What To Know
- In the realm of home audio, the Bose Soundbar 600 and Sonos Beam 2 stand as formidable contenders, each promising immersive sound experiences and smart features.
- The Bose Soundbar 600 does not support multi-room audio out of the box, but it can be paired with the Bose Music app to enable limited multi-room functionality.
- Both soundbars offer excellent sound quality and features, but the Sonos Beam 2’s multi-room audio capabilities and Apple AirPlay 2 support may make it a more appealing choice for those seeking a versatile and expandable home audio system.
In the realm of home audio, the Bose Soundbar 600 and Sonos Beam 2 stand as formidable contenders, each promising immersive sound experiences and smart features. This comprehensive guide will pit these two soundbars against each other, delving into their key specifications, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Aesthetics
The Bose Soundbar 600 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, measuring 40.6 inches in length. Its low-profile form factor makes it an unobtrusive yet stylish addition to any entertainment setup. The Sonos Beam 2, on the other hand, is slightly smaller at 25.6 inches, offering a more compact option for smaller spaces. Its rounded edges and fabric grille exude a modern and sophisticated aesthetic.
Sound Quality
Both soundbars deliver impressive sound quality, but their approaches differ slightly. The Bose Soundbar 600 utilizes a five-speaker array, including two tweeters, two woofers, and a dedicated center channel. This configuration results in a wider soundstage with clear and detailed audio across the frequency range.
The Sonos Beam 2 employs a three-speaker array, consisting of two tweeters and a single woofer. Despite its smaller speaker count, it leverages Sonos‘ Trueplay technology to optimize sound performance based on the acoustics of the room. This results in a well-balanced and immersive soundscape.
Features
The Bose Soundbar 600 features a built-in voice assistant, allowing users to control playback, adjust volume, and access music with voice commands. It supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, providing seamless integration with smart home devices.
The Sonos Beam 2 also offers voice control through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Additionally, it supports Apple AirPlay 2, enabling wireless streaming from Apple devices. It also features a night mode that reduces the bass and treble for late-night listening without disturbing others.
Connectivity
Both soundbars offer a range of connectivity options. The Bose Soundbar 600 includes an HDMI ARC port, an optical input, and Bluetooth. The Sonos Beam 2 provides an HDMI ARC port, an optical input, and Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity.
Multi-Room Audio
Sonos Beam 2 has a significant advantage in multi-room audio capabilities. It seamlessly integrates with other Sonos speakers, allowing users to create a whole-home audio system. The Bose Soundbar 600 does not support multi-room audio out of the box, but it can be paired with the Bose Music app to enable limited multi-room functionality.
Price and Value
The Bose Soundbar 600 typically retails for around $499, while the Sonos Beam 2 is priced at around $449. Both soundbars offer excellent sound quality and features, but the Sonos Beam 2’s multi-room audio capabilities and Apple AirPlay 2 support may make it a more appealing choice for those seeking a versatile and expandable home audio system.
Recommendations: The Ultimate Choice
Choosing between the Bose Soundbar 600 and Sonos Beam 2 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize immersive sound quality, a wider soundstage, and built-in voice assistant, the Bose Soundbar 600 is an excellent choice.
However, if you value multi-room audio capabilities, Apple AirPlay 2 support, and a more compact design, the Sonos Beam 2 offers a compelling alternative. Both soundbars provide exceptional audio experiences, so the best decision is the one that aligns with your specific requirements.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which soundbar has a better soundstage?
A: The Bose Soundbar 600 offers a wider soundstage due to its five-speaker array.
Q: Can I use either soundbar with a non-4K TV?
A: Yes, both the Bose Soundbar 600 and Sonos Beam 2 support HDMI ARC, which is compatible with non-4K TVs.
Q: Is the Sonos Beam 2 waterproof?
A: No, the Sonos Beam 2 is not waterproof and should be kept away from moisture.
Q: Can I adjust the EQ settings on either soundbar?
A: Yes, both the Bose Soundbar 600 and Sonos Beam 2 allow users to adjust EQ settings through their companion apps.
Q: Which soundbar is better for gaming?
A: Both soundbars offer low-latency modes specifically designed for gaming, making either a suitable choice for immersive gaming experiences.