Sonos Sub Gen 2 vs Gen 3, which is better? Well, as you go through the product details you will realize there is ‘too much’ similarities between these Sonos Sub. Audio experts share the same verdict as we do, sonically the performance of these subwoofers is same. However, there are differences in terms of processing power, memory, ‘internal technology’, etc.
Looking at these dissimilarities, it seems that they won’t make much of a ‘dramatic’ difference. However, the Gen 3 is the upgraded model and it tries to upgrade minor things as well as major ones just to make this device futureproof. If you have the new Sonos Move, the Sonos Sub Gen 3 willnot work with it. The rest of the product lines are compatible with the new sub.
Sonos Sub Gen 3 remains undistorted at all volumes and doesn’t display any popping or cutting sounds. So, if you already own a Gen 2 sub, upgrading it with a Gen 3 sub with additional cost won’t give you noticeable changes. It is better to stick to the Gen 2 in that case. On the other hand, if you don’t own any Sonos Sub, Gen 3 is best for you.
Sonos Sub Gen 2 vs Gen 3: Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive analysis of Sonos Sub Gen 3 along with its previous models will help you understand which one is worth buying.
Table: Comparison of Sonos sub Gen 1 vs Gen 2 vs Gen 3
Sonos Sub Gen 3 is the latest subwoofer by Sonos. It is released on 2020 while there are two previous subwoofer models known as Gen 2 and Gen 1. Sonos Sub Gen 1 is discontinued but you can still find it on stores and it works with different Sonos soundbar models till now. Sub Gen 1, 2, and 3 are known to have almost similar performance and functionalities.
Then what are the difference between Sonos Sub Gen 2 and Gen 3? Well the major differences are, the Gen 3 subwoofer has more memory, high power CPU, power wireless receiver with high power and a new join button on its side. The CPU is upgraded to Quad Core 1.5GHz. High power receiver in the Gen 3 might improve its range.
The Sub Gen 2 and 3 has two elliptical drivers place horizontally. These are powered by two amplifiers. As the sub is turned on, the drivers will work out of sync so they will cancel out cabinet vibrations. Sonos doesn’t reveal any specs about the drivers or the driver difference in different subwoofers. While the difference isn’t noticeable immediately, it seems that the drivers in Gen 3 Sonos sub has more space between them.
One way or another this doesn’t show any sonic difference in terms of performance. In terms of aesthetics there are few changes but they aren’t quite exciting and will not affect the bass performance in any way. The Gen 3 subwoofer has a flat cable which is less likely to tangle.
Sonos Sub Gen 3: An Upgrade over Gen 2
The Sonos Sub Gen 3 has dual acoustic ports that help to enhance the low-end performance. It can get as low as 25Hz. This new model has a memory of 256 MB SDRAM, 256 MB NAND Flash. It is capable of producing punchier low ends while remaining stable. The force-cancelling drivers remove any sort of vibration or buzz of the sub.
You can enjoy thunderous bass by placing it in a large room. With the new addition, you can use dual Sonos sub with other Sonos speaker. But for that at least one of the subs has to be a Gen 3 model. This means you can have a Gen3 and Gen 3, Gen 2 and Gen 3 or Gen 1 and Gen 3. The wireless radio will make the connectivity of the Gen 3 more stable.
Both the Gen 2 and Gen 3 have similar EQ settings that you can access through the Sonos app. The looks are so similar that you can’t identify them at a glance. These subwoofers will work with Alexa as well. In terms of subwoofer placement, you can it vertically as it is or, you can also place it flat on the ground. This will not affect the audio. However, the port should be in an open space rather than any confined place or nearby obstacle.
With the use of Wi-Fi, it will connect to the Sonos system. It can detect which speaker or bar you paired it with so that the sound can be adjusted accordingly. When paired with a Sonos soundbar, you can use Night mode feature in case you don’t want to disturb your neighbors. Pair it with Sonos ARC or Beam for a movie setup.
Two Sonos Five speakers and Sub Gen 3 are best for large rooms. however, it is recommended not to add the sub with a single speaker like Sonos One SL. This is because it might produce more bass than needed. You are free to match any Sonos speaker with the sub. You can also include ceiling speakers through an amp, then connect the sub to the amp.
S2 mobile app has different settings like you can adjust Sub Level and Phase Control by going into Room settings. Now in if you have price limitation and wonder which is best to buy, Sonos Sub or Surround speakers? The best way to describe this case is, if you prefer the low-ends in the sound, the sub is ideal. Or, if you prefer to be in the center of the movie and prefer sound to engulf you from all around, surround speakers are a good choice.
The build quality is good, it is heavy in weight and big in size. Black finish grabs fingerprints easily, so make sure to use the microfiber cloth to clean it. Although the performance of Gen 2 and 3 seems similar, Gen 3 should be able to deliver better bass. According to audio experts, this is due to larger space between drivers allowing them to movie more air.
However, even if there is any difference, it isn’t a dramatic change that you would understand immediately. Rather, this is a major factor to consider while buying a Sonos Gen sub. Sonos S2 is not only a mobile app but also an OS. The following image shows uncompatible products of S2. This is important as the new Gen 3 sub will work only with S2.
As you connect the sub with other speakers in the room, not only the low-ends are better, the mids and highs improve as well. This is because the speakers don’t have to deal with the lower frequencies now. In case you want to have two subs in your room, then they will work with any one of the Sonos soundbar: Beam, Arc , Play Bar, or Play Bar, or play base.
Although multiple subs are better than one, with Sonos, in most rooms a single subwoofer will be sufficient. No matter the type of content you are playing, the subwoofer will ensure ‘ecstatic’ bass to make them more engaging.
Parting words
Sonos Gen 2 vs Gen 3 subwoofer, which one should you buy? Well, although they are similar in most cases, Sonos Gen 2 sub is best if you plan to buy a Sonos Play 5 Gen 1. In this case the Gen 3 subwoofer will not work. This is because the Play 5 Gen 1 only works with S1 app. Sonos Gen 3 subwoofer is best if you want a futureproof product where the manufacturer can help you in case there is any malfunction.
Otherwise, Sonos Sub Gen 2 will also work just as fine as the Gen 3. Comparing Sonos Sub Gen 2 vs Gen 3, another difference that will affect the buying decision is the cost. The Gen 2 costs less than the Gen 3 so in case you have tight budget, choose the affordable Gen 2 subwoofer. Either way you will be enjoying deep, clean and punchier bass.
Comparing Sonos sub 3 vs 2, they are of exactly the same weight and size. There is no visible difference except the new Join button. Both of the subs will deliver ample amount of bass needed to bring the shine in the room. It is placement friendly and user friendly. Setup of these wireless subwoofers is easy as breeze. It works effectively with the Sonos ecosystem without showing any connection interruption like many other wireless subs do.
FAQ
This FAQ is going to answer some of the most asked questions regarding this matter. well take this part as a parting gift from us.
Will the Sonos Gen 3 work with all Sonos products?
Sonos Gen 3 will work with most of the Sonos soundbar, amplifier and speakers except Move, Roam, Port, or Connect.
Will Sonos Sub Gen 3 work with speakers from other brands?
Sonos Sub Gen 3 will only work with Sonos speakers and bars but not with any 3rd party products.
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