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10 Best Arc Soundbar 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#2

Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar with Dolby Atmos and Voice Control - 9.1.4 Surround Sound for TV and Music - Black

Rating
9.8
Audio Channels
Connectivity Options
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Support

Most important from
299 reviews

Audio Channels
Clear dialogue is a standout feature, addressing a common issue with many soundbars.
Connectivity Options
The soundbar sets up its EQ and surround volumes as a plug-and-play setup with the app, which is awesome.
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Support
The bass response is ridiculously good for a unit this size, and the Atmos effects are spectacular.
Subwoofer
Adding a subwoofer takes the experience to the next level, providing deep, movie-theater-like bass.
Smart Features
Trueplay tuning can ruin the listening experience due to a current bug, but factory resetting resolves the issue.

The Sonos Arc Ultra Soundbar is designed to elevate your audio experience, making it a great choice for anyone wanting immersive sound for movies, music, or gaming. With a powerful 9.1.4 surround sound system and Dolby Atmos support, it creates a captivating audio landscape that fills the room, making you feel like you're in the center of the action. The speech enhancement feature is particularly useful, ensuring dialogue comes through clearly, which is perfect for movie nights.

In terms of connectivity, it offers various options like HDMI eARC, WiFi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2, allowing for seamless setup and streaming from different devices. The Sonos app and voice control features, including compatibility with Amazon Alexa, make it user-friendly and convenient to operate.

The design of the soundbar is elegant and modern, fitting nicely into most home decor without being intrusive. Additionally, the Trueplay technology enables you to fine-tune the sound based on your room's acoustics, which is a nice touch for personalized audio. There are some drawbacks to consider. The soundbar itself doesn't come with a subwoofer, which means if you're looking for deeper bass, you may need to invest in the Sonos Sub or additional speakers. Also, the setup involves a single HDMI connection, which could be limiting if you have multiple devices connected to your TV.

Rating
9.8
Audio Channels
Connectivity Options
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Support

Most important from
299 reviews

Audio Channels
Clear dialogue is a standout feature, addressing a common issue with many soundbars.
Connectivity Options
The soundbar sets up its EQ and surround volumes as a plug-and-play setup with the app, which is awesome.
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Support
The bass response is ridiculously good for a unit this size, and the Atmos effects are spectacular.
Subwoofer
Adding a subwoofer takes the experience to the next level, providing deep, movie-theater-like bass.
Smart Features
Trueplay tuning can ruin the listening experience due to a current bug, but factory resetting resolves the issue.
#3

JBL Bar 9.1 - Channel Soundbar System with Surround Speakers and Dolby Atmos, Black

Rating
9.6
Power Output
Connectivity Options

Most important from
1835 reviews

Power Output
The system is praised for its powerful 820W output, making it louder than some competitors, and great for both movies and music.
Connectivity Options
Setup is straightforward and quick, with easy connectivity and reliable operation every time it's turned on.

The JBL Bar 9.1 soundbar system excels in delivering a high-quality surround sound experience, making it an excellent choice for home theater enthusiasts. With 820 watts of power and support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, it creates immersive audio that can fill a room with dynamic sound. The system's unique detachable, battery-powered surround speakers offer flexibility, allowing you to enjoy a genuine surround sound setup without the hassle of wires.

A standout feature is the powerful 300W, 10-inch subwoofer, which ensures deep bass that enhances movies, music, and gaming. The inclusion of Ultra HD 4K pass-through with Dolby Vision support makes it future-proof for modern home entertainment setups.

In terms of connectivity, the JBL Bar 9.1 is versatile, offering Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, optical, and HDMI options. This makes it easy to connect various devices, including TVs and smartphones. The built-in calibration feature optimizes sound settings specific to your room, enhancing the listening experience.

However, the system is not without drawbacks. Its size might be cumbersome for smaller spaces, and the design, while sleek, is quite standard compared to some more modern competitors. Additionally, it's important to note that this system requires a corded electric power source, and the subwoofer, while wireless, still needs a power outlet.

The JBL Bar 9.1 is highly rated by users for its sound quality and features, ranking well among home audio systems. It is a robust choice for those who want a comprehensive sound experience but might be less ideal for compact spaces or those seeking a more portable solution.

Rating
9.6
Power Output
Connectivity Options

Most important from
1835 reviews

Power Output
The system is praised for its powerful 820W output, making it louder than some competitors, and great for both movies and music.
Connectivity Options
Setup is straightforward and quick, with easy connectivity and reliable operation every time it's turned on.

Buying Guide for the Best Arc Soundbar

Choosing the right ARC (Audio Return Channel) soundbar can significantly enhance your home entertainment experience by providing high-quality audio that complements your TV. When selecting a soundbar, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. Here are some key specs to look out for and how to navigate them.
Audio ChannelsAudio channels refer to the number of distinct audio signals the soundbar can produce. Common configurations include 2.0, 2.1, 3.1, 5.1, and even 7.1 channels. A 2.0 channel soundbar has two speakers (left and right), while a 2.1 channel adds a subwoofer for enhanced bass. Higher numbers like 5.1 and 7.1 include additional speakers for surround sound. If you enjoy immersive audio experiences, opt for a higher channel configuration. For basic TV watching, a 2.0 or 2.1 channel soundbar may suffice.
Power OutputPower output, measured in watts, indicates the soundbar's loudness and clarity. Higher wattage generally means more powerful and clearer sound. Soundbars typically range from 100W to 500W or more. If you have a large room or prefer louder audio, choose a soundbar with higher wattage. For smaller spaces or moderate listening levels, a lower wattage soundbar will be adequate.
Connectivity OptionsConnectivity options determine how you can connect the soundbar to your TV and other devices. Common options include HDMI ARC, optical, Bluetooth, and AUX. HDMI ARC is preferred for its ability to transmit high-quality audio and simplify connections with a single cable. Optical connections also provide good audio quality. Bluetooth allows for wireless streaming from smartphones and tablets. Choose a soundbar with the connectivity options that match your devices and usage preferences.
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X SupportDolby Atmos and DTS:X are advanced audio technologies that create a more immersive sound experience by adding height channels, making it feel like sound is coming from above and around you. If you enjoy watching movies with rich, cinematic audio, look for a soundbar that supports these technologies. For regular TV watching or casual listening, this feature may not be as crucial.
SubwooferA subwoofer enhances the bass frequencies, providing deeper and more impactful sound. Some soundbars come with a built-in subwoofer, while others include a separate wireless subwoofer. If you enjoy bass-heavy music or action-packed movies, a soundbar with a dedicated subwoofer will enhance your listening experience. For general TV watching, a built-in subwoofer may be sufficient.
Size and DesignThe size and design of the soundbar should complement your TV and room decor. Soundbars come in various lengths and styles, from sleek and compact to larger, more robust designs. Measure the space where you plan to place the soundbar and ensure it fits comfortably. Additionally, consider the aesthetic appeal and how it matches your TV and room setup.
Smart FeaturesSome soundbars come with smart features like voice control, built-in virtual assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant), and app control. These features can enhance convenience and integration with other smart home devices. If you value hands-free control and smart home compatibility, look for a soundbar with these capabilities. If you prefer a straightforward audio device, you may not need these additional features.

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