Sonos in June launched the Sonos Ray, a compact, reasonably priced soundbar that pairs effectively with an Apple TV-powered residence setup due to its AirPlay 2 and HomeKit integration. We picked up a Sonos Ray to offer MacRumors readers an concept of the way it works and whether or not it is value the $279.

The Sonos Ray is smaller than different Sonos soundbars, measuring in at about 22 inches lengthy, so it is very best for smaller areas and smaller leisure setups. Like most Sonos merchandise, it is glossy and blends effectively into surrounding decor, and it seems to be quite a bit like the Sonos Beam.

There are easy accessibility contact controls at the high, together with energy, ethernet, and optical audio ports at the again. Simply as a fast be aware, for those who occur to have a distant that does not assist IR, you may not need to choose up the Sonos Ray because it will not be suitable attributable to the optical audio port and you will have to manually modify quantity. This may not affect most individuals, as most remotes (together with the Apple TV distant) assist IR.

If you happen to want extra audio output than what the Ray supplies, it does play effectively with different Sonos audio system and subwoofers, however even by itself, the sound high quality is spectacular. You will not get Dolby Atmos at this worth level, however the sound is stable regardless of the small type issue, and it simply beats out TV audio system. There are 4 Class-D digital amplifiers, two tweeters, two high-efficiency midwoofers, and a built-in bass reflex system, plus it options adjustable EQ and Sonos’ TruePlay characteristic for tuning sound to the room the Ray is positioned in.

With ‌AirPlay‌ 2 and ‌HomeKit‌ integration, the Sonos Ray pairs with HomeKit-enabled merchandise and audio system, plus it may be managed and adjusted by way of the Residence app and Siri instructions. ‌AirPlay‌ integration makes it straightforward to ‌AirPlay‌ audio on to the Ray if wanted, and it’s all in all a good selection for many who want a soundbar for a smaller area.