Samsung S60a Vs S60b Soundbar Is The Newer Model Really Worth The Upgrade

When it comes to enhancing your home entertainment setup, few upgrades deliver as much impact as a high-quality soundbar. Samsung’s S-series has long been a go-to for consumers seeking premium audio without the complexity of a full surround system. The S60A and S60B represent two iterations in this line—close in naming but potentially worlds apart in performance. But does the newer S60B justify an upgrade from the S60A, or are the changes mostly cosmetic? Let’s break down the differences in design, audio technology, connectivity, and real-world usability to help you decide.

Design and Build: Subtle Changes, Same Footprint

At first glance, the Samsung S60A and S60B look nearly identical. Both feature a sleek, minimalist black finish with a fabric grille covering the front drivers and a compact form factor designed to fit neatly under most TVs. The dimensions are almost unchanged, measuring approximately 35 inches wide, making them suitable for 55-inch and larger screens.

The key difference lies in the materials and finish. The S60B uses a slightly more refined fabric mesh that resists dust and fingerprints better than the S60A’s earlier weave. Additionally, the S60B includes a subtle LED status indicator along the front edge, offering clearer feedback on power and input modes—a small but welcome improvement over the S60A’s single, recessed light.

Tip: Always place your soundbar centered below your TV and avoid blocking the front-facing speakers with objects like remotes or decor.

Audio Performance: Where the Real Differences Emerge

While both models support Dolby Digital and DTS decoding, the S60B introduces upgraded internal amplification and improved driver tuning. This results in a more dynamic sound profile with enhanced clarity in the midrange and tighter bass response.

The S60A relies on a dual-driver configuration with passive radiators for low-end reinforcement. It delivers solid stereo imaging and decent dialogue clarity, especially when watching TV shows. However, action sequences can push its limits, leading to slight compression at higher volumes.

In contrast, the S60B incorporates Samsung’s newer Q-Symphony 2.0 technology, which allows the soundbar to sync with compatible Samsung TVs to create a more immersive front soundstage. Even without rear speakers, this creates a wider, more enveloping experience. The S60B also features adaptive sound processing that automatically adjusts EQ based on content type—boosting dialogue during news segments and expanding spatial effects during movies.

“Modern soundbars aren’t just about louder audio—they’re about smarter sound. The shift from static to adaptive processing marks a real leap in user experience.” — Marcus Lin, Audio Engineer at SoundLabs International

Connectivity and Smart Features

Both models offer HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) and optical inputs, ensuring compatibility with most modern TVs. Bluetooth 5.0 is standard on both, allowing wireless streaming from phones and tablets. However, the S60B adds support for Samsung’s Tap Sound feature, letting users tap their Galaxy devices to instantly pair and stream audio—a convenience absent in the S60A.

The S60B also benefits from firmware updates delivered through Samsung SmartThings, enabling future-proofing and bug fixes. While the S60A received initial support, it’s no longer prioritized for new feature rollouts. This means S60B owners may gain access to voice assistant integrations or multi-room audio enhancements down the line.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Feature	Samsung S60A	Samsung S60B
Release Year	2021	2023
Power Output	200W RMS	220W RMS
Speaker Configuration	2.0 channel with passive radiators	2.1 channel with enhanced sub-driver integration
Q-Symphony Support	1.0 (limited TV sync)	2.0 (full front-channel expansion)
Adaptive Sound	No	Yes (Auto EQ by content)
Tap Sound (NFC Pairing)	No	Yes
Firmware Updates	Limited	Ongoing via SmartThings
Wall Mount Compatibility	Yes	Yes

Real-World Example: A Living Room Upgrade

Consider James, a film enthusiast who purchased the S60A in 2022. He enjoyed crisp dialogue and strong vocal presence while watching dramas, but noticed distortion during intense scenes in films like *Dune* and *Mad Max: Fury Road*. After upgrading to the S60B, he found the explosive moments remained clean and controlled, even at reference volume. More importantly, the adaptive sound mode made switching between Netflix binges and nightly news seamless—no manual adjustments needed. For him, the upgrade wasn’t about raw power, but consistency across content types.

This reflects a broader trend: newer soundbars aren’t always louder, but they’re more intelligent. The S60B’s ability to analyze audio in real time gives it an edge in daily usability, especially in households where multiple people use the TV for different purposes.

Is the S60B Worth the Upgrade?

If you already own the S60A, the answer depends on your expectations. For casual viewers who mainly watch streamed content at moderate volumes, the S60A still performs admirably. Its core audio delivery remains solid, and unless you’re sensitive to compression or lack of dynamic range, you may not notice enough improvement to justify the cost.

However, audiophiles, movie lovers, or those integrating their setup into a Samsung Smart Home ecosystem will find tangible benefits in the S60B. The combination of Q-Symphony 2.0, adaptive sound, and Tap Sound creates a more cohesive and responsive experience. Plus, ongoing firmware support ensures the device stays relevant longer.

Tip: Before upgrading, test the S60B in-store or through a return-friendly retailer. Subtle audio improvements can be hard to appreciate online.

Checklist: Should You Upgrade?

• ✅ Are you using a 2023 or newer Samsung TV? (Maximizes Q-Symphony benefits)
• ✅ Do you frequently watch movies with complex soundtracks?
• ✅ Do you value automatic audio optimization?
• ✅ Are you within the return window or warranty period of your S60A?
• ✅ Is your current soundbar showing signs of wear or inconsistent output?

If three or more apply, the S60B is likely a worthwhile investment.

FAQ

Can the S60B connect to non-Samsung TVs?

Yes. The S60B works with any TV that has HDMI ARC or optical audio output. However, Q-Symphony and Tap Sound features require a Samsung Galaxy device or compatible Samsung TV.

Does the S60B have a built-in subwoofer?

It does not have a separate wireless subwoofer, but it features enhanced bass drivers and passive radiators that simulate deeper low-end response. For true bass extension, Samsung sells a matching wireless subwoofer (SWA-8500S) that pairs with both models.

Is there a noticeable difference in voice clarity?

Yes. The S60B’s adaptive sound mode includes a dedicated vocal enhancement algorithm that lifts dialogue above background noise. Users with hearing sensitivity or those watching in noisy environments report significantly improved intelligibility.

Final Verdict: Evolution, Not Revolution

The Samsung S60B isn’t a radical departure from the S60A—it’s an evolution. It refines what worked, eliminates minor frustrations, and integrates smarter audio processing. If you’re buying new, the S60B is the clear choice. But if you’re already invested in the S60A, only consider upgrading if you crave smarter sound, better dynamics, or plan to expand into a Samsung-centric smart home.

Technology moves fast, but not every update demands immediate adoption. In this case, the S60B earns its place as the superior model—but the S60A still holds its ground as a capable performer for everyday viewing.

🚀 Ready to enhance your home theater? Compare the S60A and S60B side-by-side in a retail setting or check user reviews for real-world impressions. Your next movie night deserves the best sound possible.