Sonos has announced the highly anticipated Arc Ultra soundbar following several leaks that had stirred excitement. Available for preorder now and set for a full release on October 29, the Arc Ultra is priced at $999. This state-of-the-art soundbar represents a significant upgrade over the existing Sonos Arc, long celebrated as one of the premier soundbars. Featuring a 9.1.4-channel system coupled with Spatial Audio capabilities, the Arc Ultra is poised to enhance your audio experience like never before.
A standout feature of the Arc Ultra is the incorporation of the Sound Motion transducer, a result of Sonos' acquisition of the startup Mayht in 2022 for $100 million. This advanced technology promises superior sound dynamics, making it an enticing option for audiophiles. The introduction of a new $799 Sonos Sub 4 wireless subwoofer complements the Arc Ultra. The Sub 4 aims to boost connectivity by integrating new WiFi radios, ensuring compatibility with other Sonos products such as the Beam, Ray, and Era speakers.
The Arc Ultra's 9.1.4-channel system promises immersive sound, offering spatial audio that transforms ordinary listening into a multi-dimensional experience. Designed under the codename 'Lasso,' it showcases premium craftsmanship and an innovative Sound Motion transducer design, delivering twice the bass of its predecessor. With 2GB of RAM and 8GB of internal memory, it features 15 Class-D amplifiers alongside an internal woofer and tweeters equipped with waveguides, creating a powerful audio setup.
The TruePlay feature allows users to calibrate the sound for optimal performance. Enhanced dialogue features, including a new central channel architecture and speech enhancement, are expected to perform remarkably, following their success in previous Sonos models like the Era speakers and the Move 2. The Arc Ultra maintains the streamlined and curvaceous design characteristic of modern Sonos products, reminiscent of its earlier model, the Sonos Arc, featuring a matte finish and extended, curved front panel.
Simultaneously, Sonos is launching the Sub 4, intended to supersede the third-generation Sonos Sub. While priced at $799, it offers premium features that exceed the budget-friendly Sonos Sub Mini. It boasts superior specs such as two eight-inch inward-facing woofers and refined WiFi radios for better connectivity, with an eco-friendly design that consumes 50% less power when idle. The Sub 4 stands out with its versatility, allowing multiple pairings, unlike the Sub Mini limited to two devices.
This functionality broadens the appeal of entry-level Sonos speakers, enabling connections with products like the Ray, Sonos Five, Beam, and the Era 100 and Era 300 speakers. The Arc Ultra and Sub 4 are available in classic black and white color options, adhering to Sonos's hallmark aesthetic. Preorders for the Sub 4 have also begun, with its official release aligning with the Arc Ultra on October 29. Both models are available not only through Sonos's online store but also via Amazon, poised to enhance any home audio setup with their cutting-edge technologies.