Backwards compatibility

Backward compatibility is a plus: pairing and system integration with other Sonos gear is straightforward, and some setups allow mixing Roam generations for stereo pairing.

Legacy-friendly options like optical and analog inputs, plus the ability to use third-party wired subs, broaden compatibility with older gear.

Party Connect compatibility extends to older Sony portable speakers, making expansion inside Sony’s ecosystem easier.

Its HDMI ARC and optical options make it easy to pair with a wide range of TVs, including older sets that lack ARC.

An optical input is highlighted as a way to connect older TVs or older gear when eARC is not available.

Compatibility is good across TVs via HDMI eARC/ARC, and optical offers a fallback; region-specific streaming feature availability (like Chromecast) is the main compatibility caveat.

Backwards compatibility is supported by multiple wired options (notably optical) that allow it to work well with older TVs lacking HDMI ARC convenience.

Device compatibility is broad across PCs, phones, and some consoles, but the fullest software experience clearly favors Windows over Mac or mobile.

Backward pairing behavior is reported inconsistently: some sources state pairing with Wonderboom 3 is supported, while at least one review claims stereo pairing only works with another Wonderboom 4.

Arc runs on the Sonos S2 platform and may not play nicely with some legacy Sonos hardware or older software setups, which can be a friction point for long-time Sonos households.

Compatibility is generally fine with typical TVs and sources, but the use of ARC instead of eARC and the absence of Atmos make it less future-proof for feature hunters.

Can be grouped with older Sonos speakers, but cannot form a dedicated stereo pair with the original Move.

Compatibility is best within JBL’s newer Auracast ecosystem; reviewers note limitations pairing with older JBL PartyBoost models and that stereo requires a matching Clip 5.

A recurring limitation is that Auracast models do not connect with older JBL speakers that rely on PartyBoost, which multiple reviews call out directly.

A recurring complaint is that Gen 2 cannot stereo-pair with the original Flex, which reduces upgrade appeal for existing owners.

Backwards compatibility is a common complaint: multiple reviews stress it will not pair in the usual way with older JBL speakers that rely on PartyBoost, including the Charge 5.

Backwards compatibility is a consistent negative: many sources state Flip 7 cannot pair with older PartyBoost/Flip generations, and stereo pairing requires another Flip 7.