Sony HT-S400
Score: 49/100
Samsung B-Series HW-B400F
Score: 63/100Rankings
The Samsung HW-B400F is an entry-level 2.0-channel soundbar with a built-in woofer, offering clear dialogue and modest bass in a compact form factor. It provides simple HDMI ARC, optical and Bluetooth connectivity but lacks a dedicated subwoofer and advanced audio formats.
The Sony HT-S400 is a compact 2.1-channel soundbar with a powerful 330 W output and virtual surround technology. It offers HDMI ARC, Bluetooth 5.0 and a wireless subwoofer, making it a strong upgrade over built-in TV speakers.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
330 Wbest | 40 W | |
2.1best | 2 | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.4 kg | 2.085 kgbest |
12 monthsbest | 12 monthsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.5 Wbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio Performance(4) | ||
Total Output Power (W) | 330 W | 40 W |
Audio Channels | 2.1 | 2.0 |
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Digital, Dolby Dual Mono, LPCM 2ch, SBC | Dolby 2ch, LPCM 2ch |
Sound Modes | Sound Field, Voice Mode, Night Mode | Surround Sound Expansion, Standard, Voice Enhance, Night Mode |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Soundbar Weight (kg) | 2.4 kg | 2.085 kg |
Mounting Type | Wall-mountable | Wall Mount / Tabletop |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 4.2 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the HT-S400 for delivering cinema-like sound and strong bass at a budget-friendly price, highlighting its virtual surround technology and clear dialogue reproduction. However, they point out the lack of auxiliary inputs and the absence of premium surround formats as notable drawbacks for audiophiles.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the soundbar for its dialogue clarity, punchy bass, and straightforward HDMI ARC setup. Common complaints revolve around missing USB/AUX inputs, limited surround depth, and the subwoofer's size in tight spaces.
Professional reviewers praise the HW-B400F for its clear dialogue, wider soundstage and hassle-free setup, especially noting the usefulness of Voice Enhance and Samsung TV integration. However, they caution that the lack of a dedicated subwoofer, absence of Dolby Atmos/DTS:X and modest power output make it unsuitable for audiophiles or larger home-theater setups.
Everyday users appreciate the noticeable improvement in speech clarity, the straightforward plug-and-play installation, and the compact aesthetic. Common praise centers on Voice Enhance, Night Mode, and reliable Bluetooth music streaming, while recurring complaints focus on insufficient volume for big rooms, modest bass, occasional Bluetooth glitches, and the missing wall-mount bracket.
“Clear dialogue, especially in movies and TV shows”
“330 W total power makes the room feel like a theater”
“The wireless subwoofer is a bit large for my small apartment”
