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Are you ready to rumble? We’re diving deep into the world of bass to compare two titans: the Sonos Sub (Gen 3) and the brand-new Sonos Sub (Gen 4). If you’re looking to elevate your home theater or music listening experience, then you’ve come to the right place.
Subwoofers are the unsung heroes of any great audio setup. They provide the low-end frequencies that give movies their impact and music its depth. This comparison will help you decide which Sonos Sub is the perfect fit for your home.
We’ll explore the key differences between the Sonos Sub (Gen 3) and the Sonos Sub (Gen 4), from their design and features to their performance and, of course, the all-important sound quality. Get ready to discover which subwoofer delivers the ultimate sonic experience.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Sub (Gen 3) | Sub (Gen 4) |
|---|---|---|
| Amplifier Class | Class D | Class D |
| Woofers | Two force-canceling | Two force-canceling |
| Frequency Response | As low as 25 Hz | As low as 25 Hz |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Ethernet | Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
| Trueplay Tuning | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Control | Yes (with compatible Sonos speakers) | Yes (with compatible Sonos speakers) |
| Finish | Black or White | Black or White |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 15.8 x 15.2 x 6.2 inches | 15.2 x 12.6 x 6.2 inches |
| Weight | 36.3 lbs | 36.3 lbs |
| Automatic Software Updates | Yes | Yes |
| Mounting | Vertical or Horizontal | Vertical or Horizontal |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Aesthetics
- Sonos Sub 3: Features a sleek, minimalist design with a sealed enclosure. It offers a clean look and can be positioned vertically or horizontally. Its design is timeless, but some may find it less modern compared to the newer model.
- 4: Boasts a refreshed, more modern design with a more refined aesthetic, including a slightly more compact size. It features a new matte finish and curved edges, offering a premium feel.
- Winner: 4
Driver Configuration
- Sonos Sub 3: Contains two force-canceling drivers, which provide deep, powerful bass. The design minimizes vibration and distortion.
- 4: Also features two force-canceling drivers, but with updated design and improved acoustics for deeper and more powerful bass.
- Winner: 4
Amplification
- Sonos Sub 3: Uses Class D digital amplification, optimized for its drivers. This provides efficient power delivery and accurate bass reproduction.
- 4: Uses Class D digital amplification, optimized for its drivers, but with an updated design providing improved power delivery and efficiency.
- Winner: 4
Wireless Connectivity
- Sonos Sub 3: Connects wirelessly to other Sonos devices, simplifying setup and placement. It utilizes Sonos’ proprietary wireless mesh network.
- 4: Connects wirelessly to other Sonos devices, using the same Sonos proprietary wireless mesh network, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.
- Winner: Tie
Bass Performance
- Sonos Sub 3: Delivers deep, impactful bass, filling a room with sound. It provides a solid foundation for any audio experience.
- 4: Delivers deeper, more impactful bass than the Sub (Gen 3) due to improved driver design and acoustic architecture.
- Winner: 4
Setup and Integration
- Sonos Sub 3: Easy to set up and integrate with other Sonos products through the Sonos app. It automatically optimizes itself based on the connected devices.
- 4: Easy to set up and integrates seamlessly with other Sonos products via the Sonos app. Offers the same automatic optimization features.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Sonos Sub 3: Generally available at a lower price point, making it a more accessible option for some buyers.
- 4: Typically priced higher, reflecting its updated design, improved performance, and new features.
- Winner: sonos sub 3
Weight and Dimensions
- Sonos Sub 3: Has a slightly larger footprint and is a bit heavier than the Sub (Gen 4).
- 4: Is slightly smaller and lighter than the Sub (Gen 3), making it potentially easier to place.
- Winner: 4
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Performance | Sub (Gen 4) |
| Value | Sub (Gen 3) |
| Design | Tie |
| Features | Sub (Gen 4) |
What They Have in Common
- Force-Canceling Design: Both the Sub (Gen 3) and Sub (Gen 4) feature a force-canceling design. This means the woofers face each other, eliminating cabinet buzz and distortion, delivering clean and impactful bass.
- Wireless Connectivity: Both Sub generations connect to your Sonos system wirelessly via Wi-Fi, offering flexible placement options and easy setup. Ethernet is also available for a wired connection.
- Trueplay Tuning: Both subs utilize Sonos’ Trueplay tuning technology. This feature analyzes your room’s acoustics and optimizes the subwoofer’s performance for the best possible sound.
- Seamless Integration: Both models integrate seamlessly within the Sonos ecosystem. They can be easily added to your existing Sonos setup and controlled via the Sonos app.
- Aesthetic Design: Both the Sub (Gen 3) and Sub (Gen 4) share a similar sleek and minimalist design, available in black or white finishes to complement various home decor styles.
Sonos Sub 3 vs 4 Buying Guide
Design and Build Quality
Both the Sonos Sub (Gen 3) and the Sub (Gen 4) boast a sleek, minimalist design, characteristic of Sonos products. They are both rectangular in shape with a central cutout, allowing for versatile placement options, either upright or laid flat. The Gen 4 refines the design slightly, with a more streamlined appearance, and it offers a choice of finishes, matte or gloss. Build quality is exceptional in both models, with robust construction that ensures long-term durability and performance. Both Subs are designed to blend seamlessly with any home décor.
Performance and Sound Quality
The core function of the Sub is to deliver deep, impactful bass, and both generations excel in this area. The Gen 4, however, introduces some notable upgrades. It features increased processing power and a redesigned acoustic architecture, resulting in improved bass response and reduced distortion. The Gen 4 reaches lower frequencies more effectively, leading to a richer and more immersive audio experience. The Sub Gen 3 still provides powerful bass, but the Gen 4 offers a noticeable step up in overall performance, particularly in terms of clarity and depth.
Connectivity and Features
Both Subs are designed to integrate seamlessly into the Sonos ecosystem, connecting wirelessly to your other Sonos speakers and components. They both support Wi-Fi and Apple AirPlay 2. The Gen 4 has an enhanced wireless connection, which provides a more stable and reliable connection, especially in environments with high wireless traffic. The setup process is simple and straightforward via the Sonos app. The app allows for easy adjustment of bass levels and other audio settings, allowing for a personalized listening experience, regardless of the Sub generation.
Amplification and Drivers
The Gen 4 Sub boasts updated amplification and driver technology. The Gen 4 features two force-canceling drivers, powered by a Class D digital amplifier, delivering significantly more power and efficiency compared to the Gen 3’s amplifier. The Gen 4 includes two custom-designed woofers, which contribute to the improved low-frequency response and reduced distortion. This translates to a more dynamic and engaging listening experience, particularly at higher volumes. The Gen 3 uses similar technology, but the Gen 4’s enhancements offer a clear advantage.
Price and Value
The Sonos Sub Gen 4 typically comes with a higher price tag than the Gen 3. While the Gen 3 offers excellent value for its price, providing a significant upgrade to any home theater setup, the Gen 4’s enhanced performance and features justify its increased cost for those seeking the ultimate bass experience. Consider your budget and your existing audio setup when deciding between the two. If you’re looking for the best possible audio quality and willing to invest a bit more, the Gen 4 is worth the extra expense. If budget is a key factor, the Gen 3 is still a fantastic choice.
Ease of Setup and Use
Both the Sonos Sub Gen 3 and Gen 4 are incredibly easy to set up and use. The Sonos app guides you through the process step-by-step, making it simple to integrate the Sub into your existing Sonos system. The app also allows for easy adjustments to the subwoofer’s settings, such as bass level and phase control. The Gen 4 setup is as simple as the Gen 3. Once connected, both models operate seamlessly within the Sonos ecosystem, allowing for intuitive control and a hassle-free listening experience. The user experience is identical for both models.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Sub (Gen 3) If…
- You find a great deal on a used or refurbished model.
- You’re on a tighter budget and want to experience the Sonos Sub.
- You prioritize value and are satisfied with excellent bass performance.
Buy Sub (Gen 4) If…
- You want the latest Sonos technology and the newest features.
- You desire the most refined and powerful bass experience.
- You want the best possible performance and are willing to pay a premium.
- You want the latest Sonos design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between the Sonos Sub Gen 3 and Gen 4?
The primary difference lies in the improved performance of the Gen 4. It features increased processing power, a redesigned acoustic architecture, and enhanced drivers. These upgrades result in deeper, more impactful bass, reduced distortion, and a more refined overall listening experience compared to the Gen 3. The Gen 4 also has a more stable wireless connection.
Does the Sonos Sub Gen 4 offer a significant improvement over the Gen 3?
Yes, the Gen 4 offers a noticeable improvement. While both provide powerful bass, the Gen 4’s enhanced drivers, updated amplification, and improved processing deliver a richer, more detailed sound. The Gen 4 handles lower frequencies more effectively, leading to a more immersive and dynamic audio experience, particularly beneficial for home theater setups.
Can I use the Sonos Sub Gen 3 and Gen 4 together in the same system?
No, you cannot. Sonos systems are designed to operate with a specific generation of a product within a particular zone. Mixing different generations of the Sub would create compatibility issues and prevent optimal performance. It’s recommended to have either all Gen 3 Subs or all Gen 4 Subs within your system to ensure seamless operation.
Is the Sonos Sub Gen 4 worth the extra cost?
Whether the Gen 4 is worth the extra cost depends on your budget and audio preferences. If you’re seeking the absolute best bass performance and are willing to invest more, the Gen 4 is a worthwhile upgrade. If you’re on a tighter budget, the Gen 3 still provides excellent bass and value, making it a great option. Consider the overall listening experience and your priorities.
How does the Sonos Sub Gen 4 compare to other subwoofers on the market?
The Sonos Sub Gen 4 is considered a top-tier subwoofer, known for its powerful bass, sleek design, and seamless integration into the Sonos ecosystem. It competes well with other high-end subwoofers, particularly those designed for home theater systems. Its wireless connectivity and ease of use set it apart from many competitors. However, the price point places it in a premium category.
What is the best placement for the Sonos Sub?
The best placement for the Sonos Sub (Gen 3 and Gen 4) depends on your room and listening preferences. Experiment with different locations, such as along a wall or near a corner, to find the optimal spot for bass performance. The Sonos app offers Trueplay tuning (for iOS devices), which helps to optimize the sound based on your room’s acoustics. Testing is key to finding the best results.
Can I use the Sonos Sub with non-Sonos speakers?
No, the Sonos Sub is designed to work exclusively with other Sonos products. It connects wirelessly to your Sonos speakers and components. This is a key part of the Sonos ecosystem, ensuring seamless integration and control through the Sonos app. Therefore, it cannot be directly connected to non-Sonos speakers, and is not compatible with other brand’s products.
Final Verdict
The Sonos Sub Gen 4 offers a significant upgrade over the Gen 3, with enhanced performance, improved sound quality, and a more refined design. While both models deliver exceptional bass, the Gen 4 provides a richer, more immersive listening experience. However, the Gen 3 remains a strong contender. If budget is a primary concern, the Gen 3 is a great choice. For those seeking the ultimate bass experience, the Gen 4 is the winner.
Winner: Sonos Sub Gen 4