Found your channel a few years ago and i now own a Sony A80J 55, Sonos Beam gen 1 with Sonos sub, and two Play 1 SLs, synfonisk bookshelf, a Sonos Move and Sonos Roam. Needless to say you've recommended all the above, and you weren't wrong. Your channel has become one of my most trusted sources. I'm considering the Ray for my bedroom TV/PC out. Keep up the good work, great content.
I got one as my first sound bar and it's perfect for my case. Small room, already have heaps of Google Assistants and the Samsung TV remote worked first try with it.
I’ve got a beam gen 2 and two play 1s in the living room which I’m more than pleased with (The beam really outperforms for such a small soundbar!!) we’ve just done up the kitchen and there is a new TV in there, so the Ray will be perfect to enhance TV audio and also for listening to music in there. I’ve already got Alexa in the kitchen so can just throw audio to the Ray from that. Also Sonos, please announce the sub mini!!
@@grahamjackmacpherson6501 believe me def not. But with Sonos you can build over time. I started off with one Play 1, then later got another to make a stereo pair, and then later got the Beam. I won’t be getting the Ray yet as need to pay my kitchen off, but I will get it eventually when I can afford it. Also I always buy when things are on offer, discount codes etc.
@Mark Denovan beware of the Ray, I've just returned it and will buy the Beam instead. We've had a Playbar and x2 Play 1s for a number of years and are very happy with the Sonos brand. The Ray was a massive disappointment
Sonos beam Gen 1 refurb is around the same price with slightly better overall sound. It also offers optical option (via hdmi-optical adapter) which is sufficient to support the Dolby/DTS lossy codecs. I'd go gen 1 personally. Or playbar refurb for an extra hundred for that wider soundscape.
Ray is almost perfect for me. I was looking for a soundbar to bedroom, and my tv has issues with HDMI cec, so I have to use optical connection. The only downside is lack of microphones for voice assistant.
You've done an excellent job of presenting a balanced review and setting expectations for the buyer. I have a specific application for a front firing 2.0 soundbar primarily for music and I think the Ray may well be the right choice since it has an optical input and especially since I already have a couple of Sonos One's, and primarily use airplay 2 for wireless audio distribution. Thanks
I have listen too this sound bar and i am impressed with the sound! the only draw back i noticed right away (i didnt get to spend time with it) was how single directional the ray is compared to the beam or other sound bars.
One massive problem with the Ray is that you can pickup the Gen 1 Beam for the same amount of money - or even less. Thinking that'll be the one I'll go for.
Guys as usual a great review Taking into account the needs of the end user and add ons should they be wanted I’m thinking this will be a prequel to a formal announcement of a smaller sub which would massively enhance the appeal of the Ray It’s good that Sonos is looking at the lower end of the market 👍👍 No compromise on vocal performance though and acceptable bass given it’s size (hence possibly a smaller sub)
I use an Apple TV Device on all of my TVs. Would you recommend connecting the Sonos Ray to a TV via the optical cable or via Airplay2? I've used a Sonos Roam as a tv soundbar on a small tv and it did a surprisingly nice job, but I only had the option of connecting wirelessly via Airplay2. And I felt like I experienced a little bit of gap in the video and audio matching up using the AirPlay2 option. My assumption would be that I would not experience this if I opted to use the optical cable since it's moving the sound directly from the tv to the Ray via a physical cable. Has this been your experience?
What about using the Ray with a turntable? As it has optical in, could you use a RCA to Optical converter to get audio into the Ray from the deck? Then you could link into the whole Sonos ecosystem no? Interested on the sound quality IF its possible. Suppose the RCA to Optical conversion stage is very important.
Thinking of getting a Ray for my office. I'll be sat less than 1m away directly in front of it. Which would sound better, a Sonos One or the Ray? It would only be for music.
Litterally no advantages on having optical. Maybe that it's compatible with older TV's but that's about it. No advantage on optical. Since it is only a 2.0 speaker, I can see why they didn't feel the 'need' to add an HDMI, as it won't need to play any advanced Dolby/DTS formats, *but* an HDMI would've saved people the hassle from pairing it with their TV remotes and crap like this.
Great informative video as always. Might be an option for those looking as you mentioned smaller 📺, space concerns…. Just the basic needs without the extras. Hmmmmm…. In an RV with Ray, Starlink, couple Moves/Ones..🤔😎
One advice that is not mentioned about installing: when you have multiple Sonos products in your network, do NOT connect it via an ethernet cable without disabling any wireless options in the app, else it will set-up a Sonosnet network which could cripple your regular network because of network looping. Better set-up a proper wifi network and configure it all to work wirelessly, except for the optical port ofcourse.
I am looking for a compact sound bar for My pc station with a LG c2 42. Ray is ok? Obviosly beam 2 is better but is too much for a pc (in a narrow room)
Hello, did you try yourself to use the Ray on a PC to watch YouTude video? This soundbar is amazing when playing music via AirPlay, but, through optical... yerk... unless I missed a setting somewhere
I just never can get to Sonos. They held out on HDMI on the original sound bar for years and pushed some faux 5.1 setup. And it’s 2022 and an optical output. I found an 49 dollar sound bar at Walmart that has and comes with an HDMI.
So I currently have a beam in my main setup in the lounge, but am fed up with the audio from my tv in my bedroom. I have looked at the ray, however I can get a beam gen 1 for the same price as a refurbished unit direct from Sonos. Which one is best value for money, or should I wait and invest in an arc for downstairs and relegate the beam to upstairs?
Really I see no point in this soundbar existing at this price point. It's way too expresive for what it is. And to pair it to a PC? Please bro, you'd ve better off with a set of simple active stereo speakers OR if you insist on having a soundbar, buy something with a sub. Plenty of choice, even for 250$/£. Maaybe you won't get on par detail on highs, but good enough. A 250-300$ soundbar+sub would sound way fuller and more immersive than this overpriced stereo soundbar. And this is coming from someone who has Sonos in his home...
The Beam will have a wider soundstage and sound better for movies and high production series, though rears with the ray will help to some degree (especially if it's a smaller room). Obviously only the Beam supports DD+ Atmos and it can also accept TrueHD+Atmos for Blu-Ray. I have been very happy with the Beam (plus rears and sub) in my medium size living room.
@@midnightprophet Thanks! It's a tough choice. I'd need to sit down and spend time with them to know. I get that the sound stage is better with a Beam 2 than a Ray but with added speakers to the Ray for about the same price I don't know what would work best for my 20 feet by 13 feet room
Some great points raised by @midnightprophet1 - you would need to consider how much you'd like that Atmos support because the soundstage would then become much greater. If you watch lots of newer content, it will be worth the upgrade to the Beam and then add surrounds at a later date when budget allows. I hope this helps!
This thing is incredible. The sound, wow. Best sound bar ive ever had. But sonos connection is garbage honestly, so annoying with the wifi connection. Next bar sound will be bluetooth.
I don't really understand why you would want to turn on the bass roll-off for the binaural mic. This way, a high pass filter prevents everyone from hearing the lower bass region of the speaker that is being tested. Therefore I think the sound demo is not really right, as you get no sense of the entire speaker this way. What is the reason you don't use flat mode?
Hi two things. 1. How long is the optical cable in the box? I’m going to use it in a pc set up and have a height adjustable standing desk. 2. Is there any video for attaching or detaching optical cables. Are there any difference in designs that are better than others in this respect? Thanks
Right now I have a One and an Ikea symphonisk. I've always wanted to get something for the TV. Would the Ray pair with one or both of these? I'd be happy even if the Ray would pair with one of these speakers even if it didn't result in true surround sound.
Great review so thanks for that. Ray v Beam gen 1.......you can probably pick up a gen 1 beam (secondhand) for the same price as the Ray, offering more connectivity than the Ray too. Both still great products.
Another nice review. This is exactly what I’m looking for in my study. I’ve got the full set up in the lounge but sometimes I retire to the study where I have just installed a 32” ambilight tv. This speaker will be perfect for that space and I don’t need another surround sound system. Will be getting one of these for sure.
I have a play 1 speaker. When I add a Ray soundbar do I have airplay? Because with the play 1 I dont see aitplay on my macmini and macbook... Ive read that its only with newer products... is that true??
Hi Simon, if you can pick up a Beam Gen 1 for less than the Ray, that would be a very tempting offer, if you are ok with it being refurbished. Note, the Beam Gen 1 does not have Atmos like the Gen 2 does but should fetch you a wider soundstage than the Ray as well as more bass.
I bought an optical to RCA adaptor from Amazon as I wanted to check the optical output on the TV was working. It is. The volume though from the amp the RCA is plugged into isn't very high at all. Would I have the same problem using a Sonos Ray?
i have a Sonos Five in my room that i use for music as it can’t connect to my TV, if i get the Ray can i link it with my Five so they both play out my TV?
using the tv remote to control volume is gonna be finicky. Some TVs dont disable their inbuilt speakers and you might be raising your TV speakers as well. This is also ignoring the fact some TVs dont even come with an IR remote now and use bluetooth.
How does this compare sound wise to the old Playbar as they are broadly the same speaker as far as I can see but in different clothing and with fewer drivers?
Could you use the Ray as down-firing Atmos speakers, if mounted on one's ceiling, to replace the ".2" in a Sonos Arc "5.1.2" (I have the sub3 and One SL pair) system?
Since this is a 2 channel set up, how would a Ray compare to a stereo pair of one SL’s. Thinking about getting this to replace my stereo pair I have at my desk (strictly for music listening).
I use one in the study/listening room. Took a while to bed in. I chose it to function additionally as the pc speaker which the Ones wouldn’t do. My ears like it for audio.
No HDMI is a big mistake, at this price there are plenty of options outhere. I am looking for a soundbar that has a warm natural sound, but an HDMI is a must.
Then you would want a Beam. It seems odd to omit HDMI, but many TVs under 50" have limited HDMI ports. They all have optical and as long as it works that all many folks care about. As a Sonos users who would like to start helping my friends and family get into the ecosystem, I think this is the perfect entry way. They didn't even mention the fact that you'd also be able to add surround speakers at a lower price point with the Ikea Symfonisk speakers.
Hi Aaron, yes you can add an Amp with speakers and use them as surrounds to the Ray or indeed, any other Sonos soundbar in the line up. Hope that helps!
Hi there, it's because I don't feel my TV screen size and room size are large enough to make it worth it. I only have a 48" TV and 16 square metre room so the Beam is perfect for me :)
@@smarthomesounds thanks Jonathan I was intrigued as you have a lot of experience of the Sonos Arc and other high end soundbars, and didn’t make sense why you only had a BeamGen2 at home. Thank you for sharing ^__^=. I’m using the Beam gen2 and One surrounds with a 65” tv and it beats the tv speakers. I’m very happy and impressed with the Beam. The Arc is out of my price range, but looking forward to sub mini.. ^__^=
Is it now possible in the Sonos app to use this as a center speaker and use 2 Play ONE's for left and right? It looks like you can only use a Play One for the rear speakers right?
When the price is the same, I would go for the Beam Gen 1 due to more drivers and more angled drivers. Do note that there is no Atmos in the Gen 1, this only comes in the Gen 2. As long as you're happy that the Gen 1 would be used, I would go for it :)
You asked this question in your other video about the ray, but didn't address it here so I'm guessing the answer is no. Can the ray be used as a rear channel
Hi there, unfortunately after the spec was made official, there was no confirmation of this function so we will have to hang tight on whether they can be used for this purpose in the future.
Hi there, unfortunately after the spec was made official, there was no confirmation of this function so we will have to hang tight on whether they can be used for this purpose in the future.
think i should have bought this rather than the beam gen2. Its so disappointing that with the beam via HDMI ARC its IMPOSSIBLE to use headphones. whatever sonos was thinking designing this..
Did You know that these 3 speakers also have first names! The one in this video is ‘Sting’……. It’s slightly bigger brother is ‘Laser’ ……..and the grandad is called Noah’s.
For those who are planning to set Ray as a PC speaker, I can tell you it's a nightmare and all-in-all it felt like a stereo speaker for 300EUR, and if your mobo does not have an SPDIF port, you'll need to buy a soundcard with a TOSLINK/SPIDF out so that's +$58-$115 on top, and the worst part, I would get constant static sounds after 15 minutes while gaming (using the SPIDF module plate, not the best idea) even though all drivers were up-to-date including the USB/Audio fixes, so if you are planning to buy for your gaming rig it's a bad idea, but if you are on a budget for a soundbar for your TV meh! maybe consider something else with the same price range with better/extra features :)
cant believe you included "free software updates" as a plus, i mean it should be industry standard for free software updates. I dont think i ever was charged for any software update ever.... wtf??
I was really disappointed with the Ray! There was no bass whatsoever, a single Play 1 sounded better imo. I've just returned it and will buy the Beam instead.
Sonos ray = poo. I just returned mine, the sub mini was ok but the whole thing for $1200 is weak. I live in a small unit and thought i was upgrading from my jbl sb250 but my jbl was louder. I've now upgraded to the jbl bar1000 and freaking LOVE it!!! 880w system with detachable speakers 7.1.4 is crazy good! Music is so loud on it too, the ten inch sub i only have on 3/5 it's that loud. Don't waste your money on this ray.
![เปิดใจ “ต้นหอม ศกุนตลา” หลังโดนพาดพิงธุรกิจที่เคยทำ และผลกระทบทำถูกปลดฟ้าผ่า! | แฉ 24 ต.ค.67 [2/3]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/vCi5OIqlxaE/mqdefault.jpg)
Found your channel a few years ago and i now own a Sony A80J 55, Sonos Beam gen 1 with Sonos sub, and two Play 1 SLs, synfonisk bookshelf, a Sonos Move and Sonos Roam.
Needless to say you've recommended all the above, and you weren't wrong. Your channel has become one of my most trusted sources.
I'm considering the Ray for my bedroom TV/PC out.
Keep up the good work, great content.
Great to hear from you! Thank you very much for your kind words :)
Bought one for my main bedroom - we don't need a theatre but TV speakers are not projecting enough, this is perfect for us.
It’s really helpful to have in the room sound samples! People that avoid it because we “can’t hear it the same as they do” are cheating us.
I love this thing! It lacks that cinematic bass but the sound versus similair model (JBL 3.1) I've tested, the difference is huge. Great video.
I got one for $170 bucks, I’m more than happy with the sound I get for that price tag. Thanks for your reviews, they feel true and honest.
Just added the mini to my ray and I have to say the difference in sound quality is incredible the bass just fills the room so happy👍👍
I got one as my first sound bar and it's perfect for my case.
Small room, already have heaps of Google Assistants and the Samsung TV remote worked first try with it.
I’ve got a beam gen 2 and two play 1s in the living room which I’m more than pleased with (The beam really outperforms for such a small soundbar!!) we’ve just done up the kitchen and there is a new TV in there, so the Ray will be perfect to enhance TV audio and also for listening to music in there. I’ve already got Alexa in the kitchen so can just throw audio to the Ray from that. Also Sonos, please announce the sub mini!!
you have too much money.
@@grahamjackmacpherson6501 believe me def not. But with Sonos you can build over time. I started off with one Play 1, then later got another to make a stereo pair, and then later got the Beam. I won’t be getting the Ray yet as need to pay my kitchen off, but I will get it eventually when I can afford it. Also I always buy when things are on offer, discount codes etc.
@@MrTigrrukThis is the way.
This is the way.
@Mark Denovan beware of the Ray, I've just returned it and will buy the Beam instead. We've had a Playbar and x2 Play 1s for a number of years and are very happy with the Sonos brand. The Ray was a massive disappointment
Just got this and Apple TV to upgrade my TV experience without getting a new one and I’m super pleased
Sonos beam Gen 1 refurb is around the same price with slightly better overall sound. It also offers optical option (via hdmi-optical adapter) which is sufficient to support the Dolby/DTS lossy codecs. I'd go gen 1 personally. Or playbar refurb for an extra hundred for that wider soundscape.
Yeah I got a used Beam on eBay for $250 USD
Ray is almost perfect for me. I was looking for a soundbar to bedroom, and my tv has issues with HDMI cec, so I have to use optical connection. The only downside is lack of microphones for voice assistant.
Sonos’ own voice assistant is coming supposedly
I'd spend more $ and go with the Beam
@@TemujinScott80 the ray only supports voice vi Alexa etc. It's doesn't have mics
Pre ordered the Ray in black for my bedroom setup. When the mini sub comes out I will add that to the bedroom setup as well.
Can this be used with a ps5 and monitor
You've done an excellent job of presenting a balanced review and setting expectations for the buyer. I have a specific application for a front firing 2.0 soundbar primarily for music and I think the Ray may well be the right choice since it has an optical input and especially since I already have a couple of Sonos One's, and primarily use airplay 2 for wireless audio distribution. Thanks
Hi Bill, thanks for the feedback it’s much appreciated as this is exactly what we are trying to achieve.
It's a budget friendly bar with amazing vocals and decent sound with great company with updates
The wall paneling and clean retro feel of that space is awesome.
I have listen too this sound bar and i am impressed with the sound! the only draw back i noticed right away (i didnt get to spend time with it) was how single directional the ray is compared to the beam or other sound bars.
Totally right mate
One massive problem with the Ray is that you can pickup the Gen 1 Beam for the same amount of money - or even less. Thinking that'll be the one I'll go for.
Not less and not egual...100€ more
@@calex2055 you can find Beams on eBay used for $250-$300 USD
@@AtracBreezy differences from gen 1 and gen 2?
@AtracBreezy yeah but that's used, so you don't have the unboxing experience etc.
Guys as usual a great review Taking into account the needs of the end user and add ons should they be wanted I’m thinking this will be a prequel to a formal announcement of a smaller sub which would massively enhance the appeal of the Ray It’s good that Sonos is looking at the lower end of the market 👍👍 No compromise on vocal performance though and acceptable bass given it’s size (hence possibly a smaller sub)
I use an Apple TV Device on all of my TVs. Would you recommend connecting the Sonos Ray to a TV via the optical cable or via Airplay2? I've used a Sonos Roam as a tv soundbar on a small tv and it did a surprisingly nice job, but I only had the option of connecting wirelessly via Airplay2. And I felt like I experienced a little bit of gap in the video and audio matching up using the AirPlay2 option. My assumption would be that I would not experience this if I opted to use the optical cable since it's moving the sound directly from the tv to the Ray via a physical cable. Has this been your experience?
Great video! Ordered the Ray last Sunday, should receive it around June the 7th for my living room, I can’t wait…
How did you find it? Thanks.
Yet another superb review delivered by this handsome dude :)
What about using the Ray with a turntable? As it has optical in, could you use a RCA to Optical converter to get audio into the Ray from the deck? Then you could link into the whole Sonos ecosystem no? Interested on the sound quality IF its possible. Suppose the RCA to Optical conversion stage is very important.
Sonos Ray vs Bose TV speaker. Which is better overall and why?
Thinking of getting a Ray for my office. I'll be sat less than 1m away directly in front of it. Which would sound better, a Sonos One or the Ray? It would only be for music.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of having only optical versus HDMI?
Litterally no advantages on having optical. Maybe that it's compatible with older TV's but that's about it. No advantage on optical. Since it is only a 2.0 speaker, I can see why they didn't feel the 'need' to add an HDMI, as it won't need to play any advanced Dolby/DTS formats, *but* an HDMI would've saved people the hassle from pairing it with their TV remotes and crap like this.
I have one and I love it. Fits my needs perfect and a great price point!
He was run even before I met him 🙀😂
Great informative video as always. Might be an option for those looking as you mentioned smaller 📺, space concerns…. Just the basic needs without the extras.
Hmmmmm…. In an RV with Ray, Starlink, couple Moves/Ones..🤔😎
That does sound 😎
One advice that is not mentioned about installing: when you have multiple Sonos products in your network, do NOT connect it via an ethernet cable without disabling any wireless options in the app, else it will set-up a Sonosnet network which could cripple your regular network because of network looping. Better set-up a proper wifi network and configure it all to work wirelessly, except for the optical port ofcourse.
I think Sonos should have just put a HDMI on the Ray with optical as an option.
I agree, but adapters are pretty cheap
@@PokeFangOfficial Why would you buy a adapter though.
@@calebniederhofer6529 some people’s tv don’t have optical audio capability
@@PokeFangOfficial If that was the case, I would not purchase this though. You won’t Arc, and a adapter never works as good.
What ? No HDMI? How on earth do you connect your tv then ?
I am looking for a compact sound bar for My pc station with a LG c2 42. Ray is ok? Obviosly beam 2 is better but is too much for a pc (in a narrow room)
Hello, did you try yourself to use the Ray on a PC to watch YouTude video?
This soundbar is amazing when playing music via AirPlay, but, through optical... yerk... unless I missed a setting somewhere
How does the airplay work with Apple TV 4K? Just like it would with Apple HomePods?
Thanks for your sharing. I just have one question. If I only focus on music. Is there much difference between Ray and Beam 2? Many thanks.
I just never can get to Sonos. They held out on HDMI on the original sound bar for years and pushed some faux 5.1 setup. And it’s 2022 and an optical output. I found an 49 dollar sound bar at Walmart that has and comes with an HDMI.
I bought a Beam gen 1! It has more bass than a Ray, and a wider sound for movies. More surround sound.
Just bought one, it will not recognise my TV remote so will have to go back ... Shame was looking forward to it.
How does it compare to the Bose TV Speaker for the exact same price? What are some of the other standouts in the "sub $300 market?"
So I currently have a beam in my main setup in the lounge, but am fed up with the audio from my tv in my bedroom. I have looked at the ray, however I can get a beam gen 1 for the same price as a refurbished unit direct from Sonos.
Which one is best value for money, or should I wait and invest in an arc for downstairs and relegate the beam to upstairs?
Great review - made my decision to by one off the back of it.
Really considering this for my PC as it is on par price wise with the audio engine A2+.
Thanks for the great review.
Really I see no point in this soundbar existing at this price point. It's way too expresive for what it is. And to pair it to a PC? Please bro, you'd ve better off with a set of simple active stereo speakers OR if you insist on having a soundbar, buy something with a sub. Plenty of choice, even for 250$/£. Maaybe you won't get on par detail on highs, but good enough. A 250-300$ soundbar+sub would sound way fuller and more immersive than this overpriced stereo soundbar. And this is coming from someone who has Sonos in his home...
He didn't ask...just pointed out what he wants... Sake...
It would be awesome to connect 2 Ray's as rear speakers.
I have the Sonos Beam Gen 1 great sound bar. Use it for movies and PS5 Games. Won't be upgrading for a while.
Wonder how you would compare this to the Yas 209 for general TV watching
What would you get for a living room/TV-setup? Ray + 2 IKEA Symfonisk Bookshelf speakers as rear channels OR Beam gen 2?
The Beam will have a wider soundstage and sound better for movies and high production series, though rears with the ray will help to some degree (especially if it's a smaller room). Obviously only the Beam supports DD+ Atmos and it can also accept TrueHD+Atmos for Blu-Ray. I have been very happy with the Beam (plus rears and sub) in my medium size living room.
@@midnightprophet Thanks! It's a tough choice. I'd need to sit down and spend time with them to know. I get that the sound stage is better with a Beam 2 than a Ray but with added speakers to the Ray for about the same price I don't know what would work best for my 20 feet by 13 feet room
Some great points raised by @midnightprophet1 - you would need to consider how much you'd like that Atmos support because the soundstage would then become much greater. If you watch lots of newer content, it will be worth the upgrade to the Beam and then add surrounds at a later date when budget allows. I hope this helps!
This thing is incredible. The sound, wow. Best sound bar ive ever had. But sonos connection is garbage honestly, so annoying with the wifi connection. Next bar sound will be bluetooth.
I don't really understand why you would want to turn on the bass roll-off for the binaural mic. This way, a high pass filter prevents everyone from hearing the lower bass region of the speaker that is being tested. Therefore I think the sound demo is not really right, as you get no sense of the entire speaker this way. What is the reason you don't use flat mode?
Hi two things.
1. How long is the optical cable in the box? I’m going to use it in a pc set up and have a height adjustable standing desk.
2. Is there any video for attaching or detaching optical cables. Are there any difference in designs that are better than others in this respect?
Thanks
Would an Apple TV remote app be able to turn this tv up and down?
Right now I have a One and an Ikea symphonisk. I've always wanted to get something for the TV. Would the Ray pair with one or both of these? I'd be happy even if the Ray would pair with one of these speakers even if it didn't result in true surround sound.
Hi Clarence, yes these would pair with those speakers as part of the Sonos system.
Great review so thanks for that. Ray v Beam gen 1.......you can probably pick up a gen 1 beam (secondhand) for the same price as the Ray, offering more connectivity than the Ray too. Both still great products.
Is this better then the bose that sells for $229.00?
Another nice review. This is exactly what I’m looking for in my study. I’ve got the full set up in the lounge but sometimes I retire to the study where I have just installed a 32” ambilight tv. This speaker will be perfect for that space and I don’t need another surround sound system. Will be getting one of these for sure.
Thanks for a great review. Thinking seriously about a Ray to use in my study for PC Gaming.
I have a play 1 speaker. When I add a Ray soundbar do I have airplay? Because with the play 1 I dont see aitplay on my macmini and macbook... Ive read that its only with newer products... is that true??
This or the bose soundbar 300?
Which soundbar would you recommend - Ray or Beam Gen 1?. Sonos still sells the Beam Gen 1 refurbished for £269.
Hi Simon, if you can pick up a Beam Gen 1 for less than the Ray, that would be a very tempting offer, if you are ok with it being refurbished. Note, the Beam Gen 1 does not have Atmos like the Gen 2 does but should fetch you a wider soundstage than the Ray as well as more bass.
So can you adjust the volume from the tv with just the optical connection? Or do you have to pair your tv remote to the ray?
Great vids - keep them coming!!!
I can’t do it!! I don’t have wifi at home I’m struggling can someone help me please!! I only got data on my phone….
I bought an optical to RCA adaptor from Amazon as I wanted to check the optical output on the TV was working. It is. The volume though from the amp the RCA is plugged into isn't very high at all. Would I have the same problem using a Sonos Ray?
Odd they didn't include HDMI/ARC - in two minds about this for our "second" telly now... might have to move up to the beam.
Does it sound better than a Sonos One? Just curious for if/when they add the rumoured Atmos surround feature.
Atmos requires HDMI, optical can’t carry Atmos
@@MrJonnywarren1985 Actually, it'd be wifi, like the Sonos One is now, but with different channels. The Atmos would be decoded on the ARC.
i have a Sonos Five in my room that i use for music as it can’t connect to my TV, if i get the Ray can i link it with my Five so they both play out my TV?
Yes that would be possible :-)
Will this pair with Apple TV 4K remote?
How does it compare with YAS 109?
how to connect sonos ray to a monitor to use it with pc and console ?
wish it came with a remote /had to find a ir remote to control sound.
Love my Beam.
Hate my Move.
Hate Sonos App.
Have a great day.
using the tv remote to control volume is gonna be finicky.
Some TVs dont disable their inbuilt speakers and you might be raising your TV speakers as well. This is also ignoring the fact some TVs dont even come with an IR remote now and use bluetooth.
How does this compare sound wise to the old Playbar as they are broadly the same speaker as far as I can see but in different clothing and with fewer drivers?
Could you use the Ray as down-firing Atmos speakers, if mounted on one's ceiling, to replace the ".2" in a Sonos Arc "5.1.2" (I have the sub3 and One SL pair) system?
No functionality for this use has been announced. I was hoping use as rear surrounds as well.
Ima just buy a Sonos Beam Gen1 from Sonos Refurb directly for £269.. HDMI ARC, HDMI CEC, Voice Assistant and side firing speakers and £10 saving!
Didn’t you say that there would be a Ray giveaway when you did the review video 🤔🤔
We will cover this in our next SHS News video. Entry instructions will be entered in this Sonos Ray review video description shortly :)
@@smarthomesounds Great, thanks.
Very useful review. Thank you …
Great review as always!
Since this is a 2 channel set up, how would a Ray compare to a stereo pair of one SL’s. Thinking about getting this to replace my stereo pair I have at my desk (strictly for music listening).
I use one in the study/listening room. Took a while to bed in. I chose it to function additionally as the pc speaker which the Ones wouldn’t do. My ears like it for audio.
Is it possible to connect the Ray with the IKEA Symfonisk speakers?
Yes, you can add those as rear surrounds if you want to :)
Ray with 2 rear speakers OR Beam Gen 2 with nothing more?
No HDMI is a big mistake, at this price there are plenty of options outhere.
I am looking for a soundbar that has a warm natural sound, but an HDMI is a must.
Then you would want a Beam. It seems odd to omit HDMI, but many TVs under 50" have limited HDMI ports. They all have optical and as long as it works that all many folks care about. As a Sonos users who would like to start helping my friends and family get into the ecosystem, I think this is the perfect entry way. They didn't even mention the fact that you'd also be able to add surround speakers at a lower price point with the Ikea Symfonisk speakers.
For you maybe but it's perfect for me. I have no atmos decoding on my TV and I only have 3 hdmi ports. This new Ray is perfect for some setups.
@@leebeeskee For a basic two channel setup it will be fine, anything is better than TV speakers, my only advice is try to hear one before you buy.
@@Barbarapape Solid advice, you should always try things out for yourself.
Can I link the Ray + amp + 2 passive speakers? (or any sonos bar with that setup)
Hi Aaron, yes you can add an Amp with speakers and use them as surrounds to the Ray or indeed, any other Sonos soundbar in the line up. Hope that helps!
Thank you! Time to flip a coin between the arc and the beam2 🤔
Jonathan why do you have the BeamGen2 in your own living room and not an Arc ?
Hi there, it's because I don't feel my TV screen size and room size are large enough to make it worth it. I only have a 48" TV and 16 square metre room so the Beam is perfect for me :)
@@smarthomesounds thanks Jonathan I was intrigued as you have a lot of experience of the Sonos Arc and other high end soundbars, and didn’t make sense why you only had a BeamGen2 at home. Thank you for sharing ^__^=. I’m using the Beam gen2 and One surrounds with a 65” tv and it beats the tv speakers. I’m very happy and impressed with the Beam. The Arc is out of my price range, but looking forward to sub mini.. ^__^=
Is it now possible in the Sonos app to use this as a center speaker and use 2 Play ONE's for left and right? It looks like you can only use a Play One for the rear speakers right?
Hi Paul, this is not possible at the moment but hopefully that will come in a future software update!
@@smarthomesounds that would be really great right? Hope more people will ask Sonos!
How would it compare against a Beam Gen 1? Used it's about the same price
When the price is the same, I would go for the Beam Gen 1 due to more drivers and more angled drivers. Do note that there is no Atmos in the Gen 1, this only comes in the Gen 2. As long as you're happy that the Gen 1 would be used, I would go for it :)
You asked this question in your other video about the ray, but didn't address it here so I'm guessing the answer is no. Can the ray be used as a rear channel
Hi there, unfortunately after the spec was made official, there was no confirmation of this function so we will have to hang tight on whether they can be used for this purpose in the future.
Hi there, unfortunately after the spec was made official, there was no confirmation of this function so we will have to hang tight on whether they can be used for this purpose in the future.
@@smarthomesounds You can say that again 😀
I would just buy a Beam Gen 1 which you could probably get for a similar price.. There not much bigger than the ray. Has HDMI and voice control.
Thanks for a great revue
Listened to it yesterday, it’s pretty tinny..
think i should have bought this rather than the beam gen2. Its so disappointing that with the beam via HDMI ARC its IMPOSSIBLE to use headphones. whatever sonos was thinking designing this..
How come it's impossible? What makes it that way? Cheers
Why's Sonos products so expensive compared to similar other brands
Great question and we actually filmed a dedicated video on this named "Why is Sonos so expensive?" Check it out if you want to know why :)
Because it’s so much better compared to similar other brands.
Did You know that these 3 speakers also have first names! The one in this video is ‘Sting’……. It’s slightly bigger brother is ‘Laser’ ……..and the grandad is called Noah’s.
I read this out to the team and gave us all a bit of a laugh on this Wednesday morning, thank you very much :)
@@smarthomesounds haha, glad my useless comedy found some appreciation 😀
Compare this to the bose TV speaker
For those who are planning to set Ray as a PC speaker, I can tell you it's a nightmare and all-in-all it felt like a stereo speaker for 300EUR, and if your mobo does not have an SPDIF port, you'll need to buy a soundcard with a TOSLINK/SPIDF out so that's +$58-$115 on top, and the worst part, I would get constant static sounds after 15 minutes while gaming (using the SPIDF module plate, not the best idea) even though all drivers were up-to-date including the USB/Audio fixes, so if you are planning to buy for your gaming rig it's a bad idea, but if you are on a budget for a soundbar for your TV meh! maybe consider something else with the same price range with better/extra features :)
Thanks for that! Saved me $279…
He was used to shave the hair
welp, u saved another dude's 279$
Thanks dude! you saved me from buying this
cant believe you included "free software updates" as a plus, i mean it should be industry standard for free software updates. I dont think i ever was charged for any software update ever.... wtf??
If it had hdmi arc it would’ve been great
The crappy thing about Sonos is no Bluetooth and you have to have WiFi just to get it to work .. otherwise it sounds great
if you have a phone that runs on Android 7 you can't add new speakers, you can't add on windows app, either you have to buy a new phone!
Isn’t hdmi like a minimum requirement? Lol
I was really disappointed with the Ray!
There was no bass whatsoever, a single Play 1 sounded better imo.
I've just returned it and will buy the Beam instead.
show me the mini sub!!!!😂
Sonos ray = poo. I just returned mine, the sub mini was ok but the whole thing for $1200 is weak. I live in a small unit and thought i was upgrading from my jbl sb250 but my jbl was louder. I've now upgraded to the jbl bar1000 and freaking LOVE it!!! 880w system with detachable speakers 7.1.4 is crazy good! Music is so loud on it too, the ten inch sub i only have on 3/5 it's that loud. Don't waste your money on this ray.