LG S80TR 5.1.3 Review: Atmos for OLED TVs

Who Should Buy It

Key Specifications

Overview

The LG S80TR 5.1.3 is a mid-range soundbar package from the 2024 lineup, built around a 5.1.3 channel layout with a main bar, wireless rear surround speakers, and a wireless subwoofer. The listing emphasizes Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and a center up-firing driver for dialogue clarity. It also highlights WOWCAST built-in for wireless audio from compatible LG TVs.

On paper, this system sits above basic 2.1 soundbars because it includes dedicated rear channels and three height channels. The main appeal is the combination of true surround speakers and LG-specific integration features such as WOW Orchestra and one remote control. The listing does not state power output or individual driver dimensions, so some performance details remain unknown.

Sound Quality

The 5.1.3 configuration separates left, center, right, two surround, subwoofer, and three upward-firing channels. The listing calls out the center up-firing speaker as a way to improve dialogue clarity and provide a wider soundstage. That is a noteworthy design choice for movie and TV fans who struggle to hear voices.

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support means the bar can decode object-based mixes from many streaming services and Blu-ray discs. Advanced Room Calibration uses a built-in microphone to measure the room and optimize audio settings, which may reduce the need for manual tweaking. Buyers should note that the listing does not publish watts per channel, so loudness and headroom cannot be judged from the data.

Without published measurements or third-party testing, tonal balance and bass extension are open questions. The design suggests a step up from TV speakers, especially for dialogue and surround placement. Those with very large open rooms may want more powerful alternatives, but the published feature set is promising for a mid-range system.

Surround, Atmos and Audio Formats

A 5.1.3 layout includes three up-firing channels, which the listing says helps create immersive 3D spatial sound. The rear speakers are wireless, meaning no special receiver or long cable runs are needed. That makes this system practical for rooms where running surround wiring is difficult.

Both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X are listed, so the bar should handle most modern object-based formats. The center up-firing channel is less common than left and right height drivers, and the listing frames it as a dialogue enhancement. There is no mention of IMAX Enhanced, Auro-3D, or other specialized formats, so those may not be supported.

WOWCAST built-in is described as a way to send wireless Dolby Atmos and DTS:X sound without visible wires, lag, or loss in audio quality. This feature likely requires a compatible LG TV, though the listing does not spell out exact model requirements. Buyers with non-LG sets may need to rely on HDMI connections that are not detailed in the listing.

Subwoofer and Bass

The package includes a wireless subwoofer, but the listing does not give the driver size or amplifier wattage. That missing information makes it hard to predict how deep or powerful the bass will be. The presence of a dedicated subwoofer is still an advantage over soundbars that rely on internal drivers alone.

The 5.1 bed includes a dedicated low-frequency effects channel, so on paper the system should reproduce LFE content from movies and games. Advanced Room Calibration may help integrate the sub with the room and reduce boomy peaks. Without published output figures, buyers should treat bass performance as an unknown rather than a guaranteed strength.

• Wireless subwoofer is included in the package
• No receiver or wired connection is required for the sub
• Listing does not state cone size or rated power
• Dedicated LFE channel is part of the 5.1 layout
• Room calibration may improve subwoofer integration
• Adjustable crossover or phase controls are not mentioned in the listing

Connectivity and TV Setup

WOWCAST built-in is highlighted for wireless audio from LG TVs, which can reduce cable clutter in a living room. It also mentions VRR and ALLM with passthrough refresh rate up to 120Hz, a meaningful bonus for PS5 or Xbox Series X owners. Wireless rear speakers and subwoofer further cut down on visible wiring.

HDMI eARC and input counts are not published in the listing. This is a significant gap because buyers often want to connect a game console, Blu-ray player, or streaming box directly to the soundbar. The listing focuses on wireless and LG TV integration instead of giving detailed wired input specifications.

Setup appears easiest with a recent LG TV, since WOW Orchestra and WOW Interface let the TV and soundbar work as one system with a single remote. Owners of other TV brands may still use HDMI or optical connections if present, but the listing does not confirm those options. Checking the full official spec sheet before purchase is advisable.

Features, Apps and Voice Control

Google Assistant and Alexa support are mentioned, as well as Chromecast and AirPlay 2. That means users can stream audio from phones or group the soundbar with other compatible speakers. Voice control is a handy addition but may require a linked smart speaker, which the listing does not clarify.

No dedicated app is named in the listing. Many LG soundbars are controlled through the LG Sound Bar app, but that is not stated here. WOW Interface allows control of the soundbar with the LG TV remote, which is a practical feature for reducing remote clutter.

The built-in microphone is specifically used for room calibration, not necessarily as a far-field voice mic. WOW Orchestra synchronizes audio from the LG TV speakers and the soundbar, which may improve the sense of height and dialogue. The exact steps for enabling voice assistants and streaming services are not published.

Design and Fit Under a TV

Physical dimensions and weight are not provided in the listing for the main bar, rear speakers, or subwoofer. Without those figures, it is hard to know if the bar will block the TV's IR sensor or fit on a narrow media stand. The wireless rear speakers and subwoofer reduce cable clutter, but their footprints are unknown.

The marketing says the soundbar matches OLED evo TVs, which suggests a low profile and dark finish, but that is an inference from the product positioning. On paper, the center up-firing driver adds a height channel, which may make the bar a bit taller than a basic 2.1 model. Buyers should measure their available space carefully.

The system is described as being designed for rooms of all shapes and sizes because the rear speakers are wireless. This is a functional advantage but not a physical dimension claim. Until dimensions are published, a specific TV size or cabinet clearance cannot be recommended.

Who Should Buy It

LG TV owners, especially those with OLED evo models, will get the most from WOWCAST built-in, WOW Orchestra, and one remote control. If you want true rear surround without running speaker cables, this package is a convenient option. The included subwoofer also helps fill in the low end.

This system suits buyers moving from built-in TV speakers to a mid-range 5.1.3 Atmos setup. It is not a budget bar, but it is also not as expensive as flagship systems with many more drivers. The included rear speakers and subwoofer reduce the need for separate purchases.

Gamers may appreciate the VRR and ALLM support with 120Hz passthrough, but the lack of HDMI input details means you should verify your console setup first. Buyers who want detailed specifications before committing may prefer a model with fully published specs.

Alternatives Worth Considering

The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a compact alternative known for strong app support and ecosystem integration, but its base package does not include wireless rear speakers or a subwoofer. The Bose Smart Soundbar 600 offers Dolby Atmos in a small bar, though it also lacks rear speakers out of the box.

The Samsung HW-Q600C is a common mid-range rival that includes a wireless subwoofer and often publishes more detailed HDMI specifications, though its channel count may differ. The Sony HT-S400 is a simpler 2.1 option for buyers who only need better TV sound without rear surround.

Budget Vizio V-Series bars are more affordable but typically less refined for Atmos height effects. The Polk Signa S4 includes a wireless sub and supports DTS, but its surround expansion may not match the 5.1.3 out of box package. The LG S80TR stands out for wireless rear speakers and three up-firing channels.

Verdict

The LG S80TR 5.1.3 is a promising mid-range Atmos package that includes wireless rear speakers, a wireless subwoofer, and LG-specific conveniences. It scores well for format support and the center up-firing driver, which should help dialogue clarity. The missing power and dimension details keep this from being an unconditional recommendation.

On paper, it is best for LG TV owners who want an easy path to surround sound without many cables. WOWCAST built-in and WOW Orchestra add real value if you own a compatible LG set. For everyone else, the lack of published HDMI and wattage specs means you should confirm compatibility and output before buying.

Strengths and Limitations

Alternatives to Consider

Sennheiser Ambeo Sub

Owners of Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Plus or Max who want deeper, tighter bass and app based room calibration in a mid range package.

Read the Sennheiser Ambeo Sub review →

Bose Smart Dolby Atmos Soundbar

Buyers who want a compact one piece Dolby Atmos soundbar with clear dialogue, broad streaming, and voice control without a separate subwoofer.

Read the Bose Smart Dolby Atmos Soundbar review →

LG SC9S

LG OLED evo C Series owners who want a matched, mountable Atmos bar with clear dialogue and wireless subwoofer.

Read the LG SC9S review →

Head-to-Head Comparisons

• LG S80TR 5.1.3 vs Bose Smart Dolby Atmos Soundbar Compare →

Questions Buyers Ask