What To Know
- In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Arc to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
- The Sonos Beam and the Sonos Arc are both smart soundbars that can be controlled via the Sonos app or with your voice using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri.
- The Sonos Beam is an excellent value for those who want great sound in a compact package, while the Sonos Arc is the ultimate choice for those who demand the best possible audio performance.
Sonos has established itself as a leader in the soundbar market, offering a range of products designed to enhance your home entertainment system. Two of their most popular models are the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Arc. Both soundbars deliver exceptional audio quality, but they differ in terms of features, design, and price. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Arc to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Design
The Sonos Beam is a sleek and compact soundbar, measuring 25.6 inches in length and 3.9 inches in height. Its low-profile design makes it ideal for placement under televisions as small as 46 inches. The Sonos Arc, on the other hand, is larger, measuring 45 inches in length and 4.5 inches in height. It is designed to complement larger televisions, typically ranging from 55 inches to 85 inches. Both soundbars feature a premium build quality, with a durable matte black finish and a touch-sensitive control panel on top.
Sound Quality
Both the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Arc deliver immersive and crystal-clear audio. However, the Sonos Arc offers a more expansive and room-filling sound experience. It features a wider soundstage, with seven amplified drivers, including three tweeters, three mid-woofers, and a bass reflex port. This setup results in a more detailed and nuanced sound reproduction, with a wider frequency range and more pronounced bass response. The Sonos Beam, while still delivering impressive sound, has a narrower soundstage and fewer drivers, resulting in a slightly less immersive experience.
Dolby Atmos Support
One of the key differences between the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Arc is their support for Dolby Atmos. Dolby Atmos is an immersive audio format that creates a three-dimensional sound experience by utilizing height channels. The Sonos Arc is equipped with two up-firing drivers that bounce sound off the ceiling, creating a sense of height and overhead effects. The Sonos Beam does not support Dolby Atmos, so it cannot deliver the same level of immersive audio.
Connectivity
Both the Sonos Beam and the Sonos Arc offer a range of connectivity options. They both feature HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) for connecting to your television, as well as optical input for older TVs. Additionally, they both support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2 for wireless streaming. The Sonos Arc also includes an Ethernet port for a more stable wired connection.
Smart Features
The Sonos Beam and the Sonos Arc are both smart soundbars that can be controlled via the Sonos app or with your voice using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri. They offer access to a wide range of streaming services, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more. Both soundbars also feature Sonos Trueplay, which automatically adjusts the sound to optimize the listening experience based on the acoustics of your room.
Price
The Sonos Beam is priced at $449, while the Sonos Arc is priced at $899. The price difference reflects the additional features and improved sound quality offered by the Sonos Arc.
Which Sonos Soundbar is Right for You?
The Sonos Beam is an excellent choice for those who want a compact and affordable soundbar that delivers great sound. It is perfect for smaller rooms and those who do not require Dolby Atmos support. The Sonos Arc, on the other hand, is the ultimate choice for immersive home entertainment. It offers a wider soundstage, Dolby Atmos support, and a more powerful bass response. It is ideal for larger rooms and those who want the best possible audio experience.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose the Sonos Beam or the Sonos Arc, you are guaranteed a premium audio experience that will elevate your home entertainment system. The Sonos Beam is an excellent value for those who want great sound in a compact package, while the Sonos Arc is the ultimate choice for those who demand the best possible audio performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which soundbar is better for gaming?
A: The Sonos Arc offers a wider soundstage and more immersive audio, making it a better choice for gaming.
Q: Can I use either soundbar with a non-Smart TV?
A: Yes, both soundbars can be connected to non-Smart TVs via HDMI ARC or optical input.
Q: Do either soundbar support DTS:X?
A: No, neither soundbar supports DTS:X.