Bose Smart Ultra Dolby Atmos vs Samsung HW-S801D 3.1.2ch
Quick Verdict
The Bose Smart Ultra Dolby Atmos is the better single enclosure option for buyers who want an all in one Atmos bar with strong dialogue emphasis and voice control, while the Samsung HW-S801D 3.1.2ch is the better choice for Samsung TV owners who want a slim bar with a wireless subwoofer and smart assistant streaming features. Both score 80 overall, but the Bose leans slightly toward vocal clarity and compact simplicity, and the Samsung leans toward lifestyle convenience and TV integration. Choose the Bose if you prioritize a six transducer upward firing array without a subwoofer. Choose the Samsung if you want a subwoofer and Q Symphony.
| Spec | Bose Smart Ultra Dolby Atmos | Samsung HW-S801D 3.1.2ch |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | Not published in listing | 3.1.2 |
| Drivers | Six transducers, including two upward-firing dipole speakers | Not published in listing |
| Power | Not published in listing | Not published in listing |
| Subwoofer | No separate subwoofer listed | Wireless subwoofer included |
| Dolby Atmos and DTS | Dolby Atmos; DTS not published | Dolby Atmos; DTS support not published in listing |
| HDMI eARC and inputs | HDMI eARC, optical audio | Not published in listing |
| Wireless and streaming | Bluetooth; Wi-Fi implied for voice and app control | Built-in Alexa, Chromecast, AirPlay 2; additional wireless services not detailed |
| Dimensions | Not published in listing | Not published in listing |
| Remote and app | Included remote; Bose app per listing | Not published in listing (smart assistant and streaming control described) |
| Included accessories | HDMI eARC cable, optical audio cable, remote control | Wireless subwoofer (included); remote and cables not described |
Sound Quality
The Bose scores 26 out of 30 for sound quality, while the Samsung scores 24 out of 30. Bose lists six transducers, including two upward firing dipole speakers. Samsung does not publish driver sizes or power output. The Bose has a more detailed disclosed driver arrangement, which may contribute to its higher score.
Both models support Dolby Atmos and omit DTS support. Bose emphasizes A.I. Dialogue Mode and TrueSpace, while Samsung features Adaptive Sound and SpaceFit Sound Pro. Bose appears more dialogue focused on paper, and Samsung tailors audio to the room.
For vocal intelligibility, Bose has a specific dialogue mode. Samsung lacks a named dialogue feature but Adaptive Sound may help. Neither publishes frequency response or driver sizes, so real world balance remains uncertain.
Surround, Atmos and Audio Formats
Both soundbars receive 12 out of 15 for surround and audio formats. Each supports Dolby Atmos, and neither listing confirms DTS or DTS:X. Bose includes two upward firing dipole speakers as part of its array, while Samsung states a 3.1.2 channel configuration without specifying driver types.
Samsung 3.1.2 implies a dedicated center and side channels plus subwoofer and two height channels. Bose does not publish a channel count and appears to rely on TrueSpace processing for height and width. Direct channel architecture cannot be fully compared.
Neither model lists DTS support, which may matter for Blu ray users with DTS soundtracks. If your content is primarily Dolby Atmos or standard Dolby, both should work. The absence of DTS confirmation is a shared limitation.
Subwoofer and Bass
The most concrete difference is the subwoofer. Bose does not list a separate subwoofer, while Samsung includes a wireless subwoofer. This gives Samsung a clear advantage for low frequency output assuming the subwoofer works. Bose relies entirely on internal transducers for bass.
Bose does not publish power output or frequency response, so you cannot determine bass depth. Samsung also omits subwoofer specs such as driver size or wattage. However, a dedicated wireless subwoofer generally allows for more impact than a single bar.
For buyers wanting cinematic low end without adding components, Samsung is a significant practical advantage. Bose may be limited in bass due to the all in one design. Neither model provides detailed bass specifications, so real world difference is not quantifiable.
Connectivity and TV Setup
Bose lists HDMI eARC and optical audio inputs, with included HDMI eARC and optical cables. Samsung does not publish HDMI eARC or physical input details. Bose is more transparent for wired TV connection. Bose includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi implied, while Samsung lists built in Alexa, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2.
Bose scores 12 out of 15 for connectivity, Samsung scores 13 out of 15. Samsung supports Chromecast and AirPlay 2 natively, valuable for streaming from mobile devices. Bose does not list those protocols, only Bluetooth and SimpleSync.
For TV setup, Bose includes necessary cables, a practical convenience. Samsung does not describe included cables. Samsung Q Symphony works with compatible Samsung TVs, integrating bar and TV speakers. Bose does not list a similar TV integration feature.
Features, Apps and Voice Control
Both models score 12 out of 15 for features and apps. Bose includes the Bose app, an included remote, voice assistant support, Bluetooth, and SimpleSync. Samsung includes built in Alexa, Chromecast, AirPlay 2, adaptive audio modes, and Game Mode Pro.
Bose voice assistant support is not specified as built in but likely works through external assistants or the Bose app. Samsung has built in Alexa, and Chromecast and AirPlay 2 add multi room streaming. Bose SimpleSync appeals to owners of other Bose devices.
For gaming, Samsung has a dedicated Game Mode Pro, while Bose does not mention a gaming mode. Bose lists TrueSpace and A.I. Dialogue Mode as signature processing. Neither model lists a graphic EQ or extensive customization.
Design and Fit Under a TV
Bose is described as a compact all in one design, with no published dimensions. Samsung is described as a slim profile that fits under many TVs without blocking the screen, also without dimensions. Samsung scores 12 out of 15 for design and TV fit, one point higher than Bose at 11.
Bose has no separate subwoofer, so all components are in one bar, which may increase height or width. Samsung likely has a lower profile because the subwoofer is separate. Exact clearances cannot be verified without measurements.
Neither listing states wall mount hardware. Bose includes HDMI eARC and optical cables, but no mention of wall brackets. Samsung lists only the wireless subwoofer as an included accessory. If your TV stand is low, Samsung slim profile may be safer.
Who Should Buy It
Bose is best for TV owners who want an immersive one piece Dolby Atmos bar with voice control and easy setup. It suits those who do not want a subwoofer but still want height from upward firing drivers. A.I. Dialogue Mode is ideal for dialogue heavy content.
Samsung is best for Samsung TV owners who want a slim Atmos soundbar with a wireless subwoofer and smart assistant features. Q Symphony works specifically with compatible Samsung TVs. Built in Alexa, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2 suit streaming users.
Buyers needing thunderous low end or DTS:X should be cautious with both, as neither confirms DTS support and Bose lacks a subwoofer. Samsung includes a subwoofer but publishes no output specs. For small to medium rooms with dialogue priority, Bose may be preferable.
The Deciding Question
The deciding question is whether you want a separate wireless subwoofer or an all in one bar. Samsung includes a wireless subwoofer, a significant advantage for bass output. Bose lacks a subwoofer and relies on six internal transducers.
Another deciding factor is brand ecosystem. Samsung Q Symphony works only with compatible Samsung TVs, while Bose does not list similar TV integration. Samsung also includes built in Alexa, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2, more universal than Bose Bluetooth and SimpleSync.
Finally, consider spec transparency. Bose states HDMI eARC and optical inputs with included cables, while Samsung omits HDMI details. Both have limitations, so neither is fully transparent. Decide based on subwoofer presence, TV brand, and streaming ecosystem.
Who Should Buy Which
Choose Bose if you want a single enclosure Atmos bar without a subwoofer, value dialogue clarity through A.I. Dialogue Mode, and do not need DTS support. Bose also includes HDMI eARC and optical cables for simple setup.
Choose Samsung if you own a compatible Samsung TV and want Q Symphony, need a wireless subwoofer for deeper bass, and prefer built in Alexa, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2. Samsung is better for smart home users who stream from multiple devices.
Both models score 80 out of 100, so the decision is about feature priorities. Samsung TV owners likely benefit from Q Symphony and subwoofer. Bose ecosystem users or those wanting an all in one design should pick Bose. Neither model is a clear winner for everyone.
Bose Smart Ultra Dolby Atmos
Pros
- Dolby Atmos and TrueSpace for spatial audio
- A.I. Dialogue Mode for voice clarity
- Six transducers with upward-firing drivers
- HDMI eARC and optical inputs included
- Bluetooth, SimpleSync, and voice assistant support
- Compact all-in-one design
Cons
- No separate subwoofer listed, bass impact may be limited
- Power output and frequency response not published
- DTS support not mentioned
- Exact dimensions not provided
- No DTS:X or other format confirmation
Samsung HW-S801D 3.1.2ch
Pros
- Slim profile fits under many TVs without blocking the screen
- Wireless subwoofer reduces cable clutter
- Q Symphony pairs with compatible Samsung TVs
- Built in Alexa, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2
- SpaceFit Sound Pro and Adaptive Sound aim to tailor audio
- Game Mode Pro for console and PC gaming
Cons
- Listing omits HDMI eARC and physical input details
- No published driver sizes, power output, or dimensions
- DTS support is not stated
- Voice assistant features may require network setup
- Bass performance is unknown without subwoofer specs
Who Should Buy Each
Bose Smart Ultra Dolby Atmos
- Apartment dwellers wanting Atmos without multiple speakers
- Dialogue-focused viewers who appreciate A.I. Dialogue Mode
- Bose ecosystem users with Bose headphones or Bluetooth speakers
- People who want hands-free Alexa voice control
Samsung HW-S801D 3.1.2ch
- Samsung TV owners who want Q Symphony integration
- People with limited space under a wall mounted TV
- Streamers who want built in Alexa, Chromecast, or AirPlay 2
- Gamers who want automatic Game Mode Pro
Quick Decision Guide
| If you want a wireless subwoofer included | Choose Samsung HW-S801D 3.1.2ch |
| If you own a compatible Samsung TV and want Q Symphony | Choose Samsung HW-S801D 3.1.2ch |
| If you prefer an all in one bar without a subwoofer | Choose Bose Smart Ultra Dolby Atmos |
| If you want built in Alexa, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2 | Choose Samsung HW-S801D 3.1.2ch |
| If you value A.I. Dialogue Mode and upward firing drivers in a single enclosure | Choose Bose Smart Ultra Dolby Atmos |
FAQ
About This Comparison
Mandrillis Team
The Mandrillis editorial team researches and compares audio and music gear using manufacturer documentation, verified specs and real buyer feedback, so you can make a confident purchase without wading through marketing claims.
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