Choosing Between Two Great Soundbars: Sonos Beam Gen 2 vs LG S80TR

When it comes to upgrading your TV's audio, soundbars have become the go-to solution for most people. They're way easier to set up than traditional surround sound systems, take up minimal space, and can dramatically improve your viewing experience. But with so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

Today, I'm comparing two excellent premium soundbars that take completely different approaches to delivering great audio: the Sonos Beam Gen 2 at $449 and the LG S80TR at $547. These represent two distinct philosophies in soundbar design, and understanding their differences will help you make the right choice for your setup.

Understanding Premium Soundbars: What You Need to Know

Premium soundbars typically cost between $400-800 and aim to deliver cinema-quality audio without the complexity of traditional surround sound systems. The key things to consider are audio performance (how good they sound), value proposition (what you get for your money), room compatibility, smart features, and expandability.

The most important technical concept to understand is channel configuration. When you see numbers like "5.1.3," they tell you exactly what speakers you're getting. The first number represents main channels (left, center, right, and surround speakers), the second is subwoofers for bass, and the third indicates height channels for overhead effects in formats like Dolby Atmos - a technology that makes sound seem to come from above and around you, creating a dome of audio.

These two soundbars take fundamentally different approaches. The Sonos focuses on being a high-quality foundation you can build upon, while the LG gives you everything upfront for a complete surround experience.

The Evolution of These Products

The Sonos Beam Gen 2 launched in October 2021 as an upgrade to the original Beam from 2018. The biggest improvement was adding Dolby Atmos support, which the first generation lacked entirely. Sonos also upgraded the internal processing power and switched to HDMI eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) - a newer connection standard that can handle higher-quality audio formats and provides better control integration with your TV.

Since its release, the Beam Gen 2 has received several software updates that improved its Trueplay room calibration system and added new streaming service integrations. The soundbar market has become increasingly competitive, but Sonos has maintained its position through consistent software improvements and the strength of its multi-room ecosystem.

The LG S80TR is much newer, launching in 2024 as part of LG's effort to compete more aggressively in the premium soundbar space. LG learned from years of watching Samsung and Sonos dominate this category and packed impressive features into this system. It includes AI-powered room calibration, support for both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X (another immersive audio format), and their WOW Orchestra technology that syncs the soundbar with compatible LG TVs to use both sets of speakers simultaneously.

Deep Dive: Audio Performance Where It Matters Most

Soundstage and Imaging

The most impressive thing about the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is how it creates such a wide soundstage from its compact 25.6-inch frame. Soundstage refers to how spread out the audio feels - whether voices and effects seem to come from specific locations or just blob together in the center. Despite having no physical surround speakers, the Beam Gen 2 uses advanced digital signal processing to create the impression that sounds are coming from well beyond the physical boundaries of the soundbar.

In my testing with movies like "Mad Max: Fury Road," the Beam Gen 2 consistently placed engine sounds, gunfire, and dialogue in distinct spatial locations. Voices remained anchored to the center while effects spread convincingly to the sides. This psychoacoustic trickery - using the way our brains process sound to create illusions - works remarkably well for a single-unit soundbar.

The LG S80TR, with its true 5.1.3 configuration, takes a more direct approach. Instead of tricking your brain, it actually places sound sources where they should be using dedicated rear speakers. The difference is immediately noticeable with content like "Top Gun: Maverick," where jet engines truly whoosh from front to back rather than just creating the impression of movement.

However, the LG's rear speakers do have some quirks. They exhibit what audio engineers call "frequency response issues" in the lower midrange - basically, certain frequencies around 200-400Hz get somewhat muted. This occasionally makes things like sword clashes in "The Witcher" sound less impactful than they should.

Dolby Atmos Performance: Virtual vs Physical

Both soundbars support Dolby Atmos, but they achieve height effects - sounds that appear to come from above - very differently. The Sonos uses "virtual" Atmos processing, bouncing sound off your ceiling and walls to create the impression of overhead audio. The LG includes dedicated up-firing speakers that shoot sound directly at your ceiling to reflect back down.

In practice, the Sonos approach works better than you might expect, especially for ambient effects like rain or overhead helicopters in action movies. The processing is sophisticated enough that you genuinely hear sounds coming from above the soundbar, though the effect is subtle and works best in rooms with standard 8-9 foot ceilings.

The LG's physical up-firing drivers should theoretically provide better height effects, but in reality, the improvement is modest. The height layer extends maybe 2-3 feet above the soundbar, which is noticeable but not dramatically different from the Sonos approach. Both fall short of the overhead immersion you get from ceiling-mounted speakers in a full Atmos system.

Bass Response: The Foundation of Action Movies

This is where the two approaches differ most dramatically. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 alone produces adequate bass for dialogue and music, but action movies expose its limitations. Explosions lack that chest-thumping impact, and the lowest frequencies that make movie soundtracks feel powerful simply aren't there.

Sonos addresses this with the optional Sub Mini, which costs an additional $439. When combined, the system transforms into something that can properly handle the full range of movie audio. But that brings the total cost to nearly $900 - significantly more than the LG.

The LG S80TR includes a wireless subwoofer that handles frequencies down to around 40Hz - low enough to reproduce most of the bass content in movies and music. The sub integrates seamlessly with the main soundbar, and the wireless connection means you can place it wherever it sounds best in your room without running cables.

The LG also includes multiple bass enhancement modes. "Bass Blast" provides extra punch for action movies, while "Bass Blast+" pushes things even further for those who want maximum impact. These aren't just simple volume boosts - they use digital signal processing to enhance specific frequency ranges and add harmonic content that makes bass feel more powerful.

Smart Features and Daily Usability

Voice Control and Integration

The Sonos Beam Gen 2 takes a minimalist approach to voice control. It supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, but only for basic functions like volume control and playback. The real intelligence comes from integration with the broader Sonos ecosystem - if you have other Sonos speakers, you can group them for multi-room audio or use them as surround channels.

The LG S80TR offers more comprehensive smart features right out of the box. Built-in Alexa and Google Assistant handle not just music control but also smart home integration, weather updates, and general questions. The soundbar also supports multiple streaming protocols: AirPlay 2 for Apple devices, Chromecast for Android, Spotify Connect for direct streaming, and Bluetooth 5.1 for universal device compatibility.

Room Calibration Technology

Both soundbars include automatic room calibration, but they work differently. Sonos Trueplay uses your iPhone or iPad's microphone to map your room's acoustics, then adjusts the soundbar's output to compensate for reflections and room size. It's effective but requires an iOS device - Android users are out of luck.

LG's AI Sound Pro uses built-in microphones to analyze your room continuously and adjust the sound accordingly. This "set it and forget it" approach works with any TV and doesn't require additional devices. The system adapts to different content types automatically, boosting dialogue clarity during quiet scenes and optimizing surround effects for action sequences.

Connectivity and Compatibility

HDMI and TV Integration

Both soundbars use HDMI eARC as their primary connection to your TV. This newer standard supports high-quality audio formats and allows for better integration - you can control the soundbar volume with your TV remote, and the soundbar can automatically turn on when you start watching.

The LG S80TR includes a unique advantage for LG TV owners: WOW Orchestra. This feature uses both your TV's built-in speakers and the soundbar simultaneously, creating an even wider soundstage. It's particularly effective for dialogue, using the TV's speakers to anchor voices to the screen while the soundbar handles effects and music.

Streaming and Device Support

The Sonos ecosystem shines for music streaming. The Sonos app supports dozens of services directly, and the sound quality for music playback is exceptional. However, the lack of Bluetooth connectivity can be limiting - you can't easily connect phones or tablets that don't support AirPlay.

The LG offers more flexibility with Bluetooth 5.1, multiple casting protocols, and direct support for popular streaming services. This makes it easier to play content from any device, regardless of operating system or preferred streaming method.

Design and Room Considerations

Physical Footprint and Aesthetics

The Sonos Beam Gen 2 measures just 25.6 inches wide, making it suitable for smaller TVs and tighter spaces. The build quality is exceptional - the fabric grille and plastic construction feel premium and should age well. It's available in both black and white to match different décor styles.

The LG S80TR is significantly larger at 39.3 inches wide, better suited to 55-inch and larger TVs. You'll also need to accommodate the wireless subwoofer (which is quite substantial) and find good locations for the rear speakers. This isn't necessarily a negative - the larger system can fill bigger rooms more effectively - but it requires more planning.

Room Size Optimization

For small rooms under 150 square feet, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is often the better choice. Its precise soundstage control prevents the audio from becoming overwhelming, and the compact size suits the space appropriately.

Medium-sized rooms (150-250 square feet) represent the sweet spot for the LG S80TR. The system has enough power to fill the space without overpowering it, and you have room to properly position the subwoofer and rear speakers for optimal performance.

Large rooms over 250 square feet expose the limitations of the standalone Sonos Beam Gen 2. To properly fill a large space, you'd need to add the Sub Mini and eventually rear speakers, bringing the total investment well over $1,000. The LG handles larger spaces more effectively with its included components.

Value Analysis: What You Get for Your Money

Immediate Value Proposition

At $547, the LG S80TR provides remarkable value. You get a complete 5.1.3 surround system with wireless subwoofer and rear speakers - components that would cost significantly more if purchased separately from other manufacturers.

The Sonos Beam Gen 2 at $449 costs less initially, but represents the foundation of a potentially expensive system. If you plan to stay with just the soundbar, it's excellent value. If you'll eventually want true surround sound, the total cost becomes much higher.

Long-term Investment Considerations

The Sonos approach offers flexibility. You can start with just the soundbar and add components as your budget allows or needs change. This modular approach appeals to people who like to build their system gradually or aren't sure about their long-term requirements.

The LG approach provides immediate satisfaction. You get the full surround experience from day one without additional purchases. For most people who just want great movie audio without complexity, this represents better value.

Home Theater Integration

Content Format Support

The LG S80TR supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, covering virtually all immersive audio content. This includes 4K Blu-rays, streaming services like Netflix and Disney+, and gaming platforms. The broader format support ensures compatibility with whatever content you prefer.

The Sonos Beam Gen 2 supports Dolby Atmos but not DTS:X. This isn't a major limitation for most users since streaming services primarily use Dolby formats, but it could matter if you have a large physical media collection.

Gaming Performance

Both soundbars handle gaming well, but the LG S80TR has specific advantages. The dedicated Game mode reduces audio processing delay to minimize lag between on-screen action and sound. The true surround channels also provide competitive advantages in games where directional audio matters - you can actually hear enemies approaching from behind.

Making Your Decision

Choose the Sonos Beam Gen 2 if you prioritize build quality, gradual system expansion, music listening, or have space constraints. It's perfect for people who want excellent audio from a premium, compact package and don't mind the higher long-term costs of building a complete system.

Choose the LG S80TR if you want immediate surround sound, primarily watch movies and TV shows, have adequate space for multiple components, or own an LG TV. It provides exceptional value for anyone wanting a complete home theater audio experience without the complexity of traditional surround sound systems.

Both soundbars represent excellent choices in the premium category, but they serve different priorities. The Sonos rewards patience and premium sensibilities, while the LG delivers immediate gratification and comprehensive features. Your choice should align with your space, budget timeline, and what matters most in your daily viewing experience.

Sonos Beam Gen 2 Soundbar Deals and Prices

LG S80TR 5.1.3 Channel Soundbar with Dolby Atmos and Rear Speakers Soundbar Deals and Prices