Sonos Beam Gen 1 vs Gen 2 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Why Do I Recommend The Sonos Beam Gen 2?

• The Sonos Beam Gen 2 supports Dolby Atmos for creating a more immersive and spacious movie soundstage with virtual height effects, while Sonos Beam Gen 1 does not support Dolby Atmos.
• Sonos Beam Gen 2 comes with HDMI eARC support for handling higher-bandwidth audio formats and improved lip-sync accuracy with modern TVs, whereas Sonos Beam Gen 1 uses HDMI ARC only.
• It features a newer audio processor for smoother Dolby Atmos decoding and more advanced surround virtualization, while Sonos Beam Gen 1 uses an older processing platform.
• The Sonos Beam Gen 2 includes Dolby Digital Plus compatibility for receiving Atmos audio from streaming apps on supported TVs, while the Sonos Beam Gen 1 lacks Dolby Digital Plus support.
• Sonos Beam Gen 2 has an updated grille and internal acoustic design for cleaner high-frequency dispersion and reduced distortion at higher volumes, whereas Sonos Beam Gen 1 uses the original cloth grille design.
• It supports virtual height channel simulation for improved spatial positioning of effects in movies and shows, while Sonos Beam Gen 1 relies on standard left, center, and right channel playback.
• The Sonos Beam Gen 2 features improved hardware headroom for future audio processing updates and format support, while the Sonos Beam Gen 1 is more limited by its older hardware.
• Sonos Beam Gen 2 delivers better integration with newer TVs and streaming devices through eARC-based audio handling, whereas Sonos Beam Gen 1 is constrained by ARC-level bandwidth and compatibility.

Maybe the Sonos Beam Gen 1 can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Sonos Beam Gen 2. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

What Common Both Can Do?

• Soundbar form factor: Both models use a compact, all-in-one soundbar design intended to sit neatly under a TV or mount on a wall. This makes them suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, and apartments where space efficiency matters.
• Channel configuration: Each soundbar uses a 3.0 channel layout with left, right, and center channels. This configuration prioritizes clear dialogue while still providing stereo separation for music and effects.
• Built-in speakers: Both soundbars include five internal drivers arranged to handle different frequency ranges. This shared driver count ensures a balanced output without needing external speakers.
• Class-D amplifiers: Each model uses five Class-D digital amplifiers matched to its drivers. This amplifier type is efficient, compact, and helps control heat while delivering consistent power.
• Center channel for dialogue: Both include a dedicated center channel. This improves speech clarity in movies, TV shows, and sports broadcasts, especially at lower volumes.
• HDMI TV connection: Both connect to televisions using HDMI for audio return. This allows a single-cable setup and seamless integration with modern TVs.
• Optical audio support (adapter): Each model supports optical audio via an adapter. This is important for compatibility with older TVs that lack HDMI audio return.
• Wi-Fi connectivity: Both soundbars connect to home networks over Wi-Fi. This enables streaming, multi-room playback, and app-based control without relying on Bluetooth.
• Ethernet port: Each includes a wired Ethernet port for direct network connections. This is useful in environments where Wi-Fi stability is a concern.
• Apple AirPlay 2: Both models support AirPlay 2. This allows easy streaming from Apple devices and synchronization with other AirPlay-compatible speakers.
• Voice control support: Both support voice assistants when enabled. This allows hands-free control for playback, volume adjustments, and smart home commands.
• Far-field microphones: Each soundbar uses far-field microphones designed to pick up voice commands from across the room. This ensures reliable voice recognition even during playback.
• Sonos app control: Both are controlled through the Sonos app. The app centralizes setup, tuning, streaming services, and system management.
• Trueplay room tuning: Each model supports Trueplay tuning on compatible devices. This feature adjusts the sound output based on room acoustics for more accurate playback.
• Multi-room audio: Both soundbars integrate into Sonos multi-room systems. This allows synchronized music playback across multiple rooms or independent control per room.
• Surround expansion support: Each can be expanded with compatible Sonos rear speakers. This allows users to build a full surround system over time.
• Subwoofer pairing support: Both support pairing with Sonos subwoofers. Adding a subwoofer enhances low-frequency performance for movies and music.
• TV remote control via HDMI-CEC: Both models work with TV remotes through HDMI-CEC. This reduces the need for extra remotes and simplifies daily use.
• Capacitive touch controls: Each includes touch-sensitive controls on the top panel. These controls provide quick access to volume and playback functions.
• Music streaming services: Both support a wide range of integrated music streaming services. This allows direct playback without needing an external device connected to the TV.