Sound quality:
Samsung's HW-B73CD/ZA has acceptable overall sound quality - this model reproduces music and dialog reasonably well despite the obvious shortcomings in its sound. In the Standard sound mode with the tone controls set to provide the most even tonal balance the bass has decent impact and goes deep, but is a bit prominent and somewhat boomy. Midrange is a bit grainy, hazy, nasal, congested and a touch plasticky and sibilant. Treble is fairly extended, but lower and mid treble is a bit subdued, smeared and sizzly. Does a decent job of recovering room ambience in the upper midrange, but not much anywhere else.
The two channel sound field extends somewhat above and a bit to the sides of the speaker enclosure and lacks front to back depth. Individual instruments and voices are easy to identify but are two-dimensional. The various sound modes, voice enhancement and night mode have a noticeable effect on the sound field and/or tonal balance.
5.1 channel
When 5.1 channel program material is played back in the Standard sound mode the sound field may extend somewhat past the sides and well above the soundbar, but still lacks depth.
Sound Modes
The various sound modes, voice enhancement and night mode have a noticeable effect on the sound field and/or tonal balance.
TV ease of use: Very good overall.
Features ease of use: Very good overall.