Sonos Beam Gen 2
Score: 79/100
Polk Audio Signa S4
Score: 79/100Rankings
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a compact smart soundbar that delivers virtual 3.0.2 Dolby Atmos and integrates Alexa and Google Assistant. Its lack of Bluetooth and iOS-only Trueplay tuning are notable trade-offs. Best suited for small-to-medium rooms where Wi-Fi streaming and voice control are priorities.
The Polk Signa S4 is a slim Dolby Atmos sound bar with a powerful 410 W output, VoiceAdjust dialogue enhancement, and a wireless subwoofer, delivering immersive audio for small to medium rooms. Its drawbacks include the lack of a standard HDMI input and occasional Bluetooth hiccups, which may affect connectivity flexibility. Best suited for budget-conscious viewers with 40-55" TVs who prioritize immersive sound and dialogue clarity.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
5 | 6best | |
— | 410 Wbest | |
— | 1 inbest | |
— | 5.9 inbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 6.275 lbbest | 19 lb |
1 years | 3 yearsbest | |
2 | 7best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Audio Channels | 5 | 6 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | None | Yes |
General(2) | ||
Warranty (years) | 1 years | 3 years |
Included Accessories | 2 | 7 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 6.275 lb | 19 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 6.86 x 65.02 x 9.91 cm cm | 2.4 x 41.2 x 3.7 in cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Beam's warm mids, crisp highs, and the upgraded perforated grille, while highlighting its fast quad-core processor that enables virtual 3.0.2 Dolby Atmos without a separate sub. They see it as an ideal starter soundbar that pairs well with additional Sonos speakers for a full 5.1 system, though they note the lack of Bluetooth and iOS-only Trueplay as drawbacks compared with some rivals.
Everyday users praise the straightforward Sonos app setup, built-in Alexa/Google voice control, and the ability to get immersive Atmos-style sound in compact spaces. Common frustrations revolve around the need for an iOS device for Trueplay tuning, the missing Bluetooth option, and the extra cost of buying a Sonos Sub for deeper bass.
Professional reviewers commend the Signa S4 for its impressive bass output, clear dialogue thanks to VoiceAdjust, and effective Atmos height effects, noting it offers strong value in the entry-level Atmos segment. However, they criticize the missing standard HDMI input and the need for careful bass balancing, suggesting it's best suited for users who prioritize sound impact over extensive connectivity.
Everyday users love the easy wireless sub setup, the room-shaking bass, and the clear speech reproduction, especially for movies and sports. Common complaints revolve around the sub's heft, occasional Bluetooth hiccups, and the inability to connect multiple HDMI sources, with some noting the bass can dominate mids if not tuned.
“huge soundstage”
“powerful bass that rumbles behind couch”
