Sonos Beam
Score: 79/100
Polk Audio Signa S2
Score: 71/100Rankings
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.
The Polk Audio Signa S2 is a low-profile 2.1 soundbar with a wireless 5.25-inch subwoofer delivering solid bass and VoiceAdjust dialogue enhancement. Its plastic construction and limited channel configuration restrict its appeal for larger home-theater setups. Best for budget-conscious owners of 40-55-inch TVs seeking easy installation and clear dialogue.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
3best | 3best | |
— | 13.34 cmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.8 kg | 1.8 kgbest |
— | 1 yearsbest | |
65.1 cm | 90 cmbest | |
6.8 cmbest | 5.46 cm | |
10 cmbest | 8.41 cm |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Wireless Subwoofer | false | true |
Design(4) | ||
Soundbar Weight (kg) | 2.8 kg | 1.8 kg |
Soundbar Width (cm) | 65.1 cm | 90.0 cm |
Soundbar Height (cm) | 6.8 cm | 5.46 cm |
Soundbar Depth (cm) | 10 cm | 8.41 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 Signa S2 for its sleek, low-profile design, effective VoiceAdjust dialogue enhancement, and solid bass from the wireless subwoofer, positioning it as a strong budget option for users seeking Dolby Digital virtual surround. However, they note the plastic subwoofer housing and lack of disclosed amplifier power as drawbacks that may limit its appeal for larger or more demanding home-theater installations.
Consumers appreciate the clear vocals, powerful bass, and hassle-free Bluetooth streaming, often highlighting the quick setup and wall-mountable form factor. Recurring complaints focus on occasional subwoofer dropouts, limited volume headroom in bigger rooms, and occasional HDMI ARC compatibility quirks.
