Introduction

The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is the latest iteration of Sonos' popular soundbar, offering an immersive audio experience in a compact and standalone design. It boasts a range of features including support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, Dolby Atmos compatibility, and a room correction tool to optimize sound based on room acoustics. With its easy setup process and integration into the Sonos ecosystem, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) aims to deliver excellent sound quality and versatility for both music and home theater enthusiasts.

Design and Build Quality

The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) features a compact design that is suitable for smaller living spaces. Its sleek and minimalist aesthetics make it a stylish addition to any room. The soundbar's size and portability allow for flexible placement options, whether it be mounted on the wall or placed on a TV stand. The build quality is solid, with a durable construction that exudes premium craftsmanship.

Audio Performance

One of the standout features of the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is its dialogue enhancement, which ensures clear and detailed vocal reproduction. This makes it particularly well-suited for TV shows and podcasts, where dialogue clarity is crucial. Additionally, the soundbar offers a versatile sound profile that is capable of delivering excellent audio performance across various music genres. The wide soundstage creates an immersive movie experience, enhancing the overall viewing pleasure. Furthermore, the Dolby Atmos support allows for height content on streaming platforms, adding an extra dimension to the audio experience.

Integration and Connectivity

The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is Wi-Fi-enabled, providing seamless integration with popular voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This allows for convenient voice control of the soundbar and other connected smart home devices. The HDMI ARC port ensures easy connectivity to your TV, simplifying the setup process. Moreover, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) seamlessly integrates into an existing Sonos ecosystem, allowing for wireless multiroom audio and compatibility with Apple AirPlay 2. It also promises upcoming support for Amazon Music Ultra HD audio and Dolby Atmos Music, further expanding its compatibility with various streaming services.

User Experience

Setting up the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is a breeze, thanks to its user-friendly setup process. The TruePlay room correction tool, available for iOS devices, optimizes the sound based on the specific acoustics of your room. This ensures the best possible audio performance tailored to your environment. The built-in voice assistant options, coupled with voice-enhancement features, provide convenient control and enhanced dialogue clarity. The soundbar also offers a night mode, which reduces loud sounds and enhances softer ones, creating a more enjoyable listening experience during late-night viewing sessions.

Comparison to Competitors

When compared to other soundbar options, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) has numerous strengths. Its compact design and excellent sound quality make it a top choice for those with smaller living spaces. The integration into the Sonos ecosystem is a significant advantage for users who already own other Sonos products, as it allows for seamless multiroom audio and easy control through the Sonos app. The Dolby Atmos compatibility provides a more immersive sound experience, although the virtual Dolby Atmos experience may not be as convincing as soundbars with upfiring drivers.

Limitations and Considerations

While the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) offers impressive audio performance, there are some limitations to be aware of. Without the addition of a separate subwoofer and satellites, the low-bass rumble and immersion may be limited. Furthermore, the soundbar lacks Bluetooth support, limiting wireless streaming options. Additionally, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) has limited physical inputs, with only HDMI ARC and optical connections available. This may be a drawback for users who require more extensive connectivity options. In terms of sound enhancement features, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) falls slightly behind some competitors in terms of the range of options available. It is also worth noting that building a whole-home system with Sonos products can result in additional costs.

Conclusion

Overall, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is an excellent soundbar that offers a compact design, impressive audio performance, and seamless integration into the Sonos ecosystem. With its clear dialogue reproduction, versatile sound profile, and immersive movie experience, it caters to both TV and music enthusiasts alike. The built-in voice assistant options and wide compatibility with music streaming services further enhance the user experience. However, it is important to consider the limitations, such as the need for additional accessories for optimal performance and the lack of certain connectivity options. While the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) may not provide a significant upgrade for owners of the original Sonos Beam, it remains a compelling option for those seeking a high-quality soundbar with advanced features and excellent sound quality.