Samsung Galaxy S24 Sound Review: Speakers, Audio Quality & Features

The sound experience on a smartphone is crucial for today’s users. From watching movies to listening to music and taking calls, high-quality audio is non-negotiable. The Samsung Galaxy S24 sound system is a key feature for many prospective buyers. Samsung has a history of collaborating with audio experts like AKG to deliver a superior experience. This comprehensive article will dive deep into the Samsung Galaxy S24’s audio capabilities, examining its speakers, audio quality, and overall performance.

A Detailed Look at the Galaxy S24’s Audio Features

The Samsung Galaxy S24 series is equipped with a specific set of audio features. Understanding these details is the first step in appreciating its sound quality.

Loudspeakers: Stereo Speakers

The Galaxy S24, along with the S24+ and S24 Ultra, features stereo speakers. This is a standard for modern flagship phones. One speaker is typically located at the bottom of the device. The second is integrated into the earpiece. This setup creates a more immersive soundstage. It is a significant upgrade from a single, mono speaker. The stereo effect enhances media consumption, making content more engaging.

Tuned by AKG

For years, Samsung has partnered with AKG to fine-tune its audio. This collaboration continues with the Galaxy S24. AKG is a respected brand in the audio world. Their tuning is meant to provide a balanced and clear sound profile. This partnership aims to prevent the “tinny” or distorted sound often found in smaller phone speakers. The “Tuned by AKG” branding is a promise of quality.

High-Resolution Audio: 32-bit/384kHz

The Samsung Galaxy S24 supports high-resolution audio playback. Specifically, it can handle audio up to 32-bit/384kHz. This is a major selling point for audiophiles. High-res audio means a higher sampling rate and bit depth. This results in more detail and a wider dynamic range in music. It’s important to note this feature is primarily for wired headphone use. It requires a compatible set of headphones and audio files.

The Missing 3.5mm Headphone Jack

A significant point for many is the absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack. This trend has been ongoing for years in the smartphone industry. The Galaxy S24 follows suit. This means you cannot use traditional wired headphones directly. You must use a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter, a USB-C headset, or wireless headphones. This decision prioritizes a slimmer design and water resistance. However, it can be a major inconvenience for some users.

Speaker and Audio Quality Review

Now, let’s get into the heart of the matter: how does the Samsung Galaxy S24 sound in real-world use?

Speaker Performance: Pros and Cons

The stereo speakers on the Galaxy S24 are loud and clear. They provide a good audio experience for watching videos and casual music listening. The stereo separation is effective. It creates a more spacious and cinematic feel.

• Pros: The speakers can get very loud. This is great for calls on speakerphone or sharing content with others. The AKG tuning helps to produce a more balanced sound. Mids and highs are generally well-defined. The stereo setup provides good channel separation.
• Cons: While loud, some users have reported the sound can be harsh or “tinny” at max volume. There is a noticeable lack of deep bass. This is a common limitation of smartphone speakers. For a truly rich bass experience, external speakers or headphones are necessary. Some reviewers and users have noted that the sound profile can be less full compared to older models. This suggests a shift in tuning.

Comparison with Previous Models and Competitors

When comparing the Galaxy S24 to its predecessor, the S23, the differences are subtle. Many reviews suggest the S24 speakers are a marginal improvement. They might be slightly louder. However, the overall sound signature remains similar. Some users have expressed a preference for the S23’s sound, finding it less sharp.

Against competitors like the iPhone 15 series, the Galaxy S24 holds its own. Both offer high-quality stereo speakers. The specific sound profile is a matter of personal preference. The iPhone often has a slightly warmer and more natural sound. The S24 can sound more analytical and bright. High-end gaming phones, like those from ASUS ROG, often have more powerful and bass-rich speakers due to their larger designs.

Wired Audio: The 32-bit/384kHz Advantage

The real power of the Galaxy S24’s audio hardware is unlocked with wired headphones. Using a quality USB-C DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) adapter, you can take advantage of the 32-bit/384kHz audio support. This capability allows for a much more detailed and accurate sound.

• Important Points: To benefit from this feature, you need high-quality headphones. You also need music files that are recorded in a high-resolution format (FLAC, MQA, WAV, etc.). Streaming services like TIDAL offer high-res audio. For most users listening to compressed audio (like MP3s or standard Spotify streams), the full potential of the 32-bit/384kHz support will not be realized.

User Experience and Customization

Samsung provides a variety of software tools to customize the Samsung Galaxy S24 sound experience.

Dolby Atmos

The phone supports Dolby Atmos. This feature creates a virtual surround sound effect. It can be enabled for both the speakers and headphones. For movies and games, Dolby Atmos adds a layer of immersion. The effect can be subtle. It’s best used when watching compatible content.

Equalizer and Adapt Sound

In the sound settings, you can find a built-in equalizer. This allows for manual adjustment of bass, mids, and treble. There are also presets for different music genres. The “Adapt Sound” feature is also very useful. It creates a personalized sound profile based on a quick hearing test. This custom profile then adjusts the audio output to better suit your hearing. It is a fantastic feature for personalizing your sound experience.

What a Buyer Should Know

• No 3.5mm Jack: This is the most important hardware-related point. If you have wired headphones, an adapter is a necessary purchase.
• Speakers are Loud but Not Perfect: The speakers are great for general use. They may not satisfy audiophiles or bass enthusiasts.
• Wired Audio is Excellent: The 32-bit/384kHz support is a premium feature. It provides an outstanding listening experience with the right equipment.
• Software Customization is Key: Don’t settle for the default sound. Play with the equalizer and Adapt Sound. You can significantly improve the audio quality for your specific preferences.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy S24 sound system is a mix of strengths and minor weaknesses. Its stereo speakers are loud and clear, making them excellent for everyday use. The sound is tuned by AKG, providing a generally balanced profile. However, some users might find it lacks the warmth and deep bass of competing devices. The absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a drawback for those who prefer wired connections.

Where the Galaxy S24 truly shines is in its support for high-resolution audio. With the right accessories and media, the 32-bit/384kHz capability delivers an exceptional, audiophile-grade experience. Samsung’s software additions, like Dolby Atmos and Adapt Sound, offer valuable tools for personalizing the audio.

Ultimately, the Samsung Galaxy S24 provides a very good audio experience. For most users, the speakers will be more than sufficient. For music lovers and audiophiles, the wired audio capabilities make it a compelling choice. While it may not be the absolute best in every single category, the S24 offers a comprehensive and high-quality audio package that will satisfy a wide range of users.

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