LG has unveiled its flagship soundbar for 2022 in the form of the 9.1.5-channel S95QR, which is the first soundbar with an up-firing center speaker.

LG's most advanced soundbar
At CES 2022, LG will unveil a full line-up of soundbars spearheaded by the S95QR, which boasts an output of 810W and 9.1.5 channels of immersive surround sound – up from 770W 7.1.4 in this year's SP11RA.

- "With five up-firing channels including the world’s first center up-firing speaker – three on the soundbar and two in the separate rear speakers – to improve clarity and enlarge the soundstage for the ultimate in realism. The perfect choice for movie lovers looking to elevate their home cinema experience, the LG Soundbar’s center up-firing speaker delivers clearer dialogue and makes Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content even more immersive. And with IMAX Enhanced, users can enjoy stunning three-dimensional audio when watching compatible content," the company said.

LG explained that S95QR features audio enhancements in speaker drivers and chambers, and a larger subwoofer. An upgraded pair of rear speakers with six channels (four front/side, two up-firing) help deliver a more encompassing soundstage with movies, series and games.


 LG's 9.1.5 channel S95QR soundbar solution

To enjoy the soundbar's full potential you need content in Dolby Atmos or DTS:X from a TV with built-in support for these audio formats, a Blu-ray player, a game console like Xbox Series, or a media player like Apple TV 4K.

 Also read: Guide to Dolby Atmos at home

To optimize immersive sound to your living space S95QR has built-in room calibration.

Samsung and others have yet to announce their 2022 line-ups but earlier this year Samsung claimed a 11.1.4 channels in its HW-Q950A flagship soundbar. Sony recently launched its new 7.1.2-channel HT-A700 soundbar, which we have reviewed here.

LG added that S95QR has VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) passthrough. 4K120 HDR passthrough on the other hand is not supported suggesting that the soundbar is equipped with standard HDMI 2.0 ports – even if manufacturers can now claim HDMI 2.1. So you may want to connect it through HDMI eARC instead.

It has support for Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and lossless multi-channel music, although the latter requires LG's 'Wowcast' WiFi dongle that must be purchased separately. There is an option to up-mix music in two channels to virtual 7.1 by switching to Music Mode, which is powered by Meridian Audio’s Horizon technology.

Launch and pricing details will be announced later.