Soundbar Showdown: Sonos Arc Vs. Bose 700 – Which Audio Giant Reigns Supreme?

What To Know

  • The Bose 700, while offering excellent sound performance and a sleek design, may be a more affordable option for those on a budget.
  • For those seeking an immersive and cinematic sound experience, combined with a premium design and comprehensive feature set, the Sonos Arc is the clear winner.
  • Both the Sonos Arc and Bose 700 offer excellent sound quality, but the Sonos Arc’s wider soundstage and Dolby Atmos support give it an edge for immersive audio experiences.

The world of soundbars has witnessed a fierce rivalry between two titans: Sonos Arc and Bose 700. Both devices promise an immersive audio experience, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of each soundbar, pitting their features, performance, and value against each other to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Aesthetics

The Sonos Arc sports an elegant and understated design, blending seamlessly into any home décor. Its sleek, curved shape and premium materials exude sophistication. In contrast, the Bose 700 embraces a more angular and modern aesthetic, featuring a brushed metal grille and a compact form factor. While both soundbars offer a visually appealing presence, the Sonos Arc’s timeless design may appeal to those seeking a more subtle complement to their entertainment setup.

Sound Quality

At the heart of any soundbar lies its sound quality. The Sonos Arc delivers an expansive and immersive soundscape, thanks to its 11-driver array and Dolby Atmos support. Its clear dialogue reproduction, precise bass response, and wide soundstage create a truly cinematic experience. The Bose 700, on the other hand, boasts a powerful and balanced sound profile, with its eight-speaker array producing a rich and detailed audio output. Its TrueSpace technology enhances the sense of spaciousness, delivering a more immersive experience than its predecessor, the Bose Soundbar 500.

Connectivity and Features

The Sonos Arc offers a comprehensive suite of connectivity options, including HDMI eARC, optical audio, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. It supports AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect for seamless streaming from various sources. The Bose 700, while lacking HDMI eARC, includes HDMI ARC, optical audio, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connectivity. It also features Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant built-in for voice control.

Ease of Use

Both the Sonos Arc and Bose 700 are designed for user-friendliness. The Sonos Arc’s intuitive mobile app allows for easy setup, sound customization, and access to a wide range of streaming services. The Bose 700 also offers a user-friendly companion app, providing control over settings, music playback, and voice assistant features.

Smart Home Integration

The Sonos Arc seamlessly integrates into the Sonos ecosystem, enabling multi-room audio and compatibility with other Sonos speakers. It supports Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant for voice control. The Bose 700, while not as deeply integrated with smart home systems, offers Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant built-in, allowing for hands-free control over music playback, volume, and other functions.

Price and Value

The Sonos Arc comes in at a higher price point than the Bose 700. Its premium build quality, immersive sound quality, and expansive feature set justify the additional investment for those seeking the ultimate home audio experience. The Bose 700, while offering excellent sound performance and a sleek design, may be a more affordable option for those on a budget.

Verdict: The Winner’s Circle

Choosing between the Sonos Arc and Bose 700 ultimately depends on individual preferences and budget. For those seeking an immersive and cinematic sound experience, combined with a premium design and comprehensive feature set, the Sonos Arc is the clear winner. However, if affordability and a more compact form factor are priorities, the Bose 700 offers a compelling alternative with impressive sound quality and smart home integration.

The Ultimate Choice: Sonos Arc or Bose 700?

Sonos Arc

  • Immersive and cinematic sound quality
  • Premium design and build quality
  • Comprehensive feature set
  • Excellent connectivity options
  • Seamless smart home integration

Bose 700

  • Powerful and balanced sound profile
  • Sleek and compact design
  • Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant built-in
  • Affordable price point

What You Need to Know

Q: Which soundbar has better sound quality?
A: Both the Sonos Arc and Bose 700 offer excellent sound quality, but the Sonos Arc’s wider soundstage and Dolby Atmos support give it an edge for immersive audio experiences.

Q: Which soundbar is more user-friendly?
A: Both soundbars feature intuitive mobile apps for easy setup and control. The Sonos Arc‘s app offers a slightly wider range of features, but both are designed for user convenience.

Q: Which soundbar is more suitable for a larger room?
A: The Sonos Arc’s immersive soundstage and Dolby Atmos support make it a better choice for larger rooms, providing a more expansive and cinematic audio experience.