Sonos Beam
Score: 79/100
Klipsch Cinema 400
Score: 73/100Rankings
The Sonos Beam (Gen 1) is a compact 3-channel soundbar featuring HDMI ARC, built-in Alexa and Google Assistant, night-mode and multi-room Sonos integration, delivering balanced audio for small to medium rooms. Its main limitation is the absence of Dolby Atmos and a dedicated subwoofer, which reduces immersive bass performance. It fits users seeking smart voice control and easy setup in apartments or bedrooms.
Klipsch Cinema 400 is a 2.1-channel soundbar that offers a robust 8-inch wireless subwoofer delivering strong bass and Tractrix horn-loaded tweeters for clear highs. The absence of Dolby Atmos and limited smart features make it less future-proof. Great for TV upgrades in apartments where space is limited but powerful bass is wanted.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
3best | 2.1 | |
— | 400 Wbest | |
— | 20.3 cmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.8 kgbest | 12.7 kg |
— | 1 yearsbest | |
65.1 cmbest | 24.1 cm | |
6.8 cm | 24.1 cmbest | |
10 cmbest | 8.6 cm |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(3) | ||
Audio Channels | 3 | 2.1 |
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Digital 5.1, PCM | Dolby Digital, virtual surround |
Wireless Subwoofer | false | true |
Design(4) | ||
Soundbar Weight (kg) | 2.8 kg | 12.7 kg |
Soundbar Width (cm) | 65.1 cm | 24.1 cm |
Soundbar Height (cm) | 6.8 cm | 24.1 cm |
Soundbar Depth (cm) | 10 cm | 8.6 cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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.
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.
Professional reviewers commend the Cinema 400 for its premium build, Tractrix horn technology, and powerful 8" wireless subwoofer that together deliver clear mids, detailed highs, and strong bass. They also appreciate the simple HDMI-ARC and wireless subwoofer setup, though they note the absence of true rear speakers and limited independent testing data.
Everyday users highlight the ease of installation and the convenience of Bluetooth music streaming, praising the low-profile design that fits neatly under TVs. With limited direct feedback, no major consumer complaints are evident beyond the typical desire for rear speakers.
