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Set up the Beam (Gen 2) in the Sonos app first, then connect it to your TV’s HDMI ARC or eARC port. Use the included optical adapter only if your TV has no ARC port; optical carries TV audio but does not provide Dolby Atmos, CEC, or TV voice control.
Before you start
- Install the current Sonos app on an iOS or Android device. Beam (Gen 2) is not compatible with the Sonos S1 Controller app.
- Place the Beam where you want it, connect it to power, and keep the included HDMI cable and optical audio adapter nearby.
- Check the labels beside the TV’s HDMI ports for “ARC” or “eARC.” If neither is present, look for a digital optical audio output.
Sonos requires app setup before Beam can play TV audio. The app will guide you through the appropriate cable and TV connection. See Sonos’ Beam setup instructions and Beam (Gen 2) support.
Choose the right TV connection
| Connection | When to use it | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| HDMI ARC | Preferred when the TV has an HDMI port labeled ARC. | Supports TV audio, CEC, and supported voice-assistant control of the TV. ARC is also an Atmos connection path for Beam (Gen 2). |
| HDMI eARC | Use the TV’s eARC port when available. | Supports Atmos. Sonos lists Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby TrueHD as supported Atmos formats. |
| Digital optical with the included adapter | Use when the TV lacks HDMI ARC. | Provides TV audio, but optical does not carry Atmos for Beam (Gen 2), CEC commands, or voice control of the TV. |
Sonos’ TV requirements for Sonos home theater speakers explain the connection and format requirements. If Atmos matters, use ARC or eARC rather than optical.
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Set up Beam in the Sonos app
- Open the Sonos app on your iOS or Android device.
- For a new Sonos system: choose the speaker or component setup option, create a Sonos account or sign in, then select Add when Beam appears.
- For an existing system: open Settings, choose Add Speaker or Component, and follow the prompts.
- Continue through the app’s instructions to connect Beam to the TV. Choose HDMI ARC/eARC if available; if the TV has no ARC port, follow the optical connection prompts and use the included adapter.
- Complete the remaining prompts. The setup flow also offers the option to add content services.
If Beam is not found during setup
Use Sonos’ dedicated Beam (Gen 2) Help and Support page to open the article titled “The Sonos app can’t find Beam during setup.” Follow its device-discovery guidance rather than resetting the speaker without a verified reason.
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Sonos Beam Gen 2 - Black - Soundbar with Dolby Atmos
- Enrich your entertainment experience with vibrant bass, crystal clear dialogue, and a panoramic soundstage.
- Experience a 3D surround sound effect with Dolby Atmos.
- Stream music, radio, podcasts, and audiobooks from all your favorite services when the TV is off.
- Control with the Sonos app, your TV remote, Apple AirPlay 2, and your voice.
- Effortless setup with only two cables and smart Trueplay tuning.
Fix TV connection and signal errors
“HDMI ARC not detected”
- Confirm the HDMI cable runs from Beam to the TV’s port labeled ARC or eARC, not an ordinary HDMI input.
- Turn on the TV and play a show or movie, then check the Sonos app again.
These are Sonos’ recommended checks for an ARC detection error: Error when connecting a Sonos home theater product to a TV.
Optical connection shows no signal
- Make sure the TV has a digital optical output and the optical cable is seated at both the TV and the included adapter.
- Confirm the adapter is connected to Beam and that the TV is actively playing content while you check for audio.
The app reports an HDMI CEC issue
- In the TV’s settings, enable its CEC feature. Manufacturers may use different names for CEC.
- If the message continues, disconnect other HDMI-connected devices and check whether Beam works.
- Reconnect those devices one at a time. If the issue returns after a particular device is connected, that device may be interfering with CEC.
For the error-specific guidance, see Sonos’ HDMI error in the Sonos app.
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- HEAR YOUR TV BETTER: Designed with simplicity in mind, the Bose TV Speaker is an all-in-one soundbar that clarifies speech and is a simple fix for better TV sound
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Assistrust Sound Bar for Smart TV, Soundbar with Bluetooth/ARC/Opt/AUX Connect, Auto Volume Boost, 3 Equalizer Modes, 2 in 1 Detachable Soundbar for TV/PC/Gaming/Projectors
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Sonos Beam G2 Soundbar + Sub Mini Subwoofer - Black
- Take your TV, music, and gaming to the next level with this compact smart soundbar and subwoofer.
- This set is ideal for smaller or medium-sized rooms and low to moderate volume levels.
- Use the Sonos app to easily set up your home theater system and sync with your existing TV remote.
- Sub Mini balances out the lowest frequencies so Beam sounds even better.
- When the TV is off, stream music and more over WiFi from hundreds of services using the Sonos app, your voice, and Apple AirPlay 2.
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Sonos Beam Gen 2 - White - Soundbar with Dolby Atmos
- Enrich your entertainment experience with vibrant bass, crystal clear dialogue, and a panoramic soundstage.
- Experience a 3D surround sound effect with Dolby Atmos.
- Stream music, radio, podcasts, and audiobooks from all your favorite services when the TV is off.
- Control with the Sonos app, your TV remote, Apple AirPlay 2, and your voice.
- Effortless setup with only two cables and smart Trueplay tuning.
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.
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