound → Expert settings → Digital Output Audio Format).

When a Bluetooth Connection Can't Be Established

• Switch to BT PAIRING mode for new devices.
• Disconnect from other devices before connecting a new one.
• Remove the soundbar from the device's Bluetooth speaker list and reconnect.
• Ensure the TV CONNECT feature is enabled if connecting to a TV.
• Disconnect and reconnect the power plug, then try again.
• Reset the soundbar and try again.

When Audio Stutters Due to Weak Bluetooth Connection

• Move the soundbar away from electronic devices causing radio interference.
• Move the connected device closer to the soundbar.
• Avoid body contact with signal transceivers or metal furniture.

When a Wi-Fi Connection Can't Be Established

• Check if the wireless router is on. Restart the router.
• Move the wireless router closer to the soundbar or place it in an unobstructed location if the signal is weak.
• Reconfigure network settings if a new router is installed.
• The soundbar does not support Wi-Fi 6.

When the TV is Powered On, But the Soundbar Doesn't Turn On Together

• If the soundbar is turned off first while watching TV, Auto Power Link is also turned off. Power off the TV first.

The AVA Pro Feature Can't Be Used

• This feature cannot be used when the microphone is turned off.

My TV and Soundbar are Connected, But No Audio is Played Through TV Speakers When Switching to Soundbar Mode

• If a mobile device is connected while the TV is playing, audio switches to the mobile device. The TV audio will not play through TV speakers in this case. Ending the mobile device connection restores TV audio.

When the Soundbar Doesn't Show Up in AirPlay

• Agree to SmartThings app terms and register the device to enable AirPlay.
• AirPlay won't work if the soundbar is deleted from the SmartThings app.
• Ensure the soundbar and Apple device are on the same Wi-Fi network.
• The soundbar is compatible with AirPlay on iOS version 13.4 and later.

The TV Doesn't Display the UHD Input Signal

• Adjust TV or source device settings.
• Check if your Ultra High Speed HDMI cable is certified by HDMI.org (for HW-Q990F/Q900F models).

Group Play Isn't Activated

• Check if the audio device is a new model (released in 2024 or later).
• Ensure the host device is connected to the Wi-Fi network.
• Audio devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network (5GHz).

12 License

This product uses technologies licensed from Dolby Laboratories, DTS, Inc., and Apple Inc.

Dolby: Dolby, Dolby Atmos, and the double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

DTS: DTS, DTS:X, and the DTS:X logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of DTS, Inc. and its affiliates.

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

Apple AirPlay: Apple®, AirPlay®, iPad®, iPhone®, and Mac® are trademarks of Apple Inc.

Spotify: Use your phone, tablet, or PC as a remote control for Spotify. Visit spotify.com/connect for details. Spotify software is subject to third-party licenses found at https://www.spotify.com/connect/third-party-licenses.

Roon Ready: Indicates compatibility with Roon streaming technology for enhanced user interface, setup, reliability, and audio performance.

Open Source License Notice: Open Source used in this product can be found at http://opensource.samsung.com.