Sonos arc sl shadow edition vs. arc: unmasking the true shadow
What To Know
- The Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar and the Sonos Arc are both part of the Sonos ecosystem, which allows for seamless integration with other Sonos speakers and components.
- The choice between the Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar and the Sonos Arc ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
- While the Arc SL Shadow Edition is a great value for its price, the Arc’s Dolby Atmos support and built-in microphone make it the more versatile and immersive choice for home theater enthusiasts.
The Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar and the Sonos Arc are two high-end soundbars from Sonos that offer immersive and cinematic audio experiences. While both soundbars share many similarities, there are some key differences between them that may influence your purchasing decision. This blog post will delve into a detailed comparison of the Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar vs Sonos Arc, highlighting their features, performance, design, and more, to help you make an informed choice.
Design and Build
The Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar and the Sonos Arc share a similar sleek and minimalistic design. Both soundbars feature a curved shape and a matte black finish, making them aesthetically pleasing additions to any home theater setup. However, the Shadow Edition stands out with its matte black grille, giving it a more subtle and understated look.
Audio Performance
The Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar and the Sonos Arc both deliver exceptional audio performance, but there are some subtle differences to note. The Arc SL Shadow Edition features the same 11-driver array as the Arc, including three tweeters, four midwoofers, and two center tweeters. This configuration provides a wide and immersive soundstage, with clear dialogue, detailed highs, and deep, impactful bass.
The Sonos Arc, on the other hand, has the added advantage of Dolby Atmos support. Dolby Atmos is an object-based surround sound format that allows for more precise placement of sound effects and a more immersive listening experience. The Arc’s upward-firing speakers create a virtual height channel, enhancing the sense of verticality and adding an extra layer of depth to your audio.
Features and Connectivity
Both the Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar and the Sonos Arc offer a range of features and connectivity options. They both support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay 2 for wireless streaming. Additionally, they have an HDMI eARC port for connecting to your TV and supporting Dolby Atmos passthrough.
However, the Arc has a slight edge in terms of features. It includes a built-in microphone for voice control with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control your music, adjust the volume, and more with your voice. Additionally, the Arc supports Trueplay tuning, which uses the built-in microphone to analyze the acoustics of your room and optimize the sound accordingly.
Smart Home Integration
The Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar and the Sonos Arc are both part of the Sonos ecosystem, which allows for seamless integration with other Sonos speakers and components. You can create a multi-room audio system, group the soundbars with other Sonos speakers, and control everything from the Sonos app.
Additionally, both soundbars are compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri, giving you the flexibility to control them with your preferred voice assistant.
Price and Value
The Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar is priced at $749, while the Sonos Arc is priced at $899. The $150 difference in price is primarily due to the Arc’s Dolby Atmos support and built-in microphone. If you value Dolby Atmos and voice control, the Arc is the better choice. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or don’t prioritize these features, the Arc SL Shadow Edition offers excellent value for its price.
Which Soundbar is Right for You?
The choice between the Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar and the Sonos Arc ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for an immersive and cinematic audio experience without Dolby Atmos or voice control, the Arc SL Shadow Edition is an excellent choice. However, if you value the added depth and realism of Dolby Atmos and the convenience of voice control, the Sonos Arc is the better investment.
Wrap-Up: A Sound Decision
Both the Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar and the Sonos Arc are exceptional soundbars that offer premium audio experiences. While the Arc SL Shadow Edition is a great value for its price, the Arc’s Dolby Atmos support and built-in microphone make it the more versatile and immersive choice for home theater enthusiasts. Ultimately, the best decision for you will depend on your budget and the features that matter most to you.
Top Questions Asked
Q: What is the difference between the Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar and the Sonos Arc?
A: The main difference is that the Arc SL Shadow Edition does not support Dolby Atmos or have a built-in microphone for voice control.
Q: Which soundbar is better for gaming?
A: Both soundbars are excellent for gaming, but the Sonos Arc‘s Dolby Atmos support may provide a more immersive experience.
Q: Can I use the Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar with a non-Dolby Atmos TV?
A: Yes, the soundbar will still provide excellent audio performance, but you will not experience the full benefits of Dolby Atmos.
Q: Can I wall-mount the Sonos Arc SL Shadow Edition Soundbar?
A: Yes, the soundbar comes with a wall-mount kit for easy installation.
Q: What is Trueplay tuning?
A: Trueplay tuning uses the built-in microphone on the Sonos Arc to analyze the acoustics of your room and optimize the sound accordingly, ensuring the best possible listening experience.
