When it comes to home audio systems, Sonos is a name that commands respect. With a range of products that cater to different needs and budgets, Sonos has established itself as a leader in the industry. Two of its most popular products, Sonos Arc and Sonos Beam Gen 2, have garnered a lot of attention from audiophiles and casual listeners alike. While both products are high-quality soundbars, there are significant differences between them. In this article, we’ll delve into the features, design, and performance of both products to determine which one comes out on top.
Design and Build Quality
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of sound quality and features, let’s take a look at the design and build quality of both products. The Sonos Arc is a sleek and modern soundbar that measures 45 inches in length, making it a perfect fit for larger TVs. Its curved design and rounded edges give it a futuristic look that will complement any living room. The Arc is built with high-quality materials, including a durable plastic casing and a metal grille that covers the drivers.
On the other hand, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a more compact soundbar, measuring just 25 inches in length. Its design is more minimalist and understated, making it a great option for smaller TVs and apartments. The Beam Gen 2 also features a durable plastic casing and a metal grille, but its build quality is not quite as premium as the Arc.
Size and Placement
One of the most significant differences between the Sonos Arc and Beam Gen 2 is their size and placement options. The Arc is designed to be a statement piece, and its larger size allows it to produce more powerful sound. It’s ideal for larger rooms and can be placed on a TV stand or mounted on a wall.
The Beam Gen 2, on the other hand, is designed to be more compact and versatile. It can be placed on a TV stand, mounted on a wall, or even placed on a shelf. Its smaller size makes it a great option for smaller rooms, apartments, and dorms.
Sound Quality
Now, let’s talk about the most critical aspect of any soundbar: sound quality. Both the Sonos Arc and Beam Gen 2 are known for their excellent sound quality, but there are some key differences between them.
The Sonos Arc is a 5.0 channel soundbar, which means it has five Class-D digital amplifiers that power five separate speakers. This includes three tweeters, two woofers, and a dedicated subwoofer. The result is a rich, immersive sound that envelops the listener. The Arc also features Dolby Atmos and TrueHD support, which means it can handle even the most demanding audio formats.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2, on the other hand, is a 3.0 channel soundbar, which means it has three Class-D digital amplifiers that power three separate speakers. While it still produces excellent sound quality, it’s not quite as immersive as the Arc. The Beam Gen 2 also supports Dolby Atmos and TrueHD, but its smaller size means it can’t quite match the Arc’s level of detail and nuance.
Dolby Atmos and Surround Sound
Both the Sonos Arc and Beam Gen 2 support Dolby Atmos, which is a surround sound format that adds height to the audio experience. However, the Arc’s larger size and additional speakers make it a more immersive experience. The Arc can create a true surround sound experience, with sound coming from all directions, including above and behind the listener.
The Beam Gen 2, on the other hand, uses virtual surround sound technology to simulate a surround sound experience. While it’s still effective, it’s not quite as immersive as the Arc’s true surround sound.
Features and Connectivity
When it comes to features and connectivity, both the Sonos Arc and Beam Gen 2 are well-equipped. Both products feature:
- Wi-Fi connectivity for streaming music and podcasts
- HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) for seamless TV integration
- Apple AirPlay 2 and Siri support
- Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa support
- Multi-room audio support
However, the Arc has a few additional features that set it apart from the Beam Gen 2. These include:
- eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) support, which allows for higher-quality audio passthrough
- Support for Dolby Vision and HDR10+ video passthrough
- A dedicated subwoofer output for adding an external subwoofer
Smart TV Integration
Both the Sonos Arc and Beam Gen 2 are designed to integrate seamlessly with smart TVs. They both support HDMI ARC, which allows for a single cable connection to the TV. This means that you can control the soundbar with your TV’s remote, and the soundbar will automatically turn on and adjust its settings based on the TV’s input.
However, the Arc takes smart TV integration to the next level with its support for eARC. This allows for higher-quality audio passthrough, including Dolby Atmos and TrueHD. The Arc also supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+ video passthrough, making it a great option for those with 4K TVs.
Price and Value
Finally, let’s talk about price and value. The Sonos Arc is a premium soundbar with a premium price tag, ranging from $799 to $899 depending on the retailer. The Beam Gen 2, on the other hand, is a more affordable option, ranging from $399 to $499.
So, is the Sonos Arc worth the extra cost? In our opinion, yes. The Arc’s superior sound quality, additional features, and premium build quality make it a worthwhile investment for those who value high-quality audio. However, if you’re on a budget or have a smaller room, the Beam Gen 2 is still an excellent option.
| Feature | Sonos Arc | Sonos Beam Gen 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | 5.0 channel, Dolby Atmos and TrueHD support | 3.0 channel, Dolby Atmos and TrueHD support |
| Design and Build Quality | Premium materials, curved design | Durable plastic casing, minimalist design |
| Size and Placement | 45 inches, ideal for larger rooms | 25 inches, ideal for smaller rooms and apartments |
| Features and Connectivity | eARC, Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support, dedicated subwoofer output | HDMI ARC, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa support |
| Price | $799-$899 | $399-$499 |
In conclusion, while both the Sonos Arc and Beam Gen 2 are excellent soundbars, the Arc is the clear winner when it comes to sound quality, design, and features. Its superior sound quality, additional features, and premium build quality make it a worthwhile investment for those who value high-quality audio. However, if you’re on a budget or have a smaller room, the Beam Gen 2 is still an excellent option.
What is the main difference between Sonos Arc and Beam Gen 2?
The main difference between Sonos Arc and Beam Gen 2 lies in their design and functionality. Sonos Arc is a soundbar designed for larger rooms and home theaters, while Beam Gen 2 is a compact soundbar ideal for smaller rooms and TVs. The Arc is a more powerful device with a wider soundstage, while the Beam Gen 2 is a more compact and affordable option.
In terms of sound quality, the Arc is capable of producing a more immersive and cinematic experience, thanks to its larger drivers and more advanced audio processing. The Beam Gen 2, on the other hand, is optimized for clear and balanced sound, but may not be as immersive as the Arc.
Is Sonos Arc worth the higher price tag compared to Beam Gen 2?
The Sonos Arc is indeed more expensive than the Beam Gen 2, but its premium features and advanced audio technology may justify the higher price tag for some users. If you’re looking for a high-end soundbar for a large room or home theater, the Arc’s superior sound quality and features may be worth the investment.
However, if you’re on a budget or have a smaller room, the Beam Gen 2 is still a great option that offers excellent sound quality at a more affordable price. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and budget, as well as your willingness to invest in a premium audio experience.
How does the sound quality of Sonos Arc compare to Beam Gen 2?
The Sonos Arc is capable of producing a more immersive and cinematic sound experience, thanks to its larger drivers and more advanced audio processing. It can handle more complex audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos, and has a wider soundstage that can envelop the listener.
The Beam Gen 2, on the other hand, is optimized for clear and balanced sound, but may not be as immersive as the Arc. It’s still a great option for smaller rooms and TVs, but may not be able to match the Arc’s level of immersion and detail.
Does Sonos Arc have better bass response than Beam Gen 2?
Yes, the Sonos Arc has better bass response than the Beam Gen 2, thanks to its larger drivers and more advanced audio processing. The Arc is capable of producing deeper and more nuanced bass notes, which adds to the overall immersive experience.
The Beam Gen 2, on the other hand, has a more compact design that can limit its bass response. While it still produces clear and balanced sound, the bass notes may not be as deep or nuanced as the Arc.
Can Sonos Arc be used with smaller TVs, or is it only suitable for large screens?
While the Sonos Arc is designed for larger rooms and home theaters, it can still be used with smaller TVs. However, it’s worth noting that the Arc’s large size and powerful sound may be overwhelming for very small TVs or rooms.
In general, the Arc is best suited for TVs that are 49 inches or larger, but it can still be used with smaller TVs if you’re looking for a more immersive sound experience.
Is Sonos Beam Gen 2 better suited for smaller rooms or apartments?
Yes, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a more compact soundbar that is better suited for smaller rooms or apartments. Its compact design and more affordable price tag make it an excellent option for those who want high-quality sound without breaking the bank.
The Beam Gen 2 is also a great option for those who live in apartments or shared living spaces, as it’s designed to be more discreet and won’t overwhelm the space with its sound.
Can Sonos Arc and Beam Gen 2 be used as part of a whole-home audio system?
Yes, both the Sonos Arc and Beam Gen 2 can be used as part of a whole-home audio system, thanks to Sonos’ proprietary wireless technology. This allows you to connect multiple Sonos speakers and soundbars throughout your home and control them using the Sonos app.
Both devices can also be paired with other Sonos speakers, such as the Sonos One or Sonos Five, to create a seamless and immersive audio experience throughout your home.