Sonos Arc vs Samsung Q990C: Which Soundbar is the Smartest Buy?
Two of the greatest Dolby Atmos soundbars available in the market right now are the Samsung Q990C and Sonos Arc. Both of these provide a wide range of capabilities and immersive sounds. But on comparing Sonos Arc vs Samsung Q990C, to find out which one, is best for you.
The Q990C is a better option for watching movies and TV shows, the Arc is a better option for listening to music and stereo. You’ll decide whether the additional features and performance of the Q990C outweigh the higher price tag as it is likewise more expensive than the Arc.
But, the debate doesn’t end here, as this is just the start, there is much more on the plate. So, let’s get started!
Sonos Arc vs Samsung Q990C Comparison Table
| Features | Sonos Arc | Samsung Q990C |
| Sound Quality | Balanced sound profile, clear voices. | Amplified treble and bass. |
| Design | Long, thin soundbar, matte black plastic. | Long soundbar, black metal, and an angular shape. |
| Voice Assistants | Google Assistant, Alexa supported. | Built-in Alexa voice control. |
| Connectivity | 1 HDMI port, Ethernet port, power outlet. | HDMI 2.0 inputs, HDMI eARC output, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, digital optical. |
| Compatibility | Newer LG OLED, and Samsung QLED TVs for Dolby Atmos transmission. | Wireless connection to certain Samsung TVs for Dolby Atmos. |
| Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Sonos Arc Review
A high-end soundbar with TruePlay room tuning, a stylish design, and Dolby Atmos. provides voice control and multi-room functionality, albeit at a high cost and with few HDMI connections.
Specifications:
- The Sonos Arc has one HDMI port, one Ethernet port for wired networking, and a power outlet.
- According to tests conducted with a variety of TVs, newer LG OLED and Samsung QLED TVs offer Dolby Atmos transmission to the Arc.
- It has a 5.0.2 layout that aims to mimic the sound field of a five-channel surround system with two height speakers and no subwoofer.
- A Sub Gen 3 or new Sub Mini was added to the Arc to improve it by adding a subwoofer element.
- The Arc creates sound waves by reflecting sound off walls and ceilings using a variety of speakers.
- You can use AirPlay 2, Spotify, Tidal, and the Sonos app to operate the Arc voice commands via Google Assistant and Alexa are supported.
- When the TV is switched on, the Arc may turn it on and switch to TV audio via HDMI-CEC communication with the TV.
Pros
- It has multi-room audio capability.
- The setup and integration are easy.
- Its sound quality is outstanding with Dolby Atmos support.
- Its design is very sleek and modern.
Cons
- It may be too large for limited space rooms.
- It has no Bluetooth support.
- The HDMI ports are limited (HDMI eARC/ARC input).
- Its price is premium like its quality.
Samsung Q990C Review
The Samsung Q990C is a high-end soundbar featuring an 11.1.4 channel arrangement that produces immersive cinematic sound with rich bass.
It has Apple AirPlay and Spotify compatibility, built-in Alexa voice control, and no support for HDMI 2.1.
Specifications:
- Priced under the $300 budget guideline, the Samsung Q990C comes with extra features including voice help and Wi-Fi streaming.
- The wireless subwoofer, surround speakers, and primary soundbar are all housed in four different-sized speaker boxes that are included with the system.
- The soundbar can connect wirelessly to certain Samsung TVs from 2023 (currently just CU7000 and CU8000 models) and supports Dolby Atmos.
- There are several HDMI 2.0 inputs, one HDMI eARC output, digital optical, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and digital optical connection options.
- The audio features include Q Symphony, SpaceFit Sound Pro Calibration, and Active Voice Amplifier.
- Though it doesn’t have a solar power charger, the remote control is small and feels high-end, and it works with Samsung TV remotes.
Pros
- It has an in-depth and captivating 11.1.4 channel sound.
- It has a really strong bass.
- It has built-in Alexa voice control.
- It is compatible with Spotify and Apple Airplay.
Cons
- It is only compatible with Bluetooth’s SBC codec.
- Its price is premium like its quality.
- It has no HDMI 2.1 support.
- It has no 4K 120Hz HDMI passthrough.
Sonos Arc vs Samsung Q990C, which is better?
Let’s compare the features of both the sound systems in detail so that you can have a better idea, and can make a wise decision for yourself.
1. Sound
The Samsung Q990C and Sonos Arc both provide superb sound quality. Both of them create a large soundstage with clear voices and a strong bass.
Nonetheless, the two soundbars differ in a few significant ways.
Most people agree that the Sonos Arc has a more well-balanced sound profile, with clear voices and a silky treble.
The treble and bass of the Samsung Q990C have been amplified, giving it an aggressive sound character.
This can give the Q990C a more thrilling sound for films and TV shows, but it can also make it seem a little tiresome while listening to music.
2. Design
Both the Samsung Q990C and Sonos Arc have received appreciation for their fashionable looks.
The Arc is designed to fit in with your TV and other entertainment elements, because of its long, thin soundbar.
Although the Q990C has a black metal finish and a more angular shape, and likewise a long soundbar.
The two soundbars feel solid and are well-made. The Q990C is composed of metal, whilst the Arc is composed of matte black plastic. You may place the wall mounts for both soundbars above or below your TV.
4. Features
Dolby Atmos and other surround sound formats are supported by both the Samsung Q990C and the Sonos Arc.
Additionally, you can use Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa to operate them both with your voice, thanks to their integrated speech assistants.
A few special features of the Sonos Arc are TruePlay room tuning. With the help of your iPhone or iPad, this function can assess the room’s acoustics and modify the soundbar’s output accordingly.
A few special features of the Samsung Q990C include SpaceFit Sound+ room tuning. This technology analyses your room’s acoustics using test tones and modifies the soundbar’s output accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main characteristics of the Sonos Arc and Samsung Q990C systems?
With its cutting-edge technology, design, and ecosystem, the Sonos Arc delivers a more versatile and immersive audio experience than the Samsung Q990C, which boasts exceptional movie performance and room-filling sound.
In terms of sound quality, how do the Samsung Q990C and Sonos Arc compare?
The Sonos Arc + 2 Eras 300s + Sub offers revolutionary volume, space, intensity, and detail, taking the Sonos thrill factor to a whole new level. Meanwhile, the Samsung Q990C delivers crisp, well-coordinated, powerful sound with outstanding bass performance.
What distinguishes the Sonos Arc from the Samsung Q990C?
The movie highlights the differences in performance and technology between the Samsung Q990C and Sonos Arc by comparing their pricing, features, and sound quality.
Final Verdict
Both the Samsung Q990C and the Sonos Arc are top-notch Dolby Atmos soundbars.
The Sonos Arc is a better option if you’re searching for a soundbar with a balanced sound profile and exceptional sound quality for both music and movies.
The Samsung Q990C is a better option if you’re searching for a soundbar with a more aggressive sound profile that is made especially for watching movies and TV shows.
With a far lower price tag than the Samsung Q990C, the Sonos Arc is a great option if you’re on a tight budget.
In the end, listening to both soundbars in person and selecting your favorite is the best way to determine which one is ideal for you.
I hope this article helps you. If you have any questions, feel free to comment below.
