Where the rear speakers will go is the first Q990F buying decision. The box includes them along with a substantial bar and a separate subwoofer. It makes sense for a permanent movie setup, especially if the TV is also short on HDMI sockets.
In depth
Samsung HW-Q990F review
Published
Best forPeople who can put speakers behind the sofa and want immersive audio for films and console games.
At a glance
- Channel configuration
- 11.1.4
- Included system
- Soundbar, wireless subwoofer and two rear speakers
- Immersive audio
- Dolby AtmosDTS:X
- TV connection
- HDMI eARC
Pros
- Dedicated rear speakers put effects behind the listening position.
- Two HDMI inputs can accept sources directly and support 4K at 120 Hz.
Cons
- Both rear speakers and the subwoofer require placement and power.
- Owners of the Q990D may get little benefit from replacing the whole package.
Surround Sound
- 11.1.4 channels
- Dolby Atmos
- DTS:X
The rear cabinets give the soundtrack an actual source behind you when something moves away from the screen. The height channels use sound reflected from the ceiling. A reasonably flat ceiling and clear space above the drivers suit that arrangement better than shelving immediately over them.
Bass
- Wireless dual-driver subwoofer
RTINGS found that the Q990F’s sealed subwoofer is shorter than the Q990D’s ported model and uses two drivers instead of one. 1 The practical benefit for someone replacing equipment is the different footprint. Measure the space beside the stand before assuming you need a bigger cabinet to gain bass.
Connectivity
- 2 HDMI inputs
- HDMI eARC
- up to 4K at 120 Hz passthrough
A console and a disc player can plug into the bar, leaving other TV sockets available. Connect the HDMI output to the TV’s eARC port to return sound from built-in streaming apps. Match the console’s chosen video mode across the cable, TV and soundbar; a port label on one component cannot set the others.
Setup & Placement
- Bar, subwoofer and two powered rear speakers
Wireless refers to the audio links. Plan power for both sides of the seating area and the subwoofer before ordering. If a doorway forces both rears onto the same shelf at the front, much of the package’s extra hardware loses its purpose.
Alternatives
Keep the Q990D if the existing speakers are correctly placed and its subwoofer fits. RTINGS characterizes the F update as incremental outside the subwoofer redesign. 1 A Q800H gives up the bundled rear pair and is a better starting point in a room where rear placement is impossible.
Verdict
The Q990F is a convincing package for a permanent surround room with consoles as well as films. Its strongest selling point is the room full of correctly placed speakers. If the room cannot accommodate them, start with a smaller system.
About this review
This is a research-based review. The Fasit has not physically tested this product.
Sources & Research
1 reference
Independent sources cited in this article.
- RTINGSHW-Q990F review and test findings (opens in a new tab)https://www.rtings.com/soundbar/reviews/samsung/hw-q990f
2025 Q990F versus Q990D, particularly the shorter sealed dual-driver subwoofer.