LG Electronics SJ9 CTA-Certified Soundbar

The LG SJ9 is the most affordable Dolby Atmos sound bar system on the market, at least in the US. Home theater sound is dynamic and thrilling. Compatibility with Google Chromecast and 4K HDR offers some degree of flexibility and future-proofing.

Spectacularly powerful sound and LED display. It has remarkably compact design and chromecast support built in.

It’s an immensely powerful soundbar, attacking effects with gusto and generating a huge Atmos soundstage that reaches high and wide. The sound is anchored by deep and well-integrated bass from the wireless sub and peppered with crisp high-frequency detail. That all adds up to a wildly entertaining sound, which knocks the slimmer SJ8 into the proverbial cocked hat. It’s attractively styled and packed with features, allowing you to stream music from a wide range of sources.

Includes CTA certification to play high-resolution audio at the proper quality level with 24-bit upsampling. Offers Chromecast built-in streaming option. 500 watts of power. Includes support for audio found in 4K video with HDCP 2.2 compatibility. Has both WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity options for streaming music.

The LG SJ9’s subwoofer makes a lot of bass, but definition is only so-so. The sound isn't very refined when playing music. The 'bar lacks DTS:X or DTS-HD Master Audio compatibility. No surround speakers included.

Only one HDMI input and HDMI handshake issues. Limited rear/overhead channel effects.

I experienced problems streaming from my NAS drive, and the inclusion of a single HDMI input is a tad stingy for an expensive flagship soundbar. DTS:X support would also have been nice. Otherwise, the superb SJ9 is a great advert for Dolby Atmos and a terrific introduction to the delights of 3D audio.

Extremely high price tag versus other types of soundbars. Complex setup.