Sony HT-S40R
Score: 76/100
Sonos Beam Gen 2 White
Score: 74/100Rankings
The Sony HT-S40R provides a solid 5.1 surround experience with wireless rear speakers and strong power, but its lack of HDMI inputs and object-based audio formats keep it from being a premium solution.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a compact soundbar that delivers Dolby Atmos-enabled audio for small-to-medium rooms, integrating tightly with Alexa, Google Assistant and AirPlay 2. Its sleek design and Trueplay tuning make setup easy, though bass is modest and DTS support is missing.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
600 Wbest | — | |
0 | 1best | |
1best | — | |
5best | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.454 kgbest | 2.88 kg |
12 monthsbest | 12 monthsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.5 Wbest | — |
180 Wbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(1) | ||
Wi‑Fi Support | false | true |
Video(2) | ||
HDMI Inputs | 0 | 1 |
HDMI eARC Support | false | true |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Overall Weight (kg) | 0.454 kg | 2.88 kg |
Accessories(1) | ||
Remote Control Included | true | false |
Audio(2) | ||
Channel Configuration | 5.1 | 5.0 virtual |
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Digital, LPCM 2ch, Dolby Dual Mono | Stereo PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos, Multichannel PCM |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consider the HT-S40R a compelling mid-range option, emphasizing its true 5.1 architecture and high power, while noting the missing HDMI inputs and lack of Dolby Atmos/DTS:X as drawbacks.
Everyday users appreciate the straightforward installation, immersive surround effect and reliable Bluetooth streaming, though they complain about the small remote, the wired subwoofer and occasional rear-speaker sync issues.
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.
“Easy Setup: Many users appreciate the color-coded connections and quick installation.”
“Crystal clear dialogue”
“Surprisingly immersive”
