Sonos Beam Gen 2
Score: 79/100
Denon AVR-S970H Black
Score: 77/100Rankings
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a sleek 5-channel soundbar with virtual Dolby Atmos, voice-assistant integration, and full Sonos multi-room support, delivering balanced sound in compact form. It lacks Bluetooth and has modest bass without an optional sub, which may disappoint bass-hungry listeners. Suited for apartments or small living rooms that prioritize ease of use and ecosystem integration.
The Denon AVR-S970H provides 90 W per channel Class AB amplification, 8K/60 Hz and 4K/120 Hz video handling, and HEOS streaming with gaming features. Its 7-channel pre-amp limits larger speaker configurations and its size can be bulky with antennas raised. Best for medium-sized home theaters and gamers.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 90 Wbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.88 kgbest | 9.48 kg |
5 | 7best | |
1 years | 2 yearsbest | |
7.6 cmbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 4,415 cm³best | 54,490 cm³ |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 1 years | 2 years |
Audio(1) | ||
Channels | 5 | 7 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 2.88 kg | 9.48 kg |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm³) | 4415 cm³ | 54490 cm³ |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Beam Gen 2 for its balanced five-driver sound, compact virtual Dolby Atmos implementation, and fast voice activation, while noting the lack of true up-firing drivers and Bluetooth.
Everyday users appreciate the easy setup, clear dialogue at low volumes, and the way virtual Atmos fills the room without extra speakers, but they note limited bass and the missing Bluetooth option.
Professional reviewers commend the AVR-S970H for its robust Class AB amplification, comprehensive 8K video handling, and effective Audyssey room correction, positioning it as a refined choice for medium-sized rooms.
Everyday users generally praise the receiver's sound quality, especially the "nice sound" comment, and value the easy HEOS streaming and intuitive app setup.
“Easy setup, clear dialogue/music at low volumes, virtual Atmos 'fills the room' without wires, blends into decor.”
“nice sound”
