What To Know
- In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences and similarities between the Denon Soundbar 550 and Sonos Beam, empowering you to make an informed decision about which soundbar best suits your needs.
- 6 inches in length, the Beam is ideal for smaller rooms or as a secondary soundbar for other rooms.
- The Sonos Beam is a versatile soundbar for smaller spaces or as a secondary soundbar.
If you’re seeking an exceptional audio experience to elevate your home entertainment, the Denon Soundbar 550 and Sonos Beam stand out as formidable contenders. Both these soundbars promise immersive sound, sleek designs, and advanced features. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences and similarities between the Denon Soundbar 550 and Sonos Beam, empowering you to make an informed decision about which soundbar best suits your needs.
Unboxing and Setup
Denon Soundbar 550
The Denon Soundbar 550 comes neatly packaged, with all necessary accessories included. Setup is straightforward, thanks to the included HDMI cable and clear instructions. The soundbar boasts a low profile, allowing for discreet placement under your TV.
Sonos Beam
Similar to the Denon Soundbar 550, the Sonos Beam arrives well-protected in its packaging. Setup is equally hassle-free, with the Sonos app guiding you through the process. The Beam’s compact design makes it suitable for smaller spaces.
Design and Build Quality
Denon Soundbar 550
The Denon Soundbar 550 exudes sophistication with its sleek, minimalist design. Its solid construction and premium materials convey durability. The soundbar measures 41.3 inches in length and features a fabric grille that complements any décor.
Sonos Beam
The Sonos Beam boasts a compact and stylish design. Its rounded edges and soft-touch finish add a touch of elegance. Measuring 25.6 inches in length, the Beam is ideal for smaller rooms or as a secondary soundbar for other rooms.
Audio Performance
Denon Soundbar 550
The Denon Soundbar 550 delivers exceptional audio, boasting a 5.1.2-channel setup. Its built-in subwoofers provide deep, impactful bass, while the dedicated height channels create a truly immersive surround sound experience. The soundbar supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for a cinematic audio experience.
Sonos Beam
The Sonos Beam offers a balanced and detailed sound, despite its smaller size. Its 5.1-channel configuration provides a wide soundstage, while the built-in speech enhancement feature ensures clear dialogue. The Beam supports Dolby Atmos, but not DTS:X.
Connectivity and Features
Denon Soundbar 550
The Denon Soundbar 550 offers versatile connectivity options, including HDMI ARC/eARC, optical, and Bluetooth. It also features built-in Wi-Fi and AirPlay 2, allowing for wireless music streaming. The soundbar comes with a remote control for convenient operation.
Sonos Beam
The Sonos Beam features HDMI ARC, optical, and Bluetooth connectivity. Like the Denon Soundbar 550, it also supports Wi-Fi and AirPlay 2. The Beam integrates with the Sonos ecosystem, enabling multi-room audio and voice control via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
Smart Features
Denon Soundbar 550
The Denon Soundbar 550 lacks smart features, relying on its remote control for operation. However, it supports HDMI CEC, allowing for basic control via your TV’s remote.
Sonos Beam
The Sonos Beam excels in smart features. It integrates seamlessly with the Sonos ecosystem, providing multi-room audio and voice control. The Beam also supports Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and other music streaming services.
Which Soundbar is Right for You?
The Denon Soundbar 550 is the ideal choice for those seeking a powerful and immersive audio experience. Its 5.1.2-channel setup, Dolby Atmos support, and robust bass make it perfect for large rooms and home theaters.
The Sonos Beam is a versatile soundbar for smaller spaces or as a secondary soundbar. Its balanced sound, compact design, and smart features make it an excellent choice for those prioritizing convenience and integration with smart home systems.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which soundbar has better bass response?
A: The Denon Soundbar 550 has a more powerful bass response due to its dedicated subwoofers.
Q: Can I control both soundbars with my TV remote?
A: The Denon Soundbar 550 supports HDMI CEC, while the Sonos Beam does not. However, both soundbars can be controlled via their respective apps.
Q: Which soundbar is more compatible with streaming services?
A: The Sonos Beam has a wider range of supported streaming services, including Spotify Connect and Apple AirPlay 2.
Q: Can I use the soundbars for music streaming only?
A: Yes, both soundbars can be used for music streaming without connecting them to a TV.
Q: Which soundbar is more future-proof?
A: The Sonos Beam has a more robust smart home integration, which may provide better long-term value.