We may be in that strange time known to many as “Betwixmas,” but that hasn’t stopped brands from introducing new ideas and releasing products just before the New Year. Last week, Samsung unveiled its 2026 audio device lineup. It’s not available for purchase yet, so if you’d like to see it in person, you’ll have to go to CES 2026 in Las Vegas (Jan. 6-9).
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High-ups wonder about new designs. “For more than a decade, Samsung has shaped the evolution of home audio through advanced acoustics, smart features, and thoughtful design,” said Hun Lee, Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics, in a press release. “We continue that legacy with next-generation audio devices designed to deliver rich, expressive performance for any space and moment.”
Whether these new devices really make a difference remains to be seen, but here’s everything we know so far.
There are two new soundbars
Samsung’s 2026 audio lineup includes two new soundbars: the HW-Q990H and the HW-QS90H.
The former should deliver Samsung’s “most immersive soundbar experience” to date, with an 11.1.4 channel system, a 7.0.2 soundbar, 4.0.2 rear speakers, and dual eight-inch drivers with a built-in compact subwoofer. This soundbar also features “next-generation AI processing,” though we’re not entirely sure what that entails yet. This is Samsung’s first sound bar to feature “Sound Elevation” technology, which Samsung says “raises dialogue towards the center of the screen.” This soundbar also features Samsung’s “Auto Volume” feature, so there is a constant volume for all channels and content.
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The second sound bar (HW-QS90H) is an all-in-one setup that focuses on “aesthetic versatility.” It’s a 7.1.2-channel system with 13 drivers (including nine separate speakers) and a built-in Quad Bass Woofer system, so you shouldn’t need a separate subwoofer either. It also has a “Convertible Fit” design that gives you the option to mount it on a wall or place it on a table — the built-in gyro sensor automatically adjusts based on its position.
There are two new WiFi speakers
In addition to soundbars, Samsung is expanding its portfolio with two WiFi speakers, the “Music Studio 5” and the “Music Studio 7.” These speakers are designed to fit your decor with what Samsung calls a “timeless dot concept” (designed by Erwan Bouroullec), but they definitely look coded Pixar — like a big, sharp eye.
Music Studio 7 will be available in black.
Credit: Samsung
Music Studio 7 provides 3.1.1 channel surround sound through the left, front, right, and top speakers. There’s also an AI Dynamic Bass Control system that gives you the ability to play high-fidelity audio (up to 24-bit/96kHz) with minimal distortion. It’s black (no other colors yet) and works on its own or can be paired with compatible speakers, sound bars, or TVs.
Music Studio 5 (model LS50H) is a compact, “gallery-inspired” design for tight spaces. It features a four-inch woofer and two tweeters with a built-in waveguide for balanced sound. This speaker also includes AI Dynamic Bass Control and supports WiFi streaming, streaming services, and Bluetooth connectivity.
A highly connected ecosystem
Although each of these devices is designed to be independent, the real goal here seems to be complete integration. Samsung relies heavily on Q-Symphony, a technology that allows your TV’s speakers and external audio gear to play simultaneously rather than fighting for control. In this new range, they have exceeded the limit to allow up to five audio devices to be paired with one TV at the same time. The system also uses AI to map out your room and measure the sound based on where you’ve placed the speakers, which should in theory make that “eye” on your bookshelf and the bar under your TV sound like parts of the same focused setup.
