Sonos Beam Gen 2 or Arc in 2023? Will the new Sonos Era change anything?

The new Era 100 and Era 300 speakers are here. And I think they will change the decision point on whether you get the Sonos Beam Gen 2 or the Sonos Arc to start building your Sonos Home theatre system. The full review of the Era 100 and 300 will be launched on 28th March. But I thought you might appreciate some considerations on the sound bar first. So here goes.
The truth is, the ERA 300 will change your decision making process. Watch the video to find out!
If you found my work useful and would like to support it, please visit my Patreon link to contribute to my coffee fund! : / peterpee .
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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!

[@ryanhaggerty]

😂 the wife talk at the beginning…you sure do understand your target audience.

[@PeterPee]

Haha... cos we are in the same boat my friends. :D

[@wespress0]

She likes bass so I ended up w a sub when I got the Arc

[@satishdeva8731]

Hi Peter I have two monitor audio ceiling speakers. I'm going for a 75 inch TV with a Arc and sub. Is this a good setup?

[@vytautasvaicys8745]

Love the humor, Peter! This was a joy to watch, as are all of your other videos. Been a subscriber since you were under 1k subs!

[@PeterPee]

Hey Vytautas! I am so thankful for your support all over the years. I don't remember all my viewers' account name but I am really thankful to all!

[@timhamock2996]

My wife said get whatever you want you Work hard. So i got the arc, 2 play 5's and 2 subs🎉🎉❤ I already pre- ordered the ERA300's😊

[@PeterPee]

She’s still going to ask for the bag. The hint was at “work hard”.

[@Sius]

Thanks again! Really appreciate all your hard work!

[@PeterPee]

My pleasure! Thanks for the tip Nathan!

[@Drgnrt]

Thanks for this video, you have convinced me to get the Arc! Just with the sub mini from the beginning and then we'll see!

[@andybuchan]

What a lovely, helpful and humorous video. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, most useful.

[@miccijrful]

Another great review. Thanks!

[@davidj7516]

Thank you for your time and posting. Great stuff. I was going to just use two ERA 300s, no ARC. But I'm also waiting for the ARC 2, hopefully coming out later this year. Thank you again.

[@PeterPee]

Glad it was helpful! But I'd say the Arc 2 is not going to be due so soon.

[@CP-gr8ii]

@@PeterPee Peter great and fun video! Thank you. Why do you sound quite convinced that the ARC 2 is not coming soon? All the best!

[@markhamill8016]

Yeah also waiting on arc 2! How long you think it will be until Sonos releases it?

[@xllms]

Steady Pom Pee Pee lah, Peter! Good presentation angle to bring in a larger group of audience and at the same time, makes the entire presentation more interesting and enjoyable. Keep up the good work. Personally, I can’t wait to get my hands on the Sonos ARC + SUB gen3 + 2 x ERA 300 in my new retirement home

[@PeterPee]

That, is a home I will be happy to retire in.

[@fishingformax]

Thanks for the awesome content! Your videos are not just entertaining but super educational!

[@PeterPee]

Glad you like them Max!

[@e-shark]

You are so funny and informative. Subscribed!

[@davidfluty7213]

It’s like you new my exact situation and made this video for me! Thanks for the humor I’ll get the arc 😂!

[@rondickinson8741]

Just ordered the arc here 302 gen3 sub and I'm so glad I did thanks for helping me make my decision . And I guess my wife is going to say I hope but if not then I'll miss her

[@Subjective_JoshNelson]

Hilarious opening; love it! As always you are appreciated, Peter; thank you!

[@PeterPee]

Glad you enjoyed it. This is probably me in character. :D

[@str1kez367]

I bought a Beam Gen 2, but i am really happy with it. It's great for my 15 m^3 room, and FILLS the room with sound.

[@PeterPee]

Yes. It's still a great great soundbar. Like I said, I am using it on a daily basis. Not about to upgrade to the another arc.

[@danielchapter70128]

@@PeterPee I went with the Beam Gen 2, (because I found it for $298 at Best Buy the week of Black Friday sales), and the ARC was not on sale at all… so it was $300 versus $900. I liked the Beam 2 so much, a few days later I also ordered the Sub Gen 3, also on sale for Cyber Monday and I paid $599 for it. Now I’m waiting for a sale on some Ones maybe for surround. 😊 I think getting one Five would also be a good choice instead of two Ones.

[@NovaDoll]

I am the wifi that loves high quality audio. My husband was like I don't like Sonos. It has always been my dream to have a Sonos setup for music. So 3 weeks ago I get the Era 300s and a sub mini and yesterday my husband was like ok we can get a sonos sound bar and just sold our old one. XD

[@fox121066]

I got the Arc about 6 months ago and pair of sl 1 sold the sl 1s put money to get era 300. Now got the mini sonos sub. Hopefully I give it a good test tomorrow when she is out 😊

[@caidmax]

So funny and informative! Bravo!

[@Sdvstin]

Peter is the marriage counselor we all need!

[@PeterPee]

I will fail terribly... My solution always: "Buy her a bag". But I suspect it works most of the time.

[@johor-01]

Good info Peter , thank you

[@PeterPee]

Thanks for appreciating!

[@pyroken2417]

Well done Peter. Nice ERA 300 box in the background.

[@PeterPee]

The aperture was wide enough to blur the background but I know it won't escape all eyes... ;)

[@manLiMarth]

Thanks for this video. I have a Beam gen 1, sub mini, and a pair of symfonisk rears for my TV setup. Do you think I'll see a noticeable improvement if I upgrade to the Arc? My living room is probably medium size, but on one side it opens up into a dining area (served by a Sonos One for music).

[@craigrapp9469]

Love the arc! Just ordered a beam 2 for my home office though and really looking forward to that.

[@PeterPee]

The beam gen 2 actually does VERY well in most situations. And the smaller size does have its advantages in small spaces.

[@craigrapp9469]

@@PeterPee Thanks for the reply. I have the full arc surround setup in my living room, but yea couldn’t imagine doing that in my office. I think ill end up getting the min sub down the road, and replacing the sonos ones in my current surround set up with era 300s (with wife approval :)) then the ones will go to the beam setup.

[@danielchapter70128]

“At the end of the day, don’t let your wife know about the existence of the Sonos Ray”. Peter this is why I love your content. 😂😂😂😂🤙🏼🤘🏼

[@PeterPee]

Actually you know what. You have to tell your wife about the true cost of the setup. In case they sell it for a fraction of the price you told them.

[@aaromango6308]

Peter, on beast MODE today 😂. Great, informative video like always

[@PeterPee]

Hey, Aaro, you are welcome. :)

[@DF-bx9hd]

Just upgraded my ones to the era 300s to complement my arc and sub and waiting on delivery.. the wife talk at the beginning was so on point 😅

[@1881Gordon]

Aah Peter. You are comedian who also happens to deliver great content! The first Minute and a half is hilarious. Another top quality, informative upload to add to all of the others... Fantastic work.

[@dominicano791]

I have an Arc and a mini. Sounds just fine.

[@StaagG]

I had to change my Denon DHT-S517 with dedicated subwoofer because it Boom Boom’ed my neighbors. I found your videos the most informative among other creators, and since my “living room” is only 15 sqm I was able to make a conscious decision and went with Beam Gen. 2. I was shocked how good actually it sounds!. Compared to my denon, Beam gen 2 offers much wider sound stage in music, and atmos experience is better even tho denon has upward firing drivers 😧. And I love the sonos app experience too! Even tho I cannot add a sub mini, when budget allows I’m definitely getting pair of era 300 🎉

[@PeterPee]

May I suggest that you prioritise the sub first. If it disturbs your neigbours, try turning it down a notch or two. But the sound is definitely better with the sub. Any sub.

[@StaagG]

@@PeterPee Yeah I remember a graph from your other video showing how much better sound curve is with beam 2 and the sub mini. Maby turning it down a little bit is really a better way to go (and cheaper than two 300’s 😅). Will consider this option for sure!

[@craftmatthew]

Thanks peter, hope this helps towards your great channel.

[@PeterPee]

Yes it will and thank you very much!

[@jacobzornu4273]

Hello Peter, thanks for video. I was thinking of the beam gen 2 but upon watching this video, I will just get the arc and slowly building a Sonos ecosystem when I am ready. I am curious about the performance of only the arc in terms of voice clarity and music because I will be using only that until I am ready to add era 300?

[@algol06]

Hi!! I love your videos!! I’m getting 2 Era 300 and I’m already thinking in my next step. Would it better to combine them with an Arc or with a Beam + sub mini? No money for an arc + sub 😢 Thanks!!

[@PoliticallyInc]

One of the best if not the best video on the Sonos set up and budget option. Added bonus, loved your wife humour, underrated but true.

[@bizzfo]

Beam 2 + Sub Mini + 2x ERA 100 produces amazing sound.

[@Solidariity]

Amazing in bedroom 😉

[@Licks61SG]

I watched this video whilst sitting next to my wife. I’m lucky she let me upgrade our Beam to an Arc 2 years ago 😅 Great video as always Peter. Era 300 week begins now!

[@PeterPee]

It will begin tonight! And sorry Mrs Josef!

[@michaelespinoza1482]

The upfront summary is hilarious 😂 luckily my wife doesn’t control my purchases. She has full trust in my tech knowledge. Thanks Peter👍🏾 Luckily I bought my arc for $699 and Sonos amp for $150 brand new so she doesn’t and will not complain.

[@PeterPee]

You got some lucky purchases there. My wife trusts my tech knowledge but doesn't trust my financial sense. But mostly she trusts me enough to change her phone's screen protector every so often.

[@michaelespinoza1482]

@@PeterPee the content you provide is essential to the purchases you make and how you’re able to provide these information rich videos to us the subscriber. I see many other so called tech bloggers come out with videos on the same content you provide but the difference is that Peter pee will always provide a great in depth review that doesn’t disappoint. Keep up the good work. And thanks again for the response.

[@wilsont]

Hi Peter, I have the same setup as your bedroom Beam G2, Sub Mini and 2 Ones G2. As there’s no upward firing so was wondering if a single Era300 can take the place of the Ones as rear first? One shot buy 2 damn siong… Or go for the Arc and replace my Beam? My consideration is that the Arc is already ageing.

[@WabeWalker100]

I bought the Arc during the pandemic (in 2020) and thought it was… okay. Then two months later I bought the Sonos Sub, and instantly the Arc came alive. I added two Sonos Ones a few months later and the soundstage was consequently further enhanced. I pre-ordered two Era 300s without even hearing them first, and they shipped literally 4 hours ago. You said in an earlier video that my two Ones will not work alongside the Era 300s - that actually surprised me… I hadn’t realized this when I ordered the Era 300s… rather, I thought the two Ones could be positioned on both sides of the Arc and used as forward speakers instead of rears. Anyway, I’m looking forward to hearing the Era 300s when they arrive. I’m looking forward to seeing my new wife arrive too. I pre-ordered a young blond from Sonos last month when I bought the Era 300s. Thank you.

[@KiwiPokerPlayer]

You can still use the Ones in other rooms in your house, either as single room speakers or a stereo pair for your bedroom or kitchen. In theory you could set them up as a stereo pair of fronts with your setup too, just make them a different "room". I have heard that there may be delay issues doing that though, but it wouldn't hurt to give it a try.

[@PeterPee]

Most times I don’t hear the delay when grouped. But I distinctly remember situations where there was a delay. Oh, let us know about the young blond preorder will you?

[@MJA74a]

How did it go with 300s? huge difference in audio quality?

[@WabeWalker100]

@@MJA74a The soundstage feels much stronger - especially when playing music that was designed for ‘spatial audio’. It was a costly ‘enhancement’ though. I’m not well off, by any means, and I don’t regret my decision buying the two Era 300s to complete the Arc and the Sonos Sub.

[@MJA74a]

@@WabeWalker100 thanks for the reply. I got the ARC and heading in the same direction as far as set-up you have. I was just wondering how you liked it.

[@psychosickronos8537]

Hey Peter, if I have the Beam 2 and Sub Gen 3, should I get the Era 100/300s surround, or get the ARC instead and perhaps get surrounds later in the year (black friday sales etc)

[@BlackrifleOA15]

I have an Arc, two One SL‘s and the Sub Mini. For my apartment it is perfect. Please make a test with this setup Peter 🙏

[@PeterPee]

I think there are a lot more people pairing the arc with the sub mini than I initially thought. Will consider this!

[@joelng217]

Pete , your reviewing is so interesting and i don't even need to check other people reviews . Sidetrack, if my TV is ARC HDMI , can it's work with Sonos or Bose eArc ?

[@Carlos2400]

I was laughing to many times in this video Peter. I loved the informative and entertaining video.

Nice video! Any guess on when could appear the Sonos Arc Gen 2?

[@lyndonramchatesingh105]

Hi peter pee can you tell me if the arc is better than bose 900 and also subs together for both systems and which is better at giving you a theater like experience thanks 👍

[@sweetmillion]

You are so funny and interesting. Good job PP.

[@michaellin3671]

Hi Peter, love your content. Got my current Sonos setup because of your videos actually. I have the beam2, sub mini, and a pair of ones. My local shop here is having the Arc on sale for $718usd. The wife didn’t disapprove my potential upgrade so I’m going to treat her silence as approval. I’m thinking of replacing my beam2 with the Arc and with everything else unchanged. Will there be noticeable benefits for movies/music in your opinion? I try not to return stuff so I don’t tend to buy, try, and return. Love your thoughts and thx in advance.

[@testieeklees584]

great vid, cant wait for the full review of the different configurations! I cant decide on my next upgrade path, do i upgrade my Beam gen 2 to the new arc (whenever that comes out) or do I upgrade my ones with the era300's (movies first music close 2nd). Lastly, I'm guessing a single era300 doesn't separate left right channels with its side speakers? If someone wanted to place one ERA300 in the read middle?

[@PeterPee]

You can't use just one era 300 as surrounds. You need a pair. And if I were you, get the era 300s first cos you can always migrate them to arc gen 2 when it happens.

[@testieeklees584]

@@PeterPee thank you sir! Hope you have a great weekend!!

[@DavWoe]

@@PeterPee great video! So you can use 2 era 300 on the side of the tv for dolby atmos 5.1? thought the only promotet them as stereo or satellite speaker’s. Can’t wait for the full review! Thanks again! 🙏🏼

[@testieeklees584]

@@PeterPee Also, any ideas on what NON Sonos stands to use for the ERA300's? The pair is like $400 cdn!!!! Mindblown :(

[@seajlim]

For a smallish room, do the 4 channels of upwards firing Atmos speakers (Arc + 2 300s) make that much of a difference? I currently have the Beam gen 2 and 2 Play 5s as rear surrounds. But will probably get 2 300s as rear surrounds to get upwards Atmos. So wondering how close that is to the 4 Atmos channels.

[@PeterPee]

I have a small room. The Atmos effect from the arc and era 300s are good.

[@robertperry5206]

I have installed both and I would recommend the Beam and mini sub over the Arc for almost every home.

[@PeterPee]

In any instance, a combo with sub will always win my favour.

[@grimer1805]

I bought the arc after having the beam and I pretty much agree with you. I just want eARC so when they offered a beam gen 2 I bought the new beam and sold my arc. I felt like the beam has a warmer sound and I like it more. I do wonder sometimes if im crazy and should buy the arc again lol

[@Bobw324]

I have the beam gen 2, mini sub and 2 era 300 and I have no interest in buying the arc. I just prefer the sound of the beam 2 in my appt.

[@grimer1805]

@@Bobw324 yea something about the beams sound just does it for me, how are you liking the era 300s?

[@Bobw324]

@@grimer1805 Was a bit weird at first ! I bought them to replace my 2 ones, so I was used to the sound coming directly from behind me but with the eras the sound comes from around you so it seems it's s not as loud but after few settings, I love them ! Especially with Atmos music or films, my wife said : " now I really feel like I'm at the movies". But they clearly don't fire as much sound in the front than the ones.

[@Mr_Latte_UK]

Peter thank you for your wonderful charm, informative and witty videos. I am just entering into ownership of the Sonos products with 2x ERA300 due to arrive in a couple of days from an interest to experience Dolby Atmos music. I have a plan to grow these into a setup for a small entertainment room / sim rig. To let me enjoy music/gaming and video content. Some queries..... As I have little understanding as a newcomer as may be some other viewers. I am interested in how the ERA300 may be easily paired with a soundbar for surround usage but...... How easy is it to take one of the speakers and use it in another room, when wanted and then re-use it again as a surround installation. Is it easier to do this with different devices with a configuration on each device or does the Sonos app handle this possible usage case scenario with multiple user profiles/configurations possible depending on what is powered/connected? Another query I have, which will likely be covered soon anyways is.... Using a Beam G2, can it support additional ERA 300 to be used as Front L/R. Offering the front height channels and combined with a Rear set of ERA 300, used up to a 5.2.4 configuration like is possible with the ARC?

[@PeterPee]

The first question you have on pairing and removing as surrounds for stereo or use in another room, it’s a bitch. Every time you do it, it’s slow. And if you do trueplay you will lose the settings when that happens.

[@PeterPee]

Second question is a no. Era 300, or any other speaker cannot be used as additional front left/right. Although the idea is quite smart of you I must say b

[@mattrt12]

Hi Peter...I have a NVIDIA Shield which is my only device that is HDMI and wanting to connect to the system other than my TV. How can I link the Shield in to the Arc. My TV has 1 eARC HDMI and 2 ARC HDMI connections. TV can pass thru all things

[@J0ker81]

I’m very happy with my setup beam 2 and sub mini next stage add 2 era 100 to my surround

[@PeterPee]

Naturally!

[@jack91522]

I still have a playbar. Atmos won't work since I have vaulted ceilings. Does it still make sense to replace it with an Arc? Then use playbar as a normal speaker in another room?

[@cancerian1988]

Hi Peter! Given that my living room is 6x3.5m, which configuration is ideal for a space of this size? A. Sonos Beam Gen 2 + Sub Mini Or B. Sonos Arc + Sub Mini Having watch your videos on the Sonos Beam and Arc set up, freq charts and ecosystem, I’m so tempted to get the Bundle B. Not sure if that’s the best sanity choice for a 21sqm living room?

[@marcofranco6974]

Ray + Era 300 = Marvelous choice ❤

[@PeterPee]

Errr.. ya.

[@sanyuan57]

Hi, Peter: Great reviews. I have a large living room with 20' ceilings. Bought an Arc with sonos sub III. Would like to add Era300 as rear speaker for TV as well as music. But there is no space for two Era 300, only room for one. What are your thoughts on using just one for rear speaker for movie and as surround sound for music?

[@PeterPee]

You can't add just one. You need two for the system to add surrounds.

[@fishingformax]

Hey Peter, awesome and timely video. If I got a small living room, 2.5m x5m, will an ARC be overkill?

[@PeterPee]

I have an ARC in a 2.7 x 3.7m room... So no Max, not overkill. ;)

[@fishingformax]

​@@PeterPeethanks for the reassurance!!!

[@hindsy90]

Have the beam gen 2. If I had to choose between sub mini and eras which should I choose?

[@TheJethroskull]

Hi, how much time do you think is gonna take to launch the era500? I already have the arc + 2 subs + 2 fives, so I wonder if I must wait for the era 500 instead of renewing the fives for the 300's. Great work as always.

[@PeterPee]

Far far away. I think. Haha. But seriously I don't think the era 500 will come soon. And neither will the arc gen 2.

[@kevindewilde7970]

Do I need to put on the Sonos app uncompressed or compressed for best dolby surround?

[@TheBANK4I]

Hey Peter, great video. I can’t wait for your review of the Era 300! Two things I’m wondering, if they are set up as surrounds with an Arc and Sub, can they still be used in a stereo set up just for music just for those two speakers even though it’s set up as the surrounds. Sometimes I might want to just use them where they are as music speakers. Second question is, do you think there will be an Arc gen 2 anytime soon? I just started my Sonia ecosystem journey and bought a Sonia Move three months ago and now I hear there is a Move gen 2 coming out. Thanks for your videos!

[@TheBANK4I]

And I will only get one sub, how much of a difference and how necessary is a second sub?

[@danielchapter70128]

@@TheBANK4I dude, I’ll tell you my experience with my Sonos Beam 2, and I have the Sub Gen 3… and some Ones. Unless you have a 1,500 square foot room you do not need a second Sub Gen 3. My one sub absolutely shakes the house. To the point I keep the sub level on zero and the volume limit set at 80%… and I’m saying at THOSE levels with the volume turned up to 75 (which is really 75% of the already reduced 80% limit), it’s absolutely ridiculous. I can’t IMAGINE having two Subs. But I also have my setup in a fairly smallish room like 14x14. Maybe if you’re putting yours in an open basement and idk, opening a night club… then go for it 😂

[@TheBANK4I]

@@danielchapter70128 that’s reassuring thanks for that. I’m gonna be honest I didn’t like the idea of having one on either side purely for aesthetic reasons haha. I’ve got a Bose cinemate 130 and the sub on that is good for my room at max level so I imagine it should be fine. My only other concern was having the bass sound coming from the left hand side where I’ll place it because I think now there’s a slight panning to the left hand side of the tv unit due to the bass module. But it’s not a deal breaker.

[@PeterPee]

Yes. Don’t need a second sub. It doesn’t give you twice the bass so it’s not the best way to spend $800.

[@PeterPee]

I don’t think the arc 2 is going to come soon. At best next year.

[@Yeetmcyeets]

You made me crack up so more!

[@nnamuenmada]

Peter I have a strange setup. I am current pairing two Ikea SYMFONISK Frames with my Arc and Sub Gen 3 as my surrounds. Do you think the Era 100 will perform much better than the Frames specifically as surrounds? Thanks!

[@PeterPee]

No. Keep the frames. I’m love them for surround.

[@ModdingsTribe]

Hi Peter! Great video as always ☺️ I have a question and I hope you can help me. I pre ordered a pair of Era 300 with wall mounts, I want to use them as rear speakers with Arc and Sub. Most of the people have te sofa against the wall, in my case I can leave 50cm to 1m space from wall to the sofa, but I’m so scared to do something wrong. My room is quite big, my sofa height is 1.10m with headrest included. I was thinking to put the speakers above the armrests of the couch (wall mounts), a little over the ear level (this because of the headrest, I think it will “block” the sound somehow) so from 1.10m up, would that be a good thing to do? Over the speakers I’ve got a lot of space, it’s not a problem leaving 60cm above the speakers, same thing with the sides, I can leave 20cm at the sides of the speakers without problem. Then it comes the distance from wall to the couch, I can leave up to 1 meter of space. What would you do if you were me? Another thing i missed is that I think that the 300s have to be set straight to the Sonos Arc (like the picture in the sonos website) and not pointed inward, am I wrong?

[@PeterPee]

If I give the recommendation now, based on the short time I’ve had with the era 300, keep them closer to the rear wall than the couch. And point them forward for now. Sonos says in the manual to angle towards main listening position but I’m referring to my experience. Just point them straight forward to the arc.

[@ModdingsTribe]

@@PeterPee thank you! Well, in my case the speakers will be wall mounted (directly on rear wall), my doubt is regarding the headrest of the couch. I thought it would be good put them over ear level (so over the headrest, directly above the armrest of the couch)

[@jpimp491]

Bro the upgrade everything to get the arc and wife segment had me dying 😂😂😂😂

[@Rigue2021]

Peter- Great video as always. Question From your video from two years plus. The ARC mount you talked about the magnet I switched it out and turned it around. You haven’t shed any light after that video. Was it smart to reverse the magnet. Thank you

[@PeterPee]

I reversed the video when I had it wall mounted. Because it dampens the boom when wall mounted with the magnet in the original position. But I haven't had the sonos arc wall mounted for many months already. Now I just use it further away from the rear tv console panel to prevent the sound from pooling and bass bloating. My suggestion is, if you are wall mounting, reverse the magnet to prevent it from changing your sonos arc sound profile. But if you don't, then just run trueplay to correct it. If you run trueplay then it really doesn't matter.

[@danaltick7628]

So funny and yet so true 🤣. I can tell you I would have been met with much more resistance over the 300s had I not gotten a nice sized bonus this year. Btw wife and I are putting up new light blocking theater grade curtains today. If you could only have witnessed how I fanigled that one. I think you would have been proud 😊.

[@PeterPee]

Did you get her the bag FIRST with the bonus?

[@danaltick7628]

​@@PeterPee And a new pair of boots 😊

[@bengtkarlstrand9264]

Sonos 7.1 A really good configuration for music. Beam a sub mini and 2 Ikea picture frames as surrounds Then an additional 2 Ikea, in stereo pair, as support for front channels. Less volume on these. Run both systems at the same time. Easy to do in the app. Position a lot of volume on the surrounds, to get a very spacy sound in the room.

[@michaelespinoza1482]

How do your picture frames perform as surrounds? Just curiou. I’m on the fence of buying the symfonisk lamp or picture frames as surrounds for my bedroom. Thoughts?

[@bengtkarlstrand9264]

@@michaelespinoza1482 Peter has a video showing picture framme has a lot bettet base than other Ikea and Sonos one, it’s really good. Working just fine as surrounds. Of you don’t have a sub go for the pictureframe. Ikea lamp has a Wider sound I’m told, I have not tested that. It,s about what you feel looks nice as well. In my Livingroom I have changed the front of pictureframe to artists that match, it’s looking fantastic. In a beedroom Ikea white frame original works well.

[@bengtkarlstrand9264]

Picture frame is as far back as possible, on the wall. If a Sofa or bed close to Wall this helps to get surround sound. There is som extra help in the speaker to spread high Tones, a waveguide in plastic.

[@PeterPee]

That's a great configuration. The picture frames from Ikea are really something. Very good bass output.

[@terrywilkinson7926]

Thx for the great info Peter. My budget unfortunately won’t stretch to the era 300 , but lm only interested in home theatre , would it be worth to wait for the 100 era or because lm interested in home theatre only would there be a significant difference between the two speakers ? My set up is the arc and the sub gen 3 . Many thx

[@terrywilkinson7926]

Sorry didn’t make myself clear l mean between the sl s and 100 era

[@PeterPee]

There isn't a significant difference... from what I am hearing. But I will test that comparison out in detail at some point in time.

[@johnfix9961]

Thanks for your insight Peter. I have your same bedroom setup in my master bedroom. The wife doesn’t like the dark colored ones on the night stands so I might be able to upgrade the surround speakers. Are the new era 100 going to be a game changer over the ones? I’m hesitant to drop $900 on my budget bedroom setup. Thx!

[@PeterPee]

The Era 100 isn't a substantial update over the Ones to be honest. If you are not going for the Era 300, I suggest holding out. If not for the fact that I have to buy them for long term reviews on this channel, I might not.... upgrade my Ones to the Era 100.

[@BucksBe]

I wish you were my neighbor! Really enjoyed your review and appreciate the good jokes.

[@kirbykracklemusic]

New subscriber! As I was gifted a sub mini and just ordered a pair of the Era 300s, should I grab the Beam 2 or the Arc? Another video of yours had me thinking the vocals were better on the Beam 2, but curious if Peter and the collective have an updated opinion. Thanks!

[@PeterPee]

The general opinion is still that the beam gen 2 is slightly better with vocals. As in they come across louder. But pass a certain volume level, the arc dialogue comes across too. You will find that this is because the arc throws out more sound and thus it feels like vocals are drowned out. But it's there. To make the choice easy for you, if you are always watching stuff at loud volume, go for the arc. If you're into white listening the beam gen 2 will do.

[@kirbykracklemusic]

@@PeterPee Thank you! That is what I was wondering as I have tried out other sound bars after having a Visio Atmos system for a long time, and I feel like I have to crank them up too loud to hear the vocals clearly. Feeling like I may run into that with the Arc as well in being overkill. Do you feel that the Era 300s will make up for the lack of upward facing speakers in the Beam 2?

[@PeterPee]

@@kirbykracklemusic that's what the era300 is supposed to do. To compensate for the lack of actual upward drivers in the beam gen 2. I haven't tested that configuration in detail as I have not spent so much time there yet. But in general yes it gives you two actual upward firing drivers which works better than the upward firing drivers on the arc

[@kirbykracklemusic]

@@PeterPee Amazing! Can the Beam 2 still get pretty loud when paired with the mini sub?

[@williamwear7179]

If I buy the 300’s can I use my one Sl’s as just music speakers in other rooms of my house?

[@AnthonyPoppe]

Still deciding on Arc or Beam 2. I have a stereo pair of Symfonsik in the office which I can use as surrounds as I save for era 300s. The Amazon SG price of beam right now is very tempting though, but I feel I’ll miss out without having actual upward firing speakers if I get the beam. Thoughts? Small space, but tech geek wanting to get the best value and experience

[@dontron810]

Normal stereo system is the most value. Sonos doesn't really compete with that. Cost more too.

[@MichaelLopresto]

Thank you, Peter. Is the Sonos Amp compatible with having two Era 300s as surrounds?

[@PeterPee]

No. That won’t work. Era 300 only for beam gen 2 and arc.

[@memphus]

Will the era 100s provide a better surround experience than my Play:1s? The 300s won't work for my setup, I have to have the surrounds right up against the couch, and the 300s need to be placed quite far back for the upfiring atmos to work

[@memphus]

I'm wondering if the dual tweeters on the 100s will widen the sound so it doesn't sound like a single point right next to me like with the Play:1s

[@PeterPee]

It will widen the sound a little. But it’s not going to be significant. If you already have the ones, I see no real need to spend the $500.

[@andyb4050]

You are hilarious. Keep up the great work.

[@lucaskansu895]

would this go a good option the era 300 with beam gen 2 paired with a sub mini if you don't have the space for the Sonos arc?

[@PeterPee]

In a way, that’s the second best option. Just that the price of each era 300 is almost that of the beam.

[@benjaminfrost7543]

Demo’ing is tough - I have a beam gen2 and was thinking of adding two 100’s for the rears. Would you recommend that or the sub mini? Our kids bedrooms are above the family room so I’ve been leery of adding bass

[@PeterPee]

If you are considering between the two, go for the sub first. Even at low volumes, the sub adds an extra layer and dimension to your sound.

[@benjaminfrost7543]

@@PeterPeethank you so much!

[@nigelturner3251]

Who could have thought Peter would be given marriage counselling whilst juggling a couple of sound bars. I have put the ground work in and ‘Her in doors’ has signed off for a pair of Era 300’s, coming on the 28th. I will magically make the SL ones disappear and replace the stands. I guess we should all start saving for the new Arc for the ultimate system in the future.

[@PeterPee]

The Arc Gen 2.... is inevitable... I hope with that, they adopt the driver design of the ERA 300. It really added quite a bit to the Atmos effects.

[@simplydyn6185]

@@PeterPee oh no the arc gen 2 another $2000😂

[@nigelturner3251]

Completely forgot to say. I did notice the out of focus Era 300 box inconspicuously placed in the background. Can’t wait for your first proper review and deep dive.

[@jaroslavmikus]

Hi, what about combination of Sonos Arc and only one ERA 300 as rear surround speaker? Is it possible and usable combination?

[@PeterPee]

It's not possible. They need to be a pair.

[@robpankiw8869]

what combination of sonos speakers works in an 18x22 family room with 18 foot ceilings? I understand the sonos arc needs to have the sound bounce off of the ceiling to enjoy dolby atmos? Will the Era 300 work in this room too?

[@PeterPee]

Yes, but that's a high ceiling. You will play around with the heights channel adjustment and increase it to compensate for the height of the ceiling.

[@myatix1]

It’s funny because it’s true! 😂 Thanks for the great content!

[@PeterPee]

Haha. I am honest b

[@MrP0wnager]

Hi Peter, as an Arc + Sub Gen 3 owner with 2 Symfonisk picture frames, worth upgrading the frames to Era 300 in your opinion for the rear speakers?

[@PeterPee]

Tough question. I really like the picture frames. But the era 300 Atmos capabilities in surround setup is superb.

[@ALDIRO24]

At this point should I just wait for when sonos update the Arc or just get the Beam Gen 2 with the Sub Mini? I have not wife yet thankfully so it's all on me for but not for long so please help me out 😅

[@chunkitwong1723]

Hilarious video! Love it!

[@PeterPee]

Glad you love it!

[@ShelterCats]

LOVE your videos. However I went with two HomePods over the beam because I couldn’t get a straight answer as to whether my Apple TV 4K (2022) would play atmos content, even with earc.

[@PeterPee]

Whether your Apple TV 4K (2022) plays Atmos or not, depends on the TV, not the beam. The TV must have ARC or eARC and it must be able to process Atmos to be sure of passing Atmos to the Beam.

[@stoicman31]

The Arc is getting better and better. It took Sonos over 2 year to get it right. I’ve had mine since launch as part of a home theater system but the sound wasn’t as good as it is now. Preordered a pair of Era 300 and can’t wait to replace the surrounds.

[@PeterPee]

This will be a stupendously good system. Really. Trust me on this. Why do I know? It seems that no one noticed the era 300 box in my background.

[@jackryan7550]

@@PeterPeesorry but we / you have to wait to speak about this Connection from ARC + Era 300 ! I have 2 Era 300 on Monday ant THAN I test it and THAN I can speak about 🙏

[@jackryan7550]

It’s not really nice to speak a System high before you have test it ☝️ What will you say when the System with 2 Era + Arc doesn’t work good ? It’s possible because the Era 300 are new and we have to wait and have to test the Era for surround Speakers ☝️Perhaps the Speakers for the top don’t work good enough for Dolby Atmos 🤷‍♀️ We don’t know it !

[@stoicman31]

@@PeterPee by Embargo, does that mean that they are going to sensor your review of the products? Are the 300 review samples?

[@coolkat6728]

@@PeterPee haha can’t wait for your full ERA 300 review Peter!

[@ookgoeiedag]

I am curious how to place the Era 300s as surrounds (replace the Ones) when the back of my couch is against the wall

[@PeterPee]

Against the wall. Sonos says point towards listening position. But I tired against the wall and it works well.

[@ookgoeiedag]

@@PeterPee so not 8”(20cm) from the wall as Sonos says? (For the side speaker will hit the wall immediately on one side). Looking forward to hearing them at my home but have to prepare the wife first before buying

[@PeterPee]

@@ookgoeiedag I have about 3 inches space between the wall and the era300. I like what I'm hearing now but my views may change when I get more and more time to play with it.

[@simplydyn6185]

Wow i waited and waited for your next sonos i wonder whats in the video

[@PeterPee]

The full review of the Era 100 and 300 will be in 2 days' time! But then again, the breadth and depth of the new series of speakers... I can't cover in one video. It will take at least 20 videos to cover all questions and combinations... It's a truly big release this time round.

[@bastiaanzeeman3922]

Can’t wait Peter. Sonos ERA products and your videos are just in time for me to make my decision. Also, while style of humor is subjective, I liked the wife-jokes at the beginning, now off to watch the rest of the video

[@M.Hassane]

I want to know buy sonos beam gen2 with sub mini or sonos arc ???

[@KingAmit2010]

Hi Peter, you know wives, mine is deff in one ear so I have another level of justification of more sonos upgrades 😅. My current setup is: Beam 1st gen / 2x one sl surrounds / sub mini. My question to you is; Shall I upgrade to the sonos Arc now we are in 2024? Ive heard there is talk about an Arc gen-2 coming soon? So would it be better to wait? Or buy the Arc now as it is on offer at 25% discount.

[@fredgroleau7800]

The beam gen two still has better more centred vocals in my opinion. I would love to see it with the 300s

[@walidhannaoui1802]

Sonos needs to give us a center channel slider at least if you have surrounds paired

[@PeterPee]

Yes. Have been asking for this center channel adjustment for a long time.

[@ChickenOfMajesty]

Wife talk is so true. Just bought it all with her blessing lol.

[@SpiDey1500]

Got my 300 on Friday (Germany). I'm using it as a single speaker at my working / zwift room. Wife / couch isn't currently compatible to replace my One's. But that may change 🤷‍♂️

[@PeterPee]

You know what you have to change. But try to change the couch first. It's less hassle.

[@liquid79]

Do any of the video streaming services take advantage of 7.2.4 channels?

[@PeterPee]

Believe it or not, it's a yes. But you will need an explanation. It's a long explaination. I will make a video for it.

[@dunnbtjr]

I have gen 2-5 speakers as surrounding speakers…are these new speakers a improvement over gen2 Sonos 5?

[@PeterPee]

Yes they are. For surrounds.

[@dunnbtjr]

@@PeterPee Hi again Peter I just measured this open room where I have my Arc in the center over the fireplace with 2 Play5s in rear corner and my gen3 sub is to the left front corner facing the Arc…this room is huge it’s 27x19 and the ceiling starts at 10 and angles on all 4 sides to approx 18 feet ( in the middle of the ceiling it’s open to approx a 5x10x10 hole ) hard to explain w/o seeing it…what I have sounds great but would another sub in the right rear opposite corner be the right move.

[@alpacino8764]

Peter ~ great post! I’m holding back buying the ARC thinking that the Arc (2 Gen) is around the corner~ are you hearing any rumours?

[@PeterPee]

Nope. No rumours. And by the looks of things, at least another year away.

[@grimer1805]

@@PeterPee any chance they ever let us do a dedicated center with 2 other speakers for left and right?

[@ery0ma34]

I'm using Beam Gen 2 as standalone. Because I don't want a subwoofer. It's just when I watch TV, I don't need a lot of bass. Older TVs have good bass too without subwoofer.

[@Zetler]

My wife told me to watch this video, no regrets.