We all know that Sonos is one of the most esteemed brands in the world of audio music equipment. They produce many different kinds of premium speakers, that can help you to have an enhanced experience of listening to music. When you are setting up a sound system or home theatre system in your home, you will need a different kind of speakers throughout the room to fill it with beautiful and perfect sound. And you will also need special speakers that can be perfectly paired with your television so that your home theatre system can provide a beautiful experience of entertainment. That’s why Sonos Beam vs Playbase come in front.
Two of the most premium speakers that are designed to be paired with televisions produced by Sonos are the Sonos Beam vs Playbase. They are both suitably named as the Beam is basically an oil shaped soundbar and the playbase is a soundbase which can support televisions that weigh up to 75 lbs very well. While they both can be very good options for pairing up with your television, they have some basic differences.
And while choosing one from them, you should look into those so you can choose the one that goes well with your preferences. That’s why in this article we have compared between the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Playbase, which can be very helpful for you.
Basic Advantages and Disadvantages of the Sonos Beam vs Playbase
At first let’s look at some of the basic pros and cons of the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Playbase, which are necessary to know before you decide to buy any of them.
Sonos Beam
Features
- 3-channel sound bar
- 5 built-in speakers
- 3 passive bass radiators
- Connects to your TV’s HDMI ARC port via an included cable
- Optical digital audio adapter included as a secondary connection alternative
- Aaccepts Dolby® Digital and 2-channel PCM audio signals
- Stream sound from TV shows and movies to other Sonos speakers
- Built-in array of 5 far-field microphones
- Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant selectable as default voice control for speaker
- Sonos control app
- Trueplay
- Apple AirPlay® 2
- Ethernet port
- Pair with a Sonos Sub and two Sonos One or One SL speakers for wireless 5.1-channel surround sound
- Wall-mountable
- Requires AC power (adapter included)
- 25-5/8″W x 2-11/16″H x 3-15/16″D
- Weight: 6.2 lbs.
Pros
- A nice and compact design
- Compatibility with HDMI ARC
- Provides incredible sound quality
- Reasonable price
- Possesses many smart features
- Inbuilt voice assistant system
- Has BLE feature
- Wall mounting ability
Cons
- Apps are not too friendly for the home theatre system
- Doesn’t support Dolby Atmos
- Setting up with non-HDMI ARC TVs can be tricky
- Bass sound is a bit weaker than other aspects
Sonos Playbase
Features
- Plays TV sound, music from the web, and digital audio files on your home network
- Supports TVs weighing up to 77 lbs.
- 10 built-in speakers
- Communicates with other Sonos players via Wi-Fi® or a dedicated Sonosnet™ 2.0 wireless network
- Connects to your TV, Blu-ray player or cable box via an included optical digital audio cable
- Accepts Dolby® Digital and 2-channel PCM audio signals
- Sonos control app
- Trueplay
- Apple AirPlay®
- Multi-zone synchronous playback
- Ethernet port
- Pair with SUB and 2 PLAY:1 speakers for 5.1-channel surround sound
- 28-3/8″W x 2-5/16″H x 14-3/16″D
- Weight: 18.5 lbs.
Pros
- Sound quality is phenomenal
- Gets an advantage in terms of soundstage for a bigger size
- The incredible and powerful bass sound
- Gets easily paired up with other Sonos products
- Setting up and usage is really easy
- Built-in subwoofer
- Has a convenient design
Cons
- Doesn’t have inbuilt voice control assistants
- Virtual surround sounds don’t feel natural
- The connection system is optical only
- TruePlay calibration is for iOS users only
- Price is a bit expensive
Descriptive Comparison between the Sonos Beam vs Playbase
Design
Even though the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Playbase have significant differences between their sizes, but their designs have certain similarities.
Both of them have a minimalist and sleek design, and they also come in the same colors, black and white.
Being a soundbar, The Sonos Beam is shorter and slimmer than the Playbase. The playbase needs a bigger space; at least 14 inches of space will be taken by it, while the beam has a width of 4 inches only.
Though both of these can fit well with TVs, the playbase is designed to support TVs weighing up to 75 lbs. You can set the Beam near the TV, or you can mount it on a wall, which is not possible for the Playbase.
However, the Playbase blends in perfectly with the TV as it is best to set it up underneath the TV. They have differences in their grille material. A cloth grille comes with the base which extends around its frame but the playbase comes with a more durable and premium looking metal grille that has 43 thousand holes.
At their top panels, they both have touch-capacitive controls.
You can also check ou these beautifully designed soundbars for projectors.
Winner: Tie
Setup and Control
Sonos Beam has better controls than Playbase because of its voice control.
Both the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Playbase have app controls and touch controls for their control system. None of them come with physical remote control, but the responsive touch-capacitive controls they have on top of their panels work really great as the basic control system.
And the rest of the controls can be easily handled with the Sonos app. Apple users can control the Beam and the Playbase with AirPlay 2. Both of them have Wi-Fi connectivity feature, so you can easily stream online music directly from the device.
And with the help of the Sonos app, you can easily set up the Beam and the Playbase with other Sonos wireless speakers for a better surround sound.
But the area where Beam beats the Playbase is having inbuilt voice assistants. The Sonos Beam smart soundbar has got five far-field microphones and with their help Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa can detect the user’s voice easily and act on the command.
The room doesn’t even need to be quiet to work the voice assistants perfectly. You can keep the mic muted so that the voice assistant won’t keep picking up whatever you say.
The Sonos Playbase on the other hand doesn’t have built-in voice assistant controls. However, you can still use voice-controlled assistants with the Playbase by setting it up with a smart home assistant separately.
Sonos as a brand has one of the most intuitive and user-friendly interfaces among all the wireless speaker brands in the market. As a result, setting both the Sonos Beam and Playbase up is easy and effortless.
You can just download the Sonos app, connect the soundbar or soundbase with your TV through the provided cable, plug them, and follow the instructions provided on the app to go forward. The Beam is compatible with HDMI ARC, while the Playbase only supports optical input.
Winner: Sonos Beam
Bluetooth
Sonos Beam has better Bluetooth connection than Playbase.
While setting up the device, in order to save power the Sonos Beam uses a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connection. Even though this feature doesn’t matter much for your day to day use, but it has an impact while you are installing the device. And the Playbase doesn’t have this BLE feature.
Winner: Sonos Beam
Features
Both the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Playbase are equipped with almost same essential features and technology of Sonos.
These features help both these devices to function in a proper manner. Adjustable EQ, Speech Enhancement Feature, TruePlay tuning, etc are among these features.
After you have completed setting up whatever wireless speaker you chose from these two, you should lighten things up by doing the Sonos’ TruePlay tuning so that you can ensure optimal audio output for the room.
But to avail the TruePlay feature you will need an iOS device, and this feature detects the sound bouncing off of the walls and furniture in the room and accordingly adjusts the audio. And it allows you to have the perfect high-quality sound for your room.
If you want to fine-tune the audio of these devices according to your preference, you can keep adjusting the EQ until you get the desired output on the Sonos app. You can also secure vocal clarity during softer decoded sounds by using the Speech Enhancement Feature on the Sonos app.
So while you are watching a show on your TV which features low voice sound, you can easily ensure more clarity of those sound. So both these devices are very well equipped with some exciting features that other brands don’t usually provide.
Winner: Tie
Sound Quality
The Sonos Playbase has an advantage over the Beam in terms of audio quality.
In terms of audio quality, both the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Playbar deliver an immersive, crisp and clear sound. But we think the Sonos Playbase has an upper hand over the Beam as it delivers better audio overall.
And the reason for the Playbase having an edge over the Beam is its bigger size. And as Beam is more compact in size, it can’t carry as many drivers as the Playbase, whereas the Playbase possesses 10 speaker drivers.
However, the Beam shines in some other aspects of sound quality such as vocal clarity and bass sound. For having better bass sound the Beam has three passive radiators. It also has a tweeter, four full-range woofers, and five class D amplifiers.
Even though the Beam falls short in places where explosive sounds such as deeper bass needed, but it still offers a really incredible sound which can give you a great audio experience.
On the other hand, apart from having 10 speaker drivers, the Sonos Playbase consists of a total of three tweeters, six mid-range drivers, 10 class D amplifiers, and one woofer.
And all these elements work together to provide a crisp, clear, and wide soundstage. And for all these advantages, the Playbase can offer a more detailed and fuller sound than the Sonos Beam.
Even though the Playbase provides better sound, doesn’t mean the Beam is bad in sound quality. As stated earlier, the Beam is also incredible in providing a great quality of sound. And the Playbase also costs more than the beam for being bigger and better in sound. You can also check out these amazing soundbars with better sound.
Winner: Sonos Playbase
Comparison Table between Sonos Beam vs Playbase
We have already given a basic and descriptive comparison between different specs, features, and sound quality of the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Playbase, which can help you to select the one that goes well with your preference.
And for your further convenience, we have added a comparison table that summarizes the whole thing for you and will show the comparison between these two devices about everything you need to know before buying. The table is mentioned below.
| Grounds of Comparison | Sonos Beam | Sonos Playbase |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Bar | Platform |
| Amplification | Self Powered | Self Powered |
| Class D Digital Amplifiers | 5 | 10 |
| Number of Channels | 3 | 3.1 |
| Separate Subwoofer | Optional | Optional |
| Wireless Sounds | Optional | Optional |
| Dolby Digital | Yes | Yes |
| DTS | No | No |
| Dolby Atmos | No | No |
| Virtual Surround | Yes | Yes |
| Dialogue Enhancement | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Volume | No | No |
| Subwoofer Output | Wireless | Wireless |
| RCA Stereo Analog Inputs | None | None |
| USB Type-A Input | No | No |
| Connection to TV | Using HDMI ARC or Digital Optical Cable | Only Digital Optical Cable |
| HDMI ARC Input | Yes | No |
| HDMI eARC Input | No | No |
| Coaxial Digital Inputs | None | None |
| Optical Digital Inputs | None | 1 |
| 3.5 mm Stereo Analog Inputs | None | None |
| Woofer | Passive Radiators | Subwoofer |
| Midrange | Full range Woofers | Midrange Drivers |
| Adjustable Bass and Treble Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Tweeter | Dome Tweeter | 3 Dome Tweeters |
| Enclosure | Passive Radiator | Acoustic Suspension |
| Subwoofer RMS Power | N/ A | N/ A |
| Soundbar RMS Power | N/ A | N/ A |
| System Frequency Response | Not Given | Not Given |
| Subwoofer Driver | None | None |
| Audio Line-in | No | No |
| Remote Inclusion | Yes | Yes |
| Built In Voice Assistant | Amazon Alexa + Google Assistant | No |
| App Controls | Android + Apple iOS | Android + Apple iOS |
| TV Remote Learning | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Control Options | Inbuilt Google Assistant and Alexa | Not inbuilt but supports Google Assistant and Alexa |
| HDMI CEC | Yes | No |
| Remote IR Pass-through | No | No |
| HDR Video Compatibility | No | No |
| HDMI Video Pass-through Resolution | N/ A | N/ A |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | No | Yes |
| Apple AirPlay | AirPlay 2 | AirPlay 2 |
| Trueplay | Yes | Yes |
| Files on the Network | No | No |
| Built In Chromecast | No | No |
| HDMI Inputs | None | None |
| HDMI Outputs | 1 | None |
| Built In Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Version | 802.11 b/ g | 802.11 b/ g |
| Bands | 2.4 GHz | 2.4 GHz |
| Wall Mount ability | Yes | No |
| Mounting Bracket Inclusion | Optional | No |
| Sound Bar Size (inches) | 2-11/16 H x 25-5/8 W x 3-15/ 16 D | 2-1/4 H x 28-3/8 W x 14-15/16 D |
| Subwoofer Size (inches) | N/ A | N/ A |
| Sound Bar Weight | 6.2 lbs | 18.85 lbs |
| Subwoofer Weight | N/ A | N/ A |
| Speakers | 5 | 10 |
| Microphones | 5 | No |
| PCM Stereo | Yes | Yes |
| Audio Return Channel | Yes | No |
| Product Color | Black or White | Black or White |
| IR Control | Yes | Yes |
| Night Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Touch Control | Yes | Yes |
| One App Control | Yes | Yes |
| Ethernet Port | 1 | 1 |
| Humidity Resistance | No | No |
| Year of Release | 2018 | 2017 |
| Amplifier Parts Warranty | 1 Year | 1 Year |
| Amplifier Labor Warranty | 1 Year | 1 Year |
| Speaker Parts Warranty | 1 Year | 1 Year |
| Speaker Labor Warranty | 1 Year | 1 Year |
Alternative Options
Sonos Arc
Sonos Arc uses Dolby’s new TrueHD and Dolby Digital Plus sound codecs to provide the highest quality lossless audio available on cutting-edge Blu-ray discs and some of the most common streaming services. If you want to watch major blockbusters on the small screen and feel like you’re in a cinema, the Arc is a perfect option.
Pros-
- Amazing surround sound and music playback
- Dolby Atmos
- TrueHD and Dolby Digital Plus
- Discrete all-in-one soundbar
- Has the exceptional audio quality for the price
- Can be expanded with a wireless subwoofer and surround speakers
- Best-in-class multi-room audio features (plus support for AirPlay 2)
- Your choice of Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant
Cons –
- Relies too heavily on the capabilities of the TV it will be connected to.
- Doesn’t suit every room
Sonos Play 5
The Sonos Play 5 was the company’s first all-in-one unit since it was formerly focused on devices intended to link computers and speakers made by other companies. It was so popular that Sonos remains first and foremost a wireless speaker company today, spawning a host of rivals and competitors seeking to replicate the Sonos concept.
Pros
- Powerful audio performance with seriously deep bass and accurate highs.
- Easy setup.
- Expandable to multiple rooms.
- Can be used as part of a stereo pair.
Cons
- No Bluetooth
- Somewhat large
Bose Soundbar 700
The Bose Soundbar 700 is a late 2019 upgrade to Bose’s incredible audio collection. This soundbar, like the others in its line, employs PhaseGuide and QuietPort technologies. It also includes the company’s ADAPTIQ auto audio tuning.
Pros
- Its design is really well built
- Has an amazing and best possible front soundstage
- Audio reproduction is decent
- Has an excellent Remote app
- Setup is easily upgradeable
- Supports ADAPTiQ audio calibration
- Has built-in Amazon Alexa/ Google Assistant
Cons
- Low level of bass performance
- Lack of sub-bass
FAQs
FAQ is all about solving your problems. let’s hop into this segment for better understanding.
Is the Sonos arc superior to the Playbase?
The Arc sounded better in every way. Surprisingly, the bass on the Sonos Arc was more powerful than on the Playbase. I was listening to music at a very high volume and was not hearing the muddy or speaker-blown noises that others were reporting.
Is the Playbase no longer available from Sonos?
The Playbase speaker, which was intended to fit beneath some TVs, is now being phased out as Sonos focuses on the Arc and Beam. The Arc isn’t inexpensive at $800, and it’s $100 more than the Playbar, but Sonos says that it sets a higher benchmark for soundbars.
Is the Sonos Playbase worth the money?
The Sonos Playbase is a brilliantly crafted sound-enhancing solution for your television. It has outstanding sound quality and ample bass to act as a top-tier standalone speaker. If you install additional Sonos speakers and the Sub, it can be configured as the ultimate 5.1 system.
Verdict: Sonos Beam vs Playbase
Both the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Playbase are really great in their own way. While one is better in some aspects, the other one gets the upper hand in other different aspects.
Sonos Beam
As Sonos is known for its exceptional audio qualities, both these speakers deliver stunning performance in terms of audio. The Sonos Beam gets the upper hand when you take different features into account.
The Beam has more updated features, more reasonable pricing, and a compact size that allows you to set it up wherever you like. If your room is not large enough, you can easily go for the Sonos Beam, and if you need more immersive sound you can easily pair it up with other Sonos speakers.
Sonos Playbase
But if the high cost and updated smart features don’t mean much to you and the only thing you highly care about is the better audio performance, then you should go for the Sonos Playbase.
And if you have a large room, the Playbase will surely serve you better than the Beam. Also even though it doesn’t have an inbuilt voice assistant system, you can easily pair it up with a smart home assistant of your choosing.
So we can say, in the end, it comes down to you whether you want to choose the Sonos Beam vs Playbase for your sound system. You should look into both and see which one suits better with your preferences and then select that for your home as both will serve you really well.
Author’s Pick: Sonos Beam
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