LG has emerged as a pioneer in bringing Dolby’s innovative sound technology to market with its modular and scalable audio system, capable of adjusting automatically to deliver optimal surround sound. This approach transforms the experience of enjoying Dolby Atmos cinema sound without ever leaving your home.
The new Dolby technology requires specific hardware, which is why LG has gone all out with a comprehensive lineup of speakers in its new technology family: LG Sound Suite AI.
What is Dolby Atmos?
Dolby Atmos FlexConnect, or DAFC for short, emphasizes the room over the speakers. Historically, surround sound systems have come with two main drawbacks: they clutter the space with many speakers and require each one to be wired to an amplifier for sound processing.
This setup can complicate the installation, as speakers need to be arranged symmetrically and at equal heights, but Dolby Atmos FlexConnect offers three advantages: it supports a customizable number of speakers; provides wireless connection to eliminate cable clutter; and calibrates sound automatically to suit your room’s unique characteristics, even if the speakers are not symmetrically placed or set at different heights.
Technical Specifications for the LG Sound Suite AI
LG Sound Suite AI | H7 | W7 | M7 | M5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Total Power (W) | 500W | 220W | 100W | 60W |
Channels | 9.1.6 | 2.1.1 | 1.1.1 | |
Speakers | 8 x Full-range Speakers 4 x Woofers | 8″ Woofer | 3 x Full-range Speakers, 4″ Woofer | 3″ Woofer, 16mm Tweeter, 20mm Tweeter |
Integrated Microphone | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Audio Streaming | AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect | AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect | AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect | |
Connections | HDMI e-ARC, USB A, WiFi, Bluetooth | WiFi | USB C, WiFi, Bluetooth | USB C, WiFi, Bluetooth |
Dimensions and Weight | 63 x 1220 x 143 mm, 7.7 kg | 415 x 410 x 194 mm, 8.8 kg | 238.3 x 177 x 177 mm, 2.81 kg | 199.3 x 152 x 152 mm, 1.73 kg |
Launch Price | $999.99 | $599.99 | $399.99 | $249.99 |
LG Sound Suite AI Overview
LG has become the first manufacturer to implement this technology, partnering with Peerless Audio. The current lineup includes:
- LG Sound Suite H7: A 500W soundbar featuring 12 full-range speakers, 8 passive radiators, and an Alpha 11 Gen 3 processor.
- LG Sound Suite M5: A satellite speaker system of 60W, consisting of a 3″ woofer and two tweeters to achieve Dolby Atmos effects.
- LG Sound Suite M7: An improved satellite speaker system at 100W with a 4″ woofer and a design geared for more immersive sound.
- LG Sound Suite W7: An 8″ subwoofer capable of reproducing deep bass down to 25.9 Hz.
Alpha 11 Gen 3: The Brain of the System
The LG Sound Suite offers Dolby Atmos FlexConnect through direct connection to compatible LG OLED TVs or via the LG Sound Suite H7 soundbar. This provides flexibility in speaker configuration, ensuring optimal sound performance customized to your space.
My Experience with DAFC
Using LG’s most comprehensive setup, termed Inmersive Quad Suite 7 Pro, I tested the system with a total configuration of 13.1.7 channels. The wireless connections simplify setup, although all speakers require power outlets, potentially influencing placement decisions.
Audio Performance
The system delivers a remarkable total of 1,220W power, creating an immersive sound experience that enhances every kind of content, from movies to everyday TV shows. The sound design is adjustable in real time, ensuring that dialogue remains clear while delivering impactful bass during action scenes.
The Price of Excellence
The LG Sound Suite AI is a premium offering, with the H7 soundbar priced at $999.99, and the complete package up to $3,199.94. While the investment is considerable, even minimal setup can provide a significant upgrade in audio performance.
LG’s incorporation of Dolby Atmos FlexConnect promises an accessible route to exceptional surround sound experiences, regardless of the limitations of typical home layouts.