LG S60T Soundbar Review: Clear Dialogue, Mixed Bass Verdict
The LG S60T Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer (2024 Model) has earned a strong reputation among mid-range buyers, with an average score around 8.3/10 across platforms. While marketed as a sleek, powerful 3.1-channel system with Dolby Audio and AI Sound Pro, real-world feedback reveals a product that satisfies most users—particularly LG TV owners—but comes with notable limitations in connectivity and bass depth.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — Highly recommended for LG TV users seeking clear dialogue and integrated control; less compelling for those wanting Dolby Atmos or advanced wireless setups.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clear dialogue via dedicated center channel | No Dolby Atmos support |
| Seamless LG TV integration with WOW Interface | Bass can lack depth for some listeners |
| Stylish crest design with metal grill | Limited connectivity options |
| AI Sound Pro adapts to content automatically | Bluetooth pairing can be finicky |
| Easy setup with HDMI ARC | Not fully wireless in multi-speaker setups |
| Strong midrange and balance | Setup instructions can be unclear |
Claims vs Reality
LG’s marketing emphasizes "room-filling 340W 3.1ch sound" and "cinematic Dolby Audio experience." Digging deeper into user reports, the clarity of dialogue is consistently confirmed, especially in movie and sports content. Reddit feedback aligns with this, noting, “voices remain distinct and easily intelligible, even during complex action scenes.”
However, the claim of “immersive bass” is more mixed. While Trustpilot users praised the "thunderous bass in live music," Tech Reviews Lab pointed out that bass may lack depth compared to higher-end models. A verified buyer on Best Buy added: “bass doesn’t hit that hard, but you can bump up the sub sound bars and back speakers.”
LG also promotes the WOW Interface as an effortless control system. For LG TV owners, this is true. As Reddit user comments confirm, it’s “easy to adjust volume and sound modes directly from the TV screen.” But for non-LG TV users, the integration benefits diminish, leaving them with a standard remote and app control, which some found “basic and a little tough to use.”
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Amazon, Trustpilot, and Reddit, the dedicated center channel drew consistent approval from movie watchers and gamers. The AI Sound Pro’s ability to adjust sound for different content was a hit with varied audiences. A Trustpilot reviewer summed it up: “Movies and PS5 games are fire. With LG TV it’s all in one system.”
LG TV owners benefit most from WOW Interface integration. Best Buy customer austinc noted: “syncs seamlessly with our LG TV so we never have to deal with controlling the sound and TV separately.” For sports fans, AI Sound Pro’s clarity in commentary stood out, with one user saying, “now with a speaker in the kitchen, my wife’s happy she can hear clearly.”
The design also earns praise, especially the crest metal grill aesthetic. Tech Reviews Lab described it as “dust and debris-resistant” and premium-feeling, while Trustpilot buyers liked its compact footprint without sacrificing presence.
Common Complaints
Connectivity limitations surface often, especially for those expecting a more advanced wireless setup. Best Buy reviewer mjd1969 expressed frustration: “the ‘wireless’ rear speakers require a 20-foot stereo wire cable… disappointing setup.” This partial wireless design undermines the marketing pitch for some buyers.
Instructions are another sore point. Multiple sources—from Trustpilot to Best Buy—reported unclear or minimal documentation. Users had to hunt for setup details via the app or online videos. Bluetooth pairing issues also cropped up, with Tech Reviews Lab noting “some users may find initial pairing tricky.”
Bass performance divides opinion; while adequate for many, bassheads feel it lacks punch. Consumer Reports found it “prominent and tubby” at times, with upper treble “somewhat smeared.”
Divisive Features
The absence of Dolby Atmos is a deal-breaker for some, irrelevant for others. Movie enthusiasts who prioritize cutting-edge surround sound may prefer models like the LG S70TY or competitors with Atmos support. On the other hand, many mid-range buyers are satisfied with Dolby Audio, as Reddit discussions show: “The soundstage feels wide enough without Atmos.”
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot reviews suggest solid reliability in the short term, with buyers praising fast delivery and intact packaging. The recurring theme is value: “Excellent budget soundbar… price-quality is excellent.”
Longer-term Reddit discussions haven’t flagged significant durability issues yet, but connectivity quirks—especially with Bluetooth and the rear speaker cable—remain irritants. Those who integrate with LG TVs report stable performance over months of use, reinforcing the product’s appeal to that audience.
Alternatives
When stacked against competitors, the LG S60T holds its own for integration and clarity but lags in immersive tech. Compared to the Samsung HW-Q600C, it lacks Atmos but matches ease of use. Sony’s HT-G700 offers virtual 7.1.2 sound, which might edge out LG in spatial audio, though LG counters with AI Sound Pro and tighter TV synergy.
For compact setups, Vizio’s M-Series M213AD-K8 is more portable but may sound thinner due to its size. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) brings superior multi-room streaming and voice control, yet LG’s dedicated subwoofer may deliver stronger bass impact in single-room use.
Price & Value
The LG S60T’s retail price hovers around $238–$254, with auction finds dipping as low as $79. This variance suggests strong resale potential for budget hunters. Community advice leans toward pairing it with LG TVs to maximize value, as integration features justify the spend. Buyers looking for Atmos or fully wireless multi-speaker setups may want to invest in higher-tier models.
FAQ
Q: Does the LG S60T support Dolby Atmos?
A: No, it supports Dolby Audio and DTS Digital Surround, but not Dolby Atmos. This matters most to users seeking the latest 3D audio formats.
Q: Is it fully wireless?
A: Not entirely. While the subwoofer connects wirelessly to the soundbar, rear speakers (in the S60TR variant) require a wired link between each other.
Q: How easy is setup for non-LG TVs?
A: Setup is straightforward via HDMI ARC or optical, but non-LG TVs miss out on WOW Interface features. Control reverts to the remote or app.
Q: Can I boost bass performance?
A: Yes, via the soundbar’s bass settings in the app or remote. Users report noticeable improvement, though depth remains shy of premium subs.
Q: Does it come with an HDMI cable?
A: No, only an optical cable is included. HDMI must be sourced separately.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re an LG TV owner wanting clear dialogue, adaptive sound, and integrated control at a mid-range price. Avoid if you need Dolby Atmos or expect a fully wireless multi-speaker setup. Pro tip from community: invest a few minutes in the LG Soundbar app—fine-tuning the EQ can significantly improve bass and balance.
