I remember it clearly. We were settled in for the finale of a show we’d been binge-watching for weeks. The tension was palpable, the cinematography was stunning, but a crucial, whispered conversation was happening on screen, and all we could hear was a garbled mess. I found myself frantically toggling the volume—up for the whispers, then scrambling to turn it down before the next action sequence blew our eardrums out. This “volume dance” is an all-too-common frustration. Modern televisions, in their race to become impossibly thin, have sacrificed audio quality. Their tiny, rear-facing speakers simply can’t produce the clear, rich, and directional sound that today’s content demands. This leads to missed dialogue, muddy soundscapes, and an overall flat, uninspired viewing experience that fails to do justice to the incredible work of sound designers.
- Experience clearer, more powerful sound than ever before possible by a small standalone soundbar.
- Dynamic sound that enhances the drama and creates a surprisingly wide soundstage.
- Zero-stress setup with only two cables and help from the Sonos app.
What to Consider Before Buying a Compact Soundbar
A soundbar is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for instantly and dramatically improving your home entertainment experience. It’s designed to rectify the primary weakness of modern TVs by providing dedicated, forward-facing speakers that are engineered for clarity and dynamic range. The main benefits are immediately noticeable: dialogue becomes crisp and understandable, music swells with newfound depth, and sound effects gain an impact that built-in speakers could never replicate. It transforms passive viewing into an immersive experience, pulling you deeper into the story on screen without the complexity or cost of a full multi-speaker surround sound system.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing this exact audio dilemma in a small to medium-sized space. Think apartment dwellers, bedroom TV watchers, or anyone looking to upgrade the audio in a den or office. It’s for the person who values simplicity, a clean aesthetic, and a significant audio upgrade without a labyrinth of wires and components. Conversely, a compact soundbar might not be suitable for those who have a dedicated, large home theater room and are seeking the ground-shaking bass and true overhead Dolby Atmos effects that only larger, more complex systems with dedicated subwoofers and up-firing speakers can provide. For those users, a full home-theater-in-a-box or a high-end multi-channel system would be a more appropriate investment.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Measure your media console or the space below your TV. A compact soundbar like the Sonos Ray is designed to fit neatly without blocking the screen or your TV’s IR sensor. Its 22-inch width makes it ideal for TVs under 55 inches, ensuring a visually balanced setup. Always check the height and depth to ensure a seamless fit.
- Connectivity & Performance: How will you connect it? The Sonos Ray Compact TV Soundbar uses an optical audio connection, which is common on most TVs but lacks the HDMI ARC/eARC functionality found on pricier models that allows for higher-bandwidth audio and control over a single cable. Performance-wise, consider the channel configuration (the Ray is a 2.0 stereo bar) and smart features like dialogue enhancement, which can be a game-changer for clarity.
- Materials & Durability: The build quality affects both aesthetics and acoustic performance. The Sonos Ray features a rigid polycarbonate enclosure with a precisely perforated grille. This solid construction helps minimize vibrations and distortion, a step up from flimsier plastic builds found on some budget alternatives. It feels dense and premium, built to last.
- Ease of Use & Ecosystem: How simple is the setup and daily operation? Sonos is renowned for its user-friendly app, which guides you through a streamlined setup process. However, this app-centric approach and reliance on Wi-Fi isn’t for everyone. Consider if you prefer a dedicated remote or if you’re comfortable using your phone or existing TV remote for control. Also, think about expandability—the Ray can be the starting point for a whole-home audio system.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Sonos Ray Compact TV Soundbar stands out in several areas, particularly for its acoustic engineering and ecosystem potential. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the Sonos Ray Compact TV Soundbar is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
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Unboxing the Sonos Ray: First Impressions and Key Features
Opening a Sonos product is always a bit of an event, and the Ray is no exception. The packaging is eco-conscious, minimalist, and intelligently designed, ensuring the product arrives safely without a mountain of styrofoam. Lifting the Sonos Ray Compact TV Soundbar from its box, the first thing we noticed was its surprising density. Weighing in at 4.29 lbs (1.95 kg), it feels substantial and premium, not like a hollow piece of plastic. The matte black polycarbonate finish is sleek, fingerprint-resistant, and feels durable. Its compact 22-inch frame is striking; it’s noticeably smaller than its siblings, the Beam and Arc, making it immediately clear this is designed for smaller spaces and a discreet presence.
What’s unique is its tapered design and all-forward-facing acoustic components. This is a deliberate engineering choice, allowing you to place the soundbar inside a media cabinet without worrying about sound being muffled, a common issue with soundbars that have side-firing or up-firing drivers. In the box, you find the essentials: the soundbar itself, a power cord, and a 4.9 ft (1.5 m) optical cable. The simplicity is the point—Sonos promises a “zero-stress” setup, and the minimal contents of the box are the first clue that they intend to deliver on that promise.
What We Like
- Remarkably clear and crisp dialogue, especially with Speech Enhancement
- A surprisingly wide and immersive soundstage for its compact size
- Seamless integration into the Sonos multi-room wireless ecosystem
- Extremely simple, two-cable physical setup process
- Smart, forward-facing design works well inside media cabinets
Limitations
- No HDMI ARC/eARC connectivity, relying solely on an optical connection
- Lacks Bluetooth for simple, direct streaming from guest devices
- Bass is present and tight, but lacks the deep rumble needed for large rooms
Putting the Sonos Ray to the Test: A Deep Dive into Performance
A soundbar can look great and have a slick app, but none of that matters if it doesn’t deliver where it counts: sound quality. We put the Sonos Ray Compact TV Soundbar through its paces for several weeks, using it as our primary audio source for everything from blockbuster movies and prestige television to music streaming and casual gaming. Our testing environment was a 15×13 foot bedroom, a space perfectly suited to the Ray’s intended use case. The verdict? For its size and price point, the Ray isn’t just an improvement over TV speakers; it’s a fundamental transformation of the listening experience, albeit one with specific and important trade-offs.
The Setup Experience: Simplicity Personified (With a Catch)
Sonos has built its reputation on user-friendliness, and the initial physical setup of the Ray is a masterclass in simplicity. It truly is a two-cable affair: one for power, and the included optical cable to connect to your television’s optical out port. That’s it. There’s no bulky power brick and no confusing array of inputs to decipher. We had it unboxed and physically connected in under two minutes.
The second part of the setup happens in the Sonos S2 app. The app quickly discovered the new speaker on our Wi-Fi network and guided us through the process of adding it to our “room,” linking our streaming services, and—crucially—setting it up to work with our existing TV remote. This is where we encountered the “catch” that some users have noted. If you have a standard infrared (IR) remote, the process is seamless; the app instructs you to point your remote at the Ray and press the volume up button, and it learns the command instantly. However, as one user with an LG TV discovered, more modern radio frequency (RF) or Bluetooth remotes (like LG’s Magic Remote) require a few extra steps within the TV’s own settings menu to configure it to output IR signals for a soundbar. It’s not difficult, but it’s a small hurdle that disrupts the otherwise flawless “plug and play” experience.
This reliance on Wi-Fi and the app is a core tenet of the Sonos philosophy, but it can be a point of friction. We experienced no issues, but several online reviews mention struggles with Wi-Fi connectivity or app error codes, which can bring the setup process to a frustrating halt. There is no fallback like Bluetooth to just get sound playing. You are fully committed to the Sonos ecosystem, for better or worse. For us, it was for the better, but it’s a critical factor to be aware of.
Audio Quality: Punching Far Above Its Weight
Once set up, we immediately fired up a dialogue-heavy film. The difference was not subtle; it was astounding. The Sonos Ray Compact TV Soundbar uses four Class-D digital amplifiers, two tweeters for crisp high frequencies, and two high-efficiency midwoofers. But the magic lies in the processing and acoustics. Using its proprietary “anti-distortion” technology and custom waveguides, the Ray projects sound far wider than its physical dimensions suggest. Dialogue that was once buried in the mix was now front and center, anchored to the screen with precision and clarity.
We toggled the “Speech Enhancement” feature in the app, and the effect was even more pronounced. This isn’t just a simple EQ boost; it’s a sophisticated processing mode that isolates and clarifies the frequencies of the human voice. For late-night viewing or for anyone who struggles to hear dialogue, this feature alone could be worth the price of admission. It completely eliminated our need to ride the volume controls. We confirmed this finding with numerous user reviews, with one stating it delivers “clear speech, good but NOT overpowering bass, and well balanced mids and highs” for their bedroom setup.
For action sequences in films like *Dune*, the Ray held its own surprisingly well. While it lacks a dedicated subwoofer and therefore cannot produce the kind of visceral, room-shaking low-end frequencies, the bass it does produce is tight, controlled, and well-defined. Explosions have punch, not just a muddy boom. However, as one user rightly pointed out, it’s not going to “blow you back in your seat” like a full surround system. Its performance is perfectly scaled for apartments and bedrooms where overwhelming bass would be a nuisance anyway.
As a music speaker, the Ray is equally impressive. Streaming via Apple AirPlay 2 was flawless, and the soundbar delivered a balanced, energetic performance across genres. Vocals were clear, instruments were well-separated, and the stereo imaging was excellent. The lack of Bluetooth is a notable omission and a valid criticism seen in user feedback. It means guests can’t quickly pair their phones to play a song, instead needing to be on your Wi-Fi network and use AirPlay or the Sonos app. For those who value ultimate convenience, this could be a dealbreaker. If you want a speaker that delivers on its core promise of excellent sound for TV and music within its ecosystem, the Sonos Ray’s audio performance is truly exceptional for its size.
The Sonos Ecosystem and Smart Features
To judge the Sonos Ray Compact TV Soundbar solely on its standalone performance is to miss half the story. Its true power is unlocked when you view it as a gateway into the broader Sonos ecosystem. In our home, we already had a Sonos One speaker in the kitchen. Within seconds, we were able to group the Ray with the Sonos One, playing TV audio in perfect sync in both the bedroom and the kitchen—a fantastic feature for not missing a moment of the game or news when grabbing a snack.
The expandability is a huge selling point. You can start with just the Ray. Later, you can add a pair of Sonos One SL speakers as wireless rear surrounds and a Sub Mini to create a genuine 5.1 surround sound system, all without running a single speaker wire across your room. This modular approach allows your system to grow with your budget and needs. One user review highlighted this perfectly, noting how they added the Ray to their existing ceiling speakers (powered by a Sonos Amp) to create an awesome surround experience.
The Sonos S2 app is the central nervous system for this ecosystem. It integrates nearly every music streaming service imaginable—Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Pandora, and countless more—into a single, searchable interface. It also provides access to Sonos Radio, a surprisingly robust free service with curated stations. For iOS users, the app offers Trueplay tuning, a feature that uses your iPhone’s microphone to analyze the room’s acoustics and optimize the soundbar’s EQ accordingly. We ran Trueplay in our bedroom, and it made a noticeable difference, tightening the bass and clarifying the mids even further. It’s a powerful feature that many competitors lack.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the sentiment from users who understand the Ray’s purpose is overwhelmingly positive. One owner, who already had a high-end Sonos Arc system, purchased the Ray for a secondary living room TV and praised its seamless integration and easy installation. Another happy customer summed it up perfectly: “Simple sound bar that has great sound quality for a great price.” Many echoed our findings, with one user in Spain noting that they were mistaken about soundbars, stating, “The bass is spectacular even without dedicated woofers… voices are heard super clearly.”
However, the negative feedback is just as important and centers on a few consistent themes. The most common complaint, which we consider entirely valid, is the lack of connectivity options. One frustrated user noted, “unfortunately this product is only compatible with the Sonos proprietary app… or an optical cable is the only way it connects to anything.” The absence of both HDMI ARC and Bluetooth is a major sticking point for many. Another recurring issue is the reliance on the app and Wi-Fi. While many, like us, had a smooth setup, some users reported “trouble connecting to WiFi” or receiving persistent error codes, leading to immense frustration. These reviews serve as a crucial reminder: the Sonos Ray is a fantastic product, but only if you are willing to buy into its specific, Wi-Fi-based ecosystem.
How Does the Sonos Ray Compare? Top Alternatives
The Sonos Ray Compact TV Soundbar exists in a competitive market. While it excels in sound quality and ecosystem integration for its size, its specific feature set means it won’t be the perfect fit for everyone. Here’s how it stacks up against some notable alternatives.
1. Samsung HW-B400F Soundbar with Built-in Subwoofer
The Samsung HW-B400F presents a compelling alternative for those on a tighter budget who prioritize bass and connectivity over a multi-room ecosystem. Its key advantage is the built-in subwoofer, which will provide more low-end presence than the Ray can on its own. Furthermore, it includes Bluetooth connectivity, making it much easier for anyone to stream music directly from their phone. Where the Samsung falls short is in the refinement of its sound processing—it likely won’t match the Ray’s exceptional dialogue clarity and wide soundstage—and it lacks the sophisticated app control and multi-room audio capabilities that are the cornerstone of the Sonos experience.
2. Samsung Q990D 11.1.4ch Soundbar with Rear Speakers
- Q-SYMPHONY: Pair a Samsung TV with a Samsung Soundbar to unlock a new level of powerful audio; Experience content like never before; With Q-Symphony, your speakers work together to optimize all the...
- 11.1.4 CH. TRUE DOLBY ATMOS SOUND: Feel sound all around with 11 front-facing speakers, 1 subwoofer and 4 up-firing channels; With a rear speaker kit included, your complete home theater experience is...
- WIRELESS DOLBY ATMOS: Skip the HDMI cables and enjoy truly elevated audio with Wireless Dolby Atmos²; Experience captivating audio without the cable clutter
Comparing the Sonos Ray to the Samsung Q990D is like comparing a sports car to a freight train; they are built for entirely different purposes. The Q990D is a premium, all-in-one home theater system, complete with a powerful wireless subwoofer and dedicated rear speakers for a true 11.1.4 channel Dolby Atmos experience. It’s designed for large rooms and movie lovers who want the most immersive, cinema-like sound possible. It costs significantly more than the Ray but delivers a level of performance the compact Ray could never dream of. This is the choice for the dedicated cinephile, whereas the Ray is for the person seeking a massive, simple upgrade from TV speakers.
3. Wohome 2.1 Channel Sound Bar with Subwoofer
- Powerful Sound from Dual Large Speakers: The tv speakers Features two large full-range speakers for balanced treble and mid-range performance. Each speaker delivers 20 W peak power, combined with a 40...
- Enhanced Deep Bass with 5 Inch Wired Subwoofer: Experience deeper, more powerful bass with a large-size woofer and spacious cabinet design. Perfect for movies, games and music, delivering richer and...
- RGB-IC Ambient Light Design: The sound bar for smart tv with 20 LED light strip creates a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for parties and holidays like Halloween and Christmas. It also provides a soft...
The Wohome soundbar represents the ultra-budget end of the spectrum. For a fraction of the price of the Sonos Ray, it offers a 2.1 channel system with a separate (wired) subwoofer and a host of connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Optical, and AUX. This makes it a versatile, plug-and-play choice for those whose primary concern is price. However, the trade-off will be significant in terms of audio fidelity, build quality, and user experience. The sound is unlikely to be as balanced or clear as the Ray’s, and it offers none of the smart features, app integration, or expandability of the Sonos ecosystem.
The Final Verdict: Is the Sonos Ray Compact TV Soundbar Right for You?
After extensive testing, we can say with confidence that the Sonos Ray Compact TV Soundbar is a phenomenal piece of audio engineering that brilliantly achieves its intended purpose. It is the perfect audio upgrade for anyone with a small-to-medium-sized room who is tired of muddy TV sound and craves crystal-clear dialogue. Its compact, stylish design fits anywhere, the setup is incredibly simple, and the sound it produces is rich, balanced, and far bigger than its small frame suggests. For those already invested in or curious about the Sonos ecosystem, the Ray is an exceptional and relatively affordable entry point.
However, it is not a product without compromises. The deliberate omission of HDMI ARC and Bluetooth will be an immediate dealbreaker for some, and its bass performance, while tight and musical, won’t satisfy those looking for cinematic rumble. The Ray knows exactly what it is: a compact, premium, smart soundbar focused on clarity and musicality. If you fall into its target audience, we believe you will be absolutely delighted with the transformation it brings to your viewing experience.
If you’ve decided the Sonos Ray Compact TV Soundbar is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API