Sonos Sub Gen 3 vs Gen 2 - how come no one pointed out this one huge difference?

[@MarioWizzz]

You actually helped me so much. You are the first guy I decided to support via Patreon. The information you put out is astonishing. It is so helpful. I even tweeted SONOS CEO Patrick how much of an impact you had on me while entering into the Sonos rabbit hole and he even liked my tweet.

[@PeterPee]

Wow... You are really a kind soul. Thank you for that. And for your support on Patreon!

[@blackcoalboy]

This guy knows what’s the is talking about great reviews

[@PeterPee]

Thanks you Dennis for showing appreciation!

[@yousefantonio1494]

i guess im asking the wrong place but does someone know of a way to log back into an Instagram account?? I was dumb forgot the password. I love any help you can give me!

[@evoxdream9101]

just got my arc and sub g3 two days ago. breath taking. slowly becoming a huge fan of sonos. the quality and build is just everything i hope for (based on my current experience with the product). i hope it continues to deliver for many many more years to come.

[@joels5002]

Always enjoy your thorough videos, finally a trusted source when it comes to these types of videos.

[@PeterPee]

Thanks for the acknowledgment! I’ll try my best too!

[@r.louisconcepts8342]

It’s amazing how you articulate the information to a point that a total noob like myself can grasp. I’m no audiophile but I do know when things sound “good.” I purchased the Arc and two Ones (all will arrive by next Friday) last week and I can’t wait to get the sub one day.

[@IronBalls]

Every time you give a summary at the start I always make sure I give a like straight away. Just found you but great channel lah!

[@PeterPee]

Thank you lah! I appreciate all the support you guys are showing!

[@OrangeaCaesar2]

How have I not heard of this guy till now?!? This is how reviews should be!! Introduction first... THEN the Conclusion... THEN the Analysis/break down... no need to sift through the video if someone needs the simple “is this good or not good” answer. Fantastically well done!! Like someone mentioned before, easiest subscribe to date.

[@PeterPee]

Thank you for appreciating my work and process. :) Do leave any criticism as well if you have. I would like to improve my work. I am new and so I am learning too!

[@erosado72]

Here's something fun to try...whenever we demo the Sonos SUB we do the "nickel test". Balance/stand a nickel on it's side on top of the SUB...play an action scene in a movie or some bass heavy music....the nickel WILL NOT FALL...perfectly demonstrating the vibration cancelling technology. Blows people's minds.

[@PeterPee]

That’s a cool video idea!

[@honoregreff4392]

I watched different videos on this topic and I have to say this one is by far the best. Very good content, very detailed. Great work!

[@blackopsfan00]

Great review. Actually, phenomenal review! Easiest subscribe I’ve made. Keep it up with these bad ass reviews!

[@PeterPee]

Wow. This is high praise. Thank you!

[@OrangeaCaesar2]

Totally agree!

[@zacharyjones9774]

Thank you so much for taking the time to make such an amazing review, and even answering the question right up front to save some viewers time. The exact reason I subscribed. You’re one of the best doing this on KZbin!

[@PeterPee]

Thanks for the big affirmation of my effort!

[@pekchops]

New to Sonos 2 days ago. You are the Best Review for Sonos information! Fantastic work! Thank you Peter! I am purchasing the Sonos Subwoofer because of your review!!

[@PeterPee]

That’s cool! Glad that I was able to help you decide!

[@bullrot7253]

I just got the sonos arc for my new apartment that i am moving into in 2 weeks, but im pondering buying a sonos sub gen 3 , and after watching this review im even more sure that i need to buy one :) will buy a used one later today. Thanks for a good review video

[@PeterPee]

Good choice! And glad that I was able to help! Trust everyone here. No one ever regrets adding a Sub to their sonos setup.

[@bullrot7253]

@Filip Gimell hey mate, newer and better i guess.. i always buy the newest model if i get something.. and the price is almost the same anyway.. :) what are you planning on getting?

[@bigwardounce3614]

Thank you for such a comprehensive comparison between both generations. Becuase of your video I took the chance on a used gen2 at a steal of a price and I am absolutely blown away by the bass on this.

[@PeterPee]

Yeah. Honestly I keep switching between gen 2 and 3 at home for the arc and beam and without measuring, you can’t tell too much of a difference.

[@davidbrown7438]

Sorry, meant to say that your videos are extremely informative and probably the most balanced I’ve seen… many thanks for all your efforts!

[@darkblueturbo]

Thank you, as always Peter. Sounds like I won’t need an upgrade yet then. On the Sonos mesh: I plugged one of my surrounds to the router and I’ve stopped having drops on the play 1 at the edge of routers Wi-Fi range. Not only that, but taking 9 devices off of my Wi-fi has improved performance on the kids iPads. Everybody happy.

[@PeterPee]

That's what a good dad is! Haha.

[@Sangyonge]

Have you noticed the change in corn housing? I have gen 2 and 3. Always clem them with disinfectant wipes, you can use your finger to clean the gap between the corn and its housing in gen2 but the gap is too small in gen3. So gen2 is more cleaner friendly. People only talk about the button design refresh. But this gap is a real difference that affects sound.

[@jjjj-ku6bu]

Best reviewer out there. True genuine review with no cover ups! Outstanding job!

[@WestyPhotography]

Just found your channel - Super in depth review - Subscribed in an instant! Keep up the great work.

[@PeterPee]

Thank you Paul and welcome to the community!

[@N6J6R6]

Great video. Do you have any videos on setting up a Sonos system like you suggested in the video?

[@vvarbug]

Yup pete can't be beat. He's amazing and is so detailed. I recently discovered him and immediately subscribed. Keep up the great work buddy.

[@PeterPee]

Awesome, thank you!

[@eldo322]

Great video man really informative and entertaining i appreciate you telling us that there’s no difference in sound right at the beginning, you got yourself a new subscriber.

[@ahmedzaidazam]

I love the structure of your presentation.

[@PeterPee]

Thanks!

[@krellblue1]

So basically they just introduced the same sub for $100 more, and now I can’t find the gen 2 in white anywhere. I didn’t mind waiting for and paying the premium of being an early adopter for the Arc, but I feel duped by Sonos on the sub. That’s too bad, but honestly, how different could a sub actually be. Once they had the perfect design, why mess with success. Thank you for your thoughtful review!

[@karthikvishnu040]

Not seen such a technically detailed review in a long time. Amazing review without a doubt.

[@PeterPee]

Thanks for your compliment!

[@pfoneguy1]

Great review! Just a point of clarification regarding Gen 1 and Gen 2 subs... There are cosmetic differences between G1 and G2... G1 has a silver/grey center vs the dark grey/black of the G2.. Also, there was not a white option with the first generation sub. That was introduced with Gen 2...

[@TennyIdowu]

Very well thought out and presented video. As always, thanks for the detailed explanations and also pointing out things we haven't heard from other reviews of the Sub (yes i'm one of the few weird audiences that have been searching out reviews of the Sub and the differences with the older generation). I should be getting my White Gen 3 Sub tomorrow along with my Arc and your videos have given me all the confidence i need to know I made the right purchasing decision. This will be my first Sub ever and i'm really looking forward to enjoying it with my setup. Thanks again Peter. I saw in an earlier comment that you decided not to get the HDFury Arcana. I may be selfish here but i think you would be doing this community you've built a disservice since we are all just looking for affordable alternative to getting Atmos through the huge sonos investment without having to buy new TV's. I would even be inclined to see if the company would be willing to sponsor your video as you're now a celebrity in the Sonos Subrreddit. It would be nice to know if the device truly works as advertised and all the different configurations and use cases. As always, thanks again and looking forward to future videos.

[@PeterPee]

Hi there! I’m quite sure you’ll be very happy with the sub! Everyone sneers at the sub saying it’s too small and doesn’t have enough volume. Until they hear it and then they’re picking up their jaws from the floor. I’ll get in touch with the folks. ;)

[@jarhead4657]

Another excellent video. Are you going to do the new 5? I’m loving mine and contrary to what Sonos says I think it sounds better than the Play 5.

[@PeterPee]

I am going to do the new Sonos five. But I had a call saying they don’t have enough stocks and I’ll have to wait weeks!

[@lorenmark9569]

This was very helpful. Although since I am not an audiophile, I am still trying to figure out what the best settings are for us to use our sub 2 when watching tv and we watch a lot outside?

[@kaynilsen3980]

Excellent review! I went for the gen 2 and saved some $.

[@PeterPee]

Very happy that you did! It’s A Great sub!

[@DennySantos23]

Thank you for doing all this work to create the content. This has been super helpful.

[@DaveSheremata]

I LOVE your videos Mr. Lee. I wish you could review everything! Thank you!

[@davidsun6617]

Hey Peter. Awesome review. Quick question: you had mentioned that the sub design minimizes vibrations on the actual sub. So if I place the sub on top of a hollow shelf area on my TV stand, it should not resonate and blur the sound? Thank you!!

[@kevcordes21]

I just got to gen 3 sub and when I put my ear to it I hear a hum/crackling sound, even when tv is off. Is that normal?

[@kevinpunter7960]

I know this is an old video but Gen3 & Gen2 info has become important to me because I've just upgraded my home theatre audio to Arc + Era300s + Gen3 Sub and wanted to find out if I can run my older Gen2 Sub as a second sub. Current information indicates you can run 2 subs if at least one is a Gen3 .. which is obviously good news for me. I'm glad here to find out that they perform similarly as I wanted to make sure I'm building a balanced system.

[@andyslattery6580]

Great video once again Peter, thanks for a really good and informative comparison 👍🏻

[@tommytqt1]

I have an old playbar and old play 1s for surround. I am thinking of getting the sub. Will Sub gen 3 work with my old system? Or i am better get the sub gen 2. Thank you.

[@davidbrown7438]

Peter, you mention that connecting up any Sonos product with an ethernet cable will create a separate isolated Sonos mesh network and hopefully improve stability. Is this the case if I connect up an Old play one? Thanks

[@PeterPee]

Yes. Even that would work.

[@VarunChugh]

Peter, you mention that connecting up any Sonos product with an ethernet cable will create a separate isolated Sonos mesh network and hopefully improve stability. In this the case if I connect up the sub gen 3, will it work? I was reading on the Sonos website that that the wire should not connect to the sub or the surround speakers.

[@PeterPee]

Hey Varun, nope, I disagree. It doesn't matter at all. You just need any of the speaker into the Router and Sonos Net will be set up. You might want to ensure that by removing your wifi and SSID/password from your s2 controller.

[@VarunChugh]

@@PeterPee Thanks Peter. I had also posted this up on reddit Sonos forum. A couple of folks confirmed it doesnt work. Just fyi. www.reddit.com/r/sonos/comments/jhmqwp/does_wiring_sub_create_sonos_net/

[@blackcoalboy]

Hi peter, Question my friend I bought the Sonos Arc with rear SL-ONES I have been debating about get the gen three sub but at £700 it’s a lot of money my question is would the gen Two be compatible with the new ARC etc. Thanks mate.

[@PeterPee]

Yes. The gen 2 is definitely compatible with the arc. In fact; I’d say go for the gen 2 if the price difference is 150usd.

[@blackcoalboy]

Peter Pee Thanks peter, And good answer.

[@adamjamesrobinson]

Thanks for this! I have exactly the same setup as you Dennis so I’m going to do the same

[@31yasB]

Another amazing review Peter, thanks!

[@boewz8982]

Loved the video Peter! - Where do you get that atmos demo video? I just bought a full Sonos Surround set-up and would love to run the demo on it! :)

[@PeterPee]

thedigitaltheater.com/dolby-trailers/

[@Ifyoudonttakeitucantfakeit]

Sincerity is priceless. Well done and thanks.

[@markmorrow8o]

I got a gen 2 I's it that big difference? I'm upgrading to an arc and era 300s

[@luisjomarlespier7421]

Hi there i bought the full system ( arc ,sub gen 3, pair of one sl) all of your video help me alot cuz i was confused and thinking if I make a mistake or not cuz i was indecisive of buying de samsung q90r or the sonos and went for the sonos and you cleared me all of my doubts im already hype hoping to get my new and powerful cinematic experience 😀 and one question the sonos five work pretty well as sorround sound ? With the arc ? Cuz im not sure in the future is worth the upgrade or not i hope u can do a video of that i will appreciate it

[@PeterPee]

I am doing that video the moment I get my Sonos fives shipped! I’ll be letting you know if it’s worth getting the Sonos five in as surrounds.

[@Cybergig13]

Just an FYI gang Best Buy has the Gen 3 in stock, I ordered yesterday and it's coming in tomorrow so 2 day turn around.

[@erosado72]

I wish they had more ARC's but they are back ordered until August 😟

[@daveseyeball]

The Mandalorian I’m upgrading from the original Playbar & Arc is worth making the purchase. After 12 days of use, I couldn’t be happier. Get on the waitlist and it might be beneficial to check Sonos’ website regularly as well. Good luck.

[@edsoriano924]

Good news .. Did you order just the sub? I ordered the arc and the sub.. he said maybe in a week I’d have both so hopefully I’m turning in a play 5 gen 1 getting almost 450$ off with a upgrade option they give right now.. super excited

[@PeterPee]

Wow, that’s a huge price off! Excited for you Ed.

[@thejose24]

Sweet review Peter. Just wondering, can we have 2 subs in our setup? Thanks!

[@PeterPee]

No we can’t. That’s the thing I’ve been hoping they’d allow. But only one sub. Good thing is the Sonos sub is actually two powered sub in one enclosure. each driver is individually amped.

[@ronnieem]

Hi Peter, Thanks for another excellent video. (I also liked the Truplay and if it works video). Can I please ask a relatively basic question? I have just put my deposit for the Arc. However, what if I use two Sonos Ones and Sonos Sub (gen 3)- to create a 2.1 system? Will I get a better deep and overall sound quality? I don't have a compatible TV so I'm not too keen on the 'Atmos' sound. I like my deep and powerful base which, I realised from the showroom demo of the Arc, that it won’t be able to produce. So, can I use Two Ones and the Sub with my TV to get an overall better sound? Many thanks in advance

[@PeterPee]

Hey Ronniee, I am afraid that you won’t be able to get sound from your tvninto the Sonos one. There is no input on the Sonos one. The only proper way to get sound from the tv into Sonos with a sub is through one of their home theatre sound bars, playbase, playbar, beam or arc, and the components like Sonos amp. My recommendation for the best way to get in for your particular case is to get the Sonos beam if you don’t care about Atmos.

[@chirsjavier11]

Does the Sonos sub gen 1 work with the Sonos Arc? I am being offered a Sub gen 1 and am skeptical if it work with all of the new products

[@PeterPee]

Yes they do. The sub will also work.

[@chirsjavier11]

@@PeterPee thanks Peter pee. Your videos are always so helpful!

[@sergeizukov2030]

Подскажите пожалуйста .Есть Sonos Beam 2.Что купить следующее Sub или пару One ?

[@alberto3261]

Is there any reference or serial number so that we are able to know which Sonos Sub we're buying? Most of the online stores only provide a reference number.

[@PeterPee]

To be safe, make sure they state it as the gen 3 sub. The most obvious visual indicator is the join button on the side of the sub is round instead of square.

[@patrickcreary9771]

Pete did you put those feet on the white sub yourself or did it come with them?

[@PeterPee]

The white sub (gen 2) came supplied with black felt stickers. The gen 3 black didn't. I bought the grey teflon sliders for the white sub (gen 2). So they are after market.

[@Peter-wi3ff]

Peter pee slightly off topic here but see your arc soundbar does the left outward firing speaker cover sit flush with shape of the arc? Or is there a we bit of a lip? I've just noticed last night that the left outward firing speaker cover on mine it doesn't sit flush with the shape of the arc but on the right side it does and it's the same on both arc's? Cheers

[@PeterPee]

Hey; sorry for the late reply. It’s been a hectic day. The white arc has been given away but I called to check and it’s sitting flush. The same is with my black arc unless I am reading you wrong.

[@Peter-wi3ff]

@@PeterPee yeah no worries m8 I've had a pretty busy day myself there thanks for getting back to us through..Yeah it's not much over the sides of the arc shape I'm talking like half a mm or that but if you look really close you can tell it's different from the right side..also when you run your finger over the arc both sides the right side is smooth and the left side you can clearly tell it's not perfectly smooth shape like arc like the right side witch is quite odd as I've checked the forums and no one else seems to have a similar problem....

[@keanloonchiew6650]

Hi Peter, my 1.5 year old sub gen 2 just died. Should I send it for 3rd party repair or opt for RMA?

[@PeterPee]

Sorry to hear that. If you can get it repaired for $100 or less, I think it should still be worth its while. It should have plenty more years to go.

[@remymarvel]

Great review. One question: If I have an Arc and a gen 2 subwoofer do I need two different apps for them to work?(s1 and s2)

[@PeterPee]

No. You can only use the s2 app. The s1 app won’t be able to see the arc.

[@RBZ3]

Thank you, good review. I sure hope that one day I can share the sub I have between my 2 room setups without having to reset the true play.

[@PeterPee]

That is one of my biggest wish!

[@paul8926]

If Sonos ever allows 2 Subs to the eco system, I’ll definitely pick up the Sonos Gen 3 Sub.

[@diggergeensen860]

?? I use two subs together in the same living area. You simply create 2 separate rooms in the controller and group them. I’d actually like to add 2 more to the situation when funds allow.

[@PeterPee]

Oh! Ha! That’s great! No lag between the two rooms?

[@diggergeensen860]

Peter Pee No, the timing is flawless. I got a sub on each end of the couch. Plus a playbar, five play ones, and one play 5 all together in my living room. It’s 3 rooms in the controller - grouped together. Sounds great for both movies and music. Are you going to do a comparison of the playbar and arc? I’m trying to figure out if it’s worth the upgrade? I may just add a couple more subs and 5s to the mix instead.

[@diggergeensen860]

Peter Pee Have you had reports of the first generation of play 5 being severely under powered? I’ve never really been impressed with mine. I honestly don’t find it much louder than a play 1. For the price, I’m wishing I’d have bought three play 1s instead. Now they are going to stop supporting the thing, which pisses me off even more. Their trade up offer isn’t enough of a savings either, in my honest opinion. They literally should be doing it for 200 bucks for the inconvenience! Other than that play 5 issue, I’ve been a Sonos user for 7 years now, and I’ve loved every minute of it. Best investment I’ve made.

[@PeterPee]

I won’t be doing a comparison video specific to the playbar and arc. I have sold the playbar a Long time ago to “upgrade” to the beam.

[@shareefgolden]

my sonos arc sound keeps going in and out. is this normal.

[@ericchiew]

I have a Sonos beam at the moment and would like to expand it slowly, would you recommend in getting 2 sets of Sonos one as surround first or sonos subs for my next purchase?

[@PeterPee]

Very good question. It’s down to personal choice but because you got the beam I’m assuming you’re into movies. Go for the sub first!

[@linovelev9031]

what about the difference between Gen 1 and Gen 2?

[@simon785]

Hey Peter, i have heard some one with the a300 has got netflix atmos working on the shield with no lag, have you tried disabling dolby processing on the shield and then trying netflix??

[@PeterPee]

Yes I have disabled it. And therefore managed to get Atmos. Without disabling I can’t even get Atmos.

[@angelcruz2197]

You're the best Peter. Another great video. Thank you

[@PeterPee]

Hey Angel, thanks for being such a fan!

[@simon785]

Great video Peter, did you put a order in for the HDFury Arcana yet ?? I got mine in ;)

[@PeterPee]

Hey. I decided not to get the HD fury. I am trying to justify throwing money for a new screen!

[@simon785]

@@PeterPee yeah I am doing both, I wall mounted my arc below my projector screen so I need full atmos support with no lag. I am also going to get a new tv for the other media room looking at a 75inch samsung frame

[@PeterPee]

I’ve yet to research my options but most likely go with a Samsung. The remote just feels much better.

[@juandoe7802]

Mr. Pee, can you make a video on how to connect dual sonos subs to the ARC, or how to make them work? I read a comment of someone that said he made this work by creating two rooms and then playing the same thing in both rooms to get dual subs to work...is that possible?

[@PeterPee]

Yes, it is possible... Which I have done before by creating two rooms and pairing another setup with Play Fives + sub.... But the improvement is marginal la. It's not as precise sounding and not so clean. I don't want to get into technical discussions here but the timing suffers and while you might not hear it readily, you will feel it.

[@juandoe7802]

@@PeterPee I appreciate the input sir!

[@airvinzis9748]

I could not feel the sub until I turn the sub volume at 6 or more. At default 0 its very flat. Is this the same scenario with Gen 2 that at default its flat? please advise peter. btw this is in an apartment space. True play is all done for all speakers beam, sub and play 1 pair. Do you feel the bass is less on gen 3?

[@PeterPee]

I have not had the time to do any critical listening. Casually it definitely has the impact but comparing the two subs is not so simple as AB testing as you need to swap it out and do trueplay tuning. I’ll spend some time Over this weekend to do it!

[@airvinzis9748]

Peter Pee Thanks peter. True play was done couple of days back. Today i could notice its bringing all systems to life slowly and can feel the thump. I set sub volume now to 5. May be true play is doing its magic slowly. But would like to hear from you if there are no major difference in sound between gen 2 and 3

[@PeterPee]

There is a slight difference but I have just been doing measurements. In quick listening tests the response seems to be similar. But when I’m measuring I see the differences. I’ll be releasing a video on that soon!

[@airvinzis9748]

Peter Pee Appreciate you are doing a lot of research in this area

[@808dms]

Another great video Peter! I set up my Arc and Sub yesterday. At what volume level do you start hearing the Sub?

[@djt6546]

That will depend on the acoustics in your own room/environment. Some rooms will boom with very little volume or bass level. Some will require the user to turn everything up. Then there is also your own ears. So it’s totally subjective. Just twiddle both the general bass level and the specific sub level to find what you prefer in your own environment.

[@PeterPee]

Specific to the arc and sub combo, I’d turn up the sub gain first before adjusting overall bass eq. Should try to avoid overloading the arc with bass as it doesn’t handle bass very well at the moment.

[@808dms]

Peter Pee where is the Sub gain setting exactly?

[@djt6546]

David Shima Go into “Settings”, “System”, find your ARC and select, then scroll down to “Sound” where you will find “EQ” and “Sub Audio” etc...

[@808dms]

DJ T got it! Thanks! I need to fine tune the settings to my liking. 👍

[@harveythomas4078]

Hi Peter, i have a double cassette deck with RCA outputs, what Sonos equipment do i need to incorporate the cassette deck into the Sonos System? Thank you.

[@PeterPee]

Do you have any other Sonos speakers already? If you don’t, the best is to get a Sonos five. It has an analog line in 3.5mm phone plug. You can get an rca to mini phono cable easily. And it is one of the best if not the best sounding Sonos speaker for music at the moment. Another option if you don’t have Sonos speakers is to get the Sonos amp. You can power your own speakers using the amp and it has the line in for your cassette deck. If you already have a Sonos somewhere, then you might get the Sonos port. It has line in and you can then stream that to another Sonos speaker you have.

[@harveythomas4078]

Peter Pee Thank you Sir, that is very helpful. Yes indeed i have recently and finally bought into the Sonos family having waited for an appropriate HDMI connection for Dolby. So I now have an Arc & two SL’s as rears (Sub pending on funds). This setup has replaced my Denon 5.1. So if i understand you correctly i only need a port to receive the RCA connection from the cassette deck? The Port will then wirelessly feed the sound to the rest and any additional Sonos speakers. No amplifier required? On a second note, if i then add a turntable, as long as it has a preamp fitted would i then require a second Port to add the turntable to the Sonos system? Thank you

[@PeterPee]

That’s all correct. Your assumptions on the turntable with preamp phono stage is also correct. Then you’ll be able to stream the cassette deck and turntable output to the arc and the surround Sonos one speakers. Or any other Sonos speakers for that matter. No need for Amps.

[@harveythomas4078]

Peter Pee Thank you Sir, your Sonos insight, experience and deep dive video reports are exemplary and very helpful. I’m not even fussed about the bass issue with the Arc because i just know Sonos wont leave the speaker sub standard and you covered the issue so well i bought in good faith. Stay safe & well, all the best.

[@PeterPee]

Cool! And you are right. A company like Sonos isn’t going to leave customers in the lurch with a sub standard product. Like I’ve said in my videos, listen to it regularly and you will be in awe. Don’t play test tones at home! Haha.

[@MrNickster12345]

Do you think the sonos arc 5.1.2 set is a good compromise vs a regular home theater system?

[@PeterPee]

I honestly think so! I moved away from wired traditional system because of the cable madness. And while this will never stack up to the system I had before, it gets me to a place I’m still happy to be at.

[@FatedMaster1907]

Will the sub have any affect on the 40Hz issues happening with the Arc that you've comment about?

[@PeterPee]

It will take the problem away almost completely. It routes most of the problematic lower frequencies away from the arc to the sub.

[@tanchoonhuat8323]

Hi, if i have sub gen 2 and is it worth upgrade gen 3?

[@philiprasmus6655]

I have both subs and despite what the specs say, my Gen2 is about 4 lbs heavier than the Gen3. Did you weigh yours?

[@PeterPee]

Holy moly Philip! My Gosh. How can I ever believe Sonos ever again?!?! How can they spec it the same! You’re absolutely right that the sub gen 2 is heavier!!! Gosh I never weighed it because I believed Sonos! Thanks for that info!!!

[@jonathanchoi652]

Hey Peter, Amazing review! Really appreciate the time you put to making these videos super concise and detailed. I got a question, my current set up is the playbar with 2 play 1s in the rear partnered with a sub. I have 2 play 5s set to the left and right of the play bar. Is it over kill to buy another sub to pair with the 2 play 5s?

[@PeterPee]

Hey Jonathan! Thanks for your kind words! I enjoy making the videos too! As for the sub, adding one to the pair of play:5s might not give you as much of a jump as it did for the playbar. The play:5s on their own are already quite capable of very pleasant and smooth bass. But if you do, you will truly get the best of the current offering that Sonos has for music. If you are serious about music, this is the pinnacle of the Sonos camp!

[@PeterPee]

If you are into movies you can try the arc and see if the Atmos effects mean anything to you. If you wanna expand you’re Sonos egos system and play around more, I’d recommend the Sonos amp. It’s a very capable amp and you can pair any speakers you want into the Sonos ecosystem with the amp!

[@alberto3261]

Thanks for the review. This is the first real comparison I find between the Sonos Sub Gen2 and Gen3.

[@PeterPee]

Yeah,I was quite surprised that most would have just mentioned the join button being the main difference.

[@jekyllsports]

A minidsp UMIK-1 would be a great tool to check if there are differences between Gen2/Gen3 also to check if your trueplay measurement did a good job. I also use this for my hometheather System and my Soundbar setup to get out the most of it. Using REW isn’t that hard and demystifies a lot of psychoacoustics ;-) Thanks for the great review.

[@PeterPee]

I have a umik-1 but I need to spend some time to figure out a meaningful test using it.

[@jekyllsports]

There‘s a possibility to use external testtones, but the best way to do a proper measurement is to use a hdmi in of your TV and measure it paired with your arc to get proper results. The measurements have to be taken at the exact same place, same for the trueplay. So maybe it‘ll be a Good idea to measure them at the same place when playing the testtones without trueplay. Roomgain makes it impossible to compare it to measurements taken in other rooms. But in terms of headroom and differences/compression magnitude etc it is comparable. Would be interesting if there is a difference in their -3dB frequency. Gen1 and Gen2 could do 30Hz relatively good levels when considering it‘s still a very small unit. 25HZ might be manageable but only with relatively low output. Hope the x-Max of the new drivers is the same.

[@PeterPee]

That’s something I want to learn in order to do the tests. I’ll read up and learn. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction! I was thinking of measuring it very close to the Drivers but clear the ports to prevent wind noise. So that it measures only the sound direct from the subs instead of room gain.

[@jekyllsports]

Please don’t close the ports as the drivers aren’t designed (Q) to work that way, best way to get comparable results is to test them open field without any obstacles or background noises. As this will be close to impossible, I‘ll suggest you‘ll place the Subs onto a dedicated place in your room, where they seem to provide a good frequency response at your main listening area . Then chose a good mic placement at ear hight withou getting too close to walls and do some tests. You can store and compare the measurements you did with REW and there is also a distortion reading.

[@PeterPee]

I don’t mean to close the posts. As in get near to the sub lower mic gain and record. Lower background noise and record near the sub.

[@gabrielmattos6337]

Very good explanation, thank you for letting us know that there is no difference in performance at the beginning.

[@PeterPee]

Seriously, without an AB comparison switching on the fly, I’d be hard pressed to even tell the difference. I am not a self proclaimed audiophile and am just like a regular user of sonos like you guys. I won’t be confident saying I can tell the difference by ear! And in either case, I will still get blown away!

[@Miguel-USMC]

How can you tell what generation of sub or speakers I have ???

[@PeterPee]

Which model are you referring to for the speakers? For the sub, there are 3 gens. Gen 1 is very old and I double you have them. I think the inserts at the acoustic slots are grey in color. Gen 2 has a square connect button. Gen 3 has a round connect button.

[@carlriecholais8304]

How to power off the sonos arc with sub /with LR using apps

[@jeff77779]

Hi I have Sonos beam and Sonos oneGen2 So I need buy which one sub? Thanks very much

[@PeterPee]

Any of the sub that Sonos has today can be used. Even the Gen 1 which has been carried over to the S2 platform.

[@jeff77779]

@@PeterPee Thanks but I don't know sub Gen3 sub Gen2 which one is better?

[@canadianbear6009]

Don’t you need the GEN 3 Sub to go with the new Sonos sound bar ?

[@PeterPee]

No. The Sonos sound bars all work with all generation of the subs. Except that if you want dual sub you will need at least one of the sub as a gen 3.

[@canadianbear6009]

Thank you very much for your response. I thoroughly enjoy all your different segments. I’ve learned quite a bit over the last couple of weeks. Keep up the great work !

[@jekyllsports]

Great comparison! Did you also compare the distortion measurements? As the curve drops rapidly below 30Hz I suggest the 25Hz output isn’t really usable. But 28Hz should be the real -3dB point where it could achieve good levels (>100dB 2m) . Seems the Sonos Sub is mostly comparable to the Bose Bass Module 700, which also delivers a lot of bass down to 30Hz and hits hard for its size. Maybe I can do a comparison of those two although I can only test the Sub Gen2.

[@PeterPee]

Oh! You have both? Then that’s a great video to share here!

[@renardfields2975]

I have the Bose Bass Module 700. I’ve been trying to figure out which is better but no one has a video on that!!!!!!

[@gagandeepsinghpanesar5838]

please compare two flagship sub from sonos and bose. want to know which one is better and powerful

[@MrZACATECANO100]

What size tv do you have and what lights is that?

[@PeterPee]

that’s a projector short three screen. it’s from Xy screens and ambient light rejecting. the projector is a wemax A300 and the lights are Xiaomi light strip.

[@MrZACATECANO100]

Peter Pee reason I ask is because I have a Sony 85” and looking for the perfect light strip size without adding 2 sets . Thank you for the brand names I will look into that light strip.

[@PeterPee]

For the Sony 85” you will need about 6m in total for the light strip. Please measure carefully as different Brand’s and models have different exterior dimensions.

[@MrZACATECANO100]

Peter Pee great thank you Peter , truly appreciate it. Stay safe

[@artintsaturyan]

Thank you for telling us everything soon in the video

[@PeterPee]

Yeah. I’ll try this as my best practice approach moving forward. Summarise at the front and then dig deeper in the video for anyone interested.

[@djt6546]

I found the review and especially the sound test at the end very informative... but I also hear differences in your sound test! Now this could simply be because your G3 sub is brand new... but for me there is a noticeably richer bloom in your G2 audio compared to the G3. Through my headphones I found the G3 to be a little leaner/sterile compared to the G2. If I was A/Bing HiFi like this in a store I would definitely take the G2 instead of the G3. But I suspect it’s more to do with the fact your G2 is well worn in 🙂

[@PeterPee]

I sure hope that’s the explanation! I’d have thought it might be because the G2 has a much thicker surround and thus able to handle the bass notes decay better.

[@daemon_Sevin]

I can’t like this video enough. So much info. Subscribing with all my accounts 😄

[@PeterPee]

Oh cool! Thank you Damon!

[@7motion985]

Nice unique Channel, I really like your. Sonos videos, I am looking forward to watch. Your new videos. Thank you. It’s highly appreciated.

[@PeterPee]

Thank you for your kind words!

[@TakeAToor]

Peter, could you make a video about the electrical noise the Sub Gen 3 is producing? If you search the Sonos community forums, you’ll find a few threads about this. It’s like a crackling or hard drive spinning type noise. Trying to get Sonos attention on the issue.

[@PeterPee]

Interesting topic. I’ll try to replicate the problem and highlight it if I can.

[@sammyshan9193]

peter , another great tech details on sonos sub 3

[@lightleaked]

thank you for this amazingingly detailed video !

[@Jucyo]

excited to hear the sound test! haha

[@furqan8421]

Excellent video. Great work

[@silky-smooth]

Peter. S2 has rubber on the sides as well as the bottom but the S3 does not. So you can only store the S3 vertical.

[@PeterPee]

Yes they did not provide the felt stickers on the gen 3! Thanks for pointing it out. I did a check with the dealer and they said it’s not included. Bummer trying to save a few cents!

[@BizzleByron]

I have the Matte Gen 1 and I absolutely love it. I hate the new shiny ones, i really hope they do not make it obsolete anytime soon.

[@PeterPee]

I think you have a while to go before they become obsolete. They moved it to the S2 platform so I believe they still have a couple of years to go.

[@MrThugBunny]

I believe they (Singapore) measured it in Gigabits instead of Gigabytes (2Gigabits is about 250 Megabytes). I don’t know if someone covered this already because I didn’t want to read all the comments haha

[@Jay-gc8vd]

Wish I could buy the arc but can't find them anywhere

[@mu6ix.musics]

Not sure what country you are from. The UK has a few outlets with them available: pricespy.co.uk/audio-video/home-cinema-audio-systems/home-cinema-systems/sonos-arc--p5362879

[@Jay-gc8vd]

I'm in the US and you can't find them anywhere

[@djt6546]

Try a VideoOnly store if their in your area.

[@chrisross4157]

Dude! You are the Sonos guru! You are officially now my go to authority on all things Sonos. Freaking stellar videos with info we don’t get anywhere else. 👌🏻👍🏻🤘🏻

[@PeterPee]

Wow, thanks for the compliment! I am still learning too but I do try to share whatever I know.

[@gadgetman136]

Thank you for your thorough reviews. You leave no stone unturned.

[@PeterPee]

I try my best. But I also have my viewers to thank for helping me think of areas to cover and also very kindly sharing and posting.

[@prtbone78]

Is the arc still worth it ?

[@Ventus7777]

Yes the sound is still amazing. Audio equipment doesn't get old as fast as screens for example

[@prtbone78]

@VentusMaster777 gotcha. Plus price difference on anything new coming out in sure not worth it

[@chazzico]

Subscribed. Great detailed video

[@justonbrazda3846]

You can measure the differences with REW and a UMIK microphone.

[@kaifa76]

Usually a shorter excursion means lower distortion.

[@PeterPee]

That’s a valid point too. Maybe I haven’t pushed either hard enough today to hear the differences in distortions at higher levels.

[@jonathanlopeznieves2167]

Is sonos arc 2.1? Hdmi?

[@PeterPee]

Not sure about that. The eARC port supports up to 37gbps. Hdmi 2.0 specifies 18gbps. And 2.1 supports up to 48gbps. So almost there but maybe not quite.

[@jonathanlopeznieves2167]

Peter Pee can you look for that info! I have and lg oled c9 and I want to make shure sonos is 2.1 hdmi before purchase it! Thanks 🙏

[@PeterPee]

It is eArc. And specified at hdmi 2.1. But the bandwidth is not maxed out at 48gbps. You will not have a problem with uncompressed Atmos. It doesn’t handle video so not having the full bandwidth isn’t an issue.

[@jonathanlopeznieves2167]

Peter Pee ok thanks! 💪💪