Recently, the soundbar market has seen two important developments: on one hand, Sonos insists on keeping its award-winning Beam 2, and on the other hand, Hisense has launched a new Dolby Atmos wireless system aiming to challenge Samsung's flagship. The clash between old and new products offers consumers more choices.[1][2]
The Sonos Beam 2 has won numerous awards since its release. Although its successor, the Beam Ultra, has been unveiled, Sonos has decided to continue selling the Beam 2. What Hi-Fi believes that given some users' limited budgets, retaining this cost-effective product is a wise move.[1]
Meanwhile, Hisense is challenging the Samsung HW-Q990H with a brand new Dolby Atmos wireless soundbar system. What Hi-Fi editors point out that the system has three potential advantages in sound quality, connectivity, and price, making it a strong contender in the market.[2]
Sonos's newly released Beam Ultra brings a significant Dolby Atmos upgrade, but What Hi-Fi found that it still lacks a key feature — HDMI 2.1 input. This means gamers cannot pass through 4K 120Hz signals, making it an obvious shortcoming.[3]
In terms of specifications, the Beam 2 supports Dolby Atmos virtual surround sound, equipped with five full-range speakers and a center tweeter, priced at around $449. The specific pricing for the Hisense new system has not been announced yet, but it is expected to be more competitive, targeting Samsung's flagship.[1][2]
The highlight of the Beam Ultra is its stronger bass performance and wider soundstage, while also supporting Trueplay tuning. However, the lack of HDMI 2.1 makes users who pursue next-generation gaming hesitant. The Hisense system may attract consumers with wireless rear surrounds and a lower price.[2][3]
Overall, Sonos covers different price points with a dual-product line, while Hisense tries to capture the market with high cost-effectiveness. For consumers, choosing the mature and stable Beam 2, waiting for the breakthrough of Hisense's new system, or compromising on the missing features of the Beam Ultra all depend on their own needs.[1][2][3]
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来源
- [1] What Hi-Fi — Naysayers be damned, Sonos is right to keep its Award-winning Beam 2 Dolby Atmos soundbar on sale
- [2] What Hi-Fi — Hisense is taking on the mighty Samsung HW-Q990H with a new Dolby Atmos soundbar system – here are 3 reasons I think it could be great
- [3] What Hi-Fi — Sonos' new Beam soundbar is finally here with a big Dolby Atmos upgrade – but there’s still something missing