Samsung QN65S90DAFXZA 65 Inch 4K OLED Smart TV review with Dolby Atmos insights

Description

Unboxing the SAMSUNG QN65S90DAFXZA: A Fusion of Technology and Design

I recently had the opportunity to test out the SAMSUNG QN65S90DAFXZA 65 Inch 4K OLED Smart TV, paired with the AudioQuest G8 Surge Protector, and let me just say, unpacking this setup felt like unwrapping a treasure chest of entertainment possibilities. The Laser Slim Design immediately stood out, giving the TV an ultra-modern, minimalist vibe that blends effortlessly into any room. Its Space Titan color is sleek and understated, which felt more premium than I had anticipated. At 49.6 pounds, it’s manageable enough for two people to set up without breaking a sweat.

The Simple Plus Blade Stand is both sturdy and stylish, offering a stable base without distracting from the screen itself. And speaking of the screen, the 65-inch OLED display promises an immersive viewing experience, and it doesn’t disappoint.

Performance and Picture Quality: A Jaw-Dropping Visual Experience

The real magic of this TV lies in its OLED Technology. Blacks are inky and pure, whites are dazzlingly bright, and the Pantone-validated color accuracy makes every image pop with life. I tested it with a mix of 4K HDR movies, sports, and even some gaming, and the difference in detail and brightness compared to my older LED TV was staggering.

One feature that particularly blew me away was the OLED HDR+, which analyzed each scene in real time to enhance brightness and contrast. Dark scenes in movies felt more atmospheric, while bright sequences had a vividness that pulled me right into the action. It’s like having a personal cinema in your living room.

For gamers, the Motion Xcelerator 144Hz functionality is a game-changer. I hooked up my gaming PC, which supports 4K resolution, and the smooth motion with virtually no lag or blur was outstanding. Whether it was fast-paced first-person shooters or sprawling open-world adventures, the clarity and responsiveness were top-notch.

The Real Depth Enhancer is another standout. It mimics how our eyes perceive depth, adjusting the contrast of foreground objects to create a more three-dimensional effect. Watching wildlife documentaries felt almost surreal, as though the animals were right there in the room with me.

Key Benefits

• OLED Technology delivers unparalleled contrast and color accuracy.
• Motion Xcelerator 144Hz ensures smooth gameplay with minimal latency.
• Real Depth Enhancer adds a lifelike dimension to on-screen content.
• Laser Slim Design and Space Titan finish make it a stylish addition to any room.

Sound Quality: Immersive Audio at Its Finest

A high-quality picture isn’t complete without equally impressive sound, and the Dolby Atmos on this TV doesn’t disappoint. The Object Tracking Sound Lite makes audio feel like it’s moving with the action on the screen, which added an extra layer of immersion when I watched action-packed movies and sports events.

I also appreciated the Q-Symphony feature when paired with a compatible Samsung soundbar. The synchronization between the TV and the soundbar created a 360-degree audio experience that filled the room beautifully. Even without external speakers, the built-in 2.1 channel system and Adaptive Sound Pro adjust audio settings based on the content, ensuring clear dialogue and rich soundscapes.

Smart Features: A Hub for All Your Needs

The Samsung Tizen OS is the brain behind the operation, and navigating through apps and settings felt intuitive. Popular streaming services are just a click away, and the Samsung TV Plus gives you access to a variety of free live channels. I also had fun experimenting with the Ambient Mode+, which lets the TV blend into its surroundings when not in use—goodbye, giant black screen dominating the room.

One of the standout smart features is the compatibility with SmartThings. I managed to connect my smart bulbs and thermostat to the TV, making it a central hub for my smart home setup. The built-in voice assistant is handy for quick searches, and the Multi-View feature allowed me to watch a tutorial on YouTube while gaming—a multitasker’s dream.

Less Favorable Aspects

• Price point might feel high for some, especially when compared to standard LED TVs.
• Ambient Mode+ is innovative but can feel gimmicky over time.
• The Simple Plus Blade Stand, while functional, may not be ideal for smaller furniture setups.

AudioQuest G8 Surge Protector: Essential for Protecting Your Investment

Included in the package is the AudioQuest G8 8-Outlet Surge Protector, which, in my opinion, is a must-have for anyone investing in a high-end TV like this. Its RF Noise-Dissipation ensures that the connected devices operate with minimal interference, and the Micro Spike Protection guards against power surges that could damage your electronics over time. It’s one of those accessories you don’t think you need until you realize it’s saving you from potential headaches down the line.

Competing Products

In the world of OLED Smart TVs, the LG C3 OLED is often viewed as a direct competitor. While the LG model also boasts impressive picture quality and gaming features, it falls short in sound performance compared to the Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound Lite in this Samsung model. On the other hand, the Sony A80L OLED offers exceptional color accuracy and motion handling but lacks some of the advanced gaming features like Motion Xcelerator 144Hz.

What sets this Samsung TV apart is its Real Depth Enhancer and the seamless integration with SmartThings, which competitors haven’t quite matched. However, if budget is a concern, some might lean toward alternatives that deliver similar visuals at a slightly lower price point.

Bang for the Buck

Considering its cutting-edge OLED technology, immersive audio capabilities, and smart features, this TV represents a strong bang for the buck. Sure, it’s not the cheapest option on the market, but you’re paying for premium performance that elevates your home entertainment experience. For gamers, cinephiles, and even casual viewers, the investment feels justified. Paired with the AudioQuest G8 Surge Protector, you’re not just buying a TV; you’re safeguarding your entertainment ecosystem.

Testing this device has been an eye-opener into what modern TVs can achieve. Whether you’re upgrading from an older model or diving into 4K OLED for the first time, this setup is bound to impress.

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