When it comes to upgrading your TV's sound in 2024, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 ($352.70) and Sony HT-A8000 ($698.00) represent two distinct approaches to the modern soundbar. Let's break down everything you need to know to make the right choice.
Soundbars have evolved far beyond simple TV speaker replacements. Today's models pack sophisticated audio processing, smart features, and even virtual surround sound into slim packages that look great under your TV. The key is finding the right balance of features, performance, and value for your specific needs.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 launched in late 2021, bringing significant upgrades over the original Beam, particularly in its Dolby Atmos capabilities (which creates immersive 3D sound) and processing power. The Sony HT-A8000 also debuted in 2021, representing Sony's push into premium single-bar solutions with advanced audio processing.
Since their releases, both have received multiple firmware updates enhancing their capabilities. The Beam Gen 2 has gained improved audio processing and streaming service compatibility, while the HT-A8000 has received gaming-focused updates and enhanced TV integration features.
The Beam Gen 2's approach to sound is clever - it uses sophisticated audio processing to create virtual surround effects from its compact array of speakers. While it doesn't have physical up-firing drivers (speakers that bounce sound off your ceiling for height effects), its virtual Atmos implementation is surprisingly effective in smaller to medium-sized rooms.
The soundstage (how wide and deep the sound appears) is impressive for its size, with clear dialogue and good separation between audio elements. Bass response is good but not earth-shattering - perfectly adequate for most content but you might want to add their wireless sub for serious home theater use.
Sony took a different approach with the HT-A8000, incorporating dedicated up-firing speakers and more powerful processing. The result is a more convincing Atmos experience with actual sound from above, rather than virtualized effects. The dedicated center channel speaker provides exceptional dialogue clarity, while the more powerful amplification and larger speaker array delivers fuller bass and a wider soundstage.
This is where the products really differentiate themselves:
Let's look at specific scenarios where each soundbar shines:
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 at $352.70 represents excellent value for what it offers. Its regular updates, ecosystem advantages, and strong performance make it a safe long-term investment. The Sony HT-A8000 at $698.00 is pricier but justifies its cost through superior audio performance and gaming features.
Consider these key factors:
For dedicated home theater use, both bars offer distinct advantages:
The Beam Gen 2 excels at creating an immersive experience in smaller spaces and integrates beautifully with streaming services. It's particularly effective for dialogue-heavy content and can be expanded with additional Sonos speakers for true surround sound.
The HT-A8000 provides a more cinema-like experience out of the box, with better dynamic range (the difference between quiet and loud sounds) and more convincing surround effects. Its additional processing power and physical speaker arrangement make it better suited for action movies and complex soundtracks.
Having tested both systems extensively, I've found the Beam Gen 2 more versatile for everyday use, particularly in apartments or smaller homes. Its multi-room capabilities and streaming features are genuinely useful, and the sound quality is excellent for its size.
However, in my dedicated home theater space, the HT-A8000's superior processing and physical speaker arrangement create a more convincing cinema experience. The difference is particularly noticeable with high-quality Atmos content and next-gen gaming.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is the smart choice if you:
The Sony HT-A8000 is worth the extra investment if you:
Both products represent excellent choices in their respective price categories, and your specific needs and environment should guide your final decision.
| Sonos Beam Gen 2 ($352.70) | Sony HT-A8000 ($698.00) |
|---|---|
| Channels/Drivers - Determines how well it can create surround effects | |
| 5.0 channels, 5 drivers | 8.0 channels, 11 drivers |
| Dolby Atmos Implementation - Impacts overhead sound realism | |
| Virtual only (software-based) | Physical up-firing speakers + virtual |
| Room Size Suitability - Critical for optimal sound coverage | |
| Small to medium rooms (up to 200 sq ft) | Medium to large rooms (up to 400 sq ft) |
| Multi-room Capabilities - Important for whole-home audio | |
| Full Sonos ecosystem integration | Limited to Bluetooth streaming only |
| Gaming Features - Matters for next-gen console gaming | |
| Basic HDMI 2.0 support | Full HDMI 2.1 with VRR, ALLM, 4K@120Hz |
| Voice Assistant Support - Convenience for smart home integration | |
| Native Alexa/Google with built-in mics | Works through connected devices only |
| Streaming Support - Important for music lovers | |
| WiFi, AirPlay 2, and all major services | Bluetooth and limited WiFi streaming |
| Size - Matters for TV stand fit | |
| 25.6 x 2.7 x 3.9 inches (compact) | 43.4 x 2.6 x 4.5 inches (larger footprint) |
| Additional Costs - Consider for full setup | |
| Optional sub ($749) and surrounds ($458) | Optional sub ($400-700) and surrounds ($350) |
| TV Integration - Affects ease of use | |
| Works with any TV via HDMI eARC | Best with Sony Bravia (special features) |
The Sony HT-A8000 ($698.00) offers better movie performance with its physical up-firing speakers and more powerful processing. While the Sonos Beam Gen 2 ($352.70) is good for movies in smaller rooms, the HT-A8000 provides a more cinematic experience with better Dolby Atmos effects and deeper bass response.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is ideal for smaller spaces. Its compact design and optimized virtual surround sound work best in rooms under 200 square feet, while the Sony HT-A8000 may be oversized for such spaces.
Both soundbars benefit from adding a subwoofer for home theater use. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 particularly needs one for deep bass, while the Sony HT-A8000 has better built-in bass but still improves significantly with a subwoofer for movie watching.
Both perform well, but the Sony HT-A8000 edges out with its dedicated center channel speaker. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 offers good dialogue clarity through its Speech Enhancement feature, but may not match the HT-A8000's natural dialogue reproduction.
Yes, both the Sonos Beam Gen 2 and Sony HT-A8000 can be wall mounted. The HT-A8000 includes mounting hardware, while the Beam Gen 2 requires a separate mounting bracket purchase.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is superior for music streaming with its extensive service support, WiFi connectivity, and multi-room capabilities. The Sony HT-A8000 relies primarily on Bluetooth, which isn't as reliable or high-quality.
Yes, both work with any TV having HDMI ARC/eARC. However, the Sony HT-A8000 offers additional features when paired with Sony Bravia TVs. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 works equally well with all TV brands.
The Sony HT-A8000 is better for gaming with its HDMI 2.1 features supporting 4K/120Hz, VRR, and ALLM. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 lacks these gaming-specific features.
Yes, both systems are expandable. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 works with Sonos One speakers as surrounds, while the Sony HT-A8000 has its own optional wireless surround speakers.
The Sony HT-A8000 produces better Dolby Atmos effects with its physical up-firing speakers. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 creates virtual Atmos effects that are good but not as convincing.
No, both the Sonos Beam Gen 2 and Sony HT-A8000 are designed for easy DIY setup. Both have guided setup processes through their respective apps.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 at $352.70 offers better value for most users, especially in smaller spaces. However, if you need premium home theater performance, the Sony HT-A8000 at $698.00 justifies its higher price with superior audio capabilities and features.
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 - consumerreports.org - skybygramophone.com - target.com - rtings.com - bestbuy.com - rubbermonkey.co.nz - shopatsc.com - audioadvice.com - sony.com - sony.com - sony.com - shop.cosmopolitan.com - store.sony.com.my - videoandaudiocenter.com
