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You can add genuine rear surround channels to a Sonos Beam without buying a new soundbar: use a compatible pair of Sonos speakers and set them up as surrounds in the Sonos app. First check which Beam generation you own. Sonos’s compatibility list cited here covers Beam (Gen 2), and its supported options include matching pairs of One SL, Play:1, and SYMFONISK Bookshelf speakers.
Which speakers work as Sonos Beam surrounds?
For Beam (Gen 2), Sonos lists One SL, Play:1, and SYMFONISK Bookshelf speakers from Gen 1 and Gen 2 as surround options. Sonos’s ordinary guideline is to use two speakers of the same model. It allows some combinations of related models, but that does not mean any two different Sonos speakers will work together. Check the compatibility list for the exact models before buying: Sonos surround sound guidelines and limitations.
A used or refurbished matching pair of One SL speakers is one option to investigate; matching SYMFONISK Bookshelf or Play:1 speakers are other listed categories for Beam (Gen 2). The cited compatibility guidance establishes supported models, not current prices, availability, or the condition of secondhand listings. Compare dated listings in your market and factor in the pair’s condition and app compatibility rather than assuming a particular model is the cheapest.
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Do not use the Beam (Gen 2) compatibility list as a blanket guarantee for Beam (Gen 1). Sonos says Beam (Gen 1) supports both the current Sonos app and S1, while Beam (Gen 2) requires the current Sonos app. Confirm your Beam model and the intended speakers’ compatibility before purchasing older hardware. See Sonos app version compatibility.
#1 Best Overall
- The information below is per-pack only
- Powered by a 47% faster processor, the next-gen dual-tweeter acoustic architecture produces detailed stereo separation while a 25% larger midwoofer deepens the bass.¹
- Place this speaker anywhere and everywhere you want to listen. The compact design fits beautifully on your bookshelf, kitchen counter, desk, or nightstand.
- Stream from all your favorite services over WiFi. Pair a Bluetooth device with the press of a button. Connect a turntable or other audio source using an auxiliary cable and the Sonos Line-In Adapter.²
- Go from unboxing to unbelievable sound in just a few minutes. Simply plug in the power cable, connect your phone or tablet to WiFi, and open the Sonos app.
How do I add surround speakers to a Sonos Beam?
Grouping speakers in the app or creating a stereo pair does not configure them as home-theater surrounds. Add the speakers as surrounds in the Beam room’s settings instead.
- Confirm compatibility. Identify your Beam generation and verify that the intended pair is supported.
- Add each speaker to your Sonos system. Add the Beam and both surround speakers as separate rooms before starting setup.
- Separate a stereo pair if needed. If the two speakers are already configured as a stereo pair, separate them before continuing.
- Open the Beam room’s settings. In the Sonos app, go to Settings, select the Beam room, choose Set up Surrounds, and follow the prompts.
- Place the speakers and check their connection. Sonos says surrounds connect wirelessly to the home-theater product; it advises keeping them in the same room with line of sight to that product. Follow the full instructions in Sonos’s guide to adding surround speakers.
Where should I place the rear speakers?
Sonos recommends placing surrounds behind and to either side of your usual listening position. Its One SL product guide suggests approximately 10 feet from the favorite listening position and angling the speakers toward the seats. Treat that distance as a placement guideline for One SL, not a guaranteed acoustic optimum for every room. Room layout, the listening area, and the requirement for line of sight to the Beam all matter. See the One SL product guide.
Rank #2
- Dual angled tweeters and a powerful midwoofer deliver rich, balanced stereo sound with deep bass.
- The perfect start or addition to your system, Era 100 SL makes Sonos sound more accessible.
- Stream over WiFi, pair via Bluetooth, or connect a turntable and more with line in.
- Go from unboxing to incredible sound in minutes with a quick plug-in and the Sonos app
- Trueplay fine-tunes Era 100 SL for the unique acoustics of the room.
Is Sub Mini a surround-speaker alternative?
No. Sub Mini is an optional bass addition, not a pair of rear speakers and not the way to create rear surround channels. Sonos lists it as compatible with Beam (Gen 1) and Beam (Gen 2); it can be considered separately if you want to add bass. See Sonos products that support Sub Mini and Sonos home theater products.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Powered by a 47% faster processor, the next-gen dual-tweeter acoustic architecture produces detailed stereo separation while a 25% larger midwoofer deepens the bass.¹
- Place this speaker anywhere and everywhere you want to listen. The compact design fits beautifully on your bookshelf, kitchen counter, desk, or nightstand.
- Stream from all your favorite services over WiFi. Pair a Bluetooth device with the press of a button. Connect a turntable or other audio source using an auxiliary cable and the Sonos Line-In Adapter.²
- Go from unboxing to unbelievable sound in just a few minutes. Simply plug in the power cable, connect your phone or tablet to WiFi, and open the Sonos app.
- With a tap in the Sonos app, Trueplay tuning technology analyzes the unique acoustics of your space and optimizes the speaker’s EQ. So all your content sounds just the way it should.
Rank #4
- Dual angled tweeters and a powerful midwoofer deliver rich, balanced stereo sound with deep bass.
- The perfect start or addition to your system, Era 100 SL makes Sonos sound more accessible.
- Stream over WiFi, pair via Bluetooth, or connect a turntable and more with line in.
- Go from unboxing to incredible sound in minutes with a quick plug-in and the Sonos app
- Trueplay fine-tunes Era 100 SL for the unique acoustics of the room.
Rank #3
- Featuring six optimally positioned drivers all around the front, sides, and top to support Dolby Atmos Music, the breakthrough acoustic design projects sound from wall to wall and floor to ceiling, immersing you in every dimension of the song.
- No matter where you are or what you play, the listening experience is nothing short of extraordinary. Custom waveguides disperse sound right, left, forward, and above, creating a sensationally spacious stereo soundstage you can enjoy all around the room.
- Stream from all your favorite services over WiFi. Pair a Bluetooth device with the press of a button. Connect a turntable or other audio source using an auxiliary cable and the Sonos Line-In Adapter.
- Experience mind-bending multichannel surround sound when you pair two speakers with Sonos Arc or Beam (Gen 2). Supercharged by Dolby Atmos, the lateral and overhead channels in each product create an all-encompassing soundstage to envelop you in the story.
- Enjoy free music, original content, and thousands of live stations on Sonos Radio. Play music with hands-free ease and unmatched privacy using Sonos Voice Control. Plus, access new features and services with regular software updates.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
