When it comes to upgrading your TV's sound, Sonos Ray and Samsung HW-S700D represent two different approaches to the same goal. Let's explore how these soundbars stack up and help you make the right choice for your home entertainment needs.
Today's soundbars have evolved far beyond simple speaker upgrades. They've become smart home devices, music streaming hubs, and in some cases, the centerpiece of expandable home theater systems. The key is finding the right balance of features, performance, and value for your specific needs.
The Sonos Ray launched in June 2022 at $279, positioning itself as Sonos's entry-level soundbar. Since its release, it has maintained its original price point while receiving several software updates that have improved its performance and streaming capabilities.
The Samsung HW-S700D is part of Samsung's 2024 lineup, launching at $417.99. It represents Samsung's latest technology in a slim form factor, incorporating features like SpaceFit Sound Pro (which automatically adjusts sound based on your room's acoustics) and Q-Symphony (which synchronizes with Samsung TV speakers).
The difference in audio approach here is significant. The Sonos Ray focuses on achieving the best possible stereo performance from a compact unit, while the Samsung HW-S700D aims for a more cinematic experience with its additional channels and virtual height effects.
The connectivity difference is stark - the Ray's simplicity versus the Samsung's flexibility. While some might see the Ray's limited connections as a drawback, it can actually make setup easier for less tech-savvy users.
In practical use, both soundbars excel in different scenarios. The Sonos Ray shines in smaller rooms and when music is a priority. Its stereo imaging is precise, and vocals are remarkably clear. I've found it particularly impressive for news and dialogue-heavy content.
The Samsung HW-S700D delivers a more cinematic experience. Its dedicated center channel ensures dialogue clarity while the subwoofer adds impact to movie soundtracks and games. The virtual Atmos effects, while not as convincing as physical height speakers, do add a sense of space to the sound field.
For home theater use, there are several factors to consider:
At $279, the Ray represents solid value for those wanting quality stereo sound and entry into the Sonos ecosystem. The $417.99 Samsung offers more features and bigger sound, but at a higher price point.
Choose the Sonos Ray if:
Choose the Samsung HW-S700D if:
Both soundbars represent different philosophies in home audio. The Sonos Ray exemplifies simplicity and focuses on doing fewer things exceptionally well. The Samsung HW-S700D offers more features and flexibility, suited for those who want a more traditional home theater experience.
Your choice should ultimately depend on your primary use case and existing technology ecosystem. If you're already invested in Sonos products or prioritize music, the Ray makes perfect sense. If you want a more cinema-like experience and appreciate having the latest features, the Samsung is worth the extra investment.
Remember that both companies regularly update their software, adding features and improving performance over time. While the hardware stays the same, the user experience often gets better with age.
| Sonos Ray | Samsung HW-S700D |
|---|---|
| Price - Your starting budget decision point | |
| $279 - Excellent value for basic needs | $417.99 - Premium features justify cost |
| Channel Configuration - Determines soundstage width and immersion | |
| 2.0 channels - Good for music and basic TV | 3.1 channels with virtual Atmos - Better for movies |
| Subwoofer - Critical for bass impact in movies | |
| Not included, optional add-on ($749) | Included wireless subwoofer |
| Primary Connections - Affects compatibility and setup simplicity | |
| Optical only - Simple but limited | HDMI eARC, optical, Bluetooth - More flexible |
| Smart Features - Important for integration with existing devices | |
| Sonos ecosystem, AirPlay 2 | Voice assistants, Q-Symphony, AirPlay 2, Chromecast |
| Size - Matters for placement flexibility | |
| 22" x 2.79" x 3.66" - Very compact | 45" x 2.3" x 4.7" - Slim but wider |
| Room Calibration - Helps optimize sound for your space | |
| Trueplay (iOS only) - Basic but effective | SpaceFit Sound Pro - More advanced, automatic |
| Expandability - Future upgrade potential | |
| Can add surrounds and sub (Sonos only) | Can add wireless rear speakers (Samsung only) |
| Best Use Case - Key decision factor | |
| Small rooms, music focus, simple needs | Medium rooms, movie focus, smart features |
| Notable Limitations - Potential dealbreakers | |
| No HDMI, no Bluetooth, no voice control | Requires recent Samsung TV for some features |
The Samsung HW-S700D is better for home theater use due to its 3.1 channel configuration, included subwoofer, and virtual Dolby Atmos support. The Sonos Ray is more suited for basic TV watching and music.
Yes, the Samsung HW-S700D works with any TV through HDMI eARC or optical connection. However, some advanced features like Q-Symphony only work with recent Samsung TVs.
The Samsung HW-S700D is superior for movies thanks to its dedicated center channel for dialogue, wireless subwoofer for bass, and virtual Dolby Atmos effects for immersion.
Both are expandable but within their ecosystems. The Sonos Ray works with Sonos surrounds and sub, while the Samsung HW-S700D can add Samsung wireless rear speakers.
The Sonos Ray is ideal for small rooms due to its compact size and focused sound. The Samsung HW-S700D might be oversized for very small spaces.
The Samsung HW-S700D includes a wireless subwoofer, making it complete out of the box. The Sonos Ray works without one but can benefit from adding the optional Sonos Sub.
Both perform well, but the Samsung HW-S700D has an advantage with its dedicated center channel. The Sonos Ray uses digital processing for dialogue enhancement.
Yes, both can stream music. The Sonos Ray uses WiFi and AirPlay 2, while the Samsung HW-S700D adds Bluetooth and Chromecast capabilities.
The Sonos Ray has simpler setup with just optical connection and app control. The Samsung HW-S700D offers more connection options but requires more setup steps.
No, neither requires a smart TV. However, the Samsung HW-S700D benefits from pairing with a recent Samsung TV, while the Sonos Ray works equally well with any TV.
The virtual Dolby Atmos in the $417.99 Samsung HW-S700D adds spaciousness to movies and games, making it worth considering for home theater enthusiasts. However, the $279 Sonos Ray provides excellent stereo performance for basic viewing needs.
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: techradar.com - soundandvision.com - youtube.com - appleinsider.com - youtube.com - sonos.com - cnet.com - howtogeek.com - pcrichard.com - en.community.sonos.com - epicsystems.tech - en.community.sonos.com - cepro.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - crutchfield.com - samsung.com - bestbuy.com - avsforum.com - walts.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - samsung.com - pcrichard.com
