Product Listing

LG HLX55W Blu-ray Sound Bar - Like an Incomplete Choir

By Kenny Yeo - 2 Feb 2011

Conclusion

Promising, but Flawed

Featuring an integrated 3D-capable Blu-ray and boasting '4.1-channel' sound, the appeal of the LG HLX55W is understandable, especially for movie buffs seeking theater-like sound without compromising on space and wire clutter. But unfortunately, the HLX55W has issues that needs to be ironed out before it can receive our hearty recommendation.  

Summary of Audio Results
Test Type Scores
CD 7.5
MP3 7.5
Blu-ray 8.0
Overall Audio Performance 7.5

Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of the HLX55W is its sound. It’s not terrible to be sure, but it could certainly be better. The most glaring flaw of the unit was its almost non-existent subwoofer, which caused the HLX55W to sound thin and detached, and therefore greatly diminishes the movie-watching experience.

The LG HLX55W sound bar has so much going for it, but it disappoints with its thin sounds and lack of input options.

Other niggles include the on-screen menu user interface, which, though easy and straightforward enough to use and navigate, felt slow and unresponsive. The HLX55W also has various sound modes, but their effects are minimal and not immediately apparent. And finally, the unit could also use more inputs ports so that it can be paired with a greater variety of devices such as gaming consoles like the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.

In all, the LG HLX55W sound bar is promising but flawed. If its winning looks are enough to distract you from its thin sound and lack of input ports doesn't bother you, then you wouldn't mind setting aside S$1499 for this 3D-ready Blu-ray sound bar. While it's not perfect, it's already one of the better sound bars in the market when you factor all its aspects as a whole and use it more for casual audio/movie viewing with some pseudo-surround effects. As we mentioned in the opening, setting your expectations right is the most important thing when considering various groups of audio products.

Join HWZ's Telegram channel here and catch all the latest tech news!
7.5
  • Design 8.5
  • Performance 7.5
  • Features 8.5
  • Value 8
The Good
Integrated 3D Blu-ray player
Fairly wide, spacious soundstage
Good looks
The Bad
Lack of input ports
Thick profile
Thin bass
Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission.