Sonos Beam Gen 2 - How the Sub Mini changed the game for Sonos

[@briangallagher7961]

I know you did this video a year ago but I love how in depth you get

[@forbannitus]

Thank you! Your efforts in providing these comprehensive videos is greatly appreciated!

[@PeterPee]

Glad you like them and found them useful!

[@Echoes1910]

I’ve got exactly the same set-up love it.

[@Wildmann3]

Do you know if this would work fine with the play:1's? They are super cheap on the second hand market here.

[@SemiAutoOutlaw]

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!

[@PeterPee]

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!

[@SemiAutoOutlaw]

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 ✌🏻👊🏻

[@LifeLover2020]

I have the same setup but with the Beam Gen1, how much will I notice if I upgrade to the Gen2?

[@SemiAutoOutlaw]

@@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.

[@LifeLover2020]

@@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.

[@aliasukvideo]

I'm considering buying a Sonos set up for a small back bedroom, to pair it with a new gaming TV. The KZbin 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!

[@PeterPee]

Thank you for the very kind feedback!

[@Shah20XX]

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!

[@PeterPee]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dicosgolden]

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

[@play2much22]

Which settings are you using for your sub. I tried peters, but wasn’t very pleased.

[@dorriesmith2177]

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!!!

[@PeterPee]

Have you done trueplay too?

[@heltunikt]

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.

[@dorriesmith2177]

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!!

[@PeterPee]

Will do that video soon!

[@Milan-cf1xe]

Would you buy 2 One SL first or the Sub Mini?

[@gallahant]

@@Milan-cf1xe I would prefer of getting the Ones first, but to each his own.

[@TriumphLover]

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.

[@PeterPee]

Perfect use case. I have it in my bedroom now too!

[@ElCeeKaa]

Dont even want to know what you have in the living room 😀

[@TriumphLover]

@@ElCeeKaa and the amount of money spent. Arc, 2 sub(gen3) pair of SL ones 😉

[@danielpuntriano5748]

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!

[@Raimusaurus]

I bought the same set up, thank you Peter!

[@jeffvanhorn1030]

Have this set up and it’s amazing!! Just got my sub mini yesterday!!

[@PeterPee]

Welcome aboard! I am sure you are loving the Sub Mini!

[@MrVisde]

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.

[@jb7753]

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.

[@PeterPee]

Thanks for your very kind words of motivation!

[@gamesdog9067]

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.

[@tylaroverturf]

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.

[@TheMediocreGatsby]

Just discovered your content. Love all the visual graphics. I could watch you review anything. Lol.

[@airplanetoday]

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

[@vivsaigal]

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?

[@PocketBonfire]

Keen to know this too

[@NATHD108]

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.

[@Slimecrazy234]

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.

[@KurtJKurt]

Peter, your videos have been very helpful to me as I've thought about speakers! Much appreciated.

[@PeterPee]

You are most welcome!

[@newworldorder6541]

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.

[@maorvahav5109]

Thank you so much for all the great work that you do with all the Sonos products

[@PeterPee]

You’re most welcome

[@mawkothedonn5186]

Can you feel the bass hard

[@legendarycl4p-tp716]

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 🙌

[@PeterPee]

I am always so delighted when someone gets surprised by the amount and quality of sound they get out of a Sonos setup.

[@ElNegroid1]

Will be getting the sub mini coupled with the Beam and Sonos Ones. The best combo in my opinion for an apartment..

[@ravic1754]

Great review. Can you tell us your thoughts on the homepods gen 2 as a stereo pair?

[@testieeklees584]

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.

[@PeterPee]

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!

[@RealExpertsPro]

Which sub would you select to pair with the 8 inch sonos / sonance in celing speakers?

[@suwarnachiu7589]

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

[@KiwiPokerPlayer]

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.

[@PeterPee]

Yes, glad that you enjoyed my recommendation. Every day I listen to this combination in the bedroom and every time is a pleasure.

[@bakersbest2261]

So the first step will be getting a sub mini. But then do I need the era 100 or the one sl?

[@KiwiPokerPlayer]

@@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.

[@danlovesayu]

Adding one more Sub Mini will rock the whole room!

[@PeterPee]

Except Sonos doesn’t allow dual sub for mini configurations

[@danlovesayu]

@@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.

[@a.j9645]

Couldnt be much clearer. Really nice review Peter! 👍

[@PeterPee]

Thanks!

[@raynlim]

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?

[@victorpitan8744]

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.

[@limjian85]

Look forward to your refreshed EQ recommendations for Beam 2 + pair of Ones + Sub Mini 😃

[@PeterPee]

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!

[@dimitrisqq]

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🎉

[@flavioeffe77]

Definitely the most helpful video I saw about this topic. Thank you!

[@PeterPee]

Thank you!

[@Reflection_Wave]

Sonos the art of sound.

[@97maxer]

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 ?

[@willpea1445]

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

[@yohanone]

Whats your preferred EQ settings for beam gen2 + sub mini?

[@PeterPee]

I will advise on that again when the next firmware drops!

[@jakubborta]

Peter so you are not using sonos hdmi cables? Does quality get better with the other ones ?

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@christopherleong8164]

Hey Peter. Great video content! Off topic question. What watch are u wearing and why band is that you are using? Looks awesome.

[@PeterPee]

Hey! I am wearing the Apple Watch Ultra and with the old stainless steel Apple Watch band. I love that combination!

[@pyroken2417]

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.

[@PeterPee]

I still find the fives to be the BEST sonos setup for music.

[@dimitrisqq]

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?

[@AudiophileTommy]

Can you do a video with using a sonos Beam 2with a non-sonos sub ?

[@irfanmohammed1664]

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?

[@pyroken2417]

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.

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@franciscotan]

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.

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@franciscotan]

@@PeterPee Awesome Thanks Peter. You just saved me some Christmas cash :)

[@sneeks]

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.

[@fungorilla]

What would you recommend equalizer setup for beam 2 and sub mini? Treble, bass and loudness flicked on?

[@MrZACATECANO100]

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.

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@MrZACATECANO100]

@@PeterPee thanks

[@dziki4710]

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.

[@midfield214]

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 !!!

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@samteyy]

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?

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@nicklariccia7928]

Hi Peter! Another great video. Which Hdmi switch would you recommend? Gonna buy the ugreen cables. Damn you. Lol

[@PeterPee]

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?

[@nicklariccia7928]

@@PeterPee I'm looking for best overall switch. The HDFury Arcana mentioned not in my budget. Thanks.

[@NFTwizardz]

Anyone know if LG ever gonna fix not seeing number value of the volume? Love the channel, Thanks.

[@rodneydangerfield7153]

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?

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@willpea1445]

@@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

[@BillJarrett]

@@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.

[@asaldana619]

What are your preferred settings for the Sonos Beam Gen 2 paired with One SL rear speakers ?

[@uncleniccius]

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?

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@PeterPee]

It’s the room size. Cos the bass is reinforced by bouncing against walls.

[@uncleniccius]

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.

[@henningvdm]

Hi Peter. Can you do a Beam+SubMini vs Ray+SubMini comparison pls

[@smko]

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?

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@Clockworks_16]

what do you think is the best sounds settings for beam gen 2 with the sub mini now with 15.5

[@javiersanchez8111]

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!

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@charlesbukenya2054]

Definitely a fuller sound with the sub mini

[@lrosado608]

What size room in terms of square footage do u recommend for the sub mini

[@pataner0isma]

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.🥰🥰🥰

[@PeterPee]

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. :)

[@seanhung3637]

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

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@co1972]

Very helpful! Thank you!

[@kobesimba2399]

Thanks!

[@PeterPee]

Thank you Kobe!

[@leenelson5171]

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 ?

[@PeterPee]

It depends on the size of your room. If you have a lot of space to cover, go for the Gen 3.

[@marcoschram222]

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.

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@Votre-o9d]

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.

[@Solidariity]

Hey Peter why did you get Ones instead of One SLs?

[@AlexManMe]

Moving into a new apartment I currently have the first generation of the beam and two play1s and a sub. Do you think it’s worth upgrading to generation two purely for spatialaudio?

[@PeterPee]

Nope. I have had the Beam Gen 1 (with play:1s and a sub) for years. In fact, I didn't even get the Beam Gen 2 until now which is a year after launch.

[@lomaxo3978]

Hi Peter, so you recommend the sub mini for the arc as well?

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@canas888]

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.

[@PeterPee]

That's what a Sub does! And seems like it's doing its job well in your case!

[@kingharshal]

What is sub crawl ?

[@jonsmap]

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 : )

[@PeterPee]

I don’t think there is international warranty. I have heard conflicting accounts from the Sonos Reddit sub forum.

[@Miguel-USMC]

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 ?

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@Miguel-USMC]

@@PeterPee thanks for the detailed Response 👍🏼💪🏽

[@adamg.1845]

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.

[@PeterPee]

It will be good but you need to push the sub mini into a corner. Not in the middle or open space.

[@sl22uk]

Do you have the link for the Dolby Atmos demo? Please

[@pgupta5000]

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?

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@pgupta5000]

@@PeterPee thankyou so much. I wish your channel grows exponentially in coming time

[@junesebastian392]

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.

[@PeterPee]

Ah... I have only tested the connection with iPhones though.

[@junesebastian392]

@@PeterPee i also used iphone but failed, don't know why..

[@user-vz8yh9cf7w]

I heard that the sub mini doesn’t provide enough power to match the Sonos Arc that the Sub Gen 3 provides. For listening at lower volumes, do you think it’s worth getting the mini over the sub gen?

[@IvanBustos]

I have both and the sub mini feels like enough bass if you like clean and controlled bass. If you’re more of a bass head and like a deep rumble then the Gen 3 is the way to go. I live in a small condo with a neighbor so I prefer the sub mini

[@Solidariity]

@@IvanBustos do you think the sub mini in a efficiency would disturb the other ppl in the house?

[@IvanBustos]

@@Solidariity no not at all, unless you turn up the sub bass output and do it on purpose. I think it’s the perfect balance between discreet and satisfying. I actually find the sub mini to have a tighter bass which is a little better in my opinion for music. Keeps everything on point.

[@Solidariity]

@@IvanBustos tysm for the response and that is amazing news! I will definitely be looking to get a sub mini for my beam gen 2 in the near future

[@PeterPee]

Thanks for helping out Ivan! I actually have the same opinion! The bass is definitely better controlled. Sub Gen 3 for Avengers watched by a group of 10 visitors yes. :)

[@gav_bray]

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.

[@PeterPee]

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.

[@antone9751]

I have the beam Gen2 and Sub mini. Great combo! For rears, I'd actually like to be able to use another Beam gen 2. Is this possible?

[@RT-rv5be]

No

[@SirMopy]

use ikea symfoniks wall frames as surrounds. it’s so killer holy heck

[@matthewking5286]

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

[@PeterPee]

How big is your room?

[@filipsvejda9350]

Sub mini and sub do not work together. Only two subs work together

[@matthewking5286]

@@PeterPee hi Pete its a big room 7x8mtrs with 3.5mtr ceilings!

[@mauricioharker5163]

Thanks Peter... Waiting for the ones sl whith sub mini...

[@PeterPee]

Your experience will triple.... :)

[@mauricioharker5163]

@@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...

[@DGYtown]

Would you recommend this set up for a living room

[@PeterPee]

It depends on how big the living room is. But anything around 200 Sq feet will work.

[@johor-01]

Thank you Peter 👍

[@arniesilverberg764]

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).

[@zihiz1]

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.

[@PeterPee]

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?

[@arniesilverberg764]

@@PeterPee Cool. Or better for music due to its sealed design and being used in a medium sized room.

[@iqbalhussain9791]

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.

[@PeterPee]

Yes, you will be happy with just the Beam Gen 2 and the Mini. With the surrounds, it will definitely manage the room size.

[@mavcoolm6343]

Any good wall mounts for the fives (white)?? Don’t want to spend on Flexson ones. 5s are a splurge already!!

[@PeterPee]

Yeah the flexsons are expensive but they really do last. I personally use their floor stands for the ones. But I am using kanto speaker stands for the fives.

[@PeterPee]

Unfortunately I am not familiar with wall mounts.

[@RufusPJones]

I have a problem using trueplay on my new beam, and 2 era 100s set up. I call customer service they said that Sonos isn’t capable of using iOS 17 nor iPhones 11-12 processors yet. So therefore to am not capable of using trueplay to enhance my system.

[@MMancebo19]

That is my next set up

[@PeterPee]

You will love it!

[@roadrage9191]

Great review

[@presterjohn71]

A couple of Ikea Sonos-compatible speakers would have been, better value surely?

[@PeterPee]

Yes. But the look is not consistent. Else the bookshelves from ikea is tremendous value.

[@crossovertm3431]

Hello there, what's is better to get first with beam v2, 2x sonos SL or sub mini first. Too much money to get them together. Thx.

[@PeterPee]

It really depends and different people will tell you differently. For me, get the sub first before the ones/surrounds.

[@MMancebo19]

My living room is 14x14x9 what is your recommendation should I go with Sonos arc set or beam gen 2 set ?

[@jeffvanhorn1030]

I have the beam gen 2, sub mini, and two ones in a room that is 13 by 13 and it’s perfect.

[@PeterPee]

That size the Beam Gen 2 set will work fine.

[@vdb29]

Which setup would you prefer? : Beam gen2 + 2x One + Sub Mini Or 2x Sonos Five

[@PeterPee]

Are you going to be watching movies with this setup? If so, the beam is the choice. If you are only ever going to play Music, then the Fives in stereo!