LG HLB54S

LG HLB54S review

LG describes the HLB54S as a super slim Blu-ray soundbar with a wireless subwoofer. That 'slim' adjective only applies to the sides of the soundbar, not its middle, which protrudes further than Beyonc's backside. Be warned that because of the protruding rump and its flush-sited sockets, the HLB54S can't be wall mounted. Aesthetically, the soundbar is pleasing enough and a good match for any black gloss TV, while the separate active subwoofer can be squirrelled away behind the sofa courtesy of wireless connectivity. The Wi-Fi wizardry extends to DLNA compliance that lets you stream pictures, music and videos from a PC or mobile phone to the soundbar. Traditional cable-based connectivity includes inputs for Ethernet, digital optical audio, mini-jack audio and a front-mounted USB for playing media files. Video switchingDual HDMI inputs and one output confirm the useful presence of video switching, while a composite video output seems distinctly out of place. An FM aerial socket and iPod connector for the supplied dock complete an impressive specification. Behind the grille is 280W of front and 'rear' speaker power, whilst a 150W sub suggests plenty of LFE grunt.