When it comes to upgrading your TV's sound, choosing between the $352.70 Sonos Beam Gen 2 and the $1,997.99 Samsung HW-Q990D isn't just about budget - it's about understanding what each system does best and how that matches your needs. Let's break this down in a way that makes sense for both audio enthusiasts and regular folks looking to improve their home entertainment.
Modern soundbars have come a long way from simple speaker upgrades. Today's systems can create immersive 3D sound, integrate with smart homes, and even adapt their audio to your room's acoustics. The technology behind these features has evolved rapidly, with both our contenders representing different approaches to better sound.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2, released in 2021, introduced virtual Dolby Atmos (a technology that creates the illusion of sound coming from above) to Sonos's mid-range lineup. Meanwhile, the Samsung HW-Q990D, released in 2024, represents the latest in physical surround sound technology, with actual speakers pointing in multiple directions.
The Beam Gen 2 takes a minimalist approach - one sleek bar containing five speakers that use advanced processing to create virtual surround sound. It's clean, simple, and effective. The HW-Q990D, on the other hand, is a complete home theater system disguised as a soundbar package, with 22 total speakers spread across four pieces (main bar, subwoofer, and two rear speakers).
Here's where real-world experience becomes important. I've tested both systems in various spaces, and room size makes a huge difference. The Beam Gen 2 shines in small to medium rooms, where its virtual processing can effectively create the illusion of surround sound. In larger spaces, those effects become less convincing.
The HW-Q990D, with its physical speaker array, maintains its immersive effect regardless of room size, though you'll need space to position all the components properly.
The Beam Gen 2 impresses with its ability to create a larger-than-expected soundstage from a single unit. Dialog is clear and crisp, and while bass is present, it won't rattle your windows without adding Sonos's optional subwoofer.
The HW-Q990D is in a different league entirely. Its dedicated up-firing speakers create genuine overhead sound effects, while the separate subwoofer delivers deep, impactful bass. The rear speakers ensure true surround sound rather than simulated effects.
Both systems offer modern connectivity, but their approaches differ:
Beam Gen 2:
HW-Q990D:
The price difference between these systems is substantial, but "value" means different things to different users. The Beam Gen 2 at $352.70 represents excellent value for:
The HW-Q990D at $1,997.99 justifies its premium for:
In my experience testing these systems, the Beam Gen 2 consistently surprises people with its capabilities. Movie dialog is clear, music sounds detailed, and the virtual surround effects can be convincing in the right space. It's particularly impressive how well it handles different types of content, from podcasts to action movies.
The HW-Q990D, however, creates a truly cinematic experience. When watching movies like "Dune" or playing games like "Horizon Forbidden West," the overhead effects and precise sound placement create an immersive atmosphere that the Beam can't match. The difference is particularly noticeable in intense action scenes or games where sound positioning is crucial.
Consider these key factors:
Both systems excel at their intended purposes. The Beam Gen 2 proves that great sound doesn't require multiple speakers or a huge budget. It's a smart choice for those wanting better TV audio without complications. The HW-Q990D shows what's possible when cost isn't the primary concern, delivering a premium home theater experience that justifies its price for serious enthusiasts.
Choose the Beam Gen 2 if you value simplicity, multi-room capabilities, and want a significant upgrade from TV speakers without breaking the bank. Opt for the HW-Q990D if you're after the best possible home theater experience and have both the space and budget to accommodate it.
Remember, there's no wrong choice - just different approaches to better sound. Your specific needs, room setup, and how you plan to use the system should guide your decision more than specs alone.
| Sonos Beam Gen 2 ($352.70) | Samsung HW-Q990D ($1,997.99) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines how immersive and precise the sound positioning can be | |
| 5.0 channels (virtual surround) | 11.1.4 channels (true surround with height) |
| Physical Configuration - Impacts room setup and installation complexity | |
| Single soundbar unit | Main bar + subwoofer + 2 rear speakers |
| Dolby Atmos Support - Enables overhead sound effects for compatible content | |
| Virtual (simulated through processing) | Physical (dedicated up-firing speakers) |
| Room Size Suitability - Critical for optimal performance | |
| Small to medium rooms (under 300 sq ft) | Medium to large rooms (up to 500+ sq ft) |
| Bass Performance - Important for movies and music impact | |
| Limited built-in bass (optional sub available) | Included wireless subwoofer with deep bass |
| Smart Features - Affects integration with other devices | |
| Superior multi-room audio, AirPlay 2, voice control | Gaming features, Q-Symphony, SpaceFit calibration |
| HDMI Ports - Determines connection flexibility | |
| 1 HDMI eARC | 2 HDMI in + 1 HDMI eARC (HDMI 2.1) |
| Gaming Support - Important for serious gamers | |
| Basic audio only | 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM support |
| Expandability - Future upgrade potential | |
| Can add Sub + rear speakers later | Complete system, no expansion needed |
| Size (Width) - Consider your TV stand space | |
| 25.6 inches (compact) | 51.3 inches (requires wide space) |
The $1,997.99 Samsung HW-Q990D offers superior movie performance with true Dolby Atmos, physical surround speakers, and a dedicated subwoofer. While the $352.70 Sonos Beam Gen 2 performs well, it can't match the immersive experience of the HW-Q990D's physical speaker array.
For home theater enthusiasts with larger rooms, the HW-Q990D justifies its premium price through superior sound quality and true surround performance. However, if you have a smaller room or primarily watch regular TV, the Beam Gen 2 offers excellent value.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is ideal for apartments due to its compact size, single-unit design, and neighbor-friendly bass levels. The HW-Q990D might be overkill and challenging to position in smaller spaces.
The Beam Gen 2 can be expanded with Sonos One speakers as surrounds and a Sonos Sub. The HW-Q990D already includes rear speakers and a subwoofer.
Both perform well, but the Beam Gen 2 is particularly praised for dialogue clarity in its price range. The HW-Q990D offers more precise sound positioning due to its dedicated center channel.
While both work with any TV, the HW-Q990D offers additional features with Samsung TVs through Q-Symphony. The Beam Gen 2 works equally well with all TV brands.
The HW-Q990D is superior for gaming with HDMI 2.1, VRR support, and Game Mode Pro. The Beam Gen 2 provides basic gaming audio but lacks gaming-specific features.
Both can stream music, but the Beam Gen 2 offers a more robust multi-room audio experience through the Sonos ecosystem. The HW-Q990D supports various streaming options but focuses more on home theater performance.
Neither requires mounting. The Beam Gen 2 is simple to place on a TV stand. The HW-Q990D needs space for its multiple components but can also sit on furniture.
Both perform well, but the HW-Q990D creates a more stadium-like atmosphere with its surround speakers. The Beam Gen 2 provides clear commentary and good ambient sound.
The HW-Q990D performs better in open spaces due to its powerful speaker array. The Beam Gen 2 is better suited to more contained spaces where its virtual surround effects can work effectively.
The Beam Gen 2 offers simpler setup with just one unit and an intuitive app. The HW-Q990D requires more initial setup due to its multiple components but isn't complicated.
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 - techradar.com - avsforum.com - valueelectronics.com - samsung.com - rtings.com - samsung.com - avsforum.com - samsung.com - cdwg.com - youtube.com - whathifi.com
