Connections: HDMI, optical, ethernet
ARC/eARC: eARC
Bluetooth: Yes
Dimensions (hwd): 7.5 x 118 x 11 cm
Weight: 5.9kg
A real step on from the Award-winning Arc, the Arc Ultra packs more drivers, more bass and a more detailed sound than its predecessor. It's more precise than the Sony, but not quite as spacious, and the lack of HDMI ports could be frustrating for gamers.
For
- Clean, precise, spacious and three-dimensional sound
- Deep, tuneful and expressive bass
- Terrifically detailed for a soundbar
Against
- No HDMI passthrough
- No DTS support
- Still some app issues
Connections: HDMI out, 1 x HDMI 2.1 in
ARC/eARC: eARC
Bluetooth: Yes
Dimensions (hwd): 6.4 x 130 x 11 cm
Weight: 5.5kg
The Bravia Theatre Bar 9 actually digs a little deeper in the bass than the Arc Ultra, but isn't quite as detailed. But it's a more open, spacious sound overall, supports DTS:X (which the Sonos doesn't) and has better connectivity thanks to its HDMI ports. Existing Sonos user? You might be better served by the Arc Ultra...
For
- Superb clarity, detail and punch
- Impressive 3D audio processing
- Classy, subtle design
Against
- Slightly clinical in its delivery
- No display
- Occasionally over-pronounced deep bass
