Sony HT-S400
Score: 49/100
Samsung HW-C450
Score: 81/100Rankings
The Samsung HW-C450 is a compact 2.1-channel soundbar with a wireless subwoofer, offering virtual 3-D surround via DTS Virtual:X and multiple sound modes. It excels in bass impact and ease of setup but lacks modern HDMI connectivity.
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 | 300 W | |
2.1best | 2.1best | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.4 kgbest | 5.9 kg |
12 monthsbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.5 Wbest | 0.5 Wbest |
— | 10 mbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio Performance(3) | ||
Total Output Power (W) | 330 W | 300 W |
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Digital, Dolby Dual Mono, LPCM 2ch, SBC | Dolby Audio, DTS 2.0, LPCM 2ch |
Sound Modes | Sound Field, Voice Mode, Night Mode | Bass Boost, Game Mode, Adaptive Sound Lite, Night Mode, Voice Enhance |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Soundbar Weight (kg) | 2.4 kg | 5.9 kg |
Mounting Type | Wall-mountable | Wall Mount |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 4.2 |
HDMI ARC/eARC | true | false |
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 commend the HW-C450 for its ultra-slim profile and surprisingly immersive movie sound, highlighting its rich tonal balance and effective virtual surround. However, they criticize the absence of HDMI/ARC and note that its music reproduction falls short for audiophiles.
Everyday users overwhelmingly appreciate the dramatic improvement over built-in TV speakers, the ease of setup, and the wireless subwoofer's convenience. Common complaints focus on occasional Bluetooth dropouts, the lack of HDMI inputs, and the subwoofer's overpowering bass at higher volumes.
“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”
