TCL S55H S Soundbar Review (2024 Model)

When it comes to upgrading your home entertainment system, sound is everything. You’ve already got the 4K TV, maybe even splurged on a new sofa that hugs you like a warm burrito, but there’s something missing. That cinematic boom, the crystal-clear dialogue, the kind of bass that makes your neighbors wonder if they live next to a thunderstorm. Enter the TCL S55H S Soundbar – the latest offering in TCL’s 2024 lineup, packed with features that promise to turn your living room into a mini-theater. But does it deliver on that promise? Let’s dive into this detailed review and find out.

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The 2.1 Channel Setup: More Than Just a Numbers Game

Let’s start with the basics. The TCL S55H S is a 2.1 channel soundbar, which might not sound as impressive as the 7.1 surround sound systems out there, but don’t let that fool you. With the included wireless subwoofer, this setup is more than capable of filling your room with rich, immersive sound. The term “2.1” refers to two full-range speakers (left and right) and one subwoofer. So, while it might not have rear or ceiling speakers, TCL has some tricks up its sleeve to make you forget all about that.

Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X: Surround Sound Without the Surround

This is where things get interesting. The TCL S55H S comes equipped with Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual– two technologies that aim to bring a surround sound experience without needing to fill your living room with speakers.

Dolby Atmos is the gold standard for creating three-dimensional soundscapes. Imagine watching an action movie and feeling like the helicopters are whizzing right over your head or hearing rain from all directions. It’s the kind of stuff that takes your movie nights from “pretty good” to “holy smokes, that was amazing!”

Then there’s DTS Virtual, which is like the secret sauce that makes everything pop. It virtualizes sound in a way that makes it seem like it’s coming from all around you – even above you. So, when you’re watching your favorite shows, you’re not just hearing the sound from the front; you’re feeling enveloped by it.

Power and Volume: Crank It Up

Let’s talk power. The TCL S55H S soundbar boasts up to 220 watts of total power. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “220 watts? Is that good?” Let me put it this way – it’s like strapping a jet engine to your sound system. Whether you’re blasting your favorite playlist or watching the latest blockbuster, the TCL S55H S can deliver loud, clear sound without distortion.

Bluetooth Wireless Music Streaming: Your Playlist, No Strings Attached

Gone are the days when you had to connect your phone with a jungle of cables just to play your favorite tunes. With Bluetooth wireless music streaming, the TCL S55H S makes it ridiculously easy to stream music directly from your smartphone, tablet, or any other Bluetooth-enabled device. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to chill with some smooth jazz, the connection is seamless and the sound quality is top-notch. You can move around your room, maybe even venture into the kitchen to grab a snack, and the music will follow you. No wires, no fuss.

Wireless Subwoofer: Feel the Bass

Let’s talk bass. The wireless subwoofer that comes with the TCL S55H S isn’t just a nice add-on; it’s a game-changer. Equipped with a 5.5” driver and Bass Boost technology, this subwoofer delivers deep, resonant bass that you can feel in your bones. Whether it’s the rumble of an explosion in your favorite action movie or the thumping beat of a bass-heavy track, this subwoofer ensures you don’t just hear the bass – you experience it.

And did I mention it’s wireless? That means you can place it anywhere in your room without worrying about tripping over cables. Put it by the couch for a more immersive experience, or tuck it away in a corner if you want the bass to be a bit more subtle. The choice is yours.

Ai Sonic Auto Room Calibration: Tailored Sound for Your Space

Every room is different. High ceilings, lots of windows, fluffy carpets – all these factors can affect how sound travels and how it’s perceived. TCL gets that, which is why they’ve included Ai Sonic Auto Room Calibration in the S55H S soundbar. This feature uses artificial intelligence to analyze your room’s acoustics and adjust the sound output accordingly.

The result? You get optimal sound quality tailored specifically to your space. Whether you’re in a cozy den or a large living room, the TCL S55H S makes sure you’re getting the best possible audio experience. And the best part? You don’t have to be a sound engineer to set it up. The calibration is automatic, so you can sit back and enjoy the show.

HDMI eARC and Digital Optical Audio Input: Connectivity Made Easy

Let’s move on to connectivity – because, after all, a soundbar is only as good as its connections. The TCL S55H S features HDMI eARC, which stands for Enhanced Audio Return Channel. This might sound like tech jargon, but what it means for you is simple: better sound quality and easier setup. With HDMI eARC, you can connect your soundbar to your TV with a single cable, and it supports high-quality audio formats like Dolby Atmos without any loss in quality.

But what if your TV doesn’t have an HDMI ARC or eARC port? No worries – the TCL S55H S also comes with a digital optical audio input. This gives you added flexibility, ensuring you can still enjoy high-quality sound even if your TV is a bit older. Plus, there’s a USB port for audio playback, so you can pop in a flash drive and listen to your favorite playlists.

USB Audio Playback: Hours of Music at Your Fingertips

Speaking of USB audio playback, this feature is perfect for those who have a collection of music stored on a USB drive. Just plug it in, and the TCL S55H S will play your tracks with the same high-quality sound it delivers for movies and shows. It’s a great option for those times when you want to listen to your favorite albums without relying on streaming services.

Design: Sleek and Stylish

Now, let’s take a moment to appreciate the design of the TCL S55H S. After all, a soundbar isn’t just a piece of tech – it’s part of your home décor. Fortunately, TCL has kept things sleek and stylish. The soundbar itself is slim enough to fit under most TVs, and its minimalist design means it won’t clash with your existing setup. The wireless subwoofer is equally stylish, with a compact design that makes it easy to tuck away or display, depending on your preference.

Setup: As Easy As It Gets

Setting up the TCL S55H S is as simple as it gets. Inside the box, you’ll find everything you need – from the soundbar and subwoofer to the HDMI cable and remote control. TCL even includes the wall installation kit, so if you prefer to mount the soundbar on the wall, you’re all set. The whole process takes just a few minutes, and once it’s done, you’re ready to enjoy your new home theater experience.

Performance: Does It Live Up to the Hype?

So, after all this talk about features, how does the TCL S55H S actually perform? In short: it’s impressive. The combination of Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtualcreates a soundstage that feels much larger than what you’d expect from a 2.1 channel setup. Dialogue is clear and crisp, even in scenes with lots of background noise, and the bass is powerful without being overwhelming.

Whether you’re watching the latest blockbuster, catching up on your favorite TV shows, or streaming music, the TCL S55H S delivers a consistently high-quality audio experience. The soundbar handles everything from subtle ambient sounds to full-blown action sequences with ease, making it a versatile addition to any home theater setup.

Recommendation: Is the TCL S55H S Worth It?

If you’re looking to upgrade your home theater setup without breaking the bank, the TCL S55H S Soundbar is definitely worth considering. It offers a solid mix of performance, features, and ease of use, all wrapped up in a stylish package. The addition of Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtualmeans you’re getting a near-surround sound experience without the need for extra speakers, and the wireless subwoofer adds that extra punch to make your movies and music come to life.

While it may not have the full surround sound experience of a more expensive 7.1 system, the TCL S55H S does an excellent job of creating an immersive audio experience that’s hard to beat at this price point. Plus, with features like Bluetooth streaming, AI room calibration, and HDMI eARC, you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck.

Summary

In summary, the TCL S55H S Soundbar (2024 Model) is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enhance their home theater experience. With features like Dolby Atmos, DTS Virtual, and a wireless subwoofer, it delivers powerful, immersive sound that’s sure to impress. The easy setup, sleek design, and versatility make it a great addition to any living room. So, if you’re ready to take your movie nights to the next level, the TCL S55H S might just be the soundbar you’ve been looking for.