When it comes to home audio systems, Sonos is a name that resonates with many. Their Beam soundbar, in particular, has gained a reputation for its compact design, impressive sound quality, and seamless integration with other Sonos speakers. However, some users may wonder if adding the Sonos Sub to their Beam setup is taking things to the next level or simply overkill. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Sonos and explore whether the Sub is a necessary upgrade for the Beam or just an indulgent extravagance.
Understanding Sonos Beam and Sonos Sub
Before we can determine if the Sonos Sub is overkill for the Beam, let’s first understand what each product brings to the table.
The Sonos Beam is a compact soundbar designed to provide high-quality audio for smaller rooms and spaces. Weighing in at just 4 pounds and measuring 25.6 inches in length, the Beam is incredibly portable and can easily be placed on a TV stand or mounted on a wall. Despite its small size, the Beam packs a punch, with crisp dialogue, robust bass, and impressive sound dispersion.
On the other hand, the Sonos Sub is a wireless subwoofer that adds depth and rumble to your Sonos system. It’s designed to work in tandem with other Sonos speakers, including the Beam, to create a more immersive audio experience. The Sub features two Class-D digital amplifiers, a dedicated subwoofer driver, and proprietary Sonos tech like Trueplay tuning for optimal performance.
The Pros of Adding Sonos Sub to Your Beam
So, why would you want to add the Sonos Sub to your Beam setup? Here are a few compelling reasons:
Deeper Bass and More Immersive Audio
The most obvious benefit of adding the Sonos Sub is the enhanced bass response. The Sub can produce frequencies as low as 25 Hz, which is significantly lower than the Beam’s capabilities. This means you’ll experience deeper, more visceral bass notes that can elevate your music, movies, and TV shows to new heights.
- Increased Immersion: With the Sub, you’ll feel more connected to the action on screen, thanks to the added rumble and weight of the bass. This is especially noticeable in movie scenes with intense action, explosive sound effects, or dramatic music scores.
- Enhanced Music Experience: The Sub also brings new life to your music collection, adding depth and complexity to your favorite tracks. You’ll notice subtle bass nuances and rhythmic textures that were previously lost or buried in the mix.
Simplified Setup and Integration
One of the biggest advantages of the Sonos ecosystem is its seamless integration and ease of use. When you pair the Sub with your Beam, the two devices work together effortlessly, with the Sub automatically adjusting its settings to complement the Beam’s output. This means you can focus on enjoying your music and movies, rather than fiddling with complex settings or calibration processes.
The Cons of Adding Sonos Sub to Your Beam
While the Sonos Sub can undoubtedly enhance your audio experience, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:
Added Cost and Complexity
The most significant con is the added cost. The Sonos Sub is a premium product with a premium price tag, which may be out of budget for some users. Additionally, introducing another device to your setup can add complexity, especially if you’re not familiar with home audio systems or wireless networking.
Space and Aesthetics
The Sonos Sub is a larger device compared to the compact Beam, which may affect your decor and space constraints. If you have a small room or limited shelf space, the Sub might be too bulky or obtrusive.
Is Sonos Sub Overkill for Beam?
Now that we’ve explored the pros and cons of adding the Sonos Sub to your Beam setup, the question remains: is it overkill? The answer ultimately depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
If you’re a casual user who primarily watches TV shows or streams music from services like Spotify, the Beam alone might be sufficient. The Beam is an excellent soundbar that can provide an enjoyable audio experience on its own.
However, if you’re an audiophile or enthusiast who wants to take their music and movie experience to the next level, the Sonos Sub is a worthwhile investment. The added bass response and immersion can elevate your entertainment experience, making it feel more engaging and enjoyable.
Who Might Benefit from Adding Sonos Sub to Their Beam?
Here are a few scenarios where adding the Sonos Sub might be particularly beneficial:
- Cinema Enthusiasts: If you’re a movie buff who enjoys cinematic experiences at home, the Sub can help recreate the immersive audio of a commercial theater.
- Gamers: The Sub’s added bass and rumble can enhance the gaming experience, making it feel more realistic and engaging.
- Music Lovers: If you’re an audiophile who appreciates nuanced sound and deep bass, the Sub can unlock new dimensions in your music collection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether the Sonos Sub is overkill for the Beam depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a more immersive audio experience with deeper bass and more complexity, the Sub is a worthwhile addition. However, if you’re on a budget or have limited space, the Beam alone might be sufficient.
Ultimately, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons, consider your budget and space constraints, and decide whether the added benefits of the Sonos Sub are worth the investment. With its seamless integration and impressive performance, the Sonos Sub can undoubtedly elevate your audio experience – but only if you’re willing to beam up to the next level.
Is the Sonos Sub necessary for the Beam soundbar?
The Sonos Sub is not necessary for the Beam soundbar, but it does enhance the overall listening experience. The Beam is designed to provide a well-rounded sound with clear dialogue and decent bass response. However, if you want to take your audio experience to the next level, adding a subwoofer can make a significant difference.
The Sub adds depth and weight to the sound, which can be particularly noticeable when watching action movies or listening to music with heavy bass lines. If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, the Sub is definitely worth considering. However, if you’re on a budget or have limited space, the Beam can still provide a great listening experience on its own.
Will the Sonos Sub work with other Sonos speakers?
Yes, the Sonos Sub is compatible with other Sonos speakers, not just the Beam. In fact, it can be paired with any Sonos speaker that supports wireless stereo, including the Playbar, Playbase, and even the Sonos Amp. This means you can use the Sub to add bass to your Sonos home theater setup or even use it as part of a whole-home audio system.
The Sub is a versatile addition to any Sonos setup, and its wireless design makes it easy to place anywhere in the room. Simply pair it with your Sonos speaker, and you’re ready to go. The Sub also supports Trueplay, Sonos’ proprietary room-tuning technology, which ensures that the bass response is optimized for your specific space.
How do I set up the Sonos Sub with my Beam?
Setting up the Sonos Sub with your Beam is relatively straightforward. First, plug in the Sub and make sure it’s turned on. Then, open the Sonos app and go to the “Settings” menu. From there, select “Add a Sub” and follow the in-app instructions to pair the Sub with your Beam. The app will guide you through the process, which should only take a few minutes.
Once paired, the Sub will automatically adjust its settings to optimize its performance with your Beam. You can also adjust the subwoofer settings to your liking using the Sonos app. For example, you can adjust the bass level to suit your personal preference or turn off the Sub when you’re not using it.
Can I use multiple Sonos Subs with my Beam?
While it’s technically possible to use multiple Sonos Subs with your Beam, it’s not necessary or recommended. The Sonos Sub is designed to provide a significant boost to the bass response, and adding multiple Subs may not result in a proportionate increase in bass performance. In fact, using multiple Subs could potentially lead to an uneven or bloated bass response.
That being said, if you have a very large room or want to create a truly immersive audio experience, you could consider using multiple Subs in a different configuration. For example, you could use one Sub in the front of the room and another in the rear to create a more enveloping soundfield. However, this would likely require a more advanced home theater setup.
How does the Sonos Sub compare to other subwoofers on the market?
The Sonos Sub is a high-end subwoofer that’s specifically designed to work seamlessly with Sonos speakers. While there are other subwoofers on the market that may offer similar performance, the Sonos Sub has some unique advantages. For one, its wireless design makes it incredibly easy to set up and integrate with your Sonos system.
In terms of performance, the Sonos Sub is capable of producing deep, resonant bass that’s surprisingly powerful given its compact size. While it may not be the loudest or most powerful subwoofer on the market, it’s optimized to provide a balanced and nuanced sound that complements the Beam’s capabilities.
Is the Sonos Sub worth the extra cost?
The Sonos Sub is definitely an investment, and its high price may be a barrier for some buyers. However, if you’re looking for a premium audio experience and want to get the most out of your Beam, the Sub is definitely worth considering. The added depth and realism it brings to the sound can be truly transformative, and it’s hard to put a price on the listening experience it provides.
That being said, if you’re on a budget or have limited space, you may be able to get by without the Sub. The Beam is still a great soundbar that can provide a rich and engaging sound on its own. However, if you’re looking to create a true home theater experience, the Sub is definitely worth the extra cost.
Can I buy a Sonos Sub later if I decide I need one?
Yes, you can buy a Sonos Sub at any time, even if you’ve already purchased your Beam. In fact, many Sonos customers start with a single speaker or soundbar and then add a Sub later as their needs and budget evolve. The good news is that the Sub will seamlessly integrate with your existing Sonos system, so you can add it at any time without any hassle.
Just keep in mind that if you do decide to add a Sub later, you may need to adjust the settings on your Beam to optimize its performance with the Sub. This is easy to do using the Sonos app, and the Sub will automatically adjust its settings to work in harmony with your Beam.