Sonos ARC vs Bose 900: An In-Depth Feature Comparison

It is no surprise that there is competition between two Dolby Atmos capable soundbars – Sonos Arc vs Bose 900, because both are well-known brands in the multi-room audio space. 

The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 has a gorgeous glass top and supports Bluetooth, has a remote, and has some ingenious calibrating technology. Sonos Arc is a little bit more expensive older, and superior sounding device. At this specific price range, it is still the greatest Dolby Atmos soundbar we have heard. 

Sonos Arc, with its better Dolby Atmos, dynamic sound, and seamless smart integration, beats over the Bose Smart Soundbar 900.

Let’s get in-depth!

Difference Between Sonos Arc and Bose 900

Features	Sonos Arc	Bose 900
Size	Larger size (45 inches)	Slim profile (just under 42 inches)
App Control	Comprehensive app control, Trueplay technology	The fully equipped app lacks room calibration
Remote Control	No separate remote relies on the TV remote	Comes with a separate remote
Upfiring Drivers	More up-firing drivers for overhead effects	Smaller up-firing drivers, and slightly limited overhead effects
DTS Decoding	Supports basic DTS decoding	Does not support DTS decoding
Expansion Options	A wide array of speakers for expansion	Limited speaker options for surround setup
integration	Seamless integration into the Sonos ecosystem	Limited integration options for surround setup
Price	Check Price	Check Price

Sonos Arc Review

With its large soundstage and powerful bass, the Sonos Arc is a standout Dolby Atmos speaker that delivers a cinematic experience.

For those who like home audio, its elegant appearance and smooth integration into the Sonos ecosystem make it a desirable option.

Specifications:

• The HDMI, optical, and Ethernet connectivity options that the Sonos Arc provides allow you versatility in connecting to a wide range of devices.
• For a more engaging audio experience, the soundbar supports a variety of audio codecs, including the immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS.
• The Sonos Arc relies on cable or Wi-Fi-based connections instead of Bluetooth connectivity.
• By integrating Sonos’ patented smart platform, the Sonos Arc gives customers access to smart features and compatibility with other Sonos products.
• The Sonos Arc is known for its strong Dolby Atmos compatibility, which enhances the immersive and three-dimensional sound quality.
• Users may extend their music arrangement with additional Sonos speakers by integrating the Sonos Arc easily into a Sonos multi-room system.

Pros

• Provides amazing audio with realistic Dolby Atmos.
• Provides regulated, precise, and lively sounds.
• Makes use of Sonos’ intelligent platform to enhance features and device compatibility.
•  Easily incorporates into Sonos multi-room configurations for a unified audio network.

Cons

• There is room for improvement in music presentation.
• The absence of HDMI pass-through connectors prevents the connection of numerous devices.
•  Bluetooth connection is not supported for wireless streaming.

Bose 900 Review

Notable features of the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 include its wide range, elegant appearance, and crisp voice projection.

It is among the most visually appealing soundbars tested, impressive with its detailed sound and aesthetics. 

Specifications:

• Offers HDMI and optical audio source connection choices.
• The immersive Dolby Atmos audio format is supported, among other audio formats, by Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, Dolby TrueHD, and Dolby Digital Plus.
•  Bluetooth 4.2 is included for wireless audio streaming.
• A stylish, impact-resistant tempered glass top, metal grille, and rounded edges complete the sleek design.
• Includes a separate remote for easy operation.
• Enables Voice4Video, extending Alexa’s voice control capabilities to operate the TV or satellite box.

Pros

• Provides a broad, roomy sound that enhances the immersive listening experience.
•  Known for having rounded sides, a metal grille, and a polished, impact-resistant tempered glass top.
• Provides a voice tone that is both present and clear.
•  Bluetooth 4.2 is included, offering more connectivity choices and wireless music streaming.

Cons

• Lacks DTS audio format support, which might restrict its compatibility with some materials.
• Shows certain limits in its immersive audio capabilities in comparison to leading competitors by not completely committing to Dolby Atmos.
• The soundstage for Dolby Atmos material is impacted when the sound doesn’t go as far as intended.

Sonos Arc vs Bose 900, Which is better?

Now, it’s time to make a decision so let’s compare the features of both the soundbars in detail.

1. Design

The Sonos Arc’s 114cm width—just a little bit broader than a typical current 49-inch TV—is particularly intended to work with larger TVs.

Its curved shape helps conceal the Arc’s bulk and gives it a sleek appearance.

The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 is 104 cm long and intended for TVs that are 50 inches or bigger.

With its polished, impact-resistant tempered glass top, aluminum grille, and rounded edges, it looks a lot like the company’s Smart Soundbar 700.

Touch-sensitive controls are a part of both devices, however the Bose has a separate remote control.

On the other hand, Sonos has an extensive app that can be used to configure the device, activate Trueplay, and operate the soundbar.

2. Sound

Stretching directly across the front of our test room, the Sonos Arc sounds incredibly roomy and substantial for a device its size, producing bass with depth and authority. 

It makes excellent use of Dolby’s 3D sound technology and produces one of the most realistic Atmos presentations of any soundbar we’ve heard.

The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 delivers a cinematic performance that is sure to wow many listeners with its incredibly wide sound field, clean forward projection, and lively character. But the sound doesn’t go as far as we would want. 

3. Features

Eleven bespoke drivers and Class D digital amplifiers power the Dolby Atmos sound field of the Sonos Arc. With nine amplification channels, the Soundbar 900 is two less than the Arc. 

When it comes to configuration, the Sonos Arc measures the way sound bounces off your walls using Trueplay. 

The program optimizes the speaker’s performance based on the layout of your space. 

Bose goes one step further. A headband featuring a microphone on top is included with the Smart Soundbar 900. Place it on your head and utilize the ADAPTiQ room calibration software from Bose.

You’ll never run out of connections with the soundbar you select. Both have wi-fi capabilities and support Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, and HDMI eARC. 

Bluetooth is one advantage that the Bose “bar” has over the Sonos. These days, most people stream music on wi-fi, but it’s something to keep in mind. 

Frequently Asked Questions

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Final Verdict

The choice between the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 and the Sonos Arc ultimately comes down to personal priorities and tastes.

The Sonos Arc is known for its powerful sound, compelling Dolby Atmos, and easy interaction with the Sonos smart platform, and multi-room compatibility.

However, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900, wins over with its streamlined appearance, wide range, and crisp vocal projection.

Finally, for those with a larger budget, the Sonos Arc is the best option because of its excellent Dolby Atmos performance, lively sound, and easy setup for a multi-room setup.

Nonetheless, consumers who value more functions and a stylish appearance could find the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 to be an intriguing substitute.

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