What To Know
- Among the top contenders in the soundbar market are the Bose Soundbar 900 and the Sonos Arc.
- The Bose Soundbar 900 excels in design, while the Sonos Arc has a slight edge in audio performance, especially with Dolby Atmos content.
- Both the Bose Soundbar 900 and Sonos Arc have powerful bass response, but the Sonos Arc’s larger drivers and dedicated woofers provide a slightly deeper and more impactful bass.
Immersive audio experiences are essential for elevating home entertainment setups. Soundbars offer a convenient and powerful solution, delivering theater-like sound without the hassle of complex speaker systems. Among the top contenders in the soundbar market are the Bose Soundbar 900 and the Sonos Arc. This comprehensive test and comparison will delve into the intricacies of these two exceptional soundbars, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Bose Soundbar 900: Boasting a sleek and elegant design, the Bose Soundbar 900 features a low-profile chassis finished in premium materials. It measures 41.5 inches in width and weighs 26 pounds. The soundbar’s minimalist aesthetic complements any home décor.
Sonos Arc: The Sonos Arc exudes sophistication with its curved, perforated grille and matte black finish. Measuring 45 inches in width and weighing 26.3 pounds, it is slightly larger than the Bose Soundbar 900. The Arc’s modern design seamlessly integrates into any entertainment setup.
Audio Performance
Bose Soundbar 900: Equipped with nine full-range drivers, a center channel, and two dipole side-firing speakers, the Bose Soundbar 900 delivers an immersive and spacious soundstage. It utilizes Bose‘s proprietary TrueSpace technology to simulate overhead effects, creating a captivating surround sound experience. The soundbar’s bass response is deep and impactful, while the treble is clear and detailed.
Sonos Arc: The Sonos Arc boasts eleven Class-D amplifiers powering eight elliptical woofers, three tweeters, and two side-firing speakers. It supports Dolby Atmos and Dolby TrueHD, providing a truly cinematic audio experience. The Arc’s soundstage is wide and enveloping, with excellent separation between channels. The bass is powerful and controlled, while the highs are crisp and precise.
Connectivity and Features
Bose Soundbar 900: The Bose Soundbar 900 offers versatile connectivity options, including HDMI eARC, HDMI ARC, and optical inputs. It also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for wireless streaming. The soundbar comes with a dedicated Bose Music app for control and customization.
Sonos Arc: The Sonos Arc features HDMI eARC, HDMI ARC, and optical inputs. It connects to the Sonos ecosystem via Wi-Fi and supports AirPlay 2. The Sonos app provides comprehensive control over the soundbar’s settings and allows for multi-room audio integration.
Atmos Performance
Bose Soundbar 900: The Bose Soundbar 900 utilizes virtualized Dolby Atmos, which emulates overhead effects using the soundbar’s multiple drivers. While it doesn’t offer the same level of immersion as a dedicated Atmos speaker setup, it provides a satisfying and engaging surround sound experience.
Sonos Arc: The Sonos Arc supports Dolby Atmos and Dolby TrueHD, delivering a true cinematic sound experience. It has dedicated upward-firing speakers that create a realistic overhead soundstage. The Arc’s Atmos performance is exceptional, providing a truly immersive and enveloping audio experience.
Voice Assistant Compatibility
Bose Soundbar 900: The Bose Soundbar 900 supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. You can control the soundbar’s volume, playback, and other settings using voice commands.
Sonos Arc: The Sonos Arc supports Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri via AirPlay 2. It offers hands-free control over the soundbar’s functions and allows for integration with smart home devices.
Dimensions and Placement
Bose Soundbar 900: Measuring 41.5 inches in width, the Bose Soundbar 900 is designed to be placed under a TV. It can also be wall-mounted using an optional bracket.
Sonos Arc: The Sonos Arc, with its 45-inch width, is suitable for larger TVs. It can be placed on a TV stand or wall-mounted using the included hardware.
Conclusion: The Deciding Factors
The Bose Soundbar 900 and Sonos Arc are both exceptional soundbars that offer immersive audio experiences. The Bose Soundbar 900 excels in design, while the Sonos Arc has a slight edge in audio performance, especially with Dolby Atmos content. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which soundbar has better bass performance?
A: Both the Bose Soundbar 900 and Sonos Arc have powerful bass response, but the Sonos Arc’s larger drivers and dedicated woofers provide a slightly deeper and more impactful bass.
Q: Can I use either soundbar with my existing surround sound system?
A: Yes, both the Bose Soundbar 900 and Sonos Arc can be integrated with external rear speakers for a more immersive surround sound experience.
Q: Which soundbar is better for music listening?
A: While both soundbars are capable of delivering excellent music playback, the Sonos Arc’s wider soundstage and precise imaging make it a slightly better choice for music enthusiasts.