A compact bar does not have to shoulder all the bass itself. Samsung pairs the B550F with a wireless subwoofer, leaving a slim enclosure below the screen and a separate cabinet you can position for low frequencies.
In depth
Samsung HW-B550F review
Published
Best forViewers who want a separate subwoofer without rear speakers or network setup.
At a glance
- Channel configuration
- 2.1
- Included system
- Soundbar and wireless subwoofer
- Immersive audio
- Dolby AudioDTS Virtual:X processing
- TV connection
- HDMI ARCOptical
Pros
- A dedicated wireless subwoofer is supplied.
- Voice Enhance and Night Mode offer practical controls for late viewing.
Cons
- No HDMI source input or 4K video passthrough.
- The 2.1 package has no discrete center, height or rear speakers.
Sound Quality
- 2.1 channels
- Dolby Audio
- DTS Virtual:X
The bar supplies left and right channels while the subwoofer handles bass. DTS Virtual:X is a processing mode that aims to make the presentation more spacious. It doesn't put a speaker overhead or behind you. If a movie mix obscures dialogue, try Voice Enhance before raising the entire system.
Connectivity
- HDMI ARC
- Optical
- Bluetooth
Connect source devices to the TV and use the ARC socket to send audio back. There's no separate HDMI input on the bar to route a console through. For an older TV, the optical input provides a wired alternative. Bluetooth is convenient for occasional music from a phone.
Size and Installation
- 33.8-inch bar
- 7.2-inch-wide subwoofer
The bar is 2.3 inches high, useful to know before placing it in front of a low-mounted television. The subwoofer needs space for its roughly 11.6-inch depth as well as a nearby outlet. Its wireless signal saves a run of audio cable, while power still needs planning.
Alternatives
Samsung's B400F puts its woofer inside a smaller 2.0 bar, a practical choice if the floor must remain clear. If dialogue is the chief reason for upgrading, compare a bar with a separate center channel before committing floor space to stronger bass.
Verdict
The B550F suits a simple TV setup when bass matters and there is a sensible spot for the subwoofer. Its limited HDMI options are easy to accommodate if the television already does all your source switching.
About this review
This is a research-based review. The Fasit has not physically tested this product.
Sources & Research
Manufacturer documentation
The specifications and features discussed in this review come from manufacturer documentation.
Samsung US — Samsung HW-B550F specifications / family documentation