Sonos Arc Ultra vs JBL Bar 1000MK2: which Dolby Atmos soundbar should you buy?

JBL Bar 1000MK2 and the Sonos Arc Ultra are on a red and grey background. The JBL model consists of a subwoofer, soundbar and two small surrounds and is black. The Sonos model is longer but is just one soundbar and is black.

JBL

Bar 1000MK2

Connectivity  1 x HDMI output (eARC), 3x HDMI 2.1 input, Optical, Bluetooth
Format support Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
Streaming Yes
Dimensions (hwd) 5 x 85 x 13 cm (soundbar)
Weight 16kg (total)

The JBL package puts up a good fight against the Sonos bar, offering a flexible build and an impactful bass performance.

Pros

• Versatile, clever design
• Exciting yet reasonably detailed sound
• Clear vocal performance

Cons

• Surrounds fail to shine
• Subwoofer lacks precision
• Not as strong with music

Sonos

Arc Ultra

Connectivity HDMI out (eARC), wi-fi, Bluetooth 5.3, AirPlay 2
Format support Dolby Atmos
Streaming Yes
Dimensions (hwd) 7.5 x 118 x 11 cm
Weight 5.9kg

The Arc Ultra's reign as the top Dolby Atmos soundbar at this price point remains untroubled, continuing to dazzle with its three-dimensional and organised sound.

Pros

• Clean, precise, spacious and three-dimensional sound
• Deep, tuneful and expressive bass
• Terrifically detailed for a soundbar

Cons

• No HDMI passthrough
• No DTS support