Sonos Beam Gen 2 White
Score: 67/100
Sony HT-S400
Score: 49/100Rankings
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a compact, Dolby Atmos-enabled soundbar that delivers immersive audio for small to medium rooms while integrating tightly with Alexa, Google Assistant and the Sonos ecosystem.
The Sony HT-S400 is a compact 2.1-channel soundbar with a powerful 330 W output and virtual surround technology. It offers HDMI ARC, Bluetooth 5.0 and a wireless subwoofer, making it a strong upgrade over built-in TV speakers.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 330 Wbest | |
5best | 2.1 | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.88 kg | 2.4 kgbest |
12 monthsbest | 12 monthsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 0.5 Wbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio Performance(3) | ||
Audio Channels | 5 | 2.1 |
Supported Audio Formats | Stereo PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos (via Dolby Digital Plus or TrueHD), Multichannel PCM | Dolby Digital, Dolby Dual Mono, LPCM 2ch, SBC |
Sound Modes | Speech Enhancement, Night Sound | Sound Field, Voice Mode, Night Mode |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Soundbar Weight (kg) | 2.88 kg | 2.4 kg |
Mounting Type | Threaded | Wall-mountable |
Remote Control Included | false | true |
Power & Battery(1) | ||
Power Source | AC | Corded electric |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consistently rate the Beam (Gen 2) as the top choice for small rooms, praising its Dolby Atmos performance, compact form factor and deep integration with the Sonos ecosystem, while noting its lack of DTS support, modest bass and the need for an eARC-compatible TV to unlock Atmos.
Everyday users love the Beam for its clear dialogue, easy setup and immersive Atmos feel in modest spaces, but many express frustration over the absence of Android Trueplay, thin bass and occasional voice-assistant lag.
Professional reviewers commend the HT-S400 for delivering cinema-like sound and strong bass at a budget-friendly price, highlighting its virtual surround technology and clear dialogue reproduction. However, they point out the lack of auxiliary inputs and the absence of premium surround formats as notable drawbacks for audiophiles.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the soundbar for its dialogue clarity, punchy bass, and straightforward HDMI ARC setup. Common complaints revolve around missing USB/AUX inputs, limited surround depth, and the subwoofer's size in tight spaces.
“Crystal clear dialogue”
“Surprisingly immersive”
“Easy to set up and use”
