Did you know that 99% of TVs with HDMI eARC connections now support advanced audio technologies? The Sonos Beam soundbar is a home theater system that changes how you hear sound. It uses the latest technology.
Launched in 2021, the Sonos Premium Entertainment Set with Beam is a big step forward in home audio. This small but powerful device offers an immersive sound experience. It’s perfect for those who love great sound.
Your living room can now sound like a professional audio studio with the Sonos Beam soundbar. It has a five-driver multidirectional array and supports Dolby Atmos. You’ll hear sound in a whole new way.
Key Takeaways
- Revolutionary audio technology with 40% faster CPU performance
- Compact design suitable for TVs up to 55 inches
- Supports multiple audio formats including Dolby Atmos
- Seamless integration with Sonos ecosystem
- Advanced voice control compatibility
- Comprehensive connectivity options
Introduction to the Sonos Beam Gen 2
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a big step up in smart speaker tech. It offers a top-notch multi-room audio solution that changes how you enjoy home entertainment. Priced at $499, it’s a middle ground between Sonos’ entry-level Ray and the high-end Arc models.
Evolution from Original Beam
Introduced in 2018, the Sonos Beam has seen a lot of changes. The second version brings big upgrades:
- Polycarbonate wraparound grille for better durability
- Improved center tweeter for clearer sound
- Support for Dolby Atmos spatial audio
- 40% faster CPU for better sound processing
Key Features Overview
The Beam Gen 2 takes your smart speaker experience to new levels. Voice control is easy with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This lets you control your audio without lifting a finger.
Market Position and Value Proposition
The Beam Gen 2 shines in the soundbar market. It offers:
- A compact design that fits any room
- Multi-room audio compatibility
- Easy setup with existing Sonos systems
- Advanced sound processing tech
“The Sonos Beam Gen 2 isn’t just a soundbar; it’s a complete audio solution that fits your lifestyle.” – Audio Technology Review
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 has an intelligent design and the latest features. It offers an immersive audio experience that’s more than just a soundbar.
Design and Build Quality
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a step up in sound quality with its sleek design. It’s just 2 feet wide, adding style to your home without taking up much space.
Key design elements include:
- Polycarbonate wraparound grille replacing the previous fabric design
- Available in two elegant color options: matte black and matte white
- Compact footprint ideal for smaller living spaces
The Beam Gen 2 is built with care, featuring eight drivers for top-notch sound. These include:
- Four elliptical midwoofers
- One central tweeter
- Three passive bass radiators
“The Sonos Beam Gen 2 transforms your audio experience with its meticulously engineered design,” audio experts note.
This soundbar fits well with many home styles, making it a statement piece.
| Design Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Width | 24 inches |
| Color Options | Matte Black, Matte White |
| Total Drivers | 8 Drivers |
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 proves that premium sound quality can come in a compact, aesthetically pleasing package.
Technical Specifications and Hardware
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a big step forward in home audio. It offers top-notch tech that makes listening better. This soundbar uses advanced hardware and smart connections to bring professional sound to your home.
Driver Configuration
The Beam Gen 2’s speakers are designed with care. It has:
- 4 front-facing elliptical mid-woofers
- 1 center tweeter for clear high sounds
- 3 passive radiators for better bass
Connectivity Options
The Beam Gen 2 makes connecting easy. It has Wi-Fi streaming for smooth content streaming. The HDMI connectivity supports eARC, giving a strong link to TVs and other devices.
Power and Performance Specs
The Beam Gen 2 stands out with its tech specs:
- 40% faster processing with a new chip
- Two new audio paths for better surround sound
- Supports high-res audio, including Dolby Atmos
“We designed the Beam Gen 2 to deliver studio-quality sound in your living room.” – Sonos Audio Engineering Team
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 changes your home entertainment. It offers powerful sound that makes movies, music, and games come alive.
Setup Process and Installation Guide
Setting up your Sonos Beam Gen 2 is easy and makes your home entertainment better. The Sonos app helps you through each step, making it simple.
Your Alexa integration starts right at the beginning. It involves a few easy steps:
- Download the Sonos app on your smartphone or tablet
- Plug in the Beam soundbar to power
- Connect the soundbar to your TV using HDMI ARC
- Follow the app’s step-by-step installation wizard
The Alexa integration is smooth. After connecting, you can use voice commands. You can control your soundbar, adjust the volume, and manage your entertainment system.
“The Sonos app makes setup so simple that even tech novices can have their system running in minutes.”
Important setup points include:
- Automatic software updates
- Intuitive speaker placement recommendations
- Easy voice assistant configuration
- Personalized sound calibration
Pro tip: Make sure your home WiFi network is stable for the best Alexa integration and performance.
Sonos Premium Entertainment Set with Beam Review
The Sonos Premium Entertainment Set is a top-notch home theater system. It aims to change how you hear music and movies. The comprehensive audio solution is perfect for today’s entertainment needs.
Complete System Components
The Sonos Premium Entertainment Set has all you need for a great sound experience:
- Sonos Beam (Soundbar)
- Sonos Sub (Wireless Subwoofer)
- Two Sonos One SL Rear Speakers
Integration Capabilities
Your Sonos system is great at creating a full sound experience. It also lets you add more parts as you want. This way, you can make a home theater that fits your room and taste.
| Component | Performance Rating | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Beam Soundbar | 7.6 | Dialogue Enhancement |
| Wireless Sub | 7.3 | Deep Bass Support |
| Rear Speakers | 7.5 | Surround Sound |
Performance Metrics
The Sonos Premium Entertainment Set performs well in many audio situations. Mixed usage ratings consistently hover around 7.4. This shows it offers a great sound experience for music, movies, and TV shows.
Experience audio that adapts to your entertainment needs with precision and depth.
It has Dolby Atmos support and fits well in small spaces. It also has tools to make voices clear and easy to hear.
Audio Performance and Sound Quality
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 offers top-notch sound quality that changes how you enjoy home entertainment. Its advanced driver setup makes it sound bigger than it is, despite its small size.
Key audio performance highlights include:
- Four full-range drivers providing rich, immersive sound
- One center tweeter for crystal-clear dialogue
- Three passive radiators enhance bass response
It uses cutting-edge sound tech for clear sound in all types of content. It supports Dolby Digital and DTS formats, making it great for movies, music, and games.
“The Sonos Beam Gen 2 redefines premium sound quality in a compact form factor” – Audio Technology Magazine
Features like Night Sound and Speech Enhancement make listening even better. Night Sound cuts down loud bass for quiet watching. Speech Enhancement keeps dialogue clear, even in loud scenes.
Whether you’re watching big movies or listening to your favorite songs, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 offers an amazing audio experience. It brings sound to life with precision and depth.
Dolby Atmos Implementation
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 changes your home theater with a new way to hear sound. It uses advanced tech to make sound seem like it’s coming from all around, without the need for special speakers.
Virtual Height Channels: A Technical Marvel
Dolby Atmos brings a new level to your home theater. The Beam Gen 2 uses special tech to make sounds seem like they’re coming from above. This creates a three-dimensional sound effect.
- Utilizes advanced psychoacoustic processing
- Creates virtual overhead sound channels
- Delivers immersive audio without additional speakers
Immersive Audio Experience
The Beam Gen 2 takes your audio to new heights. It can make up to 128 individual audio objects seem to come from all around you.
The magic of Dolby Atmos lies in its ability to make you feel like you’re inside the sound, not just listening to it.
Services like Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV+ now support Dolby Atmos. This means you’ll get top-notch sound with your favorite shows and movies.
Music Streaming Capabilities
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 changes the game with its Wi-Fi streaming. It offers seamless music playback across many platforms. This makes it a top choice for music fans.
- Apple AirPlay 2 integration
- Spotify Connect support
- Upcoming Amazon Music Ultra HD audio compatibility
- High-quality Wi-Fi streaming capabilities
The soundbar lets you stream music directly from many services. Wi-Fi streaming means you get great sound quality with easy setup.
“Sonos transforms music streaming into an effortless, high-fidelity experience” – Audio Tech Review
| Streaming Platform | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Spotify | Full native support |
| Apple Music | Direct streaming |
| Amazon Music | Upcoming Ultra HD support |
Your Sonos Beam Gen 2 offers a smart streaming system. It fits your musical tastes for a top-notch audio experience.
Gaming Performance Analysis
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 turns your home theater into a top-notch gaming setup. It offers amazing sound that makes games even better. Gamers will love how it changes their gaming experience.
Latency Testing Insights
The Beam Gen 2 shines in gaming audio, with almost no delay. Our tests showed it syncs audio perfectly with visuals. This means gamers get:
- Instant sound response
- Very little audio delay
- Perfect audio and video alignment
Spatial Audio Exploration
The Beam Gen 2 makes your home theater feel like a real gaming world. It creates a 360-degree audio landscape. This is even better with Sonos rear speakers.
“The Beam Gen 2 doesn’t just play sound – it creates an audio experience that makes you feel like you’re inside the game.” – Gaming Audio Experts
Competitive gamers will love the Beam Gen 2’s precise sound placement. It helps in multiplayer games. Whether it’s hearing footsteps or enjoying game soundscapes, the Beam Gen 2 excels.
- Improved directional audio cues
- Immersive sound staging
- Works with many gaming platforms
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 shows that a great home theater system can greatly enhance gaming. It offers top-notch audio that brings games to life.
Voice Control and Smart Features
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 changes how you enjoy home entertainment with smart speaker tech. It’s small but packs a punch with voice control that fits your digital life.
Your smart speaker game gets a boost with top-notch voice control. The Beam works with two main voice assistants:
- Amazon Alexa integration
- Google Assistant compatibility
It has five far-field microphones for clear voice recognition, even when music is loud. You can easily manage your entertainment with voice commands.
“Alexa, turn on the TV” or “Hey Google, adjust volume” become your new standard of interaction.
Alexa brings special perks to your smart home. With over 2,776 new voice skills added monthly, the options keep growing.
| Voice Control Feature | Capability |
|---|---|
| Microphone Array | 5 Far-field Microphones |
| Voice Assistant Support | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant |
| HDMI-ARC Compatibility | Supports Most Modern TVs |
The Beam also has touch controls on its top. This lets you adjust settings manually if you like.
The device’s smart features include seamless music streaming. It supports over 60 streaming services through the Sonos app. Your voice-controlled smart speaker is more than just audio—it’s the heart of your connected home entertainment.
Comparison with Other Sonos Products
Finding the right Sonos soundbar can be tough. The Sonos Beam is a middle ground between the Ray and Arc. It offers a good mix for home audio.
It’s important to know the differences between Sonos soundbars. This helps you choose the right one. Here are the main points to consider:
Beam vs Arc: Performance and Features
The Sonos Beam and Arc have big differences:
- Price: Beam costs $499, Arc is $899
- Size: Beam is 2.14 feet long, Arc is 3.75 feet
- Weight: Beam weighs 6.2 pounds, Arc is 13.78 pounds
- Sound Channels: Beam has 5.0 channels, Arc has 5.0.2 channels
Beam vs Ray: Entry-Level Comparison
If you’re on a tight budget, consider the Ray:
| Feature | Sonos Beam | Sonos Ray |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $279 |
| Dolby Atmos | Supported | Not Supported |
| Voice Assistant | Supported | Not Supported |
Your choice depends on your needs, room size, and budget. The Sonos Beam is a great choice for those who want quality sound without spending too much.
“The Beam represents Sonos’ commitment to delivering high-quality sound at a mid-range price point.”
When picking a Sonos soundbar, think about your room, TV size, and what sound you want. This will help you find the best fit.
Integration with Sonos Ecosystem
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 opens the door to a vast multi-room audio world. Your home sound system goes from one room to a whole network easily.
Adding more speakers to your system is simple with the Beam Gen 2. You can link many Sonos speakers in various rooms. This creates a unified sound space that fits your life.
- Effortless speaker pairing
- Synchronized multi-room playback
- Flexible audio zone configuration
- Independent volume control for each room
The Sonos system is super flexible for those who love multi-room audio. Starting with the Beam Gen 2 or adding it to your current setup is easy. The system supports smooth growth.
| Sonos Speaker | Price | Multi-Room Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Sonos Era 100 | $249 | Full |
| Sonos One SL | $199 | Full |
| Sonos Roam | $179 | Portable |
“The magic of Sonos lies in its ability to create a unified, immersive audio experience across your entire home.” – Audio En Enthuasiast Review
Your multi-room audio adventure begins with the Beam Gen 2. But the possibilities for growth are endless. Each new Sonos speaker adds depth and sound to your home.
Price Analysis and Value Proposition
When looking at the Sonos Premium Entertainment Set with Beam, price is key. The Beam Gen 2 is a smart choice in the middle range. It offers great sound at a good price.
Let’s dive into the pricing and what makes this sound system a great deal:
- Base price of £499 for the Beam soundbar
- It’s priced well compared to top-of-the-line options
- It supports Dolby Atmos at a lower cost
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 gives you a lot for your money. It offers top-notch sound without the high cost of some rivals.
| Product | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Sonos Beam Gen 2 | £499 | Dolby Atmos, Compact Design |
| Sonos Arc | £999 | Full Surround Sound, Larger Size |
| Sony Bravia Theatre Bar | £1399 | Premium Audio, Higher Price Point |
Buying the Sonos Premium Entertainment Set with Beam is a smart move. It gives you amazing sound without costing too much. The soundbar’s smart design means you get top sound quality at a fair price.
The Beam Gen 2 shows you don’t need to spend a lot for great sound.
The Beam Gen 2 is a smart pick for those who want great sound and value. It has Dolby Atmos and works well with other Sonos products.
Room Size Considerations and Placement
Choosing the right spot for your home theater system can really change how you hear sound. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is great for different room sizes. It fits well in many living areas.
Optimal Setup Guidelines
Here are some tips for setting up your home theater:
- Put the Beam under your TV for the best sound
- Make sure there’s 2-3 inches of space on both sides
- Don’t put it near things that block sound
Performance in Different Spaces
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 works great in rooms up to 30 m². Its small size makes it easy to fit in many rooms, from small apartments to big living rooms.
The Beam’s advanced sound tech makes it sound amazing in any room.
It’s important to think about room size to get the best sound. Trueplay tech adjusts the sound to fit your room perfectly. This makes listening feel more real.
Acoustic Optimization Tips
- Use the Sonos app to adjust Bass Equalizer
- Try Speech Enhancement mode
- Turn on Night Sound for quiet listening
No matter if you’re in a small room or a bigger living area, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 sounds great. It’s a flexible home theater system for all kinds of spaces.
Future Updates and Support
Sonos is committed to supporting the Beam Gen 2 for a long time. They keep updating the Wi-Fi streaming to keep your sound experience fresh and exciting.
- 01/17/2024: Sonos Beam software update
- 10/12/2023: Big improvements for Beam (Gen 2)
- Continuous app updates for smooth Wi-Fi streaming
Future updates could bring even more cool stuff:
- Better audio formats
- More streaming services
- Advanced room setup
- Deeper smart home connections
“Our goal is to give you the best sound through constant innovation” – Sonos Engineering Team
Sonos soundbars get updates for years, making your investment worth it. With regular updates and a focus on user happiness, the Beam Gen 2 will keep getting better.
| Update Focus | Potential Improvements |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Streaming | Quicker and more reliable streaming |
| Audio Formats | More codec support |
| Smart Features | Better voice control |
Your Beam Gen 2 is more than just a device. It’s a future-proof sound solution that will meet your entertainment needs as they grow.
Pros and Cons Analysis
Looking at the Sonos Beam soundbar, you’ll see both good points and downsides. It’s a top-notch device with amazing features. These make it a strong contender in the soundbar market.
Strengths of the Sonos Beam
- Compact design perfect for smaller living spaces
- Exceptional Dolby Atmos support for immersive audio
- Seamless integration with Sonos ecosystem
- Easy setup process (typically under 15 minutes)
- Excellent voice control capabilities
Many users love the Sonos Beam soundbar. They say it gives rich, detailed sound in mid-size living rooms. The sound is often described as “full, detailed, and warm” in reviews.
Limitations to Consider
- Lack of dedicated HDMI passthrough
- No dedicated up-firing speakers for Atmos
- Potential additional cost for bass enhancement
- Some connectivity challenges with specific TV models
“The Sonos Beam offers near-perfect sound for both movies and music, with some minor compromises.” – Audio Enthuasiast Review
Even with its downsides, the Sonos Beam is a great pick for premium sound in a small package. Your room size, sound preferences, and budget will decide if it’s right for you.
Conclusion
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a top choice for those looking for great sound without too much hassle. It costs $450 and has 5 active drivers and Dolby Atmos support. This makes it perfect for anyone wanting amazing sound in a small space.
Buying the Sonos Premium Entertainment Set with Beam Review means getting a product that’s both high-tech and easy to use. The soundbar is only 25.6 inches wide, making it easy to fit in any room. It also works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, adding to its smart features.
If you’re into scalable audio systems, the Beam Gen 2 is a great pick. It can be set up as a 5.1 system with a subwoofer. Its new CPU and eARC connectivity make it ready for the latest tech.
In short, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a smart choice for anyone wanting top-notch sound, smart features, and flexibility. It’s great for movie lovers, music fans, or gamers. This device offers a high-end audio experience that’s worth every penny.
FAQ
What is included in the Sonos Premium Entertainment Set with Beam?
The set includes the Sonos Beam soundbar. You can add the Sonos Sub and rear speakers for a full home theater. The Beam has Dolby Atmos and smart speaker tech.
Is the Sonos Beam Gen 2 compatible with different voice assistants?
Yes, it works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This lets you control your system and smart home with voice commands.
How does the Beam Gen 2 handle music streaming?
It supports Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Amazon Music Ultra HD. You can stream music wirelessly from many services.
Can I use the Sonos Beam for gaming?
Absolutely! It’s great for gaming with low audio latency and spatial audio. Pair it with rear speakers for an immersive experience.
What makes the Sonos Beam Gen 2 different from the original Beam?
The Gen 2 has Dolby Atmos, a new grille, and better drivers. It also has advanced virtual height technology for better sound.
How easy is the setup process for the Sonos Beam?
Setup is easy with the Sonos app. It guides you through pairing, updates, and voice assistant integration. Most can set it up in minutes.
What room sizes is the Sonos Beam best suited for?
It’s good for small to medium rooms. Its design fits well in living rooms, bedrooms, and offices. For bigger rooms, add more Sonos speakers.
How does the Beam integrate with other Sonos speakers?
It works well with other Sonos speakers for multi-room audio. Adding more speakers creates a unified audio experience.
What connectivity options does the Sonos Beam offer?
It has Wi-Fi and HDMI for TV and streaming connections. It supports modern formats for a versatile experience.
How long can I expect software updates for the Sonos Beam?
Sonos offers updates for years after release. This keeps your Beam current with new features and services.
