CES 2021: LG unveils smaller, more powerful, prettier Atmos soundbars

At CES 2021, LG announced a full line of soundbars to accompany its OLED and QNED TVs, including entry-level and high-end Dolby Atmos models that offer improved compatibility and design.

Newer models tend to be more compact, if not all-in-one, with HDMI connectivity (the norm these days) and a smoother, more user-friendly appearance. For example, the SP2 is a 2.1 soundbar with “on-board” subwoofers. It offers 100 watts of power, HDMI connectivity, Bluetooth and is available in two colors: anthracite or gray.

One of the most distinctive models is the small QP5 Eclair. With a width of only 11.7 inches, this speaker is reminiscent of the Polk MagniFi Mini, but beware, a rare thing for a speaker of this size, it has vertical speakers for 3D Dolby Atmos sound. In general, small models opt instead for virtual Atmos spatialization. The QP5 Eclair comes with a wireless subwoofer, designed “push-pull” for less vibrations. This model is scheduled for June / July 2021.

The small QP5 Eclair sound bar

The SP7 in 5.1 retains an all-in-one design, but benefits from an acoustic optimization from sound specialist Meridian, DTS Virtual: X (no vertical speakers) and increased power (440 W). For their part, the high-end soundbars (SP11 / 9/8) all have vertical speakers, the best method to enjoy Atmos and DTS: X effects. They are also compatible with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, have a built-in Chromecast and support Apple AirPlay 2.

Here are the main characteristics of the 8 models of the new range:

LG SP11R