Unlike soundbars of old, which only required the necessary cables to power your soundbar and connect it to your TV, you will also need a phone and the Sonos app. An iOS or Android device is necessary to set up the smart features of your Beam, such as Bluetooth connectivity and/or connecting your Beam to a pre-existing Sonos setup.
How to Connect Sonos Beam to TV
Have your Sonos Beam, its power cable, an HDMI cable, and your TV nearby. As discussed, make sure your TV supports HDMI-ARC, and if not, have the HDMI-to-optical adapter ready.
How to Set Up Sonos Beam
For set up through your smartphone, the app will walk you through what cables to connect to your beam, give you the option to set up a new Sonos system, and connect your Beam to any pre-existing Sonos systems you have set up. You will have the option of the S1 Sonos app stylized with a gray background and an “S1” below “Sonos” or the more recent S2 Sonos app stylized with an orange background and simply the word “Sonos.” Both apps work with Sonos Beam, but some Sonos Products require either the S1 or S2 apps. If setting up your Beam with an old system, open the app and tap Settings, and then go to System > Add Product.