CES 2026 Top Picks: OLED TVs, Soundbars & Hi-Fi Gear
▼ Summary
– CES 2026 showcased major TV innovations, including new flagship OLED models from Samsung and LG and TCL’s novel Super Quantum Dot TV concept.
– Several new projectors were unveiled, with Xgimi and Hisense introducing models promising improved dark scene handling and high brightness, respectively.
– LG and Samsung launched advanced Dolby Atmos soundbars, with LG introducing a modular FlexConnect system and Samsung a convertible design with enhanced bass.
– Key hi-fi announcements included a new belt-drive turntable from Audio-Technica and a range of active speakers from Cambridge Audio.
– Many of the highlighted products emphasized significant improvements in design, picture brightness, gaming features, and audio flexibility for home entertainment.
The annual CES exhibition once again served as the premier stage for the latest advancements in home entertainment, with OLED TVs, innovative soundbars, and high-fidelity audio components taking center stage for the year ahead. Major brands like Samsung, LG, Hisense, TCL, Xgimi, and Cambridge Audio presented their newest offerings, setting a compelling technological agenda for cinephiles and audiophiles in 2026.
While OLED technology continued to dominate the television landscape, with stunning new models from Samsung and LG, the show also featured a strong presence of RGB Mini LED displays. The audio category saw significant innovation with new Dolby Atmos soundbar systems, including a convertible model from Samsung and a modular ecosystem from LG. Projector enthusiasts were treated to unique designs from Xgimi and Hisense, and hi-fi fans had new components from Audio-Technica and Cambridge Audio to anticipate.
Televisions
LG’s W6 Wallpaper OLED TV revives a legendary design concept with a remarkably thin, magnetically-attached panel. This flagship model incorporates the advanced Primary RGB Tandem OLED panel technology found in LG’s G-series, housed in a chassis a mere 9mm thick. It utilizes the wireless Zero Connect box for a clean setup, supporting 4K gaming at up to 165Hz. LG promises exceptional picture quality from the slender frame, aided by new Hyper Radiant Colour technology and a low-reflectivity display for improved viewing in various lighting conditions.
Samsung’s flagship S95H OLED TV receives a comprehensive redesign that elevates its style and performance. The new aesthetic echoes the company’s popular Frame TV, enhanced by a more effective Glare Free display coating. Beyond aesthetics, Samsung claims a substantial leap in picture performance, with its QD-OLED panel achieving a new peak brightness of 2700 nits. For gamers, an optional Wireless One Connect box effectively doubles the HDMI 2.1 connectivity, offering a total of eight high-bandwidth ports for a comprehensive entertainment setup.
LG’s popular C-series sees a notable, though selective, upgrade. The 77- and 83-inch C6 models make the significant jump from standard W-OLED to the brighter Primary RGB Tandem OLED technology, differentiating them as the C6H variants. All C6 sizes benefit from the new flagship processor also found in LG’s higher-end W6 and G6 models, promising a performance uplift across the board, with the largest sizes expected to show the most dramatic improvement.
While many brands focus on RGB Mini LED, TCL is championing a new concept with its X11L Super Quantum Dot TV. Positioned above the company’s own Mini LED lineup, TCL claims this technology surpasses Mini LED in brightness, vibrancy, local dimming, and color accuracy, all within a slimmer profile. Early impressions from the show floor were highly positive, noting astonishing punch, color, and contrast, potentially making it a standout flagship for the year.
Projectors
Xgimi continues its trajectory of refinement with the new Titan Noir Max projector. Featuring new precision-tuned optics and an advanced dynamic IRIS system, the company aims to address previous criticisms regarding dark scene performance. If these improvements hold true in testing, this model could become a significant contender in the premium projector market.
Hisense builds on its strong reputation with the boldly described XR10 laser projector. Promising a first-of-its-kind experience for cinephiles, it boasts impressive hardware including a custom chipset, the latest LPU 30 Digital Laser Engine, a liquid cooling system, and a peak brightness of 6000 ANSI lumens. With the ability to project images up to 300 inches, it has certainly captured attention and earned its place among the most intriguing new products.
Soundbars
LG is taking a modular approach with its new Sound Suite family, built on the Dolby Atmos FlexConnect platform. The system revolves around the H7 soundbar and can be expanded with M7 or M5 wireless speakers and a W7 subwoofer for a customized setup. The FlexConnect technology, also built into LG’s new televisions, allows for flexible speaker placement and even enables the TV to act as the central hub instead of a soundbar. The concept is compelling and the initial demo was promising.
Samsung has updated its convertible soundbar concept with the HW-QS90H. This model integrates more bass drivers directly into the enclosure, eliminating the need for a separate subwoofer, a change that delivered noticeably powerful bass in demonstrations. It features 13 drivers and uses a gyroscope to detect whether it is wall-mounted or placed on a table, automatically redistributing sound to ensure proper Dolby Atmos positioning. Its bold, punchy sound presents a potential challenge to established market leaders.
Hi-Fi Components
Audio-Technica’s new AT-LP7X turntable offers a interesting departure as a belt-drive model within a lineup known for direct-drive motors. It comes equipped with a J-shaped aluminium tonearm and a pre-fitted moving magnet cartridge, offering a clean, minimalist design with a built-in phono stage and clear potential for future upgrades. Positioned as a fundamentals-focused deck, it aims to deliver a considered listening experience.
Cambridge Audio expanded its range with the new L/R X active speakers, continuing the brand’s commitment to high-quality, accessible audio. Details from the show floor highlighted a sleek design and promising specifications, suggesting these speakers will be a noteworthy addition for those seeking a streamlined, high-performance audio solution.
(Source: What HiFi)
