To reset a Sonos soundbar, you can use either the Sonos app for a soft reset or the physical buttons on the device for a full factory reset. The method you choose depends on whether you need to quickly troubleshoot audio issues or completely erase the soundbar before selling it.
When you need to reset a Sonos soundbar
A reset is a last resort after basic troubleshooting like checking your Wi-Fi network or updating the Sonos app. Valid reasons to reset a Sonos soundbar include persistent audio problems such as distortion or crackling, connectivity glitches where the soundbar won't join your network, or preparing the device for sale or transfer. If you own a different brand, you can reset bose smart speaker models with similar steps tailored to that hardware, or reset bose soundbar 700 without a remote if you've misplaced the original controller. If you are simply adjusting settings or updating firmware, try those steps first before resetting.
Soft reset using the Sonos app
This method is the least disruptive first step for troubleshooting because it does not erase your saved settings or room configuration. To perform a soft reset, open the Sonos app and go to the Settings menu. Select System, then choose your soundbar from the list of devices. Scroll down and tap the option labeled Reset or Factory Reset. Confirm the action when prompted. The app will guide you through the process, and once complete, your soundbar will restart without losing its connection to your Sonos system. This approach is ideal for fixing minor glitches without needing to set up the device again. If you own other audio gear, you can similarly reset JBL smart speaker to clear its own minor glitches.
Factory reset using the physical buttons
A factory reset erases all settings and returns the soundbar to its out-of-the-box state. The button you press depends on your model.
For older soundbars using the Join button
- Unplug the power cord from the soundbar.
- Press and hold the Join button, which looks like an infinity symbol (∞).
- While holding the Join button, reconnect the power cord.
- Continue holding the button until the status indicator light begins to flash orange and white (or amber).
- Release the button when the light flashes green. The soundbar is now factory reset and ready to be set up.
If your product does not have a Join button, you can instead press and hold the Play/Pause or Mute button while reconnecting the power cord.
For newer models (Arc Ultra, Beam Ultra, Era 100, Era 300) using the Bluetooth button
- Unplug the power cord.
- Press and hold the Bluetooth button.
- While holding the Bluetooth button, reconnect the power cord.
- Continue holding the button until the light on the front begins flashing orange and white.
- The product is now factory reset and ready to be added to your system.
Setting up your soundbar after a reset
After a factory reset, the soundbar is in a factory-fresh state and must be re-added to your Sonos system via the app. Open the Sonos app and follow the prompts for connecting a soundbar. You will need to choose a room, connect to your Wi-Fi network, and optionally adjust audio settings. If you want to use the soundbar wirelessly with other devices, you can also connect your Sonos soundbar to Bluetooth during the setup process. The app will walk you through each step, and once complete, your soundbar will be fully operational again.
