Imagine a soundbar that brings Oscar® and Emmy®-winning sound quality with just two cables. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is more than just a device. It’s a game-changer in home entertainment, making your listening experience better without taking up too much space.
Released in 2021, this compact soundbar has quickly become a favorite for those who want top-notch audio in a sleek design. It supports Dolby Atmos and has advanced audio processing. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) + Wall Mount Kit Review shows it’s a powerhouse in a small package.
Whether you love movies, gaming, or music, this soundbar will take your audio experience to the next level. Its smart design and strong sound capabilities make it a standout choice.
Key Takeaways
- Supports Dolby Atmos for immersive 3D sound experience
- Designed with a wear-resistant, precisely perforated grille
- Quick two-cable installation process
- Compatible with multiple voice assistants
- Expandable Sonos ecosystem integration
Overview and First Impressions
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a smart speaker and home theater system. It offers powerful sound in a small package. Its sleek design and advanced tech make it a top pick for those who love great sound.
Product Specifications
Let’s look at what makes this smart speaker special:
- Five-driver multidirectional array for immersive sound
- Dolby Atmos support for enhanced audio experience
- HDMI eARC connectivity
- Compact dimensions: 26.38 x 19.37 x 4.60 inches
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, HDMI eARC |
| Streaming Services | Supports 100+ services |
| Setup Time | 5-10 minutes |
What’s in the Box
When you open your Sonos Beam (Gen 2), you’ll find:
- Sonos Beam soundbar
- Power cable
- HDMI cable
- Quick start guide
Build Quality Assessment
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is built to last. Its design is both durable and stylish, fitting well in any home theater.
“A compact powerhouse that delivers professional-grade audio in a sleek package” – Audio En Enthuisiast Magazine
It comes with a 6-year warranty and supports spatial audio. This smart speaker is a big step forward in home audio.
Design and Aesthetics
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a compact soundbar that looks great and works well. It comes in matte black and matte white, adding a sleek touch to your home. Its small size makes it easy to mount on walls for a tidy look.
- Dimensions: Just H2.7 x W25.6 x D3.9 inches
- Weight: Light at 6.35 lbs for easy setup
- Color Options: Elegant matte black and matte white finishes
Your home decor will love the soundbar’s modern design. The compact soundbar fits well with many styles, whether on a wall or on a media console.
“Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” – Steve Jobs
Mounting the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) on a wall adds flexibility. Its slim design won’t take up much space. It’s perfect for those who want great sound without clutter.
| Design Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Width | 25.6 inches |
| Depth | 3.9 inches |
| Color Options | Matte Black, Matte White |
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) shows that good audio design can be both functional and beautiful.
Setup Process and Installation Guide
Setting up your Sonos Beam (Gen 2) with a wall mount kit changes your audio game. The setup is easy, letting you enjoy Wi-Fi streaming without hassle.
Wall Mounting Preparation
Start by getting your tools ready and checking the kit. The SANUS Sonos Beam Wall Mount Kit has everything you need for a smooth install:
- Mount kit fits TVs 37-70 inches
- Can hold up to 7 lbs
- Adjusts up to 12 inches
- Made of 13-gauge steel for strength
- Works with both stud and drywall mounting
Cable Management Solutions
Good cable management makes your wall look neat. The kit comes with screws and anchors for a tidy Sonos Beam setup.
Initial Configuration Steps
After mounting, set up your Sonos Beam for the best Wi-Fi streaming:
- Connect the HDMI eARC port
- Plug in the power cable
- Open the Sonos app
- Follow the Wi-Fi streaming setup on the app
Pro Tip: Installation usually takes about 15 minutes. It’s a fast way to upgrade your home audio.
Follow these steps for a Sonos Beam that sounds amazing in your space.
Sound Quality and Performance
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) changes your home theater game with amazing sound. It uses a 40% faster chip for better Dolby Atmos sound. Your room will be filled with clear, detailed sound.
This soundbar has advanced tech for a surround sound feel. It uses a five-driver array for three-dimensional sound. No need for special speakers.
- Four front-facing elliptical mid-woofers
- Improved center tweeter for enhanced dialogue clarity
- Five Class-D amplifiers
- Three passive radiators for low-end frequency reinforcement
The Night Sound feature is a big plus. It makes loud sounds less loud and quiet sounds clearer. Perfect for watching movies late at night.
Experience cinema-quality sound in the comfort of your living room with the Sonos Beam (Gen 2).
Trueplay tuning makes your listening even better. It uses your iOS device to adjust the sound for your room. The Beam supports high-quality formats, including Dolby Atmos Music.
| Audio Format | Support Level |
|---|---|
| Stereo PCM | Full Support |
| Dolby Atmos | Native Support |
| Dolby Digital | Full Support |
Want an even better setup? Add a subwoofer and rear speakers to the Beam. This lets you tailor your audio to fit your space and taste.
Sonos Beam (Gen 2) + Wall Mount Kit Review
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) comes with a wall mount kit for a sleek look. This review covers the mounting process. It helps those looking to improve their home entertainment setup.
Mount Kit Components
The wall mount kit for the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) has key parts for easy setup:
- Precision-engineered mounting bracket
- Secure mounting screws
- Detailed installation guide
- Cable management clips
Installation Experience
Mounting the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) needs careful planning. The steps include:
- Selecting an ideal wall location near your TV
- Ensuring proper electrical outlet proximity
- Checking wall stud alignment
- Using included template for precise drilling
“Proper wall mounting transforms your audio experience from good to exceptional.” – Audio Enthuasiast Review
Long-term Durability
The wall mount kit is built to last. It’s made with top-notch materials to hold the 65.1cm wide Sonos Beam (Gen 2) securely. It works well in many room settings, making it a smart choice for a permanent sound system.
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) wall mount kit is a stylish option for those who want to enhance their sound system. It keeps your space looking clean and simple.
Dolby Atmos and Audio Formats
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) changes home audio with Dolby Atmos. It brings a new sound experience to your home. Now, music, movies, and TV shows sound better than ever.
Dolby Atmos creates a three-dimensional sound world. It’s different from old audio formats. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) uses special tech to make sound seem like it’s coming from above.
- Supports multiple high-resolution audio formats
- Compatible with Dolby Atmos Music
- Delivers virtual spatial audio experience
- Supports 24-bit/48kHz lossless audio tracks
The HDMI eARC connection is key for top-notch audio. It sends audio signals clearly, including Dolby Digital and Dolby TrueHD.
| Audio Format | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Dolby Atmos | Full Support |
| Stereo PCM | Supported |
| Dolby Digital | Full Support |
| Multichannel PCM | Supported |
“The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) provides a multidimensional soundstage that brings your audio to life.” – Audio Technology Experts
The soundbar’s advanced tech makes sound feel huge. You’ll feel like you’re right in the action. Whether it’s a movie or music, Dolby Atmos makes it sound amazing.
Smart Features and Voice Control
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) changes how you listen to music with its smart speaker tech and voice control. It makes controlling your home entertainment easy and fun.
Voice Assistant Integration
Your Sonos Beam has powerful voice control options. This makes managing your home audio simple. You can use:
- Amazon Alexa for smart home control
- Google Assistant for hands-free commands
- Sonos Voice Control for direct soundbar interactions
App Control Features
The Sonos mobile app lets you manage your soundbar easily. You can:
- Adjust volume levels precisely
- Select music streaming services
- Configure sound settings
- Update system firmware
“Control your entire audio ecosystem with just a few taps on your smartphone” – Sonos Design Team
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) has a 40% faster processor. This means it offers smooth voice control and app integration. It’s a smart speaker that really gets your audio needs.
Connectivity Options
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) has many connectivity features to improve your home audio. It makes streaming and integrating audio easy and simple.
The HDMI eARC connection is at the core of its connectivity. It sends high-bandwidth audio. This lets you enjoy clear and precise audio formats.
HDMI eARC works with about 99% of modern TVs. This means it’s compatible with most TVs out there.
- HDMI eARC for high-quality audio transmission
- Ethernet port for wired network connections
- Join button for easy system setup
- AC power input for straightforward installation
The soundbar is great for Wi-Fi streaming but doesn’t have Bluetooth. This shows Sonos’ focus on a network-based audio system. Wi-Fi streaming lets you connect many devices for non-stop audio.
“Connectivity should be simple, and the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) delivers just that” – Audio Technology Review
The Sonos app makes controlling your soundbar easy. It integrates well with your home network. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a modern take on home audio connectivity.
Room Correction and Sound Optimization
Improving your home theater system starts with sound optimization. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) lets you fine-tune your audio with great precision.
Trueplay Tuning
Sonos has a smart room correction called Trueplay. It adjusts your speaker’s sound to fit your room’s acoustics. This tech uses your iOS device to check your room’s sound, making sure it sounds perfect.
- Requires an iOS device for initial setup
- Analyzes room’s acoustic properties
- Automatically adjusts sound output
EQ Settings
Your Sonos Beam has detailed equalizer controls for a custom audio experience. The Sonos app lets you tweak bass and treble from -10 to +10. This gives you fine control over your soundbar’s sound.
“Sound is personal. We designed our EQ to give you complete control.” – Sonos Audio Engineering Team
- Bass adjustment range: -10 to +10
- Treble adjustment range: -10 to +10
- Speech enhancement feature
- Night mode for low-volume listening
With these advanced sound features, your Sonos Beam becomes a top-notch home theater system. It adjusts to your unique listening space.
Integration with Sonos Ecosystem
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is at its best when part of the Sonos ecosystem. Your home turns into a place of immersive sound. Every room connects through Wi-Fi streaming.
Linking your Sonos Beam to other speakers opens up new possibilities. You can have music in sync across rooms or set up different sound zones.
- Stream music from 100+ services including Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon Music
- Control entire audio system through single Sonos app
- Seamlessly expand audio setup with additional Sonos speakers
“The power of Sonos is not just in individual speakers, but in how they work together” – Sonos Design Team
Wi-Fi streaming means you’re free from being tied to one device. Your tunes, podcasts, and more can move with you, making your home a dynamic sound space.
The system’s flexibility lets you start with the Beam and grow your audio network. It changes as your needs and home evolve.
Value for Money Analysis
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a top choice for a compact soundbar. It costs £499, making it a big deal. We need to look closely at its value and how well it performs.
- Its £499 price shows it’s high-end tech for your home theater.
- It has cool features like Dolby Atmos support.
- It works great with other Sonos products.
- Its small size fits well in many rooms.
Now, let’s see how it stacks up against others:
| Soundbar | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Sonos Beam (Gen 2) | £499 | Dolby Atmos, Voice Control |
| Bose Smart Ultra | $899 | 5.1.2 Channels, Nine Drivers |
| Sony HT-S2000 | $499.99 | Basic Surround Sound |
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a great deal. It’s perfect for those who want to improve their home theater without spending too much.
A smart investment for audiophiles seeking quality sound in a compact package.
At first, the price might seem too high. But, its advanced features, solid build, and future-proof design make it worth it. It’s more than just a soundbar; it’s a complete audio experience.
Competitive Comparison
When we look at the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) smart speaker, it stands out. It offers top-notch sound and smart features. This makes it a leader in a crowded market.
| Feature | Sonos Beam (Gen 2) | Bose Smart Soundbar 600 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £499 | £499 |
| Dolby Atmos | Simulated height channels | 2 dedicated up-firing speakers |
| Connectivity | 1 Ethernet, 1 HDMI (eArc) | IR, Optical, HDMI, Bass module port |
| Room Tuning | Trueplay (iOS) | Limited room correction |
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) wall mount kit adds to its appeal. It’s perfect for those who want easy installation. Its sleek design and amazing sound make it a standout choice.
- Award-winning sound quality
- Exceptional vocal clarity
- Clean and punchy low-end frequencies
- Smart ecosystem integration
“The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) delivers a realistic and compelling audio performance that’s challenging to beat.” – Audio En Enthuasiast Review
Compared to the Sony HT-A3000, the Beam offers better soundstage and Dolby Atmos. While Sony has DTS:X, the Sonos Beam is the preferred choice for many.
Performance in Different Room Sizes
Choosing the right compact soundbar can change how you enjoy your home theater. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) works well in many room sizes. It’s a great choice for any home environment.
It’s important to know how a soundbar performs in different rooms. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is 65.1 cm wide. It offers great sound for any room size.
Small Room Performance
In small spaces, the Sonos Beam stands out. It has four mid-woofers and a better center tweeter. This makes the sound clear and balanced, perfect for small rooms.
- Ideal for rooms under 200 square feet
- Excellent dialogue clarity
- Balanced sound reproduction
Medium Room Performance
In medium rooms, the Beam shows its versatility. It has five Class-D amplifiers for better sound quality. The three passive radiators add depth to the bass.
“The Sonos Beam transforms medium-sized rooms into personal cinema experiences” – Audio Enthuasiast Magazine
Large Room Considerations
In larger rooms, the Beam does well but has some limits. It’s best with TVs 55 inches or smaller. For bigger rooms, adding a Sonos Sub Mini can improve the bass and sound.
- Recommended for rooms up to 400 square feet
- Optional subwoofer can extend audio range
- Supports multiple audio formats
Your room size shouldn’t stop you from enjoying great sound. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a flexible choice for any room.
Conclusion
Your search for the perfect compact soundbar ends with the Sonos Beam (Gen 2). This innovative home theater system delivers exceptional audio performance in a sleek package. It transforms your living space into a high-tech haven.
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) + Wall Mount Kit shows a device that goes beyond traditional audio expectations. It has versatile wall mounting capabilities, supporting both stud and drywall installations. This makes it perfect for users who want a clean, space-efficient audio setup.
The included mount kit allows for precise 12-inch height adjustments. It can support TVs from 37 to 70 inches. This soundbar offers remarkable value for both audiophiles and casual listeners.
It has Dolby Atmos support and HDMI eARC functionality for immersive sound experiences. The sustainable packaging shows Sonos’ commitment to environmental responsibility. With an estimated 15-minute installation time and a 30-day return policy, it’s a risk-free upgrade for your home audio system.
Ultimately, this soundbar proves that great things come in small packages. Whether you’re looking to enhance your TV’s audio or create a sophisticated home theater system, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) delivers performance, style, and convenience in one impressive device.
FAQ
What is the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) and how does it differ from the first generation?
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a new soundbar that supports Dolby Atmos. It has better audio processing and smart features than the first one. It keeps the same small size but offers better sound and sound staging.
Is the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) compatible with wall mounting?
Yes, it comes with a Wall Mount Kit for easy installation. The kit has all the mounting hardware you need. It makes mounting your soundbar clean and simple.
What voice assistants are supported by the Sonos Beam (Gen 2)?
It supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. You can pick your favorite assistant in the Sonos app. Then, use voice commands for control and smart home integration.
How does the Dolby Atmos feature work on this compact soundbar?
The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) creates a virtual surround sound with Dolby Atmos. It uses special audio techniques to make it seem like sound is coming from above. This is done without needing extra speakers.
Can I use the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) as part of a multi-room audio system?
Absolutely. It’s part of the Sonos ecosystem. You can connect it with other Sonos speakers for multi-room audio. This lets you stream music everywhere in your home.
What connectivity options does the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) offer?
It has HDMI eARC, Wi-Fi streaming, and supports many music services. It connects easily to your TV, smart devices, and home network.
How does the Trueplay tuning feature work?
Trueplay tuning uses your phone’s mic to check your room’s sound. It then adjusts the soundbar’s audio for the best sound quality in your room.
What streaming services are compatible with the Sonos Beam (Gen 2)?
It works with many streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. You can access these services directly through the Sonos app.
Is the wall mounting process difficult?
No, it’s easy. The Wall Mount Kit comes with clear instructions. Most people can mount it in about 30 minutes with basic tools.
How does the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) perform in different room sizes?
It works great in small to medium rooms, providing clear and immersive sound. But, in bigger rooms, it might not project sound as well as larger systems.
