Choosing Between Basic and Premium Soundbars: A Complete Guide

When it comes to improving your TV's sound, the gap between entry-level and premium soundbars has never been wider. Let's compare the $279 Sonos Ray and $799 LG S90TR to help you make the right choice for your setup and budget.

Understanding Today's Soundbar Market

Soundbars have evolved dramatically in the last few years. What started as simple TV speaker upgrades now range from basic stereo improvements to complete home theater replacements. The technology has matured significantly, with even budget options offering features that were premium just a few years ago.

The key is understanding what matters for your specific needs. A compact soundbar might be perfect for an apartment, while a full surround system could transform your dedicated media room into a mini theater.

A Tale of Two Approaches

The Sonos Ray, released in 2022, represents a minimalist approach focused on essential improvements. It's a stereo soundbar (meaning it has left and right channels) that creates a "phantom" center channel through clever audio processing. This helps voices sound clearer without needing extra speakers.

In contrast, the LG S90TR, released in late 2023, embraces a maximal approach with a full 7.1.3 setup. Let's break down those numbers:

• 7: Seven main speakers around the room
• 1: One subwoofer for deep bass
• 3: Three upward-firing speakers for height effects

This configuration enables true surround sound and Dolby Atmos, which adds a height dimension to the audio (think helicopter sounds actually seeming to come from above).

Feature Comparison Deep-Dive

Audio Processing and Sound Quality

The Ray focuses on two things: dialog clarity and musical performance. It uses Sonos' custom audio processing to enhance voices and create a wider soundstage (the perceived width of the sound). While it can't match more expensive systems for movie effects, it excels at making TV shows and news more intelligible.

The S90TR takes a more comprehensive approach with support for:

• Dolby Atmos (3D surround sound)
• DTS:X (another 3D audio format)
• AI room calibration (automatically adjusts sound based on your room's acoustics)
• WOW Orchestra (combines soundbar with compatible LG TV speakers)

Connectivity and Setup

Here's where the age difference shows:

• The Ray relies on an optical connection, which is simple but limiting
• The S90TR offers HDMI 2.1 with eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), supporting higher-quality audio formats and easier control

Both support Wi-Fi for streaming music, but the S90TR adds Bluetooth and multiple HDMI inputs for connecting game consoles or media players directly.

Real-World Performance

Having tested both systems, the differences are striking but not always in ways you might expect.

The Sonos Ray punches above its weight for music, with surprisingly good stereo separation and balanced sound. Its compact size and clean design make it perfect for smaller rooms where a full surround system would be overkill.

The LG S90TR delivers a truly immersive experience that transforms movie watching. The wireless subwoofer adds impact to explosions and depth to music, while the rear speakers create genuine surround effects. However, all these components require proper placement and power outlets.

Value Consideration

The $520 price difference buys you:

• True surround sound capability
• Significantly more power and volume
• Deep bass through the subwoofer
• Height effects for Dolby Atmos
• More flexible connectivity

But value isn't just about features - it's about what you'll actually use. The Ray costs about the same as two decent pairs of sneakers and could dramatically improve your daily TV watching. The S90TR costs as much as a good TV but could give you a cinema-like experience at home.

Making the Choice

Consider choosing the Sonos Ray if:

• You're mainly watching TV shows and news
• Music streaming is a priority
• You have space constraints
• You want simple setup
• You might expand into multi-room Sonos later

Go for the LG S90TR when:

• Movies and gaming are your primary focus
• You have space for rear speakers
• You want maximum immersion
• You need multiple HDMI inputs
• Future-proofing matters to you

Looking Forward

Both systems are relatively new, but they reflect different philosophies in home audio. The Ray represents Sonos' belief that simplicity and quality basics matter most. The S90TR shows LG's commitment to delivering a complete home theater experience in a relatively convenient package.

The technology continues to evolve, with newer systems focusing on wireless connectivity and smart features. However, the basic choice between simple stereo improvement and full surround immersion remains relevant.

Final Thoughts

The Sonos Ray and LG S90TR represent opposite ends of the modern soundbar spectrum. Neither is universally "better" - they're tools designed for different users and spaces. The key is matching their capabilities to your needs and environment.

For most users, the decision comes down to three factors:

1. Available space
2. Primary use case (TV shows vs movies)
3. Budget priorities

Remember, you can always start with a simpler system and upgrade later. Many users find that even a basic soundbar like the Ray significantly improves their TV audio experience, while others consider the full surround experience of the S90TR worth every penny.

Sonos Ray Soundbar Deals and Prices

LG S90TR 7.1.3 Channel Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer and Rear Speakers - Soundbar Deals and Prices