Sonos Beam Gen 2 - How the Sub Mini changed the game for Sonos
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- Опубликовано: 26 июн 2024
- I bought the Sonos Beam Gen 2 with a pair of Ones and the Sub mini for myself. Why? Because this is the best value for money Sonos setup that is available as of 2022. It might stay this way for a while!
If you found my work useful and would like to support it, please visit my Patreon link to contribute to my coffee fund! : / peterpee .
Now, only if you really find value! Even if you don’t contribute, I am happy to share my experience with all you viewers on my channel here!
The Sonos Sub Mini is not available on Amazon yet but if you would like to support me, you can check out the other sonos products below.
More importantly, if you need a high quality, top performance HDMI cable, you can check out the UGREEN HDMI 2.1 cable here, which supports everything you can throw at it today, at a very good price. You do not need to spend anything more than this. I have changed out all my HDMI cables with this: amzn.to/3BUymwb
For Singapore viewers, here are the Lazada and Shopee links:
Lazada: bit.ly/3SK6QIW
Shopee: bit.ly/3SFmEwu
Amazon Affiliate Links
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The Sonos Beam - Now Atmos capable for Gen 2!
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Budget friendly Sonos Soundbar - Sonos Ray
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The entry level but most versatile Speaker from Sonos - ONE!
Sonos One Gen 2 (Black) - amzn.to/37ulDkT
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Sonos One Gen 2 (White) - amzn.to/3ltHnCp
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Sonos Portable speakers - Big Move, Small Roam
Sonos Move (Black) - amzn.to/3mtABOc
Sonos Move (White) - amzn.to/37om6oJ
Sonos Roam (Black) - amzn.to/3rbkwRy
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Best Sonos speaker for music - Sonos Fives
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Sonos Five (White) - amzn.to/3fXHg0B
The premium Atmos capable sound bar for larger rooms and TVs - Sonos Arc
Sonos Arc (Black) - amzn.to/3mHdSOE
Sonos Arc (White) - amzn.to/36v6BMm
Most Valuable Player - The Subwoofer which you can pair to almost every other Sonos speaker!
Sonos Sub Gen 3 (Black) - amzn.to/3g9OTS1
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OTHERS
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0:00 Introduction
0:54 Upfront Summary
1:42 Main Review
4:49 TriFactor decision matrix
11:22 Frequency Response Sweep
16:54 Demo recordings 
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Thank you, Peter - this was absolutely brilliant! Your way of conveying the difference between the different setups is by far the most helpful that I've come across! Great video and super helpful. You've got yourself a new subscriber.
Thank you! Your efforts in providing these comprehensive videos is greatly appreciated!
Glad you like them and found them useful!
I know you did this video a year ago but I love how in depth you get
Have this set up and it’s amazing!! Just got my sub mini yesterday!!
Welcome aboard! I am sure you are loving the Sub Mini!
Peter, your videos have been very helpful to me as I've thought about speakers! Much appreciated.
You are most welcome!
Amazing video 🎉 very helpful, I staring build my setup and I bought the beam 2 and sub mini couple minutes ago and sound spectacular I will add latter 2 eras 300 to complete the setup 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 really recommended guys this setup sounds amazing
I appreciate and admire your passion for this. Always create watching content from people that care about what they are doing. I equally enjoy learning about this and then listening to my set full sonos set up with various movies/ sound tracks. It's why I listen to Hans Zimmer live in Prague concert so often.
Thanks for your very kind words of motivation!
I bought the same set up, thank you Peter!
Thank you so much for all the great work that you do with all the Sonos products
You’re most welcome
Can you feel the bass hard
i dont think anyone need to see any other video on youtube about sonos different config after watching this full video. Absolutely top notch job Peter. Thank you Sir!
Glad it was helpful!
I’ve got exactly the same set-up love it.
Do you know if this would work fine with the play:1's?
They are super cheap on the second hand market here.
I have the beam gen 2 and 2 sl ones and my sub mini is coming tomorrow...can't wait. Look forward to your video on placing the sub mini in your room and what settings to use. Thanks so much for your videos, Peter!!
Will do that video soon!
Would you buy 2 One SL first or the Sub Mini?
@@Milan-cf1xe I would prefer of getting the Ones first, but to each his own.
Just discovered your content. Love all the visual graphics. I could watch you review anything. Lol.
Definitely the most helpful video I saw about this topic. Thank you!
Thank you!
I'm considering buying a Sonos set up for a small back bedroom, to pair it with a new gaming TV. The RUclips algorithm dropped your channel on my feed just today. I watched your Sonos videos and this one, as well. It would, indeed, be very remiss of me not to say how unique, and by far, most useful your reviews are👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼!
The way in which you convey the listening experience or the graphs of your trifecta or the listening graphs, and not using anachronistic scoring or star system, are so apropos!
With all the similar videos that I have been watching, (and trust me when I say, they have been loads!), yours have had the most impact, capturing the essence of how similar videos should be like. Keep them coming!
Thank you for the very kind feedback!
Thanks for all of your great reviews, just received my mini yesterday & I have the same setup. Beam Gen 2 + 2 ones + sub mini & it sounds great!
I am so glad that you like them! I have been on them almost non-stop at night. So many things I want to rewatch! Thanks for your very kind support!
Anytime you deserve it for all the hard work you put into keeping us informed with all your detailed & on point reviews. It was because of your testing & review of the sub mini I took the plunge & pre-ordered. Keep up the awesome work, take care & stay well ✌🏻👊🏻
I have the same setup but with the Beam Gen1, how much will I notice if I upgrade to the Gen2?
@@LifeLover2020 The only thing you would be missing with the Beam Gen 1 is Atmos, but I’m assuming you would still get the same awesome sound from the sub mini when paired. No need to shell out another $449 IMOP.
@@SemiAutoOutlaw Thanks!! I got the sub mini yesterday and I was kind of initially underwhelmed by the performance even with the bass maxed but then I turned it off and back on.. and could immediately tell what was missed not having it with my setup.
I also have a 10” Klipsch ported sub and I think I was expecting it to hit similar to that but it’s a bit more refined and not as booming. Like others have said it won’t be room rattling bass but it will fill the space with pleasant bass and allow your speakers to get louder mids/highs. I am curious now to try the Sub Gen1/2/3.
I think this video made me decide to get this setup. I'll probably get the Beam Gen 2 first with the black friday deals going on then get the rest over time.
Couldnt be much clearer. Really nice review Peter! 👍
Thanks!
Very helpful! Thank you!
Love how thorough this video is. I agree that a Beam + a couple Ones is the best value surround sound. I found those rear surrounds added plenty of atmosphere bass for most listening…the new sub mini helps add the PUNCH.
Will be getting the sub mini coupled with the Beam and Sonos Ones. The best combo in my opinion for an apartment..
So I just hooked up my sub mini with my beam gen 2 and 2 SLOnes. Turned on a movie and was at first underwhelmed. I was thinking the bass would just need to stand out and then realized the bass was perfectly in unison with the rest of the speakers and the beam. Hard to explain but the bass was submersive and just blended in with the rest of the system and sounded incredible. Put on some music and it was like listening to songs I've heard many times in a whole new way. Worth every penny I spent for it. Will say if you have a large room with high ceilings you will need the bigger sub but for my room it was perfect!!!
Have you done trueplay too?
Look forward to your refreshed EQ recommendations for Beam 2 + pair of Ones + Sub Mini 😃
I am patiently waiting too! I do need to wait for the final software release that fixes any sound issue. Else I might end up having to do this twice!
Thank you Peter 👍
Great review
Got my Sub Mini yesterday. Set it up in the master bed. Beam (gen2) with One SL for the surrounds. It has 10' ceilings 16x16 wall to wall carpet. Also has a small hallway entering the room. I formally had a Sub(gen3) which is now in the garage with a Beam (gen1) no surrounds. The garage also has a pair of Moves. The master bed is only used to watch for an hour and then sleep. The Mini is perfect cause it gives just the right amount of subtle woof the room needs. I didn't really need it but I'm glad I have it now.
Perfect use case. I have it in my bedroom now too!
Dont even want to know what you have in the living room 😀
@@ElCeeKaa and the amount of money spent. Arc, 2 sub(gen3) pair of SL ones 😉
I’m glad I saw this comment thank you. I have a beam gen 1 and a sub gen 3 but it’s overkill, my room is smaller than yours so the sub mini would be perfect!
Thank you for this video. I'm looking to get into the SONOS world. *especially soon cos its 10/10 sale now. Looked at other channels, but yours is so comprehensive , plus you're from SG ! EXCELLENT! Also love the way you don't waste time and give us the summary first then moving on to details... Still can't decide between the arc and gen3 or beam and the mini.. Help me pls !!!
I will need to know the size of the space that you are going to use them in. If it is bigger than say 8m x 5m, then you probably want to go for the Arc + Sub Gen 3.
I purchased my first sonos products today , beam gen 2 and the sub mini🙌 the sub only arrived in my store in Australia today too . Getting the 2 one speakers tomorrow. I have been using the Samsung k651 since it came out , and that doesn't hold a candle to the sonos ! I cannot believe the quality in sound coming from demons souls on ps5 ! I think it's a perfect system to accompany my new Sony a90k 🙌
I am always so delighted when someone gets surprised by the amount and quality of sound they get out of a Sonos setup.
Sonos the art of sound.
Thanks!
I bought a Beam Gen 2 for my 55” LG OLED G2, and I was not impressed with the improvement since the tv stock speakers already did a decent job. Today I purchased the Sub Mini and I gotta say it’s a game changer. The sound fulfills my 40m2 open space living room/kitchen and it adds a new layer of sound that’s unmatching. Totally recommend pairing both
Which settings are you using for your sub. I tried peters, but wasn’t very pleased.
I had my arc in bedroom and was overkill , so I moved to living room now it’s perfect. All I need in bedroom is soundbar and sub . Planning on getting beam and sub mini, But debating on beam size since I have 70” TV in bedroom.
Clue: I have a 75" in the bedroom. I am using the Beam. :) It looks odd for sure. So if you are into aesthetics, then it's going to look out of place. But like you have experienced, the Arc in the bedroom is too much. So it's more the room than the TV when it comes to sound performance.
@@PeterPee thanks
Great review. Can you tell us your thoughts on the homepods gen 2 as a stereo pair?
Peter, a lot of us have the Sonos Playbar and are wondering if it's worth upgrading to either the Beam Gen 2 or the Arc if we have a sub and surrounds. Would appreciate a video comparing the Playbar to the Beam Gen 2 for a setup like yours with the sub mini.
Good call Pete. I'm putting my sub mini in our office with the Ray and a pair of ones. Family room has ARC, GEN 3 sub and 2 Symfonisk picture frame speakers. Bedroom has Gen 1 Beam, GEN 2 sub and book shelf speakers. I also just bought a 2nd Play 5 for the kitchen so I can have a stereo pair. But thus video has me 2nd guessing that. Maybe should have picked up a Beam Gen 2.
I think your setup is ok. The only thing you are really concerned with is whether the Ray is performing sufficiently in your office. It really depends on what you are doing with the sound system in your office. The Beam Gen 2 is definitely going to do better than the Ray but if you just need some background sound, the Ray will do just fine. And the optical port is actually pretty handy.
I thought I was going to do subs with the ARC but it was too much so I put the Gen 2 sub with the Gen 2 Beam in the bedroom. The sub mini went with the Ray and two Ones in the office where my wife works. The office setup still works very well and she uses it. With a TV. In my office I have two Fives for music.
I still find the fives to be the BEST sonos setup for music.
Couple of questions:
-1) Can you handle the volume from TV controller? I mean pre-set the volume for Sonos and then just go up/down from TV controller?
-2) can you just not use the whole system when you just want to chill with TV-sound only? Is there like a power button that just shuts off or enables all-4 components when only needed?
Edit: GREAAAT video🎉
Thanks Peter... Waiting for the ones sl whith sub mini...
Your experience will triple.... :)
@@PeterPee jajaja... Thank you for taking the time to respond...
What a misunderstanding... I mean I'm waiting for your video and comments on the one SL + Sub Mini...
In Colombia the Sub Mini is not yet available... I'll have to wait about three or four weeks...
Thanks for the excellent video as always. How does the sound quality of a pair of Sonos Fives compare with with the Sub Mini and a pair of Sonos Ones? Evenly matched or is one combo better than the other?
Keen to know this too
Thanks Peter, amazing review. May I ask if you think Sonos Era 100 worth upgrade as rear surround options or couple of One SL is enough? Thanks in advance.
The only tiny thing that Sonos lacks is DTS-X support which is one a LOT of Blu-ray and recent 4k releases. I love the beam, but it’s frustrating they haven’t got DTS-X covered.
Yes the mini rocks
I bought this exact setup due to this review and others you've made. I got the Beam first, then added the Mini, then added the One SLs. Was not disappointed in the least, amazing sound in a smaller room. The Beam really comes alive with just the addition of the Mini and the Ones add proper surround and fill the room completely.
Yes, glad that you enjoyed my recommendation. Every day I listen to this combination in the bedroom and every time is a pleasure.
So the first step will be getting a sub mini. But then do I need the era 100 or the one sl?
@@bakersbest2261 I haven't personally heard the 100s but they are an upgrade over the Ones. That is how Sonos priced them. The 100s aren't replacing the Ones, they are just the next step up. Having said all of that, I'm very happy with my Ones. 100s weren't out when I got them, but I am not going to replace them with 100s. They more that fill the room with music and are great as surrounds. If you're on a budget, Ones are the obvious choice. Watch a few One vs 100 comparison reviews and decide from there.
You know, these demos really show how impressive the bass performance of the standalone speakers are. Tho adding the subs, even the mini, I can definitely feel the bass tickle my ear drums while I listen to your comparisons with a headset. Also, for me, I can hear how much cleaner the sound is when adding subs and surrounds. Lastly, I see and appreciate the game plan of Sonos when it comes to their med tier products. One wont be sacrificing that much performance for how much money they are saving, that's a great offering for consumers.
Yes, Testiee (I have to learn how to pronounce your username properly).... that's what a sub does. It cleans up the rest of the frequencies too!
got the sub mini delivered this morning and paired it with my playbar, sounds good, bass even better.. connecting needs manually tho since it won't connect thru NFC.
Ah... I have only tested the connection with iPhones though.
@@PeterPee i also used iphone but failed, don't know why..
Hey Peter. Great video content! Off topic question. What watch are u wearing and why band is that you are using? Looks awesome.
Hey! I am wearing the Apple Watch Ultra and with the old stainless steel Apple Watch band. I love that combination!
Hey :) Great Video . Im wondering if it’s smart to replace the beam with a five and buy this setup. Because then I’m also able to use it with my turntable. What do you think ?
So I got the mini yesterday. At first I was a bit overwhelmed by its performance but then I did trueplay, played with eq settings and also did a sub crawl. Boy what a difference it was. Now when i turn off and on the sub, its day and night difference. Its not cheap but it just put that missing piece to my beam.
That's what a Sub does! And seems like it's doing its job well in your case!
What is sub crawl ?
Hi Peter Pee, just a question when you mentioned the UGREEN HDMI Cable does it improve your Sonos setup. Meaning is it better than the supplied HDMI Cable? As would i hear a difference if i connected the UGREEN HDMI cable I do agree with you that this HDMI Cable is good I got one with my PC. Please Respond and love the video you have included alot of information this video made me inclined to get this speaker system all I need is the Sub Mini and I'm good to go.
Definitely a fuller sound with the sub mini
Köszönjük!
Hey István, Thank you for your very kind support!
Nagyon kedves!
@@PeterPee :)
you are welcome.
love your recommendation
Because I'd already own a sonos move, instead of 2 sonos one, could the surround be replace by 1 sonos move with the beam and sub recommendation?
Anyone know if LG ever gonna fix not seeing number value of the volume?
Love the channel, Thanks.
Adding one more Sub Mini will rock the whole room!
Except Sonos doesn’t allow dual sub for mini configurations
@@PeterPee That’s so weird! What is Sonos thinking????! When I configure 2 Subs (not Mini Sub) for my setup, watching movies is like sitting in the cinema.
Any idea why they don’t allow us to add 2 more front speakers such One or SL? I sometimes find the centre speaker somehow lack the left and right channel.
Couple of questions:
-1) Can you handle the volume from TV controller? I mean pre-set the volume for Sonos and then just go up/down from TV controller?
-2) can you just not use the whole system when you just want to chill with TV-sound only? Is there like a power button that just shuts off or enables all-4 components when only needed?
What size room in terms of square footage do u recommend for the sub mini
Hi Peter! Another great video. Which Hdmi switch would you recommend? Gonna buy the ugreen cables. Damn you. Lol
Haha. The cables are really... good!
For the switch, do you mean one that will enable the soundbar to extract HDMI e-ARC audio from it? Like the HDFury Arcana? Or just a regular switch?
@@PeterPee I'm looking for best overall switch. The HDFury Arcana mentioned not in my budget. Thanks.
What would you recommend equalizer setup for beam 2 and sub mini? Treble, bass and loudness flicked on?
hi Peter, due to budget i need to choose between sub mini or surround setup for my gen 2 beam. which one should i go first ? room pretty small, 4x4 meter only
Thank you for review. As I own similar setup (ikea lamps instead of ones) I will probably buy sub mini soon. I have few questions:
- What is the optimal orientation of sub? Should the hole be positioned in front/back or left/right? I assume front, because then sub speakers will be in stereo...
- What is the optimal position of sub? Should it be positioned near me or near the soundbar? Can it be on top of tv table/desk or it must be on the floor?
- Is Trueplay calibration working properly (with sub) now?
Trueplay works well with the Sub Mini. I tested it. I have yet to fully measure out the differences when it comes to orientation. For now. I have one of the openings fire out towards the MLP/seating position and the other port facing the back of the wall.
That is my next set up
You will love it!
Dear Peter, first of all thank you for all the great Sonos videos.
There is no better. 😊
Would you also make a video about the best settings for the combination:
Beam gen 2, Sub mini and 2x One SL's. That would be fantastic!! Thanks!!
Yes. That will be coming up soon!
@@PeterPee thank you! That will be fantastic ! 👍
Hi Peter. Can you do a Beam+SubMini vs Ray+SubMini comparison pls
What are your preferred settings for the Sonos Beam Gen 2 paired with One SL rear speakers ?
With a BF deal Sub3 costs 687$ where I live and the sub mini without any discount 528$. Which one would you buy with the beam and a pair of sls? It will go to a living room for now and later to a bedroom when I move. I might buy arc gen2 when it’s out for the future living room.
Great video. On room size is it that or listening space that matters? Dealing with a fairly large lounge but seating is all in a smaller area of it, so wondered if a well placed sub mini would be suitable?
Yes. If you are faced with a large space you might need to try out many different positions. Don’t put in middle of room. Back it up into a corner and definitely push up the sub output levels a little.
It’s the room size. Cos the bass is reinforced by bouncing against walls.
Thanks @peterpee I may try the mini and placing it behind the listening position (near a wall behind the sofa) to see if that's sufficient. Thanks for all of your great content.
Do you have the link for the Dolby Atmos demo? Please
Hi Peter, great video content, feedback and insight in to the best set up for Sonos. I've a beam and Sub and am thinking of upgrading to another sub.
Should I get another Gen 3 Sub or a Sub Mini?
I look forward to your views
How big is your room?
Sub mini and sub do not work together. Only two subs work together
@@PeterPee hi Pete its a big room 7x8mtrs with 3.5mtr ceilings!
Hey Peter why did you get Ones instead of One SLs?
what do you think is the best sounds settings for beam gen 2 with the sub mini now with 15.5
Hi Peter, My room size is 10*25. Distance from tv to couch is 10 feet and the room is 25 feet wide, will submini work for me?
Great review! Curious: do you think it would be less logical to add a sub mini to a Playbase (seeing it has a dedicated subwoofer built in).
I don’t know how the lower frequencies would be affected and if the Playbase would just not use it’s built in subwoofer anymore.
The Playbase was advertised with an internal subwoofer but really, it is just a small driver, with a long air duct/port to lower the frequency response. It is not going to be anywhere close to what the Sub Mini can do. Go for the Sub mini, you won't miss whatever is in the Playbase.
I also have the Playbase and was also wondering if I should add a sub mini. I ended up selling my Playbase, replaced it by a Sonos arc and the regular Sonos Sub.
Peter, many thanks for this. I have put this question below, in a second reply to your reply to Rodney Dangerfield, but I am repeating here because it may stand a greater chance of drawing your attention. What I wrote below: QUOTE: Peter, not sure whether you will see / respond, but further to your guidance above (many thanks), how should I proceed with determining what sub to buy when I have an open plan living space, where the living room / dining room / kitchen are in an "L" configuration where the living area is at the top of the L. Each of the 3 areas are equal size, so living area is 1/3 of the total. How should I interpret your figures above - do I just calculate only my living room space and ignore the rest of the open plan area? Also, related to that issue, when I install the speakers and use TruePlay, should I walk around just the living room, or the dining room and kitchen too? Thanks ENDS The reference to "your guidance above" was the content you put in your reply to Rodney, namely QUOTE: The line to draw is not entirely clear. And it is impacted by the ceiling height too. But let me just take an estimated stroke at this.
500 sq feet: Arc + dual Sub Gen 3
Please note this is just an estimate. And there are many factors like how well treated the room is, how heavy the curtains are, how big the couch is, if there is a bed... many factors. ENDS. Thanks
Hi Peter, so you recommend the sub mini for the arc as well?
Yes I can. But it depends on the room size. If the room is not big then ok. If the room is bigger than say 250sq feet with a high ceiling then it’s going to be better with a sub gen 3.
Hi Peter, My current setup is a Beam Gen 1 + Sonos One for surrounds + Sub Gen 2. Watching your movies is making my fingers itch :) Theres a question always in my head and that is "Is it worth it to change any of the items in my setup?" ie. is it worth changing my beam to the gen 2 for atmos? Im a practical person, i wouldn't want to spend money if its not needed but if it will provide a tangible benefit I can consider it. thanks in advance.
Hey, don’t need to upgrade for yours Francis. Really. The beam gen 1 is still great sounding. Atmos is… more encompassing, louder if I may. But really not a big jump from your current setup. You already have one of the best setup for the beam.
@@PeterPee Awesome Thanks Peter. You just saved me some Christmas cash :)
Thanks for the answer, exactly what I was looking to ask. I’ll stick with my Beam Gen1, surrounds and my new Sub Mini when it arrives tomorrow.
I have the beam gen 2, sub mini and 2 units of Era 100
Hi Peter,
I have a Beam gen 2 + Sub gen 3
I would like to upgrade my setup for listening music, improving the feeling of stereo.
What do you recommend me?
In case of Ones, where I put them, in front or Rear?
Thank you!
You can buy the pair of ones and use them as surrounds. Put behind you. And if you are playing music you can set it to full range instead of ambient and that should improve your stereo separation.
Hi, good recommendation, but can I check with you if we use the Symfonisk Lamp instead of Sonos One, what do you think? Do we get similar performance?
The impact of surround speakers in a Sonos setup is smallish. Not very significant. Except for the use of a Sonos three or fives when they get a lot louder. Between the ones, ikea bookshelves and lamps, the difference is small. So whichever works for you functionally better will be a better choice.
The ikea Symfonisk picture frames add a lot of volume too. Close to the old sonos play:3s.
Peter so you are not using sonos hdmi cables? Does quality get better with the other ones ?
No. The quality of the sound or image is NOT enhanced with the Ugreen cables. Or ANY OTHER CABLES. You just need to get to the point where the bandwidth is sufficient, and that the cable is constructed well enough that there aren't any interference. Anything more is just a waste of money. The Ugreen cable does exactly that. Delivery clean signal, in a well constructed form.
Excellent video analysis, Peter!...What tv size/room size will the factor when deciding to purchase the Sonos Beam Gen 2 w/ Sub Mini OR Sonos Arc w/ Sub Gen 3?
The line to draw is not entirely clear. And it is impacted by the ceiling height too. But let me just take an estimated stroke at this.
500 sq feet: Arc + dual Sub Gen 3
Please note this is just an estimate. And there are many factors like how well treated the room is, how heavy the curtains are, how big the couch is, if there is a bed... many factors.
@@PeterPee Peter, not sure whether you will see / respond, but further to your guidance above (many thanks), how should I proceed with determining what sub to buy when I have an open plan living space, where the living room / dining room / kitchen are in an "L" configuration where the living area is at the top of the L. Each of the 3 areas are equal size, so living area is 1/3 of the total. How should I interpret your figures above - do I just calculate only my living room space and ignore the rest of the open plan area? Also, related to that issue, when I install the speakers and use TruePlay, should I walk around just the living room, or the dining room and kitchen too? Thanks
@@PeterPee Is affordability a factor in these recommendations, or only performance?
My room is 12x16 and I have a Beam Gen 2 + 2x One SLs. I was in the market for a sub, and had a choice between the Sub Gen 3 and the mini. I was able to get a deal on the Sub Gen 3 for $599 and no taxes, so only $180 more than the mini. I also got the Beam 2 and One SLs on sale for $677 + tax.
So not considering tax I paid exactly the same amount you said this system should cost with the mini ($1276), except I have a Sub 3 instead. If the affordability is "comparable" (I could have technically gotten it with the mini for $1096, but it's exactly the same with the sub) would you consider that a reasonable upgrade?
The Sub hasn't shipped yet, so if the mini would be much better I still have a chance to cancel or return.
Can you do a video with using a sonos Beam 2with a non-sonos sub ?
Hi! Would you recommend a sub mini for a pair of Sonos Five setup? I was wondering if it would pay off the upgrade with a sub. That setup would be exclusively for music. So, notice that I got the pair of Fives already and they sound awesome.🥰🥰🥰
You will get a slight improvement. For me, the Sonos Fives on its own already puts out quite a bit of bass so the sub mini is really not that necessary. Save the money. :)
Hi, may i check if the entire setup is compatible with a computer system? I watched your video on soundbar + pc gaming, but i am wondering will all 5.1 work with PC configuration? Thank-you in advance
Yes it will work. But you will be using the optical to HDMI converter provided. It won't work through a HDMI connection as PC output doesn't output sound through the ARC/eARC channel that the Beam will require.
This is the exact setup I want. My wife is nurse so gets 15% sonos discount. Quick question- my home is open concept from front to back door. Please confirm this setup will be great.
Thanks. Your videos are so good.
It will be good but you need to push the sub mini into a corner. Not in the middle or open space.
I have a mancave space or room 😁 and I love Sonos products. Do you think I need the Sonos Sub mini with my configuration of Beam Gen 2 and one Era 300? I already preordered the Sonos Ace headphone for late-night situations. Please let me know what you think.
Hello Peter pee, the frequency curves you've shown are for the beam2 + sub mini but soundtest was done for beam2+ones+sub mini. I have beam 2 and was thinking to add only sub mini. Will it be fine if I get the sub mini only with beam 2 or ones are a must?
No need for the Ones. In fact, I did show all the three combination for the frequency curves. The Ones won't add a whole lot to the frequency response. It adds to the atmosphere and surround effects but not necessarily volume which shows up on the frequency response.
In short, you can definitely skip the Ones and go straight for the Sub Mini alone.
@@PeterPee thankyou so much. I wish your channel grows exponentially in coming time
Good stuff ! Thank You !
Whats your preferred EQ settings for beam gen2 + sub mini?
I will advise on that again when the next firmware drops!
Hey Peter! Great video, super informative!
What's about for those of us with the Beam Gen 1?
I have the Beam Gen 1 and two Ones's as rears and plan on getting the sub mini.
Should I upgrade my beam as well? Or will I be fine with the Gen. 1 and two rears?
In the same boat with beam 1 but I’m just going to wait until a beam 3 or new middle of the road soundbar comes out. The current upgrade is good but not worth a change of hardware imo
I have a Beam Gen 1 and have added the Sub Mini today. It really adds a lot. Our room is 5m x 3.5m.
It adds real impact to movies. Bass you can feel, no, but great immersion.
If you already have the Beam Gen 1, then stick with it. Just add the Sub Mini. The extra features on the Beam Gen 1 pertains to Atmos. If you have no need for that, don't upgrade. In fact, I had the Beam Gen 1 since launch and even after the Gen 2 came out, I didn't buy it for myself until just this week but that's because I wanted the Sub Mini.
Thanks everyone!! Can't wait for my sub mini to come in!
Hi Peter- What is your view of pairing a SONOS mini sub with a single SONOS 5 unit? It is the only combo I can possibly pair the mini with but I’m not sure if it will be a useful set up for me (of course just for music). Ty for your thoughtful feedback (as usual).
You can't pair the Sub Mini with just a single Sonos Five, as it needs a stereo set-up in order to be paired.
Zhiyu, are you certain about that? Because I can pair a Sub Gen 3 with a single Five. At this moment in time, I have not tried to pair the sub mini with a single Five. But I am assuming it's going to be the same?
@@PeterPee Cool. Or better for music due to its sealed design and being used in a medium sized room.
Hey Peter, I have Arc + 2 x one XL. Now I’m planning to get a sub, I should get sub gen 3 or sub mini ?which one is better ?
It depends on the size of your room. If you have a lot of space to cover, go for the Gen 3.
I know I'm a little late but I just purchased the Beam yesterday. I plan on upgrading with the surrounds and sub mini when I have the money saved up. The only issue I currently have is that I'm an Android user and can't calibrate the room, as its only supported on IOS. I'd be interested to know if anyone else is in the same boat as me, and am I missing out on much here?
P.s. great video and helps me confirm I'm purchasing a quality product.
It really depends on your room. To be honest, if your room is well damped and not so reflective, or doesn't echo much and bounce off too much sounds, then you are probably ok without the trueplay.
Trueplay also measures the distances, but that can be done by tweaking the distance for surround speakers. And phase for the sub.
If you can, borrow an iPhone to try it out and you can also 'keep' the trueplay settings even after you return the iPhone.
Hey Peter, how does it compare when added to a Playbase setup? I still use Playbase as I like the overall sound better than the Arc.
I haven't tried it with a Playbase yet. Nor the Playbar. But if you are not sporting a sub now, this will definitely help it sound much bigger.
Do Sonos products come with international warranty? I’m headed to the US and might pick up a Sub Mini to bring back to SG : )
I don’t think there is international warranty. I have heard conflicting accounts from the Sonos Reddit sub forum.
Mr pee can you please do a video on recommended settings, love your content.
Soon! Please wait for it!
Hey Peter … do the hdmi cables you recommended make a difference to the average person ? Or do you need to be a audiophile to notice the difference ?
Hi Miguel, there will be NO difference at all to ANYONE. If there is anyone who tells you there is a difference, just smile and walk away. I do not believe that HDMI cables (or any other digital cables) make a difference to the sound quality.
I recommend them because (1) you might need a HDMI 2.1 spec'ed cable for 120Hz VRR refresh rate, and (2) you might need 8K, and (3) if you are still using underspec'ed or lower quality cables that compromises transmission. If your cables are properly spec'ed and functioning well according to specs, you don't need to change them at all.
@@PeterPee thanks for the detailed Response 👍🏼💪🏽
Hi Peter, great video as always.. I ordered a sub mini for my being 2 and Sonos ones set up, can’t wait. I have a question I would like to ask I also recently bought a Sonos Roam speaker and I keep having the amps kick in and turning down the volume is this normal and does it happen to yours? I had it playing on almost full volume in the garden and it went very low like to 10% volume and I turn it back up and same thing happened only on certain tracks is this normal. I even tried grouping it with my Sonos one in the kitchen and at full volume same thing, it would automatically Lauren the volume and a light would flash on the front
That doesn't sound normal for the Roam. You are not talking about the Trueplay kicking in an altering the sound right? You are talking about the volume slider coming down all the way to 10 out of 100? Have Sonos take a look at that. It could be a battery issue. If it is the high energy tracks that causes the amp to draw more power than a "faulty" battery can supply, the volume could be lowered to save the battery.
@@PeterPee Thanks Peter I will contact Sonos. I was thinking along the same lines really appreciate it 👍🏻
By your recommendation a year ago when I asked you about Sonos, I got Gen 3 with Arc and One SL before the the Sub mini is coming, so I am not really interested to buy a mini because I have a Sonos set system only for family “living” room and Sonos Gen as you said gives more sound “bass” and features than Sub mini especially for large room.
But with the Sonos updated, they killed the Sub Gen 3 and we really disappointed with what they are doing with these updating. I think I did a big mistake to buy Sonos set system because Sonos is only for people who have or looking for wireless home sound system and for me not interested to have speakers around my house in bathroom or bed room or in garage or whatever in the house. I think they are many good brands especially for Dolby Atmos and for home theater like Sony, Samsung, LG, Bose, Sennheiser, klipsch, Bowers & Wilkins, etc which only focuses on home theater.
One more thing you are missing a lot of things that you help us a lot with Sonos and we are really thankful for you with always great reviews, but we are still missing for your video especially with best sound settings EQ. You know Sonos issue with the new update and we are waiting for your video explanation about best EQ settings when the Trueplay on and Off especially for people who have Gen 3 with One’s Surround.
Thank you very much and we really highly appreciated with your great job with Sonos speakers. Without you, we may lost. Always keep up with good job.
Thank you for your very kind words and support all this time Saeed. I appreciate that a lot. I will be doing up the video the moment Sonos releases the firmware version to fix and stabilise the sound profile. Watch out for that!
I have 2 rear surrounds Can I get away by adding a beam and mini for a 5.5m x 4.5m room for purely movie watching?
Or should I get an arc and then buy a sub later down the line.
Yes, you will be happy with just the Beam Gen 2 and the Mini. With the surrounds, it will definitely manage the room size.
I have the Ray for my bedroom and the sound quality is good but not close to the Beam gen 2.
When I listened to the music played at the showroom with the Beam gen 2 and sub mini, it really sounds superb. The bass response is well balanced. For movies I haven’t heard it in person with this combo. I have blu-ray movies like Ambulance (2022) by Michael Bay which one of the reviews called it demo-worthy with its excellent Dolby Atmos soundtrack. I hope it sounds perfect.
Hmm, I actually have not heard of that movie before. Adding to the watch list!
@@PeterPee Yeah. I highly recommend watching on 4K or normal blu-ray as the Dolby Atmos soundtrack is TrueHD lossless which is top-notch. The picture quality wise looks stunning bright and rich in colors. 🙂