Hi there, That is correct, the Samung can not be switched off only put into standby. The cut power completely you have to remove the plug from the power source. I just leave mine in standby... The sound is "fair" but as I have a large room I bought an LG sound bar with a wireless subwoofer....really good value, probably the best buy sound bar for it's price on the market. Not sure what stores you have priced but ironically I found Conforama the cheapest when I bought my TV.... regards