LG S90TR Review: How Does Its Up-Firing Center Channel Enhance Dialogue?
The LG S90TR soundbar delivers immersive 7.1.3-channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio with wireless rear speakers, making it a top choice for LG TV owners seeking a clutter-free, high-end home theater experience.
By Elvis Dicki
Updated October 20, 2026
The LG S90TR is a premium 7.1.3-channel home theater soundbar designed to match LG OLED evo TVs, offering a seamless audio-visual ecosystem. It targets home theater enthusiasts who prioritize immersive spatial audio, wireless simplicity, and deep integration within the LG product family. This soundbar stands out by delivering a comprehensive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X experience with minimal cabling, making it a compelling solution for those seeking high-end sound without the complexity of traditional component systems.
For owners of compatible LG televisions, the LG S90TR offers a powerful, feature-rich audio upgrade that synchronizes perfectly with the on-screen action. The bottom line is that this soundbar excels at creating a wide, three-dimensional soundstage with exceptional dialogue clarity, though its full potential is best realized within the LG ecosystem.
LG S90TR 7.1.3 Channel OLED TV Soundbar with Dolby
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LG S90TR at a Glance
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Audio Channels | 7.1.3-channel |
| Key Audio Technologies | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Immersive 3D Spatial Sound |
| Speaker Size | 49.2 inches |
| Enclosure Material | Metal |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HDMI, AirPlay 2, Chromecast |
| Subwoofer & Rear Speaker Connection | Wireless |
| Control Methods | Remote, Voice Control (Google Assistant, Alexa) |
| Gaming Features | VRR/ALLM support, 120Hz passthrough |
| Room Calibration | Advanced automatic calibration with built-in microphone |
| Special Features | WOW Orchestra, WOW Interface, Center Up-Firing Speaker |
Design and Build
The LG S90TR presents a substantial, 49.2-inch wide form factor designed to complement the width of large-screen televisions. Its metal enclosure suggests a focus on durability and acoustic performance, contributing to a premium feel. The design is intended for placement in front of a TV, either on a media console or via the included wall-mount bracket, and its 2.5-inch height should allow it to sit without obstructing most TV screens. The inclusion of wireless rear speakers is a significant design advantage, eliminating the need to run speaker cables across the room and reducing installation clutter.
Performance and Features
Audio Performance and Immersion
As a 7.1.3-channel system, the S90TR is engineered for immersive spatial audio. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technologies allows it to decode object-based soundtracks, creating a three-dimensional soundscape with height effects. The key differentiator is the exclusive center up-firing speaker, which is designed to enhance dialogue clarity by focusing vocal frequencies, ensuring conversations and on-screen details are heard with precision. The Immersive 3D Spatial Sound feature, available in specific sound modes, aims to place the listener inside the action for a more engaging experience.
Connectivity and Control
Connectivity is versatile, featuring Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for wireless streaming from smartphones and other devices. It supports AirPlay 2 and Chromecast for multi-platform audio casting. The built-in WOWCAST technology facilitates wireless Dolby Atmos transmission from compatible sources, aiming for a lag-free experience without visible wires. Control is managed via the included remote, but the system also offers multi-platform voice control compatibility with Google Assistant and Alexa for hands-free operation. The WOW Interface is a significant feature for LG TV owners, allowing control of both the TV and soundbar with a single remote.
Key Ecosystem and Gaming Features
The S90TR is deeply integrated into the LG ecosystem. The WOW Orchestra feature creates synchronized audio by combining the output of the LG TV’s speakers with the soundbar, potentially creating a wider, more enveloping soundstage. For gamers, the soundbar supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), with a passthrough refresh rate up to 120Hz, which is designed to deliver smooth, lag-free audio that matches fast-paced on-screen action.
Intelligent Room Optimization
A standout feature is the Advanced Room Calibration. Using a built-in microphone, the soundbar measures the dimensions and acoustic properties of the room and automatically optimizes audio settings accordingly. This aims to tailor the sound output to the specific listening environment, potentially improving performance regardless of room size or furniture layout.
Setup, Support and Ownership
Setup is designed to be straightforward, particularly for LG TV owners, leveraging HDMI connectivity and the unified remote system. The wireless nature of the rear speakers and subwoofer greatly simplifies installation by removing the need to route audio cables. The package includes essential accessories: an HDMI cable, remote, wall mount bracket, warranty card, and batteries. Support includes a one-year limited warranty covering parts and labor. The manufacturer notes a seven-year EU spare part availability duration, suggesting long-term serviceability, though specifics for other regions are not listed. Firmware updates would logically be delivered via its Wi-Fi connection to enable new features or improvements, though the update policy is not detailed in the provided data.
What Owners Say
Owner feedback, as reflected in the rating distribution, is overwhelmingly positive. The majority of reviews award the highest rating, indicating high satisfaction with its performance and feature set. A smaller percentage of ratings suggest some users experienced issues or had expectations that were not fully met, though the specific nature of these concerns is not detailed in the provided excerpts. The high overall rating suggests the product delivers on its core promises of immersive sound and seamless integration for most users.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional immersive audio with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- Wireless rear speakers eliminate cable clutter and complexity
- Intelligent room calibration adapts sound automatically
- Seamless integration with LG OLED TVs
- High-quality metal enclosure and robust build
- Center up-firing speaker enhances dialogue clarity
Cons
- Optimized for LG TV compatibility, limiting features with other brands
- Requires space for wireless rear speakers, unsuitable for very small rooms
- Premium positioning may not fit all budgets
- Specific performance details for non-LG setups are not listed
Who Should Buy It (and Who Should Skip It)
The LG S90TR is an ideal purchase for owners of compatible LG OLED TVs who want a significant audio upgrade without the hassle of a wired surround sound system. Home theater enthusiasts seeking authentic Dolby Atmos and DTS:X experiences with wireless convenience will find it compelling. It’s also a strong match for gamers who value low-latency audio and high refresh rate passthrough. For more insights on immersive audio setups, explore our guide on the best surround sound soundbars.
Conversely, those with televisions from other manufacturers should consider alternatives, as some key features like WOW Orchestra and WOW Interface are optimized for LG TVs. Individuals with very limited space or who cannot accommodate the placement of wireless rear speakers should also look at more compact soundbar solutions. For those prioritizing voice clarity above all else, our expert picks for the best TV soundbars for voice clarity offer other options.
Final Verdict
The LG S90TR soundbar is a feature-packed audio solution that excels within its intended ecosystem. Its ability to deliver a genuine 7.1.3-channel surround sound experience with wireless rear speakers and automatic room calibration makes it a powerful and user-friendly choice. The focus on dialogue clarity through its unique up-firing center channel, combined with gaming-ready features and seamless smart home integration, creates a versatile package for modern entertainment.
While its performance with non-LG televisions may not access all features, for LG TV owners, it represents a top-tier audio upgrade path. It successfully bridges the gap between complex component systems and simpler soundbars, offering high-end immersive audio without the traditional installation headaches. For the latest in home audio technology and other expert reviews, visit our dedicated Tech Gear section.
FAQs
Does the LG S90TR need a separate AV receiver?
No, the LG S90TR does not require a separate AV receiver. It is a self-contained soundbar system with a built-in amplifier and wireless connectivity for the included rear speakers and subwoofer. This all-in-one design simplifies setup and reduces the number of components needed for a full surround sound experience.
Can I use the S90TR with a non-LG television?
Yes, the LG S90TR can be used with televisions from other manufacturers via its HDMI connections, and it will still function as a high-quality soundbar supporting Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. However, certain ecosystem-specific features like WOW Orchestra (synchronized TV and soundbar audio) and control via the LG TV remote (WOW Interface) are only available when paired with select LG TV models.
What is the purpose of the Advanced Room Calibration?
The Advanced Room Calibration uses a built-in microphone to analyze the acoustic characteristics of your specific room. It measures dimensions and other factors, then automatically adjusts the soundbar’s audio settings to optimize sound quality for that unique space. This aims to deliver the best possible audio performance regardless of room size, shape, or furnishings.
Is the LG S90TR suitable for gaming?
Yes, the LG S90TR is designed with gaming in mind. It supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), which help synchronize audio with the video signal to reduce lag. It also offers a passthrough refresh rate of up to 120Hz, making it compatible with high-frame-rate gaming content from consoles and PCs for a smoother, more responsive experience.
About the author
Elvis Dicki writes reviews and buying guides for CyberSecLabs.