Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar Review: Features, Sound Quality, and Comparison Unveiled

Introduction: Why the Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar Matters

Imagine settling into your cozy living room, ready for a movie night or a music session, only to be let down by the lackluster audio from your TV’s built-in speakers. It’s a common frustration, especially in smaller spaces where bulky audio systems feel impractical. Enter the Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar, a sleek, minimalist solution designed to deliver powerful, room-filling sound without overwhelming your space or setup process. This Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar review dives deep into its features, performance, and how it stacks up against competitors, helping you decide if it’s the right audio upgrade for your home.

In a world where home entertainment is evolving, the Sonos Ray stands out as an accessible entry point into the renowned Sonos ecosystem. Whether you’re a casual listener, a movie enthusiast, or someone looking to enhance their gaming setup, this compact soundbar promises to elevate your experience with minimal fuss. Let’s explore what makes the Sonos Ray a compelling choice, from its design and setup to its audio performance and integration capabilities, while comparing it to other soundbars in its class to give you a clear picture of its value.

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Design and Build: Sleek, Compact, and Timeless

The Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar is a masterclass in understated elegance. Measuring just 22 inches wide, 2.79 inches high, and 3.74 inches deep, and weighing only 4.3 pounds, it’s one of the smallest soundbars in Sonos’ lineup. Its tapered, trapezoidal design, available in black or white, features a polycarbonate grille that exudes sophistication while remaining durable. Unlike its pricier siblings, the Sonos Beam and Arc, the Ray’s grille is front-facing only, which minimizes acoustic interference when placed in tight spaces like TV stands or cabinets.

The build quality is unmistakably Sonos—solid, premium, and designed to blend seamlessly into any home. Small rubber feet on the bottom ensure stability, while a discreet IR sensor allows compatibility with infrared-enabled TV remotes. The top panel hosts capacitive touch controls for play, pause, and volume adjustments, though you can deactivate these via the Sonos app for a cleaner look. An optional wall mount is available, making it versatile for various setups, from bedrooms to small living rooms.

What sets the Ray apart is its ability to disappear visually while commanding attention sonically. Its compact footprint ensures it fits under most TVs (even 40-inch models) without blocking the screen, making it ideal for apartments or secondary rooms. However, if you’re pairing it with a TV larger than 55 inches, the Ray’s petite size might look slightly disproportionate, though this is a minor aesthetic quibble given its performance.

Setup and Connectivity: Simplicity Meets Versatility

One of the standout features in this Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar review is its zero-stress setup. Sonos has a reputation for user-friendly design, and the Ray lives up to it. Out of the box, you’ll find a 6.5-foot power cable, a 4.9-foot optical cable, and a QuickStart guide. Setup is as simple as plugging in the power, connecting the optical cable to your TV, and following the Sonos S2 app’s instructions. The app, available for iOS and Android, guides you through connecting the Ray to your Wi-Fi network, checking connections, and configuring your TV remote for volume control.

The Ray’s reliance on an optical connection, rather than HDMI, is both a strength and a limitation. On one hand, optical ensures compatibility with virtually any TV or PC with an optical output, making it a plug-and-play solution for older devices. On the other, it sacrifices support for advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which require HDMI eARC. This trade-off keeps the Ray affordable but may disappoint cinephiles seeking immersive surround sound. For most users, however, the optical connection delivers reliable, high-quality audio without the complexity of HDMI-CEC compatibility issues.

The Ray also includes an Ethernet port for wired network connections, though its Wi-Fi capabilities (supporting Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect) make wireless streaming a breeze. The lack of built-in microphones means no native voice assistant support, but you can control the Ray via a paired smart speaker like the Sonos One or an Amazon Echo. This design choice keeps the Ray focused on core audio performance while maintaining flexibility within the Sonos ecosystem.

Audio Performance: Punchy, Clear, and Surprisingly Robust

The heart of any Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar review lies in its sound quality, and the Ray delivers impressively for its size. Equipped with four Class-D digital amplifiers, two off-center tweeters, two centered elliptical mid-woofers, and proprietary low-velocity ports, the Ray creates a wide soundstage that belies its compact form. Sonos’ anti-distortion technology ensures clean, balanced audio, while its custom acoustics harmonize high and mid-range frequencies for crisp dialogue and vibrant music.

Dialogue and Vocal Clarity

For dialogue-heavy content like TV shows, podcasts, and audiobooks, the Ray shines. Fine-tuned with input from Hollywood sound engineers, it offers exceptional vocal clarity. During movie nights, voices in films like Venom: Let There Be Carnage come through with depth and conviction, even without a dedicated center channel. The Speech Enhancement mode, accessible via the Sonos app, further amplifies dialogue, making whispers and subtle moments crystal clear. Night Mode balances volume levels, ensuring you can enjoy late-night viewing without disturbing others.

Music Playback

The Ray isn’t just for TV audio—it’s a stellar music companion. Whether streaming jazz, pop, or classical via Spotify Connect or Apple AirPlay 2, the Ray delivers detailed highs and balanced mids. Lead instruments and vocals are reproduced with accuracy, making it suitable for a wide range of genres. However, its bass response, while respectable for a standalone unit, lacks the deep rumble needed for bass-heavy tracks like EDM or hip-hop. This is where pairing the Ray with a subwoofer, like the Sonos Sub Mini, can elevate the experience, though we’ll explore that in the expansion section.

Movies and Gaming

For movies and gaming, the Ray provides a punchy, engaging soundstage. Its split waveguides and advanced processing project sound across the room, creating a sense of immersion despite its 2.0-channel setup. While it supports Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS Digital Surround, the absence of Dolby Atmos means it doesn’t deliver the height effects of premium soundbars. Still, scenes from action-packed films like Blade Runner 2049 feel dynamic, with well-controlled lows and a surprising sense of scale. For gamers, connecting the Ray to a PC via optical output enhances explosions and soundtracks, though the lack of HDMI limits its appeal for next-gen consoles.

Trueplay Tuning

A standout feature is Sonos’ Trueplay tuning, which uses an iOS device (and recently Android) to analyze your room’s acoustics and optimize the Ray’s output. This process, which involves waving your phone around the room, ensures the sound is tailored to your space, whether it’s a cramped apartment or an open-plan living area. The result is a noticeable improvement in audio balance, particularly in rooms with unusual layouts or reflective surfaces.

Sonos Ecosystem Integration: A Gateway to Multi-Room Audio

The Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar isn’t just a standalone device—it’s an entry point into the Sonos ecosystem, known for its seamless multi-room audio capabilities. Through the Sonos S2 app, you can group the Ray with other Sonos speakers, like the Sonos One or Era 100, for synchronized music playback across your home. This makes it ideal for hosting gatherings or creating a cohesive audio experience in multiple rooms.

The Ray also supports TV Audio Swap, allowing you to transfer audio to Sonos Ace headphones for private listening with spatial audio and dynamic head tracking. This feature is particularly appealing for late-night viewers or gamers who want an immersive experience without disturbing others. While the Ray lacks the smart features of the Beam or Arc (like built-in Alexa or Sonos Voice Control), its integration with third-party smart speakers ensures you’re not left out of the voice-control conversation.

For those looking to build a home theater setup, the Ray can be paired with Sonos’ Sub Mini or Sub 4 for deeper bass, or with rear speakers like the Sonos One SL or Symfonisk bookshelf speakers for a surround sound experience. While these add-ons increase the cost, they offer a modular approach, letting you expand your system over time without committing to a full setup upfront.

Comparison with Competitors: How Does the Sonos Ray Stack Up?

To provide a comprehensive Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar review, let’s compare it to other soundbars in its class, focusing on design, features, and performance. Below, we pit the Ray against the Sonos Beam (Gen 2), Bose TV Speaker, Sony HT-G700, and Yamaha SR-B20A, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.

Sonos Ray vs. Sonos Beam (Gen 2)

Design: The Ray is smaller (22 inches vs. 25.6 inches) and lighter (4.3 pounds vs. 6.2 pounds) than the Beam, making it better suited for compact spaces. Both share a premium aesthetic, but the Beam’s wraparound grille gives it a slightly more upscale look.
Features: The Beam supports Dolby Atmos and HDMI eARC, offering a more immersive experience for movies. It also includes built-in Alexa and Google Assistant, absent on the Ray. However, the Ray’s optical connection ensures broader TV compatibility.
Audio Performance: The Beam’s 3.0-channel setup with a dedicated center channel enhances dialogue clarity slightly over the Ray’s 2.0 setup. The Beam also delivers a wider soundstage and better bass, though the Ray holds its own for smaller rooms.
Ecosystem: Both integrate seamlessly with the Sonos ecosystem, but the Beam’s smart features make it more versatile for voice-controlled setups.
Verdict: The Ray is ideal for budget-conscious users or smaller spaces, while the Beam is better for those prioritizing Atmos and smart features.

Sonos Ray vs. Bose TV Speaker

Design: The Bose TV Speaker is slightly larger (23.4 inches wide) but similarly compact, with a fabric grille that contrasts with the Ray’s polycarbonate finish. Both are minimalist and easy to place.
Features: The Bose offers Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC connectivity, giving it an edge for wireless device pairing and modern TV integration. However, it lacks the Ray’s Wi-Fi streaming and ecosystem integration.
Audio Performance: The Ray outperforms the Bose for vocal clarity and music playback, thanks to Trueplay tuning and its advanced acoustics. The Bose provides decent dialogue enhancement but lacks the Ray’s soundstage width.
Ecosystem: The Ray’s Sonos ecosystem integration makes it a better choice for multi-room audio, while the Bose is a standalone solution.
Verdict: Choose the Ray for ecosystem flexibility and superior music performance; opt for the Bose if Bluetooth and HDMI are priorities.

Sonos Ray vs. Sony HT-G700

Design: The Sony HT-G700 is larger (35 inches wide) and includes a wireless subwoofer, making it less suited for small spaces compared to the Ray’s standalone design.
Features: The Sony supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X via HDMI eARC, offering a more cinematic experience. It also includes Bluetooth and a dedicated remote, unlike the Ray’s app-based or IR remote control.
Audio Performance: The Sony’s 3.1-channel setup with a subwoofer delivers deeper bass and more immersive sound for movies. However, the Ray is better for music, with tighter, clearer audio and less distortion.
Ecosystem: The Sony lacks the multi-room capabilities of the Ray, making it less versatile for whole-home audio.
Verdict: The Sony is better for movie enthusiasts seeking Atmos and deep bass; the Ray excels for music and compact setups.

Sonos Ray vs. Yamaha SR-B20A

Design: The Yamaha is slightly larger (23.6 inches wide) but still compact, with a simpler design compared to the Ray’s premium finish.
Features: The Yamaha offers Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC, plus a built-in subwoofer for better bass response. The Ray counters with Wi-Fi streaming and Trueplay tuning.
Audio Performance: Both deliver clear dialogue and solid music performance, but the Ray’s soundstage is wider, and its app-based customization gives it an edge. The Yamaha’s bass is slightly more pronounced without add-ons.
Ecosystem: The Ray’s Sonos ecosystem integration outshines the Yamaha’s standalone nature.
Verdict: The Ray is better for those invested in or planning to join the Sonos ecosystem; the Yamaha is a strong alternative for budget buyers needing HDMI and Bluetooth.

Pros and Cons of the Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar

Pros

Compact Design: Fits easily in small spaces without blocking your TV screen.
Exceptional Vocal Clarity: Ideal for dialogue-heavy content, enhanced by Speech Enhancement and Night Mode.
Seamless Sonos Integration: Supports multi-room audio and future expansion with subwoofers and rear speakers.
Trueplay Tuning: Optimizes sound for your room’s acoustics, delivering a tailored experience.
Easy Setup: Optical connection and Sonos app make installation a breeze.
Versatile Streaming: Supports Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect for music and podcasts.

Cons

No Dolby Atmos: Lacks support for immersive audio formats, limiting its cinematic potential.
Optical-Only Connection: Misses out on HDMI eARC, restricting advanced audio format support.
Limited Bass: Standalone setup lacks deep low-end for bass-heavy genres or action films.
No Built-In Voice Assistant: Requires a separate smart speaker for voice control.
Wall Mount Not Included: Additional purchase required for wall mounting.

Expandability: Building Your Sonos Ray Home Theater

One of the Ray’s biggest strengths is its expandability within the Sonos ecosystem. While it performs admirably as a standalone unit, adding components can transform it into a full-fledged home theater system. Here’s how you can scale up:

Sonos Sub Mini or Sub 4: Pairing the Ray with a Sub Mini or Sub 4 adds deep, controlled bass for movies and music. The Sub Mini, with dual 6-inch woofers, is ideal for smaller spaces, while the Sub 4’s force-canceling drivers deliver cinematic low-end. Both connect wirelessly, allowing flexible placement.
Sonos One SL or Symfonisk Speakers: Adding two Sonos One SL or Symfonisk bookshelf speakers as rear surrounds creates a 4.0 or 4.1 setup (with a sub). This enhances immersion for movies and gaming, though the lack of Atmos limits height effects.
Sonos Ace Headphones: For private listening, the TV Audio Swap feature lets you beam audio to Sonos Ace headphones, complete with spatial audio and head tracking.

While these add-ons increase the cost, they allow you to start with the Ray and expand over time, making it a future-proof investment for audio enthusiasts.

Who Is the Sonos Ray For?

The Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar is perfect for:

Small-Space Dwellers: Its compact size and forward-facing acoustics make it ideal for apartments, bedrooms, or dorms.
Budget-Conscious Buyers: Offers premium Sonos quality at an accessible price point.
Sonos Ecosystem Enthusiasts: A great entry point for those wanting to join or expand their multi-room audio setup.
Dialogue-Focused Viewers: Excels for TV shows, podcasts, and audiobooks with clear vocals.
Music Lovers: Delivers detailed, balanced sound for streaming music via Wi-Fi or AirPlay 2.

It’s less suited for:

Home Theater Purists: Those seeking Dolby Atmos or deep bass may prefer the Sonos Beam or Arc.
Users with Modern TVs: The optical-only connection may frustrate those with HDMI eARC setups.
Bass Enthusiasts: Without a subwoofer, the Ray’s low-end is limited for bass-heavy content.

Sustainability and Support: Sonos’ Commitment

Sonos emphasizes sustainability with the Ray, using eco-friendly packaging and designing for repairability. The company commits to at least five years of software updates, with a track record of supporting legacy products even longer. Replacement parts are available, and Sonos offers trade-in and recycling programs, aligning with modern environmental standards. This focus on longevity enhances the Ray’s value, ensuring it remains relevant for years.

Conclusion: Is the Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar Worth It?

This Sonos Ray Compact Soundbar review reveals a device that punches above its weight, delivering premium audio in a compact, user-friendly package. Its crisp dialogue, wide soundstage, and seamless integration with the Sonos ecosystem make it a standout choice for small spaces and budget-conscious buyers. While it lacks Dolby Atmos and HDMI connectivity, its performance for dialogue-heavy content, music, and casual movie watching is hard to beat at its price point.

Compared to competitors like the Sonos Beam, Bose TV Speaker, Sony HT-G700, and Yamaha SR-B20A, the Ray offers a unique blend of compactness, ecosystem flexibility, and audio quality. Its expandability ensures it can grow with your needs, whether you add a subwoofer or rear speakers down the line. For those seeking a simple, high-quality audio upgrade without breaking the bank, the Sonos Ray is a compelling choice that brings the Sonos experience to more homes.

Have you upgraded your TV audio with a soundbar? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let us know if the Sonos Ray fits your setup!

FAQs

Q: Does the Sonos Ray support Dolby Atmos?
A: No, the Ray supports Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS Digital Surround but not Dolby Atmos, due to its optical-only connection.

Q: Can I use the Sonos Ray with a PC for gaming?
A: Yes, as long as your PC has an optical output, the Ray can enhance gaming audio with its wide soundstage.

Q: Is the Sonos Ray compatible with non-Sonos remotes?
A: Yes, it works with infrared-enabled TV remotes, but compatibility with RF or Bluetooth remotes may be limited.

Q: Can I add a subwoofer to the Sonos Ray?
A: Yes, you can pair it with a Sonos Sub Mini or Sub 4 for enhanced bass, connecting wirelessly via the Sonos app.

Q: Does the Sonos Ray support Bluetooth?
A: No, the Ray uses Wi-Fi for streaming, supporting Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect.