The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus sound experience represents a critical element of its premium flagship status. Evaluating the audio capabilities, from the built-in stereo speakers to the high-resolution wireless and wired connections, reveals a complex picture. This thorough analysis provides essential information for consumers prioritizing mobile audio performance. We examine the hardware configuration, scrutinize the sound quality across various media types, and compare it directly to its predecessor and key market competitors. Understanding these nuances helps buyers determine if the S24 Plus delivers the full audio package they expect from a high-end device.
Speaker Hardware and Configuration Details
The speaker system is central to the phone’s multimedia consumption experience. Samsung employs a traditional yet effective configuration to deliver stereo sound, which enhances movies, gaming, and casual music listening.
The Stereo Speaker System
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus features a dual-speaker setup. This configuration creates a stereo effect, providing depth and separation to the audio output. One speaker typically fires from the bottom edge of the phone, while the earpiece acts as the second, top-firing channel. This design is standard for modern smartphones and ensures that audio sounds more immersive than a single mono speaker could ever achieve.
The sound dispersion from this setup is asymmetrical. The bottom speaker, often the primary driver, provides more volume and mid-range punch. The earpiece speaker balances the sound, focusing on the higher frequencies and expanding the soundstage. This physical arrangement directs sound toward the listener when the phone is held horizontally in landscape mode. This optimization is crucial for watching videos and playing action-packed games.
Enhancing the Experience: Dolby Atmos
Samsung integrates Dolby Atmos technology to elevate the sonic output of the Galaxy S24 Plus. This is a crucial software enhancement that works across both the internal speakers and connected headphones. Dolby Atmos aims to create a three-dimensional, spatial audio environment.
Users can toggle Dolby Atmos on or off within the sound settings. They can also choose specific profiles optimized for movies, music, or voice. The technology effectively widens the perceived soundstage and adds a sense of verticality to the audio. This processing makes supported content sound more open and less confined to the device itself. While it cannot replicate the true immersion of a dedicated multi-speaker home theatre, Dolby Atmos is a valuable tool for maximizing the potential of small smartphone drivers.
The digital sound processing involved in Dolby Atmos subtly manipulates the output to create the illusion of sounds coming from different points in space. This is especially noticeable when consuming content mastered with this technology. The resulting experience feels much more cinematic and expansive than standard stereo audio. This feature is a key differentiator for Samsung in the flagship market.
The Lack of a 3.5mm Headphone Jack
A significant point for audiophiles and casual listeners is the continuing absence of the 3.5mm headphone jack. Like most modern flagship smartphones, the S24 Plus relies solely on wireless connectivity or the universal USB-C port for audio output. This design choice pushes users toward adopting wireless headphones or utilizing a USB-C dongle adapter.
The lack of a dedicated analog port contributes to the phone’s slim profile and IP68 water resistance rating. Removing the port frees up valuable internal space that manufacturers now use for components like a larger battery or advanced cooling systems. However, it forces users to purchase additional accessories for wired listening. This is a necessary consideration for anyone looking to use existing, high-quality analog headphones. The transition away from the 3.5mm jack solidifies the industry’s shift toward digital and wireless audio solutions. This change affects millions of consumers annually.
The dependence on the USB-C port means that the charging port doubles as the audio output. This presents a minor inconvenience for users who wish to listen to wired audio and charge the phone simultaneously. They must then acquire a specialized USB-C splitter or rely on wireless charging during audio playback.
Speaker Audio Quality Deep Dive
The subjective quality of the built-in speakers determines the phone’s utility as a portable entertainment device. This section explores the key acoustic metrics, including loudness, frequency balance, and spatial representation.
Volume and Loudness Performance
The Galaxy S24 Plus demonstrates strong performance in raw loudness. Industry tests, such as those measured in LUFS (Loudness Units Full Scale), rate the S24 Plus favorably, often scoring in the “Very Good” category. This high volume capability ensures the phone is useful in noisy environments, such as a busy kitchen or a casual outdoor setting. The sheer decibel output means that users rarely struggle to hear notifications or dialogue.
However, increasing the volume to maximum levels often introduces a trade-off. While the sound is loud, some user reports suggest that the audio exhibits an uncomfortable harshness or brightness at the highest levels. This potential distortion at peak volume means users might prefer to operate the speakers at around 70 to 80 percent volume for the best clarity. Pushing the small drivers to their absolute limit can cause the high-frequency range to sound strained and brittle. The powerful output is generally appreciated, but careful volume management is essential for optimal listening quality. The distortion is minimal at medium volumes, preserving the integrity of the stereo separation.
Frequency Response: Bass, Mids, and Treble
A balanced frequency response is the hallmark of high-fidelity audio. The S24 Plus speakers generally deliver clear audio, but the frequency balance reveals specific characteristics. Understanding this balance is crucial for a complete audio assessment.
The bass response, or low-end frequency output, is adequate for a smartphone. The small size of the internal drivers limits the ability to produce truly deep, resonant bass frequencies. They simply lack the physical displacement necessary for powerful sub-bass tones. Compared to previous models, some listeners perceive a slight reduction in low-end fullness, with the bass sounding less impactful. The speakers provide enough foundational rumble for explosions in movies and discernible bass lines in music, but they do not offer a deep, rich low-frequency experience. Instead, the bass often feels centered in the mid-bass region, providing rhythm without the deep emotional weight.
Mid-range frequencies are where human voices and most musical instruments reside. The S24 Plus speakers handle the mid-range competently, resulting in clear and articulate dialogue during podcasts and video calls. This clarity prevents voices from sounding muffled or getting lost in the mix. The accurate mid-range presentation is a strong suit for general media consumption. Podcasts and YouTube videos sound particularly crisp and easy to follow. This strong mid-range performance anchors the entire sonic profile.
High frequencies, or treble, define the brightness and detail in the sound. This area is the subject of most divided user opinion. Some users find the treble notes, such as cymbals and high-pitched effects, to be overly pronounced or harsh, particularly at higher volumes. This “bright” or “tinny” quality can lead to listening fatigue over long periods. Adjusting the internal equalizer settings can mitigate this effect, allowing users to reduce the sharpness and achieve a more comfortable sonic profile. The out-of-the-box tuning emphasizes the top end, which improves clarity but can become fatiguing.
Soundstage and Immersion
The soundstage refers to the perceived width and depth of the audio presentation. The stereo setup and the inclusion of Dolby Atmos contribute significantly to the S24 Plus’s soundstage. When watching cinematic content, the audio separation is noticeable, with effects moving convincingly from one side of the phone to the other. The two speakers work together to project sound beyond the physical dimensions of the device.
This level of spatial audio processing is competitive among flagship phones. The phone creates an engaging environment for mobile gaming, allowing players to identify the direction of in-game audio cues. The immersion factor greatly benefits from the software-level sound processing. Even without external accessories, the S24 Plus manages to deliver a surprisingly wide and engaging listening experience for its size. The spatial cues generated by Dolby Atmos are particularly effective at adding a sense of height to compatible audio streams. The overall effect is an auditory experience that feels larger than life.
Wired and Wireless Audio Performance
For users seeking true high-fidelity audio, the phone’s capabilities beyond its built-in speakers become paramount. This involves examining both the wireless Bluetooth performance and the digital output via the USB-C port. These features are arguably more important for serious audiophiles.
High-Resolution Wireless Audio (Bluetooth Codecs)
Wireless connectivity is the primary method for audio transmission on the S24 Plus. The phone supports a range of crucial Bluetooth audio codecs essential for quality streaming. These codecs determine the efficiency and quality of the audio data sent to compatible headphones and speakers. Bluetooth 5.3 is the foundational standard for the connection, offering excellent stability and power efficiency.
The Galaxy S24 Plus supports standard codecs like SBC (Subband Coding) and AAC (Advanced Audio Coding), ensuring compatibility with virtually all Bluetooth devices. It also fully supports high-fidelity codecs like Sony’s LDAC, which can stream high-resolution audio up to 990 kbps. This is excellent news for audiophiles using LDAC-compatible headphones. LDAC provides much higher bitrate transfer compared to standard AAC, enabling near-lossless audio quality when conditions are optimal.
Furthermore, the phone supports its proprietary Samsung Scalable Codec (SSC), which works exclusively with Samsung Galaxy Buds. The SSC dynamically adjusts the bitrate to maintain stable connections and high quality, aiming to avoid dropouts. The codec intelligently analyzes the surrounding radio frequency environment and scales the data rate accordingly, prioritizing connection stability over momentary peak quality. This ensures consistent listening.
A notable point of discussion involves the absence of some of the newer aptX variants, such as aptX HD or aptX Adaptive, in certain regional or initial software configurations. While standard aptX is usually present, the omission of these high-tier Qualcomm codecs can limit the maximum quality potential when paired with non-Samsung or non-LDAC-enabled flagship headphones. This is a deliberate strategy by Samsung to encourage the use of their ecosystem accessories. Users relying on specific aptX technologies should verify compatibility through the phone’s Developer Options menu. The availability of LDAC partially mitigates this issue, but consumer choice is still restricted.
USB-C Digital Audio Output
The USB-C port serves as the primary gateway for wired audio. Since the phone lacks an internal Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) capable of directly driving high-impedance headphones, the user must rely on external hardware. The phone does not feature a traditional high-power internal DAC chip.
Connecting wired headphones requires a USB-C dongle or a dedicated external DAC/amplifier. The quality of the wired audio is therefore determined almost entirely by the quality of the external accessory chosen. The S24 Plus provides a clean, digital audio signal via the USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 port, allowing a high-quality external DAC to perform its job unimpeded. This is the optimal route for listeners who own high-end wired headphones and demand the utmost clarity and dynamic range. Using a high-quality external DAC unlocks the phone’s potential for true high-fidelity playback.
The S24 Plus excels in providing the clean digital source required for such setups. This method bypasses the limitations of Bluetooth compression and small internal speakers. It enables true high-resolution playback, assuming the user invests in appropriate external decoding equipment. The digital signal transfer is flawless, acting as a clean transport layer for the audio data. The performance here is limited only by the quality of the peripherals the user chooses to connect.
Specialized Comparisons and Competitor Analysis
Understanding the S24 Plus’s audio profile requires context within the competitive landscape. Comparing it to its predecessor and rival flagships reveals Samsung’s evolving audio strategy. This comparative look helps buyers make informed decisions.
S24 Plus vs. Galaxy S23 Plus (Previous Generation)
The shift from the S23 Plus to the S24 Plus brought subtle but significant changes in the audio tuning. The overall speaker architecture remains consistent, featuring a stereo arrangement and Dolby Atmos support. They share the same fundamental hardware foundation. However, many comparative reviews and user experiences highlight a difference in sonic character.
The S23 Plus generally delivered a sound profile described as warmer, with slightly more prominent and fuller bass. This provided a comfortable, consumer-friendly sound that emphasized low-end impact. The S24 Plus, by contrast, seems tuned for more clarity and sharpness in the high frequencies. This leads to the perception that the S24 Plus is louder and perhaps more precise in the mid-range. However, it also results in the criticized harshness or brightness at peak volume levels.
The change appears to be a deliberate tuning adjustment by Samsung. It emphasizes vocal clarity and loudness, potentially at the expense of low-end depth and smoothness. This difference means users upgrading from the S23 Plus might notice a distinct change in the sound signature. It is not necessarily an upgrade in every aspect of audio quality, but rather a change in emphasis. Users desiring the warmer tone of the S23 Plus may need to heavily adjust the equalizer on the S24 Plus.
S24 Plus vs. Key Competitors (e.g., iPhone, Pixel)
Flagship competition in the smartphone market is intense, and audio performance is a critical battleground. Comparing the S24 Plus speakers to those on devices like the Apple iPhone 15 Pro or the Google Pixel 8 Pro offers valuable perspective. This comparison helps define the S24 Plus’s market position.
The iPhone series typically offers a well-regarded speaker balance, providing a rich, full sound with good bass presence. They often sound “fuller” than the Galaxy series in side-by-side tests. Apple devices tend to prioritize a smooth, well-rounded sound that avoids the harshness found in the S24 Plus treble. The S24 Plus competes well on maximum volume, often matching or slightly exceeding the loudness of its rivals. However, the S24 Plus’s tendency towards a brighter, more aggressive treble tuning distinguishes it from the smoother output of the iPhone.
Compared to the Google Pixel line, the S24 Plus generally wins in terms of raw output volume. While the Pixel speakers have seen great improvements in recent generations, they often remain slightly quieter than the Samsung flagship. The overall fidelity of the S24 Plus, especially when leveraging its Dolby Atmos capabilities, places it squarely in the top tier of Android speaker performance, despite the treble issues. The S24 Plus provides strong clarity for voice and detail, making it a very capable multimedia device in the broader market context. It holds its own but does not clearly dominate the competition in speaker quality.
Pros and Cons for the User
A balanced view of the Galaxy S24 Plus sound capabilities requires summarizing the key strengths and weaknesses for potential buyers. This summary simplifies the complex findings into actionable points.
Pros of the S24 Plus Audio
The presence of effective stereo speakers ensures a good baseline for immersive media. The dual-driver setup creates genuine audio separation, which significantly benefits games and movies. This stereo separation is consistent and well-managed by the software.
Dolby Atmos integration is a major positive feature. It successfully adds spatial depth to both speaker and headphone audio. This improves the perceived quality for compatible content without needing specialized hardware. The spatial effects are among the best in the Android market.
The phone provides excellent maximum volume, ensuring the audio is audible in noisy environments. The speakers achieve a “Very Good” rating for loudness in professional tests. This high volume is indispensable for outdoor use or busy indoor settings.
Support for high-end wireless codecs like LDAC and Samsung’s SSC ensures high-quality wireless streaming for compatible accessories. This allows audiophiles to enjoy high-resolution audio files wirelessly without significant quality loss. The robust Bluetooth protocol is a key strength.
The clean digital output via the USB-C port is a significant benefit for advanced wired setups. It allows the use of high-quality external DACs and amplifiers for superior audio fidelity, catering to the most demanding listeners.
The presence of a full, customizable equalizer and the Adapt Sound feature gives the user powerful tools for audio personalization. Users can easily correct the default sound signature to their preference.
Cons of the S24 Plus Audio
The most frequently cited drawback is the harsh or “tinny” sound profile, especially at maximum volume. The over-emphasis on high frequencies can be uncomfortable and cause listening fatigue for some users. This aggressive tuning is the primary complaint.
The bass response is limited, typical of any smartphone, but some users perceive a downgrade in low-end punch compared to older Samsung models. The speakers lack the warmth and sub-bass depth found in some rival devices.
The exclusion of the 3.5mm headphone jack is an inconvenience for users with legacy wired headphones. This necessitates the purchase and use of a separate USB-C adapter, adding cost and complexity.
The potential absence of advanced aptX codecs like aptX HD in all models limits high-resolution streaming options for users with non-Samsung, aptX-centric headphones. Users must rely on the available LDAC or SSC codecs instead. This restricts maximum compatibility in the high-end wireless headphone market.
Essential Buying Considerations
Any prospective buyer should consider several practical factors when evaluating the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus based on its audio features. These factors influence daily usability and overall satisfaction with the device.
Users who primarily rely on wireless headphones or earbuds will find the S24 Plus an excellent choice. The phone supports the highest quality available codecs, LDAC and SSC. This ensures that the audio quality is entirely dependent on the quality of the connected wireless accessory. Choosing a pair of high-resolution Galaxy Buds or LDAC-compatible headphones maximizes this performance. Wireless listeners are the primary target for this audio configuration.
Listeners who prefer wired audio must account for the required accessory purchase. A reliable, high-quality USB-C DAC dongle is essential for a satisfying experience. This additional purchase should be factored into the overall budget. Relying on cheap, generic adapters can compromise audio quality significantly, negating the benefits of the clean digital output. The quality of the adapter directly dictates the final sonic performance.
If speaker use is crucial, such as for background music or frequent video calls in a shared space, the high volume of the S24 Plus is a benefit. The phone handles these tasks with ease and clarity. However, listeners sensitive to bright treble should be prepared to utilize the built-in equalizer settings to adjust the sound signature. Customizing the EQ can significantly smooth out the harsh high frequencies and improve long-term listening comfort.
The Samsung One UI software offers extensive audio customization features. These include the ability to customize the equalizer, apply different Dolby Atmos profiles, and use Adapt Sound to tailor the frequency response to the listener’s hearing. A technical user who enjoys tweaking sound settings will find these tools valuable for dialing in the perfect personalized sound. A non-technical user might simply find the default sound profile adequate but not exceptional. Understanding these software controls is key to unlocking the phone’s best audio.
The integration of the speakers into the overall design is another factor. The subtle integration of the earpiece as the second speaker means the phone retains a sleek, modern aesthetic without large, noticeable grilles. This subtle design is excellent for visual appeal. However, this aesthetic choice prioritizes form over the raw acoustic power that bulkier, front-facing speakers might provide.
Conclusion and Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus delivers a highly capable, yet aggressively tuned, audio experience. It firmly occupies the premium tier of smartphone sound, thanks to its powerful stereo speakers, excellent loudness, and comprehensive wireless connectivity options. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos provides spatial immersion for media, which greatly enhances the viewing and gaming experience. Furthermore, the phone’s ability to output a clean digital signal via USB-C makes it an exceptional platform for external, high-end digital-to-analog converters. This dual capability makes it versatile.
However, the S24 Plus sound profile features a significant caveat. Samsung’s tuning choice leans towards a bright and sharp treble response, which can lead to a slightly harsh or tinny sound at high volumes. This characteristic distinguishes it from the warmer signatures of its predecessor and some competitors. Users focused primarily on deep, thumping bass from the internal speakers might feel disappointed. The sound is clear but can lack richness. The forced reliance on USB-C or Bluetooth due to the lack of a 3.5mm jack is another undeniable inconvenience for traditional audiophiles.
Ultimately, the S24 Plus is a fantastic phone for the modern audio user. It caters exceptionally well to the wireless ecosystem and provides an optimal digital foundation for external wired equipment. We recommend the S24 Plus to consumers who prioritize loud volume, clear dialogue, and spatial audio effects. Users who are sensitive to bright treble should know that a simple EQ adjustment is necessary to achieve a smoother, more balanced tone. The overall package remains premium and highly functional for all forms of digital media consumption. Its strengths in connectivity and volume outweigh its minor tuning weaknesses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus sound system mono or stereo?
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus features a stereo speaker system, using the bottom-firing speaker and the earpiece speaker to create two separate audio channels. This dual setup significantly improves immersion over a single mono speaker.
Does the Galaxy S24 Plus have a 3.5mm headphone jack?
No, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus does not include a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack. You must use Bluetooth headphones or a USB-C adapter for wired listening. This is a common feature omission across flagship devices.
Does the S24 Plus support high-resolution wireless audio codecs?
Yes, the S24 Plus supports several high-resolution Bluetooth audio codecs, including Sony’s LDAC and Samsung’s proprietary Samsung Scalable Codec (SSC). These codecs ensure maximum quality for wireless headphones.
Can I adjust the equalization of the speakers and headphones on the S24 Plus?
Yes, the phone provides comprehensive sound customization options, including a full equalizer accessible through the sound settings to tune the frequency response. This allows users to mitigate the default harsh treble.
Is the speaker volume louder than the previous Galaxy S23 Plus?
The S24 Plus is rated as having a very good loudness level, and in some tests, it exhibits a slightly louder maximum output than the S23 Plus, though the S23 Plus might offer a warmer tone. The difference is marginal in real-world use.
