Sonos Soundbar Battle: Beam Vs. Ray – The Ultimate Comparison Guide

Sonos, a renowned innovator in the world of audio, has introduced two exceptional soundbars that cater to diverse needs: the Sonos Beam and Sonos Ray. Both soundbars are meticulously engineered to deliver an immersive and captivating audio experience, but they possess distinct features that make them suitable for different scenarios. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of the Sonos Soundbar Beam vs. Ray to help you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.

Design and Aesthetics

Sonos Beam: The Sonos Beam exudes a sleek and compact design that seamlessly complements modern home décor. Its elongated shape and minimalist aesthetic make it an unobtrusive addition to any entertainment setup.

Sonos Ray: The Sonos Ray, on the other hand, embraces a more compact and understated design. Its low-profile form factor makes it ideal for smaller spaces or for those who prefer a discreet audio solution.

Audio Performance

Sonos Beam: The Sonos Beam boasts a 5.0-channel sound system that delivers rich, room-filling audio. Its five dedicated speakers work in harmony to create a wide soundstage, ensuring an immersive experience for movies, music, and gaming.

Sonos Ray: While the Sonos Ray may have a smaller footprint, it packs a punch with its 3.0-channel sound system. Its three speakers deliver clear and balanced audio, making it a great choice for everyday listening and casual entertainment.

Connectivity and Features

Sonos Beam: The Sonos Beam offers a wide range of connectivity options, including HDMI eARC, optical audio, and Wi-Fi. It also supports voice control via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri, providing seamless integration with smart home ecosystems.

Sonos Ray: The Sonos Ray features a more streamlined connectivity setup with HDMI eARC and optical audio. It does not support voice control, but it offers a dedicated Night Mode to reduce the intensity of loud sounds for late-night listening.

Room Correction and Optimization

Sonos Beam: The Sonos Beam utilizes Sonos‘ Trueplay technology to optimize its audio performance based on the acoustics of your room. Trueplay automatically adjusts the soundbar’s settings to deliver the best possible sound quality tailored to your specific environment.

Sonos Ray: The Sonos Ray does not support Trueplay, but it still delivers a well-balanced and immersive audio experience.

Surround Sound Expansion

Sonos Beam: The Sonos Beam can be expanded to create a true surround sound system by pairing it with compatible Sonos speakers. This allows you to enjoy a cinematic audio experience with dedicated rear channels for an even more immersive soundscape.

Sonos Ray: The Sonos Ray does not support surround sound expansion.

Price and Value

Sonos Beam: The Sonos Beam is priced at a higher price point compared to the Sonos Ray. However, it offers a more comprehensive set of features, including a wider soundstage, voice control, and Trueplay optimization.

Sonos Ray: The Sonos Ray is more budget-friendly and provides a solid audio experience for everyday use. It is a great choice for those who prioritize value and simplicity.

Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Sonos Soundbar for You

Both the Sonos Beam and Sonos Ray are exceptional soundbars that offer distinct advantages depending on your needs and preferences. If you seek an immersive and versatile audio solution with advanced features, the Sonos Beam is the ideal choice. Its wider soundstage, voice control, and surround sound expansion capabilities make it the perfect companion for home theaters and entertainment enthusiasts.

On the other hand, if you prioritize budget and prefer a simple yet effective audio solution, the Sonos Ray is an excellent option. Its compact design and streamlined connectivity make it a great choice for smaller spaces or for casual listening.

Ultimately, the best way to determine which Sonos soundbar is right for you is to consider your specific requirements and preferences. Whether you prioritize immersive sound, voice control, or affordability, Sonos has a soundbar that will elevate your audio experience.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which Sonos soundbar has better sound quality, the Beam or the Ray?
A: The Sonos Beam delivers a wider and more immersive soundstage thanks to its 5.0-channel sound system.

Q: Can I use the Sonos Ray to create a surround sound system?
A: No, the Sonos Ray does not support surround sound expansion.

Q: Which soundbar is better for small spaces, the Beam or the Ray?
A: The Sonos Ray is more compact and has a lower profile, making it ideal for smaller spaces.

Q: Does the Sonos Beam support voice control?
A: Yes, the Sonos Beam supports voice control via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri.

Q: Which soundbar is more budget-friendly, the Beam or the Ray?
A: The Sonos Ray is more affordable than the Sonos Beam.