SONOS SUB GEN 1 VS GEN 2 VS GEN 3

Are you a music lover finding the perfect subwoofer to enhance your audio experience? Look no further than the Sonos Sub.

Sonos has released three generations of their powerful subwoofer, each with its own unique features and improvements.

The Sonos Sub Gen 1 was released in 2012 and offered a sleek design and deep bass, while the Gen 2, released in 2016, boasted increased processing power and improved sound quality.

The latest addition to the Sonos Subfamily, the Gen 3, was released in 2020 and featured advanced audio processing technology and compatibility with the latest Sonos products.

The Sonos Sub is a key component of any Sonos home theater system, providing deep, powerful bass that brings your music and movies to life.

Whether you’re streaming your favorite playlist or watching a movie, the Sonos Sub delivers clear and dynamic sound that immerses you in the experience.

But with three generations of the Sonos Sub to choose from, how you came to know which one is right for you?

In this article, we will take a closer look at the differences between the Sonos Sub Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3, so you can make an informed decision when choosing the perfect subwoofer for your home audio system.

 

ImageProductPrice
<b>Sonos Sub Gen </b>1

Sonos Sub Gen 1

  • The wireless subwoofer for deep bass.
  • Hear and feel the difference when you wirelessly connect Sub to your Sonos system.
  • Stand it upright, place it on its side, or tuck it under the couch.
Price
<b>Sonos Sub Gen 2</b>

Sonos Sub Gen 2

  • The powerful smart speaker with voice control built-in
  • Brilliant sound – Get rich, room-filling sound with Sonos One, and control it with your voice, the Sonos app, Apple AirPlay2, and more
  • Voice control – Amazon Alexa is built right in so you can play music, check news, set alarms.
Price
<b>Sonos Sub Gen </b>3

Sonos Sub Gen 3

  • All-new Sonos Sub – Hear and feel the difference with Sub, the wireless subwoofer for deep bass.
  • No buzz, just bass – Two force-canceling drivers at the center of Sub eliminate vibration and rattle.
  • Made to be seen and heard – The award-winning and versatile design features a slim.
Price

Also Read: Plywood VS MDF Subwoofer Box (Main Differences!)

Sonos Sub Gen 2 Vs. Gen 3: Should It Be Upgraded?

When Sonos Gen 3 was released, people were confused that it was an actual upgrade or merely a continuation of the Sub Gen series.

So, before making a decision to purchase Gen 3 or stay with Sub Gen 2, let’s thoroughly analyze Sonos Sub Gen 2 vs. Gen 3.

Sonos Gen 3 has improved hardware, speedy processing power, and more memory and is integrated with wireless radio.

Although the sound quality has not improved distinctively, the faulty wireless issue has been resolved. Sonos Sub Gen 2 and Gen 3 have the same design.

Would you love to know about Sonos Sub Gen 2 and Gen 3 in detail?

Then, read the article till the end to make clear whether to upgrade or not. So, shall we start?

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Sonos Sub Gen 2 Vs. Gen 3: Specifications Comparison Table

Specifications

Sonos Sub Gen 1

Sonos Sub Gen 2

Sonos Sub Gen 3

Dimensions

15.8 x 15 x 6.2 inches

 

 

15.3 x 15.8 x 6.2 inches

15.3 x 15.8 x 6.2 inches

Color

high-gloss black

White & Glossy Black

White & Glossy Black

Weight

36.3 lb

36.3 lb

36.3 lb

Memory

128MB SDRAM

128MB SDRAM

256MB SDRAM

256MB NAND Flash

Control Method

App

App

App

Connectivity

Via WiFi

Via WiFi

Via WiFi

Voltage

100-240V (50-60Hz)

100-240V (50-60Hz)

100-240V (50-60Hz)

Ethernet

1 * 10/100Mbps

1 * 10/100Mbps

1 * 10/100Mbps

Warranty

1-year

1-year

1-year

Release Date

2012

2016

2020

What is Sonos Sub Gen 1?

SONOS SUB GEN 1 VS GEN 2 VS GEN 3

The Sonos Sub Gen 1 is the first generation subwoofer released by Sonos in 2012.

It is designed to complement Sonos wireless speakers and home theater systems, providing powerful and deep bass for an immersive audio experience.

Here’s an overview of Sonos Sub Gen 1:

1- High-Gloss Black Finish: 

The Sub Gen 1 features a sleek and minimalist design with a high-gloss black finish that seamlessly blends in with the most home decor.

2- Wireless Connectivity: 

The Sub Gen 1 can be wirelessly connected to other Sonos products using the Sonos app, allowing for easy setup and control.

3- Easy Placement:

The Sub Gen 1 can be placed upright or on its side, making it easy to fit into any room or home theater setup.

4- Deep Bass: 

The Sub Gen 1 is designed to produce deep and powerful bass, adding a new dimension to music, movies, and TV shows.

5- Automatic Equalization: 

The Sub Gen 1 uses automatic equalization to optimize sound performance based on the room it’s in, ensuring optimal sound quality in any environment.

6- Multiple Room Compatibility: 

The Sub Gen 1 can be used with other Sonos speakers to create a multi-room audio system, allowing you to play different music in many rooms or the same music throughout your home.

Overall, the Sonos Sub Gen 1 is a powerful and stylish subwoofer that adds depth and richness to your home audio experience.

 

Sonos Sub Gen 1

  • The wireless subwoofer for deep bass.
  • Hear and feel the difference when you wirelessly connect Sub to your Sonos system.
  • Stand it upright, place it on its side, or tuck it under the couch.
 
 

What Is Sonos Sub Gen 2?

Sonos Sub Gen 2

The Sonos Sub Gen 2 is the second-generation subwoofer released by Sonos in 2016.

It is designed to complement Sonos wireless speakers and home theater systems, providing powerful and deep bass for an immersive audio experience.

Here’s An Overview Of Sonos Sub Gen 2:

1- Black Or White Finish: 

The Sub Gen 2 is of two colors: black or white, which allows you to select the one that best fits your home decor.

2- Wireless Connectivity: 

The Sub Gen 2 can be wirelessly connected to other Sonos products using the Sonos app, allowing for easy setup and control.

3- Easy Placement:

The Sub Gen 2 can be placed upright or on its side, making it easy to fit into any room or home theater setup.

4- Improved Sound Quality: 

The Sub Gen 2 features improved sound quality over its predecessor, with increased processing power and improved bass response.

5- Automatic Equalization: 

The Sub Gen 2 uses automatic equalization to optimize sound performance based on the room it’s in, ensuring optimal sound quality in any environment.

6- Multiple Room Compatibility: 

The Sub Gen 2 can be used with other Sonos speakers to create a multi-room audio system, allowing you to play different music in many rooms or the same music throughout your home.

Overall, the Sonos Sub Gen 2 is a powerful and stylish subwoofer that adds depth and richness to your home audio experience, with improved sound quality over its predecessor and a choice of color options to fit your home decor.

Sonos Sub Gen 2

  • The powerful smart speaker with voice control built-in
  • Brilliant sound – Get rich, room-filling sound with Sonos One, and control it with your voice, the Sonos app, Apple AirPlay2, and more
  • Voice control – Amazon Alexa is built right in so you can play music, check news, set alarms.
 
 

What Is Sonos Sub Gen 3?

Sonos Sub Gen 3
The Sonos Sub Gen 3 is the third and latest generation subwoofer released by Sonos in 2020. It is designed to complement Sonos wireless speakers and home theater systems, providing powerful and deep bass for an immersive audio experience. 

Here’s An Overview Of Sonos Sub Gen 3:

1- Black Or White Finish: 

The Sub Gen 3 is of two color options: black or white, which allows you to choose the one that best fits your home decor.

2- Wireless Connectivity: 

The Sub Gen 3 can be wirelessly connected to other Sonos products using the Sonos app, allowing for easy setup and control.

3- Easy Placement: 

The Sub Gen 3 can be placed upright or on its side, making it easy to fit into any room or home theater setup.

4- Advanced Audio Processing: 

The Sub Gen 3 features advanced audio processing technology that maximizes sound quality and minimizes distortion, providing a clearer and more detailed audio experience.

5- Multiple Room Compatibility: 

The Sub Gen 3 can be used with other Sonos speakers to create a multi-room audio system, allowing you to play different music in many rooms or the same music throughout your home.

6- Compatibility With The Latest Sonos Products: 

The Sub Gen 3 is compatible with the latest Sonos products, including the Sonos Arc and Sonos Beam soundbars, as well as the Sonos Amp.

Overall, the Sonos Sub Gen 3 is the most advanced and powerful subwoofer in the Sonos lineup, with advanced audio processing technology, multiple color options, and compatibility with the latest Sonos products.

It’s a perfect addition to any Sonos wireless speaker or home theater system, providing deep and powerful bass for an immersive audio experience.

Sonos Sub Gen 3

  • All-new Sonos Sub – Hear and feel the difference with Sub, the wireless subwoofer for deep bass.
  • No buzz, just bass – Two force-canceling drivers at the center of Sub eliminate vibration and rattle.
  • Made to be seen and heard – The award-winning and versatile design features a slim.
 
 

Sonos Sub Gen 1 vs. Gen 2 vs. Gen 3: [Detailed Comparison]

Looking at the specs table of Sonos sub-gen two and sub-gen 3, you will feel both products are similar to one another.

So, why has Sonos introduced an updated generation in the form of sub-gen 3? Is it only a marketing gimmick, or sub-Gen 3 have totally different features?

Below I will explain the significant differences among sub gen two and sub gen 3. So, don’t look around.

Design

When it comes to design, there are some noticeable differences between the Sonos Sub Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3. Here’s a comparison of their design features:

1- Finish:

The Sonos Sub Gen 1 comes in a high-gloss black finish, while the Sub Gen 2 and Sub Gen 3 are available in black or white finishes.

2- Shape:

All three subwoofers have a similar shape, with a rectangular cabinet and rounded edges.

However, the Sub Gen 2 and Sub Gen 3 are slightly more rounded than the Sub Gen 1.

3- Buttons: 

The Sub Gen 1 and Sub Gen 2 have physical buttons for power and volume control, while the Sub Gen 3 has touch controls that are hidden until you touch the top of the subwoofer.

4- LED Light:

The Sub Gen 1 has a single LED light on the front of the cabinet that indicates the status of the subwoofer, while the Sub Gen 2 and Sub Gen 3 have no visible lights.

5- Dimensions: 

The Sub Gen 2 and Sub Gen 3 are slightly smaller than the Sub Gen 1, with dimensions of 15.3 x 15.8 x 6.2 inches and 15.3 x 15.8 x 6.2 inches, respectively, compared to the Sub Gen 1’s dimensions of 15.8 x 15 x 6.2 inches.

Overall, while all three subwoofers have a similar design, there are some subtle differences in their shape, finish, and controls.

The Sub Gen 3 is the most advanced and sleek of the three, with touch controls and a choice of black or white finishes, while the Sub Gen 1 has a high-gloss black finish and physical buttons for power and volume control.

Sound

When it comes to sound, there are some differences between the Sonos Sub Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3. Here’s a comparison of their sound performance:

1- Frequency Response:

All three subwoofers have a frequency response range of 25 Hz to 100 Hz, which means they are capable of producing deep, low-frequency bass.

2- Amplifier power: 

The Sub Gen 1 has two Class-D amplifiers with a total power output of 250 watts, while the Sub Gen 2 and Sub Gen 3 both have two Class-D amplifiers with a total power output of 300 watts.

3- Driver Size:

 The Sub Gen 1 has two force-canceling speaker drivers that are 6 inches in diameter, while the Sub Gen 2 and Sub Gen 3 both have two force-canceling speaker drivers that are 6.5 inches in diameter.

4- Sound Performance: 

The Sub Gen 2 and Sub Gen 3 are designed to produce more detailed and accurate bass than the Sub Gen 1.

They use advanced digital signal processing technology that minimizes distortion and maximizes sound quality, resulting in tighter and more controlled bass.

5- Compatibility With Other Sonos Products: 

All three subwoofers are designed to work seamlessly with other Sonos products, such as Sonos wireless speakers and home theater systems.

When paired with other Sonos products, the subwoofers allow you to choose a more immersive and dynamic audio experience.

Overall, while all three subwoofers are capable of producing deep, low-frequency bass, the Sub Gen 2 and Sub Gen 3 are designed to produce more detailed and accurate bass than the Sub Gen 1.

They use advanced digital signal processing technology that minimizes distortion and maximizes sound quality, resulting in tighter and more controlled bass.

The Sub Gen 3 is the most advanced and powerful of the three, with a higher total power output and larger speaker drivers, resulting in even more detailed and accurate bass.

Connectivity

When it comes to connectivity, there are some differences between the Sonos Sub Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3. Here’s a comparison of their connectivity features:

1- Wireless Connectivity:

All three subwoofers connect wirelessly to other Sonos products, such as Sonos wireless speakers and home theater systems, using WiFi.

2- Wired Connectivity: 

The Sub Gen 1 and Sub Gen 2 have a single Ethernet port for connecting to your home network, while the Sub Gen 3 has two Ethernet ports for added flexibility.

3- Automatic Software Updates: 

All three subwoofers are designed to automatically receive software updates over WiFi, ensuring that they stay up to date with the latest features and improvements.

4- Compatibility With Streaming Services:

All three subwoofers are compatible with common streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, allowing you to stream your favorite music directly to the subwoofer.

5-  Compatibility With Voice Assistants: 

The Sub Gen 2 and Sub Gen 3 is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control the subwoofer using your voice.

Overall, all three subwoofers offer wireless connectivity to other Sonos products, as well as compatibility with popular streaming services.

The Sub Gen 3 has the added flexibility of two Ethernet ports, while the Sub Gen 2 and Sub Gen 3 are compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

Ease Of Use

When it comes to ease of use, there are some differences between the Sonos Sub Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3. Here’s a comparison of their usability features:

1- Setup:

All three subwoofers are easy to set up using the Sonos app, which guides you through the process of connecting the subwoofer to your home network and other Sonos products.

2- Control: 

All three subwoofers can be controlled using the Sonos app, which provides a user-friendly interface for adjusting the volume, bass, and other settings.

The Sub Gen 2 and Sub Gen 3 are also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control the subwoofer using your voice.

3- Automatic Tuning:

The Sub Gen 2 and Sub Gen 3 feature automatic tuning, which adjusts the subwoofer’s settings based on the acoustics of your room. This ensures that the subwoofer produces the best possible sound quality in your particular environment.

4- Compatibility With Other Sonos Products:

All three subwoofers are designed to work seamlessly with different Sonos products, such as Sonos wireless speakers and home theater systems.

This allows you to create a multi-room audio system or a more immersive home theater experience.

5- Firmware Updates: 

All three subwoofers receive automatic firmware updates over WiFi, ensuring that they stay up to date with the latest features and improvements.

Overall, all three subwoofers are easy to set up and control using the Sonos app, and receive automatic firmware updates over WiFi.

The Sub Gen 2 and Sub Gen 3 offers the added benefit of automatic tuning, which ensures that the subwoofer produces the best possible sound quality in your particular environment.

Additionally, all three subwoofers are designed to work seamlessly with other Sonos products, making it easy to create a multi-room audio system or a more immersive home theater experience.

Idle Power Mode

When it comes to idle power mode, there are some differences between the Sonos Sub Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3. Here’s a comparison of their idle power consumption:

1- Sonos Sub Gen 1: 

This subwoofer has a standby mode that consumes less than 1 watt of power. However, it does not have an idle power mode, so it continues to consume power when it’s not in use.

2- Sonos Sub Gen 2: 

This subwoofer has an idle power mode that consumes less than 5 watts of power. When the subwoofer is not in use, it goes into a low-power mode that helps to conserve energy.

3- Sonos Sub Gen 3:

This subwoofer also has an idle power mode that consumes less than 5 watts of power.

When the subwoofer is not in use, it goes into a low-power mode that helps to conserve energy.

Overall, both the Sonos Sub Gen 2 and Gen 3 offers an idle power mode that helps to conserve energy when the subwoofer is not in use.

The Sonos Sub Gen 1, on the other hand, does not have an idle power mode, so it continues to consume power when it’s not in use.

Sonos Sub Gen 1 Vs. Gen 2 Vs. Gen 3: Similarities

There are several similarities between the Sonos Sub Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3 subwoofers:

1- Wireless Connectivity: 

All three subwoofers connect to your home network using WiFi, making it easy to stream music and other audio content wirelessly from your phone, tablet, or computer.

2- Compatibility With Other Sonos Products:

All three subwoofers are designed to work seamlessly with different Sonos products, such as Sonos wireless speakers and home theater systems.

This allows you to create a multi-room audio system or a more immersive home theater experience.

3- Premium Sound Quality:

All three subwoofers are designed to deliver high-quality, deep, and powerful bass that enhances the overall listening experience.

4- Easy To Set Up: 

All three subwoofers are simple to set up using the Sonos app, which guides you through the process of connecting the subwoofer to your home network and other Sonos products.

5- Automatic Software Updates:

All three subwoofers receive automatic firmware updates over WiFi, ensuring that they stay updated with the latest features and improvements.

Overall, the Sonos Sub Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3 share many similarities in terms of wireless connectivity, compatibility with other Sonos products, premium sound quality, ease of setup, and automatic software updates.

Sonos Sub Gen 1 Vs. Gen 2 Vs. Gen 3: Which One Should You Buy?

Overall, if you’re on a budget and don’t need the latest features, the Sonos Sub Gen 1 is a great option.

If you want a subwoofer with a more powerful bass and a more modern design, the Sonos Sub Gen 2 is a good choice.

And if you want the most compatibility with newer Sonos products and features, as well as the most powerful bass, the Sonos Sub Gen 3 is the way to go.

Final Verdict

The Sonos Sub Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3 are all great options for anyone looking to enhance their home audio system with deep and powerful bass.

While they share many similarities, each subwoofer offers its own unique features and benefits, making it important to consider your specific needs and preferences before making a purchase.

The Sonos Sub Gen 1 offers reasonable prices for those on a budget, while still delivering premium sound quality and wireless connectivity.

The Gen 2 builds upon the Gen 1 with a more modern design and subtle improvements to sound quality.

The Gen 3 is the most powerful and compatible subwoofer of the three, boasting deeper bass and compatibility with the latest Sonos features.

Regardless of which subwoofer you choose, you can rest assured that you are investing in a high-quality product with easy setup, automatic updates, and seamless integration with other Sonos products.

Whether you are listening to music, watching movies, or playing games, a Sonos Sub can elevate your audio experience to new heights.

So why wait? Bring your home audio system to the updated level with a Sonos Sub today.

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