Are you looking to upgrade your home entertainment system with a high-quality soundbar? Sonos is a well-known brand in the audio industry, offering a range of soundbars that cater to different needs and budgets. With so many options available, choosing the right Sonos soundbar can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll delve into the features, pros, and cons of each Sonos soundbar model, helping you make an informed decision.
Understanding Sonos Soundbars
Before we dive into the different models, it’s essential to understand what makes Sonos soundbars unique. Sonos is known for its commitment to delivering high-quality audio, and its soundbars are no exception. Here are some key features that set Sonos soundbars apart:
- Wireless connectivity: Sonos soundbars can connect to your TV and other devices wirelessly, making it easy to set up and use.
- Multi-room audio: Sonos soundbars can be integrated with other Sonos speakers, allowing you to create a whole-home audio system.
- Voice control: Sonos soundbars are compatible with popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
- High-quality audio: Sonos soundbars are designed to deliver clear, detailed sound with deep bass.
Sonos Soundbar Models
Sonos offers three main soundbar models: the Sonos Beam, Sonos Playbar, and Sonos Playbase. Each model has its unique features, pros, and cons.
Sonos Beam
The Sonos Beam is the most compact and affordable Sonos soundbar. It’s designed for small to medium-sized rooms and is perfect for those who want a simple, easy-to-use soundbar.
- Key features:
- Compact design (25.6 inches wide, 2.7 inches high, 4.3 inches deep)
- Wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth)
- Voice control (Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant)
- HDMI input (ARC)
- Optical input
- Pros:
- Affordable (priced around $399)
- Compact design makes it easy to place in small rooms
- Easy to set up and use
- Cons:
- Limited bass response
- No Dolby Atmos support
Sonos Playbar
The Sonos Playbar is a more advanced soundbar that offers better sound quality and more features than the Sonos Beam.
- Key features:
- Sleek design (35.4 inches wide, 2.7 inches high, 5.5 inches deep)
- Wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi and Ethernet)
- Voice control (Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant)
- HDMI input (ARC)
- Optical input
- Dolby Digital 5.1 support
- Pros:
- Better sound quality than the Sonos Beam
- Supports Dolby Digital 5.1
- Can be paired with other Sonos speakers for a home theater system
- Cons:
- More expensive than the Sonos Beam (priced around $699)
- No Dolby Atmos support
Sonos Playbase
The Sonos Playbase is a unique soundbar that doubles as a TV stand. It’s designed for those who want a soundbar that can hold their TV and provide great sound quality.
- Key features:
- Sleek design (28.3 inches wide, 2.3 inches high, 14.2 inches deep)
- Wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi and Ethernet)
- Voice control (Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant)
- HDMI input (ARC)
- Optical input
- Dolby Digital 5.1 support
- Pros:
- Can hold TVs up to 77 pounds
- Great sound quality
- Supports Dolby Digital 5.1
- Cons:
- More expensive than the Sonos Beam and Playbar (priced around $799)
- Limited compatibility with certain TV sizes and types
Additional Features to Consider
When choosing a Sonos soundbar, there are several additional features to consider.
Dolby Atmos Support
Dolby Atmos is a advanced audio technology that provides a more immersive listening experience. If you want a soundbar with Dolby Atmos support, you’ll need to consider the Sonos Arc or the Sonos Beam (Gen 2).
Subwoofer Support
A subwoofer can enhance the bass response of your soundbar. Sonos offers a wireless subwoofer that can be paired with any of its soundbars.
Smart TV Compatibility
If you have a smart TV, you’ll want to make sure your soundbar is compatible with it. Sonos soundbars are compatible with most smart TVs, but it’s always a good idea to check before making a purchase.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Sonos soundbar can be a daunting task, but by considering your needs and budget, you can make an informed decision. The Sonos Beam is a great option for those who want a compact and affordable soundbar, while the Sonos Playbar and Playbase offer better sound quality and more features. Remember to consider additional features like Dolby Atmos support, subwoofer support, and smart TV compatibility when making your decision.
| Soundbar Model | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Sonos Beam | $399 | Compact design, wireless connectivity, voice control, HDMI input (ARC), optical input |
| Sonos Playbar | $699 | Sleek design, wireless connectivity, voice control, HDMI input (ARC), optical input, Dolby Digital 5.1 support |
| Sonos Playbase | $799 | Sleek design, wireless connectivity, voice control, HDMI input (ARC), optical input, Dolby Digital 5.1 support, TV stand |
By considering your options and doing your research, you can find the perfect Sonos soundbar for your home entertainment system.
What is the main difference between Sonos soundbars?
The main difference between Sonos soundbars lies in their design, features, and price points. The Sonos Beam is a compact soundbar ideal for smaller rooms, while the Sonos Playbar is a larger soundbar suitable for bigger rooms. The Sonos Arc is a premium soundbar that supports Dolby Atmos and has a more immersive audio experience.
When choosing a Sonos soundbar, consider the size of your room, your budget, and the type of audio experience you want. If you’re looking for a compact and affordable option, the Sonos Beam might be the best choice. If you want a more immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos support, the Sonos Arc is the way to go.
Which Sonos soundbar is best for a small room?
The Sonos Beam is the best soundbar for a small room. It’s compact, measuring only 25.6 inches wide, and can fit easily under most TVs. The Sonos Beam also has a more focused soundstage, which makes it ideal for smaller rooms where the sound doesn’t have to travel far.
In addition to its compact size, the Sonos Beam also has a more affordable price point compared to the other Sonos soundbars. It’s a great option for those who want a high-quality soundbar without breaking the bank. The Sonos Beam also supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, making it easy to control with your voice.
Which Sonos soundbar supports Dolby Atmos?
The Sonos Arc is the only Sonos soundbar that supports Dolby Atmos. It has a unique design with speakers that fire upwards, creating a more immersive audio experience. The Sonos Arc also has a more powerful amplifier and a wider soundstage, making it ideal for bigger rooms.
The Sonos Arc is a premium soundbar that offers a more cinematic audio experience. It’s a great option for those who want to enhance their TV viewing experience with a more immersive sound. The Sonos Arc also supports other audio formats like Dolby Digital 5.1 and PCM.
Can I use a Sonos soundbar with my TV?
Yes, you can use a Sonos soundbar with your TV. Sonos soundbars are designed to work seamlessly with most TVs. You can connect your Sonos soundbar to your TV using an HDMI cable or an optical audio cable. The Sonos soundbar will then take over the audio duties, providing a better sound quality than your TV’s built-in speakers.
To connect your Sonos soundbar to your TV, simply plug in the HDMI cable or optical audio cable to the corresponding ports on your TV and soundbar. Then, follow the on-screen instructions to set up the soundbar. You can also use the Sonos app to adjust the sound settings and customize the audio experience to your liking.
Can I add rear speakers to my Sonos soundbar?
Yes, you can add rear speakers to your Sonos soundbar. Sonos offers a range of rear speakers that are designed to work with their soundbars. The Sonos One SL and the Sonos Five are popular options that can be used as rear speakers. You can also use other Sonos speakers like the Sonos One and the Sonos Play:1 as rear speakers.
To add rear speakers to your Sonos soundbar, simply pair them using the Sonos app. The app will guide you through the process, and you’ll be able to enjoy a more immersive audio experience with surround sound. You can also use the Sonos app to adjust the sound settings and customize the audio experience to your liking.
Is the Sonos soundbar compatible with my music streaming service?
Yes, Sonos soundbars are compatible with most music streaming services. Sonos supports a wide range of music streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. You can also use the Sonos app to stream music from your local library or from the internet.
To stream music from your music streaming service, simply open the Sonos app and select the service you want to use. You can then browse through your music library and play your favorite songs. The Sonos app also allows you to create playlists and customize the audio experience to your liking.
Can I control my Sonos soundbar with my voice?
Yes, you can control your Sonos soundbar with your voice. Sonos soundbars support Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, making it easy to control the soundbar with your voice. You can use voice commands to play music, adjust the volume, and change the sound settings.
To use voice control with your Sonos soundbar, simply enable the Alexa or Google Assistant skill in the Sonos app. Then, you can use voice commands to control the soundbar. For example, you can say “Alexa, play some music” or “Google, turn up the volume.” The soundbar will then respond to your voice commands, making it easy to control the audio experience.