The pedestal raises the panel enough for a soundbar to sit in front without obstructing the image.
Pros: black levels, contrast ratio
Cons: Dolby Vision support, stutter handling
Best 2026 Samsung TVs for Home theater with soundbar
External audio is a worthwhile upgrade for movies: the R85H's picture often outclasses its stock speaker performance.
Pros: overall satisfaction, color gamut
Cons: value for money, local dimming performance
The display delivers theater-worthy HDR, while a capable soundbar or surround system supplies the bass and scale its speakers lack.
Pros: picture quality, overall satisfaction
Cons: design and appearance, Dolby Vision support
A soundbar significantly improves bass and scale, and compatible Samsung models can work in tandem with the TV's speakers.
Pros: picture quality, contrast ratio
Cons: blooming control, glare resistance
eARC supports a useful soundbar upgrade, particularly for stronger bass and larger spaces. DTS and multichannel passthrough restrictions may matter for home-theater enthusiasts.
Pros: sound quality, picture quality
Cons: value for money, local dimming performance
Pairing it with a soundbar improves the movie experience and avoids the built-in system's bass limitations.
Pros: color volume, overall satisfaction
Cons: value for money, color accuracy
A soundbar makes movies and music fuller and more powerful, but it must be placed carefully to preserve the picture-frame illusion.
Pros: art display mode, design and appearance
Cons: overall satisfaction, HDMI port accessibility
eARC and Q-Symphony provide useful external-audio options, though DTS limitations and limited clearance complicate some installations.
Pros: gaming performance, color accuracy
Cons: value for money, overall satisfaction