Sonos Ray Soundbar

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85%
85%
Sound Quality
91%
Setup Ease
89%
Connectivity
67%
Bass Performance
80%
Build Quality
92%
Size & Portability
88%
Value for Money
84%
App & Software Experience
86%
Multimedia Performance
90%
Design & Aesthetics
85%
Compatibility with Other Devices
78%
Customer Support
More

Overview

The Sonos Ray Soundbar is a compact audio solution designed to improve TV and music audio. With its minimalist design and sleek form, this soundbar fits effortlessly into a variety of home setups. The setup process is straightforward, requiring only two cables and assistance from the Sonos app. While it’s a small device, the sound clarity and performance it offers make it a solid choice for users looking for an affordable, space-saving upgrade to their audio experience.

Features & Benefits

This soundbar supports Dolby audio technology, which enhances sound clarity and adds depth to audio. Its stereo configuration, driven by dynamic drivers, delivers a fuller audio experience that adds richness to movies and music. For modern home entertainment, it offers wireless streaming via AirPlay 2, Wi-Fi, and Spotify Connect. These features make it easy to stream content from a range of devices, providing convenience and flexibility. Overall, this compact audio system offers an impressive sound quality for its size and price.

Best For

The Sonos Ray is best suited for users looking for a compact yet high-quality soundbar that doesn’t take up much space. It's ideal for affordable home audio setups, particularly for those who want to improve TV and music audio without the bulk of larger systems. Those who value wireless connectivity and a quick, easy installation process will also appreciate this device. It’s a good choice for individuals who want excellent audio without needing a full surround sound system or a complicated setup.

User Feedback

Users generally praise this soundbar for its clear sound and immersive audio, especially considering its compact size. Many appreciate the simple setup, which makes it an attractive option for non-technical users. However, some reviewers have pointed out that the bass could be more pronounced, especially when compared to larger soundbars. Despite this, the sound clarity and ease of use have garnered a lot of positive feedback, making it a popular choice for those with limited space.

#Sound Bars
#Speakers
#Home Audio
#Electronics

Pros

  • This soundbar provides clear and immersive sound despite its compact size.
  • Its minimalist design makes it a great fit for various home setups.
  • The wireless streaming options like AirPlay 2, Wi-Fi, and Spotify Connect are easy to use and enhance the listening experience.
  • Setup is simple, requiring only two cables and support through the Sonos app.
  • Ideal for users with limited space who need a compact audio system.
  • Dolby audio support ensures improved clarity and depth for both TV and music.

Cons

  • The bass performance is limited compared to larger, more expensive soundbars.
  • It may not be sufficient for larger rooms or for users who crave deep bass.
  • Some users find that it lacks advanced sound customization options.
  • The stereo soundstage, while good for its size, may not be as immersive as bigger systems.
  • This audio system is not suited for audiophiles seeking the highest sound fidelity.
  • Certain users reported that the app interface could be more intuitive for managing settings.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple languages and platforms, we’ve summarized the feedback for the Sonos Ray Soundbar. The scores reflect authentic experiences, filtering out spam, bot, incentivized, or duplicate reviews to ensure quality insights. Both strengths and weaknesses are considered, with particular attention given to sound performance, ease of setup, and value for money, as highlighted by users across the globe.

Sound Quality
85%
Many users are impressed by the clear, detailed sound this device produces for its size. The dynamic drivers provide a surprisingly immersive audio experience, making it suitable for both movies and music. Its Dolby audio support further enhances clarity, making dialogues and sound effects stand out.
Some users feel that the sound quality lacks the depth and richness found in larger, more expensive soundbars. The bass, in particular, may feel underwhelming to those accustomed to heavier sound performance, especially during bass-heavy music or action scenes.
Setup Ease
91%
Buyers consistently mention how easy the setup process is, often completing it in just a few minutes. The inclusion of only two cables and Sonos app support ensures a seamless experience, especially for those who are not tech-savvy. It’s a great option for people looking for a hassle-free audio upgrade.
A few users have noted that although the setup is simple, the initial connection via Wi-Fi or Ethernet can sometimes be tricky for those with poor network connections. While the app is generally helpful, some have experienced occasional glitches during the setup process.
Connectivity
89%
The soundbar offers impressive wireless connectivity options including AirPlay 2, Wi-Fi, and Spotify Connect, allowing users to easily stream music and TV audio from their devices. Its ability to integrate seamlessly with other Sonos products for multi-room audio is also a standout feature, making it versatile for home setups.
A small number of users mentioned occasional connectivity drops when streaming over Wi-Fi, especially in households with heavy internet traffic. Some also reported difficulty connecting to certain older devices or non-Sonos systems, limiting its compatibility with all home setups.
Bass Performance
67%
33%
While the bass performance is adequate for a soundbar of this size, it still delivers a pleasant audio experience for casual listening. It's a good option for those who don’t require deep, rumbling bass but appreciate clear mid-range sounds and treble for dialogue-heavy content.
The bass output is often noted as being underwhelming compared to larger, more expensive soundbars. For users who enjoy music genres or movies that heavily rely on strong bass, this might feel limiting and less immersive, especially in larger rooms.
Build Quality
80%
20%
The build quality is generally praised, with users noting the soundbar feels solid and durable. Its minimalist design and sleek black finish make it an attractive addition to most home setups, and the compact size allows it to fit comfortably in various spaces without overwhelming the room.
A few reviewers mentioned that the plastic construction, while sturdy, feels a bit lightweight and might not have the premium feel of more expensive soundbars. There were also minor concerns about potential wear and tear on the material over time, especially with frequent handling.
Size & Portability
92%
The compact size is one of the strongest points for this soundbar, as it fits into tight spaces without compromising on audio quality. Users in apartments or small rooms appreciate the space-saving design, and it's easy to move around when needed. The soundbar's lightweight build makes it easy to transport or adjust during setup.
While compact, some users feel that the small size limits the overall audio depth, particularly in larger rooms. The portability might be a bit less relevant for those who prefer a more permanent, powerful sound system with a larger presence.
Value for Money
88%
Most users find this soundbar to be a great value for its price point. It delivers high-quality sound, ease of use, and a sleek design that is hard to beat for the cost. Buyers appreciate getting a well-known brand like Sonos at an affordable price for a compact sound system.
While many praise its value, some users feel that the bass performance and overall sound could be better for the price. Those looking for more robust and deeper sound might find the device lacking compared to other options in the same price range, especially from competitors with larger models.
App & Software Experience
84%
The Sonos app is highly rated for its user-friendly interface, providing an intuitive way to control the soundbar’s settings and integrate it with other Sonos products. The ability to customize audio settings and stream music seamlessly makes it a valuable addition for users looking for full control over their audio experience.
However, a few users reported occasional connectivity issues with the app, such as delays when adjusting sound settings or occasional dropouts. Some also found the app to be somewhat limited in functionality compared to other home theater apps in terms of deeper sound customization.
Multimedia Performance
86%
This soundbar excels at delivering crisp, clear audio for TV shows, movies, and music alike. The dynamic drivers provide a balanced soundstage that works well across a variety of multimedia content. It’s especially praised for dialogue clarity in movies, making it an excellent choice for TV viewing.
Despite the good overall sound quality, the soundbar may struggle with more complex audio tracks, particularly for content with heavy sound effects or intricate music arrangements. Some users noted a lack of depth in sound for music genres like electronic or classical, which require more dynamic range.
Design & Aesthetics
90%
The soundbar’s minimalist design is widely appreciated for blending seamlessly with most home décor. Its sleek, modern look complements a variety of setups without drawing too much attention. The compact footprint ensures that it doesn't overwhelm the space, fitting well under most TVs or shelving units.
A few users pointed out that the simple design, while elegant, might lack some flair for those who prefer more visually striking or futuristic tech products. Some also mentioned that the absence of color options limits customization for different home styles.
Compatibility with Other Devices
85%
The soundbar is compatible with a range of devices, including TVs, smartphones, and tablets. Its support for AirPlay 2 and Wi-Fi makes it easy to integrate with various smart home ecosystems, especially for those already using other Sonos products for multi-room audio.
However, a small subset of users had difficulty pairing the soundbar with older or non-Sonos devices. Those with non-Apple or non-Sonos systems sometimes encountered issues with wireless connections or had to rely on wired connections, which could reduce the convenience of using the soundbar.
Customer Support
78%
22%
Sonos offers a relatively responsive customer support service, with many users mentioning that their issues were resolved promptly. The company’s online resources, including FAQs and troubleshooting guides, are also helpful for common setup issues and questions.
However, some customers were dissatisfied with the support they received, citing long response times or unhelpful solutions. There were also complaints about the lack of availability of live chat support during peak hours, leaving some users frustrated when seeking assistance with more complex issues.

Suitable for:

The Sonos Ray Soundbar is an excellent choice for users with limited space, such as apartment dwellers or students, who need a compact yet powerful audio solution. Those looking for an easy-to-install sound system will appreciate its straightforward setup with just two cables and Sonos app support. Additionally, it's ideal for people who want to enhance their TV or music audio without the complexity of a full home theater system. The soundbar is also a great option for tech-savvy users who enjoy wireless streaming via AirPlay 2, Wi-Fi, and Spotify Connect, offering seamless integration with other smart home devices.

Not suitable for:

While the Sonos Ray Soundbar delivers good sound for its size, it's not the best option for audiophiles or users who prioritize deep bass and high-fidelity audio. Larger soundbars or home theater systems may be better suited for those who want powerful bass or more immersive sound for movies and music. Additionally, if you're planning to use the soundbar in a large room, you might find its performance lacking compared to bulkier, more expensive options. Those looking for more robust sound customization through an app or advanced features may also find the Sonos Ray's settings somewhat limited.

Specifications

  • Speaker Type: This product is a compact soundbar designed for enhanced audio playback for TV and music.
  • Audio Output Mode: The soundbar provides stereo output, delivering a clear and immersive audio experience.
  • Connectivity: It supports Ethernet, Optical, and Wi-Fi connections, providing flexible setup options.
  • Wireless Communication: The soundbar supports AirPlay 2, NFC, and Wi-Fi for wireless streaming and connectivity.
  • Audio Driver: Equipped with dynamic drivers, it offers full-range sound for a balanced listening experience.
  • Special Features: The soundbar features Dolby audio support for enhanced sound clarity and depth.
  • Mounting Type: The Sonos Ray can be mounted on a shelf or wall, providing flexibility in setup.
  • Power Source: This device uses a corded electric power source, requiring connection to a power outlet.
  • Color: The soundbar comes in a sleek black finish, fitting various home décor styles.
  • Dimensions: The dimensions of the soundbar are 3.74″D x 22″W x 2.79″H, making it compact and space-efficient.
  • Weight: It weighs 4.3 pounds, making it light enough for easy installation and placement.
  • Tweeter Diameter: The soundbar features a 2.76-inch tweeter diameter for clear high-frequency audio output.
  • Surround Sound Channel: The Sonos Ray operates with a 2.0 surround sound channel configuration.
  • Multi Room Audio: The device supports multi-room audio, allowing integration with other Sonos devices for a wider sound experience.
  • Streaming Support: It supports wireless streaming via AirPlay 2, Wi-Fi, and Spotify Connect for easy access to music and podcasts.
  • Compatibility: The soundbar is compatible with most modern TVs, offering a range of input options like optical and Ethernet.
  • Setup: Setup is simple, with just two cables needed and full support from the Sonos app for an easy configuration process.
  • Sound Performance: It provides a stereo soundstage with dynamic drivers for a fuller audio experience, though it has limited bass compared to larger models.

FAQ

The Sonos Ray Soundbar stands out with its sleek, minimalist design, offering a compact size that suits smaller spaces. Despite its small footprint, it delivers immersive stereo sound with Dolby audio support and offers seamless wireless streaming via AirPlay 2, Wi-Fi, and Spotify Connect.

Setting up this soundbar is simple: connect it using just two cables (Ethernet or optical) and download the Sonos app. The app guides you through the process, making it easy to get started within minutes. No complicated installation steps required.

Yes, the Sonos Ray is compatible with most modern TVs and devices. It connects via Wi-Fi or optical input, and supports wireless streaming through AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect, making it easy to integrate into your existing setup.

Absolutely. The Sonos Ray offers a wide stereo soundstage, making it a great choice for music. Its wireless connectivity options like AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect ensure smooth, high-quality streaming from your favorite platforms.

The Sonos Ray provides stereo sound through dynamic drivers, offering a rich and full audio experience. While it doesn't offer full surround sound like larger soundbars, its sound clarity and depth are impressive for its compact size.

While the Sonos Ray delivers clear and immersive sound, the bass may not be as deep as that of larger, more expensive soundbars. It's ideal for small to medium spaces, but users who prefer heavy bass might want to consider a larger system.

Yes, the Sonos Ray is designed to be shelf-mounted, but it can also be wall-mounted using compatible mounts. This flexibility allows you to place it where it best fits in your space.

The Sonos Ray operates with a corded electric power source, meaning it needs to be plugged into a wall outlet for power. It's a straightforward setup, with no need for batteries or recharging.

While the Sonos Ray performs excellently in small to medium-sized rooms, it may not be the best choice for large spaces where more powerful sound systems are required. Users in larger rooms may find the sound less immersive compared to bigger soundbars.

A common concern among some users is the limited bass performance compared to more expensive soundbars. Additionally, while the setup process is generally straightforward, some have mentioned that the Sonos app interface could be more intuitive.