
Sonos
The Sonos Beam (Gen 1) is a compact, smart soundbar released in July 2018 that delivers 3‑channel audio with five built‑in speakers and supports Dolby Digital 5.1. It integrates voice assistants, multi‑room Sonos networking, and easy HDMI‑ARC setup, making it ideal for small to medium rooms.
Pros
Current
$389.01
Average
$442.53
Lowest
$292.03
Highest
$529.00
Lower = better sales rank
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Cons
From Expert Reviews
Praised by Experts
Criticized by Experts
From User Reviews
Users Love
Users Complain About
Expert Opinion
Professional reviewers commend the Sonos Beam Gen 1 for its impressive audio detail, musicality, and straightforward setup, noting that it delivers a weighty performance in a compact form. However, they also acknowledge its shortcomings, particularly the missing Dolby Atmos support and the less durable fabric grille, suggesting that the Gen 2 model is a better choice for those seeking the latest surround technologies.
What Users Say
Everyday users overwhelmingly appreciate the Beam's rich sound, easy voice‑control integration, and hassle‑free HDMI ARC installation, especially in apartments and bedrooms. Recurring themes include satisfaction with multi‑room functionality and the helpful Night Sound mode, while complaints focus on limited bass without a subwoofer and the absence of Atmos for modern content.
Common Complaints
Common issues reported by users include limited low‑frequency performance without a subwoofer, occasional app glitches that disrupt playback, and the lack of Dolby Atmos support for newer streaming formats.
How It Compares
vs. Sonos Beam Gen 2
Advantages
Disadvantages
Choose Gen 2 if you need Atmos and a more durable grille; stick with Gen 1 for a lower‑cost option with comparable core audio.
vs. Roku Streambar
Advantages
Disadvantages
Roku Streambar is a budget-friendly choice for Roku users, but the Beam provides superior sound quality and ecosystem flexibility.
vs. Bose Solo 5
Advantages
Disadvantages
Bose Solo 5 works for basic TV audio upgrades, while the Sonos Beam offers richer sound, voice control, and multi‑room capabilities.
Sonos Beam vs Bose TV Speaker
pairwise