Sonos Sub 3 vs 4: Which Subwoofer Delivers the Bass?
Are you ready to rumble? If you’re a music or home theater enthusiast, the subwoofer is the unsung hero of your audio setup. It adds that deep, visceral bass that makes you feel the music, not just hear it. But with so many options, which one should you choose?
Today, we’re putting two heavyweights head-to-head: the Sonos Sub (Gen 3) and the all-new Sonos Sub (Gen 4). Both promise to deliver powerful, room-filling bass, but are there significant differences between them? We’ll dive deep into their features, performance, and value to help you make the right decision for your listening needs.
Get ready to discover which Sonos Sub reigns supreme. We’ll explore everything from their design and setup to their sound quality and overall performance. By the end of this comparison, you’ll know exactly which subwoofer is the perfect fit for your home audio experience. Let’s get started!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Sub (Gen 3) | Sub (Gen 4) |
|---|---|---|
| Amplifier Class | Class D | Class D |
| Drivers | 2 x 6-inch woofers | 2 x 6-inch woofers |
| Frequency Response | 25 Hz | 25 Hz |
| Wireless Connectivity | Wi-Fi, SonosNet | Wi-Fi, SonosNet |
| Wired Connectivity | Ethernet | Ethernet |
| Adjustable EQ | Yes | Yes |
| Trueplay Tuning | Yes (iOS only) | Yes (iOS only) |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 15.8 x 15.2 x 6.2 inches | 15.2 x 15.8 x 6.4 inches |
| Weight | 36.8 lbs | 36.6 lbs |
| Finish Options | Black, White | Black, White |
| Automatic Software Updates | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Control | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design & Aesthetics
- Sonos Sub 3: Features a sleek, minimalist design with a matte finish. It’s designed to blend seamlessly into any room, with a focus on unobtrusive aesthetics. The older design might not be as modern as the newer models.
- 4: Boasts a refreshed design, often with a more sculpted appearance and potentially offering different color options. This version usually provides a more contemporary look. The modern design is a plus.
- Winner: 4
Driver Configuration
- Sonos Sub 3: Typically features dual woofers, often facing inward, designed to cancel out vibrations. The driver configuration contributes to its powerful bass performance.
- 4: Likely retains a dual-woofer configuration, possibly with improvements in driver technology or placement for enhanced bass response and reduced distortion.
- Winner: 4
Amplification & Power
- Sonos Sub 3: Includes built-in Class D amplifiers to power the woofers. The power output is substantial, delivering deep and impactful bass.
- 4: Employs updated Class D amplification, potentially with increased power or efficiency. This leads to cleaner and more controlled bass.
- Winner: 4
Wireless Connectivity
- Sonos Sub 3: Connects wirelessly to your Sonos system, offering flexible placement options. This model requires a Sonos system to function.
- 4: Maintains wireless connectivity, ensuring easy setup and placement. Compatibility with the latest Sonos ecosystem remains.
- Winner: Tie
Bass Performance & Extension
- Sonos Sub 3: Delivers powerful and deep bass, enhancing the overall listening experience. The bass extension is impressive.
- 4: Often provides improved bass performance, potentially reaching lower frequencies or delivering more refined bass.
- Winner: 4
Setup & Integration
- Sonos Sub 3: Integrates seamlessly with the Sonos app for easy setup and control. Offers the standard Sonos setup process.
- 4: Utilizes the Sonos app for setup, offering a similarly straightforward experience, and potentially benefiting from software updates.
- Winner: Tie
Price & Value
- Sonos Sub 3: Typically available at a lower price point, making it a more accessible option. This makes it a great value.
- 4: Generally more expensive due to its updated features and design. The price reflects the improved technology.
- Winner: sonos sub 3
Overall Sound Quality
- Sonos Sub 3: Provides excellent bass reinforcement, improving the overall soundstage. It still delivers a great listening experience.
- 4: Expected to offer a refined and more impactful bass experience, contributing to a more immersive sound.
- Winner: 4
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Value | Sub (Gen 3) |
| Bass Performance | Tie |
| Design | Sub (Gen 4) |
| Features | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Acoustic Design: Both the Sub (Gen 3) and Sub (Gen 4) feature a sealed acoustic design, which helps to deliver deep, powerful bass performance. This design minimizes distortion and maximizes efficiency.
- Driver Configuration: Both models utilize two force-canceling woofers that face inward. This arrangement cancels out vibrations, providing a cleaner and more focused bass experience.
- Wireless Capabilities: Both subs connect wirelessly to your Sonos system, allowing for flexible placement options within your home. They support both Wi-Fi and SonosNet for reliable connectivity.
- Compatibility: Both the Sub (Gen 3) and Sub (Gen 4) are compatible with a wide range of Sonos speakers and components, allowing you to easily integrate them into your existing setup.
- App Control: Both models are controlled through the Sonos app, allowing you to adjust settings, customize your listening experience, and integrate them with other Sonos products.
- Automatic Updates: Both devices receive automatic software updates, ensuring you have the latest features and improvements.
Sonos Sub 3 vs 4 Buying Guide
Design and Build Quality
Both the Sonos Sub (Gen 3) and the Sonos Sub (Gen 4) share a similar sleek design, characterized by a minimalist aesthetic and a rectangular shape. The Gen 3 features a gloss finish, while the Gen 4 has a matte finish that’s less prone to fingerprints. Both are built to last, with robust construction and a sealed design that minimizes distortion. The choice often comes down to personal preference regarding aesthetics; the Gen 4 offers a more modern look, while the Gen 3 retains a classic appeal.
Performance and Sound Quality
The core function of both Sub models is to deliver deep, impactful bass. Both the Sub Gen 3 and Gen 4 significantly enhance the low-frequency performance of your Sonos system. The Gen 4 features updated internal components, including increased processing power and a redesigned acoustic architecture. This results in slightly improved bass response, particularly at higher volumes. The difference is subtle but noticeable, offering a more refined and immersive listening experience.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the Sonos Sub Gen 3 and Gen 4 are designed to seamlessly integrate into your existing Sonos ecosystem. They connect wirelessly to your other Sonos speakers, eliminating the need for unsightly cables. Both support the Sonos S2 app, offering easy setup and control. There are no major differences in compatibility; both models are compatible with all modern Sonos speakers and components. Ensure your other devices are also S2 compatible for optimal performance.
Setup and Ease of Use
Setting up both the Sub Gen 3 and Gen 4 is incredibly straightforward thanks to the Sonos app. The app guides you through the process, which typically takes just a few minutes. Both models automatically optimize their performance based on their placement within the room. This Trueplay tuning technology, available on iOS devices, further enhances the overall sound quality. The user experience is identical for both models, with intuitive controls and easy integration.
Features and Technology
While the core functionality remains the same, the Gen 4 benefits from some technological advancements. The Gen 4 includes increased processing power which allows for more efficient handling of complex audio signals. The Gen 4 also includes updated Class-D digital amplifiers, contributing to improved bass performance. Both models offer the same core features, such as wireless connectivity, automatic room correction, and seamless integration with other Sonos products.
Value and Pricing
The Sonos Sub Gen 4 is typically priced higher than the Gen 3. Considering the slight performance improvements, the value proposition depends on your budget and listening habits. If you prioritize the absolute best bass performance and have a larger listening space, the Gen 4 might be worth the investment. However, the Gen 3 still delivers excellent bass and represents a more budget-friendly option. Consider your needs and budget when making your decision.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Sub (Gen 3) If…
- You want to save a bit of money.
- You already own a Gen 3 and want to expand your system.
- You are satisfied with the performance and don’t need the latest advancements.
Buy Sub (Gen 4) If…
- You want the latest Sonos Sub with potentially improved performance.
- You prioritize a more modern design.
- You want to future-proof your Sonos system.
- You want a slightly more efficient and energy-saving design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the Sonos Sub Gen 3 and Gen 4?
The Gen 4 features updated internal components, including increased processing power, and a redesigned acoustic architecture. These result in a slightly improved bass response, especially at higher volumes. The Gen 4 also has a matte finish, differing from the Gen 3’s glossy finish. Ultimately, the differences are subtle, but the Gen 4 offers a more refined experience.
Is the Sonos Sub Gen 4 significantly better than the Gen 3?
The improvement is noticeable, but not drastic. The Gen 4 offers slightly better bass response and more processing power. It is a refinement of the Gen 3’s design, rather than a completely new product. The difference is most evident at higher volumes, and in larger listening spaces. The choice depends on your budget and listening habits.
Can I use the Sonos Sub Gen 3 and Gen 4 together in the same system?
No, you cannot mix a Sub Gen 3 and a Sub Gen 4 in the same Sonos system. You can, however, have multiple Subs of the same generation in a single setup. The Sonos system is designed to work with all products of the same generation to ensure optimal audio performance and seamless integration.
Does the Sonos Sub require a specific Sonos soundbar or speaker?
The Sonos Sub is compatible with all Sonos speakers, including soundbars like the Arc or Beam, and standalone speakers like the One or Five. It enhances the bass performance of any Sonos system, creating a more immersive listening experience. The Sub connects wirelessly to your existing Sonos setup, making integration simple.
How do I connect the Sonos Sub to my Sonos system?
Connecting the Sub is done through the Sonos app. Simply plug the Sub into a power outlet, open the app, and follow the on-screen instructions. The app will guide you through the setup process, which includes pairing the Sub with your existing speakers and running Trueplay tuning (if you have an iOS device).
What is Trueplay tuning, and does the Sub support it?
Trueplay is a room-correction technology that uses your iOS device’s microphone to analyze the acoustics of your room and optimize the sound of your Sonos speakers. Both the Sub Gen 3 and Gen 4 support Trueplay. It helps to ensure the Sub delivers the best possible bass performance based on your room’s unique characteristics.
Is the Sonos Sub worth the investment?
The Sonos Sub is a worthwhile investment for those seeking a more immersive and impactful audio experience. It significantly enhances the bass performance of your Sonos system, delivering deeper and more powerful lows. Whether it’s worth it depends on your budget and listening preferences. Bass enthusiasts will find it a valuable addition.
Final Verdict
The Sonos Sub Gen 4 offers subtle but noticeable improvements over the Gen 3, primarily through enhanced processing power and a more refined acoustic design, resulting in improved bass performance. While both deliver excellent low-frequency sound, the Gen 4’s enhancements make it the superior choice for those seeking the absolute best bass experience. However, the Gen 3 remains a strong contender.
Winner: Sonos Sub (Gen 4)