Sonos' new Arc Ultra is its best soundbar by far - but it needs these 3 features to impress me

Jada Jones/ZDNET

Sonos, a leading name in consumer audio, is known for its premium smart speakers, headphones, and soundbars. A soundbar is a simple way to elevate your TV-watching experience, and Sonos offers some of the best in the market.

This week, Sonos introduced the Arc Ultra, the latest addition to its soundbar lineup and the successor to the 2020 Arc. The Arc Ultra brings incremental enhancements in dialogue clarity, audio transparency, and bass response. However, there are other key improvements that show Sonos has spent the last four years thoughtfully refining its flagship soundbar.  

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While the Arc Ultra introduces some notable audio improvements, it remains largely similar to the original Arc. However, with the Arc turning four this summer, it's worth considering the new model if you're in the market for a premium Sonos soundbar. Here are three key things to know about the Arc Ultra.

1. Quality audio that goes beyond 2D

The Sonos Arc Ultra features Dolby Atmos technology and delivers a 9.1.4 spatial audio experience. This means nine horizontal audio channels, one subwoofer, and four up-firing channels, providing immersive sound that fills the entire room.

Sonos also reconfigured the channel layout, focusing on enhancing the center channels. This improvement aims to deliver clearer dialogue and a wider soundstage. If that's not enough, Sonos has introduced Speech Enhancement in the app for even greater clarity in TV dialogue.  

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The Arc Ultra's impressive audio system requires a large form factor to house multiple speakers and a built-in subwoofer. As a result, it may feel oversized if you're pairing it with a small TV or using it in a compact space.

Sonos is also promoting its new Sound Motion technology, designed to deliver enhanced audio quality, deeper bass, and better sound balance within a soundbar's compact design. Sonos describes Sound Motion as "one of the most significant breakthroughs in audio engineering in nearly 100 years." I'll be putting this bold claim to the test when I review the Arc Ultra next month.

2. It needs to be more than just a soundbar

Sonos positions the Arc Ultra for TV binge-watchers, movie lovers, and home music enthusiasts. It comes with AirPlay, allowing users to stream audio directly from Apple devices. If you use Apple Music, you can enjoy CD-quality audio and Dolby Atmos support.

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Additionally, users can stream music, podcasts, and audiobooks from their favorite platforms via the Sonos app, making it a one-stop shop for all audio needs. While Sonos' smaller smart speakers are more portable, the Arc Ultra introduces some fresh design tweaks. It's still large but slightly slimmer, with a sleek matte finish. Though its size is hard to miss, the minimalist design helps it blend into most home decor.  

3. Compatibility with Sonos Ace

Jada Jones/ZDNET

Since their release in June, I've been vocal about my enjoyment of the Sonos Ace headphones, which will be compatible with the new Arc Ultra thanks to Sonos' TV Audio Swap feature.  

TV Audio Swap allows users to seamlessly switch audio from the soundbar to the headphones, enabling private listening with a premium sound experience. This feature is especially useful because the headphones receive audio from any of the TV's outputs, as the soundbar takes over the TV speakers.