Want better TV sound but feeling overwhelmed by the options? Let's break down two popular choices: the premium Sonos Beam Gen 2 ($449) and the budget-friendly Bose Solo Series 2 ($179).
Before diving into the specifics, let's talk about what soundbars actually do. They're designed to solve a common problem: modern TVs are too thin to have good built-in speakers. A soundbar gives you better audio without the complexity of a full surround sound system.
Think of it like upgrading from your phone's tiny speaker to a good Bluetooth speaker - the difference is dramatic. But not all soundbars are created equal, and the price range is huge.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2, released in late 2021, represents current soundbar technology. It supports Dolby Atmos (which creates a 3D sound effect by bouncing audio off your ceiling and walls) and connects through HDMI eARC (a newer standard that allows for higher-quality audio). It's basically a small computer dedicated to sound, complete with regular software updates.
The Bose Solo Series 2 is an older, simpler design focused on doing one thing well: making TV sound better than built-in speakers. It connects through an optical cable (the glowing red cable that carries digital audio) and doesn't try to be a smart device.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 offers notably better sound quality, with five speakers working together:
The Bose uses a simpler two-speaker setup that works well for dialogue but can't match the Sonos's room-filling sound or bass response.
Here's where we see the biggest difference:
Sonos Beam Gen 2:
Bose Solo Series 2:
The Sonos connects via:
The Bose offers:
I've spent time with both systems, and here's what stands out:
For movies and TV shows, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 creates a much more immersive experience. The Dolby Atmos effect is noticeable, especially in scenes with overhead sounds like helicopters or rain. Dialogue remains clear even during action scenes.
The Bose Solo Series 2 does a good job with dialogue and provides a significant upgrade over TV speakers. However, it can't create the same sense of space or impact during action scenes.
For music, the Sonos offers richer, more detailed sound and easier streaming options. The Bose handles music adequately through Bluetooth but doesn't particularly shine here.
The price difference is significant - you could buy two Bose units for less than one Sonos. But it's not just about the initial cost:
Sonos advantages:
Bose advantages:
The Sonos requires:
The Bose needs:
If you're building a home theater, the Sonos has clear advantages:
The Bose works better as a standalone solution for:
Choose the Sonos Beam Gen 2 if:
Choose the Bose Solo Series 2 if:
Remember, both will significantly improve your TV's sound - it's just a matter of how much you want to invest and what additional features matter to you.
A soundbar is often the first step into better home audio, and either of these options will serve that purpose well. The Sonos offers more room to grow, while the Bose provides a straightforward solution at a lower price point.
| Sonos Beam Gen 2 ($449) | Bose Solo Series 2 ($179) |
|---|---|
| Audio Channels - Determines how immersive and spacious the sound feels | |
| 5.0 channels with Dolby Atmos | 2.0 basic stereo channels |
| Sound Processing - Affects audio quality and future compatibility | |
| Advanced processing with Dolby Atmos virtualization | Basic stereo processing with dialogue enhancement |
| Connectivity - Important for audio quality and ease of use | |
| HDMI eARC, WiFi, AirPlay 2, Ethernet | Optical, Bluetooth only |
| Smart Features - Consider if you want voice control or streaming | |
| Alexa/Google Assistant, multi-room audio, regular updates | None, remote control only |
| Room Size Suitability - Critical for optimal performance | |
| Medium to large rooms (up to 400 sq ft) | Small to medium rooms (up to 200 sq ft) |
| Expandability - Important if you might want surround sound later | |
| Can add Sub and rear speakers for full surround | No expansion options |
| Setup Complexity - Consider your comfort with technology | |
| Requires smartphone app, WiFi network, iOS for room calibration | Simple plug-and-play with optical cable |
| Audio Formats - Affects compatibility with streaming content | |
| Dolby Atmos, TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus | Basic Dolby Digital stereo only |
| Power Output - Impacts maximum volume and clarity | |
| 5 Class-D amplifiers, substantial headroom | Basic amplification, adequate for small rooms |
| Size - Consider your TV stand space | |
| 25.6" × 2.7" × 3.9" (larger but more capable) | 21.6" × 2.8" × 3.4" (more compact) |
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 ($449) is significantly better for home theater use, offering Dolby Atmos support and the ability to expand to a full surround system. The Bose Solo Series 2 ($179) is more suited for basic TV audio enhancement.
Yes, if you value better sound quality and future expandability. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 offers significantly better audio performance, smart features, and can be part of a larger home theater system. However, if budget is your primary concern, the Bose Solo Series 2 still provides good basic sound improvement.
Both perform well, but the Sonos Beam Gen 2 has superior dialogue clarity thanks to its dedicated center channel and advanced processing. The Bose Solo Series 2 includes a dialogue enhancement mode that works adequately for most content.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 can be paired with the Sonos Sub or Sub Mini for enhanced bass. The Bose Solo Series 2 cannot be expanded with additional speakers.
The Bose Solo Series 2 is simpler to set up, requiring just an optical cable connection. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 needs a smartphone app and WiFi network, but offers more features after setup.
Yes, both soundbars work with any TV. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 connects via HDMI eARC or optical, while the Bose Solo Series 2 uses optical connection only.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 offers extensive streaming options through WiFi, AirPlay 2, and the Sonos app. The Bose Solo Series 2 only supports basic Bluetooth streaming.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 performs better in larger rooms with more powerful amplification and better sound dispersion. The Bose Solo Series 2 is better suited for smaller spaces.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 requires a smartphone for setup and control. The Bose Solo Series 2 works entirely through its included remote control.
Both soundbars can be wall-mounted, but brackets are sold separately. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 has specific Sonos mounting solutions, while the Bose Solo Series 2 works with standard soundbar mounts.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 provides a more cinematic experience with Dolby Atmos support and superior sound processing. The Bose Solo Series 2 offers basic stereo sound enhancement.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 supports both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The Bose Solo Series 2 does not have voice control capabilities.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: whathifi.com - en.community.sonos.com - techradar.com - youtube.com - consumerreports.org - bestbuy.com - youtube.com - sonos.com - wave-electronics.com - en.community.sonos.com - epicsystems.tech - tomsguide.com - bestbuy.com - rtings.com - bose.com - bose.com - assets.bose.com - bestbuy.com - youtube.com - pistonheads.com - costco.com - googlenestcommunity.com - youtube.com - discussions.apple.com
