Sonos has taken its home audio game to the next level with the launch of the Arc Ultra soundbar, priced at a competitive $1,899, alongside the powerful Sub 4 subwoofer. This innovative soundbar marks a significant milestone for Sonos as it incorporates cutting-edge transducer technology from Mayht, a Dutch startup acquired by Sonos for an impressive $100 million in 2022.

Sound Motion Technology

Dubbed "Sound Motion," this technology enables the Arc Ultra to produce sound that far exceeds expectations for a device of its size, making it perfect for those who seek high-impact audio without occupying too much space.

Design and Configuration

While maintaining a similar footprint to its predecessor, the original Arc, the Arc Ultra boasts an impressive configuration of 14 drivers: featuring 7 tweeters, 6 midwoofers, and a unique Sound Motion woofer, all powered by 15 Class-D digital amplifiers. With this robust setup, the Arc Ultra delivers a breathtaking 9.1.4 spatial audio experience, elevating your home entertainment to cinematic heights.

Comparative Sound Quality

In a direct comparison with the previous model, the enhancements are striking. The Arc Ultra offers a fuller, more immersive sound, significantly enhanced by the addition of upwards-firing drivers and the powerful Sound Motion woofer. Movie dialogues are remarkably clearer, allowing viewers to dive deeper into their favorite films without straining to hear crucial lines.

Compatibility and Features

A standout feature of the Arc Ultra is its compatibility with Sonos’ Ace headphones. With the TV Audio Swap feature, users can seamlessly switch audio output from the soundbar to their headphones with a single button press, perfect for late-night viewing.

Introducing Sub 4 Subwoofer

In conjunction with the Arc Ultra, Sonos introduced the Sub 4 subwoofer. Sporting an iconic design consistent with Sonos' aesthetic, the Sub 4 is designed with advanced internals, offering faster processing and support for 5GHz Wi-Fi 6, ensuring a smoother and more reliable connection.

Personal Experience

My experience testing the Arc Ultra with the Sub 4 was a revelation. The addition of the subwoofer significantly boosted the low-frequency performance, delivering rich and robust bass that transforms any audio experience. Thankfully, the Arc Ultra isn’t limited to the Sub 4; it can also connect with the previous Sub 3 model. To further enhance your setup, Sonos’ Era 300 speakers can be added as surround sound options.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my brief time with the Arc Ultra left a lasting impression. Its sound quality alone is remarkable, but when paired with the Sub 4 and the Era 300 speakers, it becomes an audio powerhouse that outshines its predecessor, the original Arc. Despite a modest increase in price—$200 more than the original—I firmly believe the added value is well worth it.

Availability and Pricing

The Sonos Arc Ultra is available now in sleek black and white for $1,899, while the Sub 4 can be purchased for $1,449. For those looking for a complete setup, there's a bundle option including the Arc Ultra and Sub 4 for $3,348, or a premium package with the Arc Ultra, Sub 4, and two Era 300s for $4,946. Elevate your home audio experience today and get ready to be blown away by the rich textures of sound like never before!