How to Set Up and Connect Sonos Arc to the TV (and Other Devices)

One exciting thing about the Dolby Atmos soundbar is its infinite connection possibilities. You’re able to link it indirectly to cable boxes using the said HDMI linkage. It’s also discoverable to other Sonos devices and grouped via the S2 software.

How Do I Play Sonos Arc on My TV?

To play the Arc on your TV, you’ll have to set it up first on the Sonos controller app. You’re required to register it to a Sonos system before it can be used as part of your home theater installment. This is done even when you’re using the device via the provided HDMI cable, so you really can’t miss this step.

First off, you’ll need to place the Arc into its designated position. This will ensure that it will be calibrated properly when you’re in the process of personalizing its sound settings. Also, you need to plug the soundbar into a power port, meaning you should prepare the ideal place beforehand.

Once you’re done linking the power cable, the device will automatically turn on. After it has booted up, it’s time for the setup process using the S2 software. You can approach this in two ways, either register the Arc in a new Sonos system or link it with an existing one.

To set it up in a brand-new system, select Set Up a New System on the controller program. This will prompt you to open or create a Sonos account. After doing so, a pop-up will appear showing the Arc and its basic details.

Click on Add and follow the provided steps to finish the setup process without hassle. You’re also bound to add your preferred music services such as Spotify or Apple Music. As such, you should also prepare your respective login information for your chosen audio program.

The process is easier if you’re registering the Arc to your existing Sonos system. All you need to do is go to the Settings panel, click on System, then tap Add Product. Instructions will also be given to assist you in adding the soundbar to the software.

Be aware that during the setup process, you’ll be guided on what kind of cable to use for the TV connection. If your television is more on the modern side, you’ll likely need the HDMI line only. However, for those that are not compatible with the ARC protocol, you’ll have to use the adapter too.

After completing the setup, you can now stream whatever’s playing on your TV to the Arc. You can acquire the Sonos surround sound experience, which has been recognized by many across the globe.

How Do I Connect My Sonos Arc Soundbar to My TV?

Connecting your Arc to the TV can be done by simply using the supplied HDMI cable. All you need to do is plug one end into the soundbar’s HDMI out port and the other into the TV’s ARC opening. This is the case if your television is more on the modern side and can cater to ARC or eARC protocols.

If it doesn’t have the appropriate port for the HDMI cable, you can use the optical audio adapter. This cable is included in your Arc bundle, but it’s also available on the Sonos website for $25. With it, you can connect the Dolby Atmos soundbar to a television belonging to the older spectrum.

For reference, the cable compatible with the Arc can be classified as a 1.4 plus wire. It’s also known as a high-speed ethernet HDMI cable, possessing a bandwidth of 10.2 gigabytes per second.

How Do I Connect My Sonos Arc to My TV Wirelessly?

If you’re aiming for a home theater setup with no cables, the Arc it’s not for you. It’s not made for wireless connections and can only link to the TV using HDMI. Any workarounds won’t help either, especially if you’re thinking about the Bluetooth option.

To confirm it, Sonos’ streamlined soundbar is not manufactured with Bluetooth functions. Granted, the brand created products with this protocol but they’re for portable devices like the Move and Roam. The Arc is a permanent in-home device, so it is expected to revolve around the Wi-Fi network.

How Do I Connect My Sonos Arc to My TV and Cable Box?

You can link the Arc to both your TV and cable box by attaching the HDMI cable to your television. Of course, this will only happen if your converter box is already set up and tethered to your TV.

Note that the protocols that work with the Arc are the ARC and the eARC – a must for all connected devices. This is because consistency in protocols will help in the smooth transition of signals from one device to another. The signal waves coming from the cable box will only retain their form if it is passing through compatible products.

For example, if your cable box is streaming the Atmos codec, the smart TV connected should also be capable of hosting it. In turn, the Arc will receive the same surround sound format sent by the external audio source. You’ll get the most of the soundbar’s home cinema features this way without any downgrade.

It’s a different case if you’re using the optical audio adapter to link the Arc to your television, though. Since you’re using an older TV that can’t cater to ARC signals, you’re unable to access higher forms of surround sound. Instead, the cable box’s signal will be translated to Stereo PCM or Dolby Digital at the maximum.

How Do I Connect My Sonos Arc to My Samsung TV?

You’ve got two options to take when connecting the Arc to your Samsung TV – via HDMI or the optical adapter. This depends on the type of television installed in your home theater, so better check it out in the Settings. It’s much better if your TV can cater to the HDMI eARC protocol since this will bring out the best from the soundbar.

To be specific, eARC is needed for you to access Dolby Atmos and other advanced variations of the Dolby codecs. This will give you the pinnacle surround sound experience right in the comforts of your own home. Check out the formats you can get when linking the Arc to your Samsung TV via eARC:

• Dolby Atmos
• Dolby TrueHD
• Dolby Atmos (True HD)
• Multichannel PCM
• Dolby Multichannel PCM

The soundbar can still connect to your Samsung TV if it has the standard HDMI ARC protocol. However, you can’t get the highlight of the Arc and can only access PCM, Dolby Digital, and DTS Digital Surround. This is remarkable by itself since the linkage can maximize the home theater device’s 5.0 channels.

If your Samsung TV is more on the older spectrum, there’s another option available for you aside from HDMI. This is through the provided optical audio adapter on the bundle you purchased the Arc in. Of course, you’ll get certain limitations but the important thing is to connect the soundbar to your TV.

You can always upgrade your Samsung TV for a much better model when you have the moolah. The optical route will give you stereo PCM and other basic surround sound formats available on both the Arc and the older-generation TV.

How Do I Connect Sonos Arc to Samsung QLED TV?

No matter what model or generation your TV is, the only way it’s connecting to the Arc is via the HDMI cable. This applies even to your Samsung QLED TV, which was first released in 2017. Here’s the step-by-step guide on how you can link the soundbar to your TV model:

• Look for the HDMI out port on the connector panel of the Arc. It’s on the left side of the Join button, parallel to the AC power input.
• Connect one end of the provided 1.4 plus HDMI cable to the out port. You can link the other end of it to the HDMI-in port on your Samsung QLED TV.
• If you’re using an external audio device, turn it on first before powering up the TV and soundbar. Note that you should set up the Arc on the Sonos app before connecting it to the television.
• Also, set the Samsung QLED TV’s audio settings to external speakers. This will ensure that the audio you’ll hear is sourced from the Dolby Atmos soundbar.
• Anynet + (HDMI CEC) should be activated on your television. This is the same for both ARC and eARC linkage.

If you’re wondering how to activate Anynet + (HDMI CEC) on your Samsung QLED TV, simply go to Settings. Look for the General menu then click on External Device Management. Tap Anynet +(HDMI CEC) and wait for it to be authorized.

How to Connect Sonos Arc to LG TV

The LG TV in your home cinema setup can connect to the Arc by using the provided HDMI cable. When you purchase the $899 soundbar, there will be a 1.4. plus cable included in the bundle along with the power cord. This line is capable of hosting the ARC or eARC protocols, so check your TV for compatibility.

If your LG TV is one of the newer models, it will have no problem with any of the Arc’s surround sound formats. All you need to do is to hook up the HDMI cable on the HDMI out port of the soundbar. The other end should be connected to your television’s port labeled ARC or eARC.

Any of these protocols will give you access to hi-res audio formats. These include multichannel PCM and several Dolby codecs, including Atmos. As long as the signal passing through the TV to the soundbar remains consistent, the audio quality won’t be altered.

How Do I Use Sonos Arc Without HDMI?

Using the Arc without touching the HDMI port is basically impossible. This is the case when you’re using the Dolby Atmos soundbar as your main home theater device.

It won’t work even if you’re linking the product to TV via optical and not using the ARC or eARC protocols. The reason behind this is that the soundbar has only one means of connection to the TV in the form of HDMI. It may be true that you can use an optical audio adapter but the 1.4 plus line is still crucial to access the Arc.

On the other hand, the Arc works as a traditional Sonos speaker when out of the home theater bounds. It’s able to function as a standalone audio device without an HDMI cable as long as it is connected to power. Of course, Wi-Fi is also a nonnegotiable as you’ll be using the soundbar via the Sonos app.

All you need to do is navigate the S2 controller program and stream media using the Arc. You’re able to access this easily since you have set the soundbar up prior to usage. If you haven’t and the device is fresh out of the box, here’s the setup process:

• Download the Sonos software on the App Store or Google Play Store. The Arc is only compatible with the S2 app so you should refrain from trying to link it to the S1 legacy program.
• Station the Arc on your home theater setup and connect it to power by using the cable provided. You’re also free to connect the HDMI cable when you use the TV as part of your home cinema.
• You can opt to include the Arc on your existing Sonos System or create a new one. If you’re aiming to add it to your present one, go to Settings then System. Click on the Add Product option and follow the provided instructions to integrate the soundbar into your network.
• If you want to create a brand-new Sonos system, select Set Up a New System. You’ll then be given an option to create or sign in to your Sonos account. After deciding which account to use, click on Add and follow the steps given to set the Arc up properly.

During the setup process, your preferred music services will be linked to the Sonos app. There are over a hundred streaming programs available on the software so you’re free to use several of your choices. You can even group the soundbar with other speakers on the same system to take advantage of multiroom possibilities.

Why Won’t My Sonos Arc Connect to My TV?

There are several reasons why the Arc is not connecting to your television. However, the most common one stems from the HDMI cable not being the right fit. Sonos manufactured their soundbar to link to TVs with HDMI ARC or eARC for most of their home theater formats. This means that your television should be modern enough to host its protocols.

You’re free to use the optical route, but that would only bring you stereo PCM and other non-Dolby codecs. You won’t even have the right linkage to experience Atmos, one of the main features that make the Arc stand out.

Another reason is that you’ve yet to set the Arc up on the Sonos controller app. That’s right – even though you aim to link the soundbar to the TV, you still need to register it to a Sonos system. This is a default move that should be done upon purchasing the device.

With it, you’re able to control not only the soundbar’s settings but also the audio codecs it is receiving from the TV. Using the Arc as a general speaker will work too, stream media from a variety of affiliated programs. You can listen to media from your home theater and stream it to different Sonos speakers through the app.

The culprit of the Arc’s connection failure to the TV may also be the lack of software updates. Note that Sonos periodically sends upgrades to their devices not only for security reasons. The brand also aims to provide improvements to the user’s surround sound experience.

As such, firmware updates are a must to keep the soundbar up-to-date with the latest bug fixes. Of course, your TV updates should always be keeping up, so check your Settings quite often.

How to Mount Sonos Arc

Mounting the Arc to the wall is your best bet when you’re aiming to maximize its surround sound capabilities. Sonos itself recommends this route, providing you with their very own wall mount to do the job. For an additional $79, you get to position the Arc in the most ideal way possible.

Included in the wall mount package are tools you can use to install the device on the wall. Here’s the complete list of them:

• Positioning guide
• Wall mount bracket
• 2 knob
• 6 wall anchors
• 6 screws

Once you’ve ascertained that all of these materials are complete, you can readily install the wall mount on its designated placement by the wall. Here’s the step-by-step process how:

• If your television is already affixed to the wall, get the positioning guide and place it against the wall. Align the upper edge with the bottom of your TV and measure a space of 5.5 inches (140 mm).
• Get a pencil or anything to subtly mark the screw locations. Note that if you’re going to use the provided wall anchors, use a 5/16 inch (8 mm) drill to create the pilot holes. These anchors should not be used if your wall is made from wood or plastic.
• Place the wall mount bracket and check its alignment with the marked screw locations. You could use a level to further determine the accuracy and drill the screw in place. A Phillips-head screwdriver or a power drill will do the trick of securing the wall mount on the wall. Before finalizing the placement, ensure that the arrows in the center are facing upwards.
• On the back of the soundbar, tighten the two knobs you’re provided with on your package. Make sure that they are fully secured to avoid any accidents.
• Once you’re satisfied with the placement and positioning of the mount, it’s time to install the power and HDMI cables. Note that you should also plug the HDMI wire into the TV.
• Finally, slide the Arc and align the knobs so that they fit into the slots of the wall mount. The touch controls should be facing up and the soundbar should be fully supported. If you feel like the setup is a bit loose, check the installation to see if the bracket is attached properly.

How Do I Fix a Sonos Arc to the Wall?

You can fix the Arc to the wall easily if you have the Sonos wall mount on hand. There are other ones available on the market, but the brand’s very own product is the greatest fit for the soundbar. By using this particular mount, your home theater device can automatically adjust its EQ to reduce bass hitting the walls.

That’s right – when paired with the brand’s wall bracket, the Arc knows that it is placed on the wall. This is because the magnets installed on the soundbar help in detecting whether the device is fixed on the mount. Not only this, but the bracket has a low-profile design fit for your minimalistic setup.

For reference, the Arc will work wonders if it is placed on the wall below the television. Using the Sonos mount, you’ll find that the soundbar will seamlessly blend with your home theater setup. As an alternative, it can also be positioned on the table or credenza if you have the space for it.

How to Mount Sonos Arc Below TV

To mount the Arc below your television, you’ll need to purchase the Sonos wall mount or anything equivalent to it. This is the most recommended placement because not only will it maximize the soundbar’s audio, but also get the best of the space available. If your goal is a minimalistic setup, then mounting the soundbar below the TV is your way to go.

Here are the specifications you should take note of when mounting the Arc below your television:

• Keep a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) of distance between the base of your TV and the soundbar. Take note that the sides of the Arc should also be at least 1 foot (305 mm) away from the walls.
• The Arc has forward-facing drivers so it’ll sound phenomenal when placed at ear level. Consider mounting the Arc after you’ve estimated which position you feel best in when watching.
• Included in the Arc’s bundle is an HDMI cable with a length of 4.9 ft (1.5 m). It’s more than enough to comply with the recommended distance between Arc and the TV. This should not be strained nor exposed when mounting the soundbar below the television.
• There’s also a 6 ft (2 m) power cable included in the soundbar package. Since the soundbar is not powered by lithium-ion batteries, it should always be near a power port. Any extra cables can easily be concealed by the wall mount, so you should focus on the best placement under the TV.

Why Does Sonos Arc Need to Be 4 Inches From TV?

On the Sonos user guide, you’ll find a very specific detail stating that you should position the Arc at a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) below your TV. Simply put, this is to help you maximize your surround sound experience. In particular, giving a few inches of space between the TV and soundbar ensures no audio drivers are being blocked.

The home theater device from Sonos is a traditional surround sound system with a 5.0.2 configuration. This means that the soundbar possesses left, rear left, center, rear right, and right speakers. It also has two upward-firing drivers, mainly designated for playing Dolby Atmos codecs.

The minimum space between the soundbar and TV will allow for the sound waves to spread without being obstructed. These audio signals will then spread across the room and provide you with a first-rate media encounter.

On the chance that the Arc’s signals are still being restricted, it’s best to leave a 5.5-inch (140 mm) distance from the TV. Note that you still need to consider your position when engaging in your home theater setup. As long as the soundbar’s placement won’t hinder your experience in any way, then you’re free to set its distance from the TV.

How Do I Connect My Sonos Arc to Surround Sound?

If you’re not yet aware of the Arc’s specs, you should know that it is a home cinema system on its own. However, you’re able to elevate your experience by adding surrounds through the S2 app. Using the software, you can link a pair of supplementary speakers to your setup for a more phenomenal 3D soundscape.

To elaborate, the soundbar has a 5.0 configuration topped with two upward-firing drivers for Dolby Atmos codecs. Of course, you can opt to upgrade this setup to fully capture the home cinema scene. These include throwing in a pair of surround speakers to further increase the quality of surround sound you’re getting.

By using the S2 software, you can connect the Arc to speakers that will provide a more elaborate surround sound. All you need to do is follow the in-app instructions to pair the intended devices to your soundbar. With it, you’ll get more of the home theater experience with the most minimal setup possible.

You’re even able to manipulate the surround sound audio on your home theater to fit your preference. If you’re wondering how to, take a peek at the instructions below:

• Launch the Sonos controller app on your iOS or Android device. Go to the Settings and take a look at the System panel.
• Tap the Products panel. Select the Arc on the registry of devices linked in the particular Sonos system.
• Scroll down until you find the Sound option then click on Surround Sound.

Once you’ve successfully reached the Surround Sound panel, you’re free to control the following:

How Do I Adjust Sonos Arc Surround Sound?

If you’ve included a pair of surrounds in your Arc setup, you’re able to adjust it to your tastes. For one, you can alter the surround sound format being used by navigating through your TV’s menu. This is possible because the soundbar is capable of hosting several home theater formats.

In particular, the Arc is compatible with Stereo PCM, DTS, and other Dolby audio codecs. As you know, this will depend on your television and whether it is using the optical, ARC, or eARC connection. Of course, if you want to get the best from Sonos, hook the soundbar to a TV modern enough to host Atmos codecs.

You’re also free to adjust the Arc’s surround sound in terms of volume output. This is regardless of the format you’re using, so you’re free to mix and match. First off, you should navigate to the Settings page of the S2 controller application.

Select System then look for the Arc in the list of Sonos products registered in the program. For reference, select the one with the (+LS+RS) label symbolizing that it has a pair of surround speakers. Under the Sound category, click on Surround Audio and toggle the TV Level slider.

This control will help you manage the sound output of the surround speakers when watching TV. Aside from the rear devices’ volume, you can also choose the audio variety they are streaming. Not only these, but you can even tell the devices about your distance for automatic volume adjustment.

If you’re curious, check out the table below showing different surround configurations on a variety of program types:

How to Connect Sonos Arc to Receiver

Adding a receiver to your home theater setup can permanently improve your listening experience. It’s a hub of cinema soundscape which you can easily integrate with the Arc by using the HDMI ARC protocol. Through this, you’re able to get the most out of the soundbar’s 5.0 channel.

To start, you should first decide where you want to place the Arc. If you’re unaware, there’s a connector panel located subtly on the soundbar’s back portion. It should be facing the receiver so you won’t have to experience any inconvenience later on.

Note that any extra device not in use should be put aside to avoid clutter. With them out of the way, start connecting all the necessary external drives to your receiver. You should be mindful of putting the cables to their respective port or you risk faulty connections.

Also, the Arc’s own HDMI cable should be positioned in its out port. Power cables should be checked too, including the soundbar’s AC main power line. After doing the hard work, you’re obligated to set the Arc up on the Sonos S2 application.

Once you’ve registered the soundbar to an existing Sonos system, it’s time to check on the receiver and TV. Deactivate both products’ built-in speakers to avoid interference. After all, your goal is to utilize the soundbar’s surround sound channels even when using a variety of devices.

How Do I Connect My Onkyo Receiver to Sonos Arc?

To connect an Onkyo receiver with the Arc, you should first check the products’ compatibility with each other. After making sure that the model has a ‘Work With Sonos’ label, you can link the receiver to the soundbar via HDMI. Note that some models are compatible with the multiroom giant, but not every one of these works with Dolby Atmos.

Since the Arc can only shine with Atmos-friendly devices, you should aim for these particular Onkyo varieties. You can check out any of these models that sports affinity with both Sonos and Dolby codecs:

• TX-NR696 AV Receiver
• TX-RZ3100 AV Receiver
• TX-8270

Successfully linking an Onkyo receiver with the Arc means you get more of the rich features. This is especially the case if you’re keen on using the soundbar as a speaker for your game console or simply an output device.

How Do I Add Surround Speakers to Sonos Arc?

The Arc is a self-sufficient soundbar that can deliver phenomenal surround sound on its own. However, Sonos is known for providing better audio the more speakers are added to the system, including a pair of surrounds. Check out the guide to integrate supplementary surround speakers into your Dolby Atmos soundbar:

• Launch the S2 program on your iOS or Android device. Go to the Settings page which is symbolized by the gear icon.
• Select System on the list menus and navigate to the Products list. Tap the Arc on the roll of devices and choose the Set up Surrounds option. The software will guide you with further steps to add surround speakers to your home theater installation.

Note that you can’t just use any pair of speakers to set up as surrounds to the soundbar. Here are the Sonos guidelines you should follow when choosing the model to include in your setup:

• The golden rule is that only speakers of the same model can function as surrounds to your home theater setup. Related models are an exception, though. To be specific, you can use a One and a One SL together to make up a pair of surround speakers.
• Since the Arc only functions within the S2 app, you should only choose surround speakers that work with the same program.
• Both devices you intend to use as surrounds should be stationed behind your listening position. In particular, it should be placed on your rear left and rear right areas.
• The pair of surround speakers should be in the same orientation. If your left One speaker is positioned vertically, the right One should be matching it.
• Voice-enabled products that you intend to use as surrounds will have the microphones disabled. As such, Sonos recommends you use the SL variations of the speakers. The Arc is voice-enabled itself so you’re not missing out on the smart assistance.
• Note that the surround speakers will be restricted in terms of available Sonos features. Both won’t be usable for AirPlay, Line-In, and even Subwoofer output.

How Do I Set Up Sonos Arc With Rear Speakers?

You can set the Arc up with rear speakers by navigating through the Sonos controller program. All you need to do is go to the Settings page on your iOS or Android device and select System. Under the Products category, select the soundbar and click Set Up Surrounds.

The software will then provide you with step-by-step instructions to add the rear speakers of your choice to the soundbar. Note that you’re only able to do this on the S2 version of the program since the Arc is exclusively compatible with it. As such, you’re also required to link the soundbar to a pair of surrounds that is compatible with it.

For reference, the Sonos devices that work with the S2 variety of the controller app are:

• All generations of the One model including One SL
• Five
• Play:1, Play:3, Play:5 (Gen 2)
• All models of the SYMFONISK speakers
• Amp powering third-party speakers
• Connect:Amp powering third-party speakers

How Do I Connect Sonos Arc to Optical Cable?

You can connect the Arc using the optical cable if you have the optical audio adapter on hand. This is included in your $899 soundbar bundle, together with the cables for HDMI and the power output. It’s also sold separately on the Sonos website for a price of $25 if you’ve ever lost or damaged it beyond use.

If you’re a newbie in using the multiroom giant’s Dolby Atmos soundbar, know that the HDMI cable is nonnegotiable. This is the case even if the television you’re using is not compatible with this kind of protocol.

First off, plug the AC power cable and the HDMI wire into their respective ports. They’re both located on the back of the Arc, cleverly hidden on the soundbar’s connector panel. Since you’re using a TV with no HDMI port, this is where the digital audio adapter enters the scene.

Plug the HDMI cable on the soundbar and attach the other end to the optical audio adapter. Note that if your adapter is new, there will be a protective cap you should remove before linking to the HDMI cable. Connect the other end of the adapter to the television’s optical digital-out port.

After doing so, you’ll find that the soundbar and TV are connected after setup. You won’t have access to superior Dolby codecs, but there are plenty of surround sound formats available to you. These include DTS, stereo PCM, and other Dolby varieties like Dolby Digital.

Where Is Optical on Sonos Arc?

If you’re looking for a port to plug your optical cable into the Arc, then be aware that there’s no existing one. The soundbar has a single port designated for device connection in the form of HDMI. This doesn’t mean you can’t link it via the optical route though.

That’s right – you can hitch the Arc to TV via optical. Granted, you’ll have to do extra steps but it’s no big deal if you want the soundbar to hook to your older TV. If you’re wondering how to do this, Sonos included an optical audio adapter in your soundbar bundle.

By using this, you’ll get limited surround sound formats. However, you’re always free to upgrade your TV to a more modern one when you get the chance.

How to Connect Sonos Arc to Sonos Amp

To bring spice to your Arc cinema setup, one of the devices you can add is an amplifier in the form of the Amp. This can be done through the brand’s process known as bonding, performed by using the Sonos controller app. If you have many of the brand’s devices, you’re used to the setup process by now.

To start with, you should register the Amp to your existing Sonos system. During the process, you’ll be asked if you want to use the amplifier as TV front speakers or as surrounds. You’re even free to add two Amps to the Arc to get the best of both worlds.

When linking the Arc to your master soundbar as a front TV speaker, you should remember several pointers. First off, the TV you’re using should be supportive of the HDMI ARC protocol. At the very least, you’re able to use the optical audio adapter but expect major downgrades in the home theater experience.

How Do I Connect My Sonos Arc to My Sonos One?

The Ones belong to the list of models that work with the Arc as surround speakers. As such, you’re able to connect it to the soundbar as part of your home theater installment. Here’s how you can do it using the brand’s controller program:

• Launch the S2 software on your iOS or Android device. This program can be downloaded for free on either the Google Play Store or App Store. Note that the Arc is only compatible with the modern version and not the S1 legacy app.
• Go to the Settings page then click on the System menu. Scroll down until you see the Products category.
• On the list of Rooms, look for the home theater station you placed the Arc in. Tap on it and select Set Up Surrounds. In-app instructions will be provided to add the Ones to your master soundbar.

Note that there are certain guidelines you should follow when linking the Ones to your Sonos Arc. Here are the specifics you should follow:

• It is necessary to use a pair of Ones if you intend to add them to the Arc as surrounds. This is because the speakers will work as additional rear right and rear left channels on your home cinema.
• If you don’t have a pair of Ones, you can use two One SLs. This is recommended since the Arc itself is voice-enabled and has microphones built-in. You’re free to use a single One and a One SL since they are related models.
• The pair of Ones or One SLs should not be in a stereo pair. Also, the devices should already be registered in your Sonos system as separate Rooms.
• Both speakers should be in the same orientation and placed conveniently in your listening position. To be specific, they should be positioned behind you, on the left and right sides.
• When using the Ones as surround speakers to your Arc, they are not capable of AirPlay, Line-In, and subwoofer output.

There’s another alternative you can do to connect the Arc to your Sonos One. This applies if you don’t intend to use them in a home theater configuration. Through the Group feature, you’re able to stream similar media on both the Arc and the One.

This route won’t require you to have a pair of One models. A single One device is enough as long as it is set up in the same Sonos system. Here’s how you can apply the Group perk on both products:

• Using your iOS or Android device, go to the System page. Look for the Arc’s Room and select the Group icon right next to it. Tap on the Room where you stationed the One, then click on Done.
• On your macOS or Windows, go to the Rooms page on the left portion of the app. Select the Group icon next to the soundbar’s Room. Tap the Room you put the One in, then click on Done.

You’re not limited to only grouping the Arc and the One. In fact, you can select other Rooms in which you stationed your other Sonos products. It’s a perk you can find on all devices of the multiroom behemoth.

How Do I Use Sonos Arc With Apple TV?

You can use the Arc with Apple TV to stream a variety of high-quality media. These include access to the micro console’s collection of music, movies, and a plethora of compelling series. There’s even a possibility of using the Arc with the black box to play hi-fi surround sound formats, like Dolby Atmos.

Of course, this is possible if and only if the smart television linking the Arc and the Apple TV together are capable of the same feat. If you’re streaming Atmos on Apple’s set-top box and the TV is hosting a similar codec, the soundbar will stream the same format. If it does not, then you’re bound to have lesser quality surround sound playing off the Arc.

How to Connect Sonos Arc and Apple TV

If you’re wondering how to connect the Arc and TV, know that they’re not to be linked directly. Instead, the soundbar should be tethered to your smart television using the HDMI ARC or eARC port. Similarly, the black box should also be attached to the TV with a different HDMI connection.

To elaborate on the process of pairing the Arc to your Apple TV, check out the guide below:

• Assuming you’re already done with your TV setup, place the Arc in its designated position. Ideally, it should be positioned under the television for maximum listening experience.
• Connect the necessary wire to link the soundbar to power. Also, there’s a 1.4 plus cable included in the bundle which should be attached to the TV’s ARC or eARC port.
• Note that in this setup, the Apple TV box should already be connected to your smart television. If the three devices are linked the proper way, the audio streaming from the Apple TV will also play on the soundbar.

In the case where the Arc is paired to the TV with an optical cable, you’ll have to manage your expectations. This means that if your black box is playing Dolby codecs belonging to the premium variety, it will not stream on the Arc. Instead, what you’ll get is a version of the media with lesser hi-fi quality.

How Do I Connect Sonos Arc to Apple TV 4K?

Some soundbars are capable of linking to a black box directly using the wired route. Not the Arc though – you’ll have to join it to the television in your home theater instead. The smart TV will serve as the point of connection between the Apple TV 4K and the soundbar.

Your black box should be linked to the smart television via an HDMI cable. This way, the media playing from the Apple TV 4K will pass through the TV and play on the Sonos Arc. Ideally, it’s recommended you use the eARC protocol, but you can also affix the devices via HDMI ARC instead.

If your Apple TV 4K is not streaming your intended format to the soundbar, go to the Settings panel. You’ll find the option to output media to TV speakers which you should select. Once done, your smart television will pass through the audio to the Sonos Arc.

How to Make Sonos Arc Discoverable

The only way to make the Arc discoverable is by linking it to your home network. To be specific, you should register the device to the S2 app and add it to your Sonos system. By doing so, the soundbar will be on the list of products capable of forming connections with speakers on the same system.

When not being used as a main home theater device, the Arc can function like a traditional audio speaker. It is discoverable to other Sonos devices that are within range and part of the same home network structure.

That’s right, you’re not limited to hardwiring the Arc via HDMI to create a linkage to other devices. It’s also part of Sonos’ multiroom family, which can be merged with each other to form a Group. A Group, in the brand’s lingo, is a collection of Rooms that can stream the same media as long as in touch with Wi-Fi.

Another alternative to link the Arc to your home network is through the ethernet port. This port is located on the connector panel and used to hardwire the soundbar to your router. With it, you can tether it to SonosNet and make the device visible for group linking.

How Do I Put Sonos Arc in Pairing Mode?

Some Sonos products are capable of stereo pairs, wherein audio is divided into two left and right channels. The Arc is not made for this feat though, it’s a master cinema soundbar that has five sound drivers on its own. There’s no way to put it in stereo pairing mode, so it’s best to let go of the idea.

If you’re talking about Bluetooth pairing, then you’re in for another disappointment. The soundbar is not manufactured with that function, unlike the versatile Sonos Move. As such, connecting it to a Bluetooth-enabled device will only fail.

What you can do though is to make the Arc connect to other devices the Sonos way. It’s a linking process that involves the Sonos app and the Wi-Fi. With it, you’re opening the Arc up to other speakers via the Group perk instead of pairing it.

Where Is the Pairing Button on the Sonos Arc?

The Pairing button on the Arc can be located on the back of the soundbar. To be specific, it’s the single key you can find on the connector panel, right next to the ethernet port. You’re not about to be confused since it’s the solitary button among the ports the device possesses.

If you’re curious about what the key does, know that it is more commonly known as the Join button. This particular knob is useful since it gives you the option to switch the soundbar’s function easily. For reference, the Arc can be used as a regular audio speaker when not being used as a home theater product.

Simply put, one press on the Pairing button will link the soundbar to your Sonos system. With it, you can stream audio from multiple music services and access the Group function. You’re able to merge with other Sonos devices to access multiroom playback.

How to Update Sonos Arc

Updating the Arc is something that should be done religiously for added features and security. This can be performed by navigating the Sonos controller app on your source device. Here’s how you can do it across different technologies:

• When using iOS or Android devices, go to the Settings tab then click on System. Tap System Updates and select the Check for Updates option.
• On your Mac, go to the Sonos menu and select Check for Updates. This is the same with a regular PC, but you should navigate to the Manage menu instead.

Remember that the Arc is strictly an S2-compatible device. As such, if you’re using the S1 app, you’re obligated to migrate and upgrade to the more advanced version of the software. By default, system updates are automatic, but you can always opt to check for upgrades manually.

To do this, simply go to the Settings panel on your S2 controller program. Select System then System Updates. Click on the Update Automatically toggle to disable updates without your input.

How Do I Update the Firmware on My Sonos Arc?

To update the firmware on your Dolby Atmos soundbar, you should have access to the Sonos app it is linked with. This is a must if you want the latest feats of the multiroom giant centered on audio quality improvements. Of course, you also can’t miss the bug fixes and other issues that may be hindering your listening experience.

These updates occur automatically by default. There will be a prompt, usually in the form of a banner, notifying you of the availability of an update. You can even check it manually through the app if you failed to see the notice.

As a bonus, Sonos even provided you with an option to schedule the firmware updates on your soundbar. This is useful for when you want to align the upgrade on times you’re not using the Arc. It’s a fixed two-hour period and you can choose from the following time ranges:

• Morning – 5:00 am to 7:00 am
• Afternoon – 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm
• Evening – 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
• Overnight – 2:00 am to 4:00 am

Note that the update will be delayed if the Arc is streaming media at the chosen time. Firmware upgrades will also be postponed if you’ve set an alarm on the soundbar that conflicts with the period.

How Do I Reset and Reboot My Sonos Arc?

To reset and reboot the Arc, you only need to follow a series of steps. Of course, the two are entirely unique processes so it makes sense that you’ll do it differently. Here’s a quick guide on how you should reboot the Dolby Atmos soundbar:

• Reach over the connector panel of the Arc and unplug the cord connecting it to power.
• Wait for approximately ten seconds and reconnect the power cable.
• Wait for another minute for the soundbar to boot up.

On the other hand, below is the process for resetting the Arc:

• Carefully remove the power cable from the electric port.
• Go over the connector panel and locate the Join button with the infinity symbol. Hold the key while reconnecting the power cable.
• Continue pressing the Join key until the LED light on the Arc flashes an alternate white and orange.
• Once you have let go of the key, wait for the green light on the LED indicator to come up. This symbolizes that the reset is complete and the Arc is ready for setup.

If you’re not that big of a tech whiz, you may get confused as to what the difference is between the two processes. Here’s a quick table showing the fundamental contrast between them:

Note that rebooting the Arc is one of the troubleshooting steps Sonos will provide you when experiencing problems. On the other hand, resetting the device is the final step and is usually recommended only as a last resort.

How Do I Reconnect My Sonos Arc?

Once you’ve reset your Arc, you have to reconnect it to your Sonos app by going over the setup process once more. If you refuse to do so, the soundbar won’t be usable as a regular audio speaker. It won’t even be functional when linked to TV via HDMI as part of your home theater setup.

On the chance that you’ve already gone over the setup process and it’s still not reconnecting, here’s what you should do:

• Check the Power on Your Soundbar. The Arc is not battery-powered and relies on an electric port to function. As such, you should keep an eye on the power cord and ensure that it is plugged in before doing anything with it. Note that the Arc will show a solid white light when it is turned on.
• Plug and Unplug Your Home Wi-Fi. This will restart your internet connection, which is needed for the soundbar to form connections. Make sure to wait for a minute or two before plugging the router once more.
• Ensure That Your Devices Are Connected to the Same Network. The Arc and your source device should be tethered to the same Wi-Fi. This is because Sonos relies on the local connection to form a linkage between their devices. Also, the S2 app is only accessible when there is a router available.

Sonos offered further assistance in case the fixes mentioned above won’t help with the connection problem. Here they are:

• Reconnect the Sonos App to Your Router. This should be done if you’ve installed a new network or changed the Wi-Fi settings. The software will need your permission to access the router, so you will have to set it up on your network once more. By doing so, it’s able to access the registered devices and reconnect with the Arc.
• Deactivate VPN Connections. VPN may be interfering with reestablishing the linkage between Sonos and the soundbar. As such, turning it off on your mobile or computer will be a big help in reconnecting the devices.
• Check the Ethernet Connection. If you plan to reconnect to SonosNet using Arc’s ethernet port, take a look at the wire. See if the ethernet cable is securely plugged into both the router and connector panel of the soundbar.

If the Arc still refuses to reconnect to the S2 app after all the troubleshooting steps, contact Sonos Support. You can do this by calling (800) 680-2345 or chatting with their customer service.

Why Is My Sonos Arc Not Connecting?

There are several reasons why the Arc is not connecting to your devices, in particular, your smart TV. Of course, the main reason you’re experiencing this is because of compatibility. Note that the soundbar has a single HDMI port that only accepts ARC or eARC protocols.

As such, your television should be modern enough to cater to this kind of connection. If it’s on the older side, there’s an included optical audio adapter on your Arc bundle. You’ll be limited in terms of surround sound formats, but the good thing is you can still link the soundbar to the TV.

If compatibility is not the problem, then the HDMI cable may not be detected and no audio signal is being received. If this occurs, the lack of connection will yield no sound output no matter what media you play.

Another reason for connection failure is there is a lack of TV signal. This mostly happens when you’re linking the Arc with an optical cable or adapter. The adapter included in the Arc is D-shaped, so you may want to check if you’ve wrongly attached it to the HDMI cable.

Sonos also gave another reason why the Arc is not paired with your television. Sometimes, it’s not the TV that’s the culprit but the remote control that comes along with it. Check out the TV remote requirements needed for each television to Arc linkage:

For Arc to TV Connection Using HDMI ARC

• If you’re using the Arc directly using the ARC protocol, it’s compatible with IR and RF remote controls.
• The television you’re using should be configured to have the CEC enabled.

For Arc to TV Connection Using the Optical Audio Adapter

• When you attach the optical audio adapter to the Arc, you can only control using infrared remotes. If you’re planning to navigate the soundbar, Bluetooth remotes are also not the way to go. This is because the Arc has no built-in Bluetooth function so remote linking is impossible.

Why Is My Sonos Arc Not Connecting to TV Sound?

If you’ve plugged all the Arc’s cables and it’s still not outputting TV sounds, it may be due to a variety of factors. To aid you in your troubleshooting journey, here are the common reasons why this is happening:

• TV and Audio Source Conflict. At times when the soundbar and your TV are fully compatible, the problem may lie with the external device. As such, it’s worth a shot to refresh its connection with the television by unplugging both of their power cables. Wait for a minimum of ten seconds before re-plugging and reconnecting both widgets.
• Damaged TV Connection. If TV audio is inaccessible no matter what configuration you do, then the HDMI cable may be the culprit. Check whether the line is bent or damaged to get to the root of the problem. Also, double-check if the HDMI or optical adapter is securely inserted in their respective positions.
• Software May Be Outdated. The Arc will need its regular firmware updates to make sure it is functioning in tip-top shape. Similarly, your TV also needs to be updated to establish a connection with the soundbar.
• Wrong Audio Format. The surround sound format you can access on the Arc depends entirely on the TV’s compatibility. As such, you should check on the television’s audio output since it may not be passing the signals the right way. Some can only stream Stereo PCM while others are modern enough to cater to Dolby codecs.
• Group Audio Delay. Music may not be passing through from the TV to the Arc and its connected rooms. This may be due to the deactivated Group Audio delay setting on the S2 program. It’s a feature that minimizes audio issues when streaming using your television.

If none of the mentioned reasons are the case, then the conflict may be from interference. This can happen if you’re using an external device like an Apple TV box in your home theater setup.

How to Fix Sonos Arc Not Connecting to TV

The Arc not connecting to your television may be stemming from one main reason – HDMI error. Here are some of the plausible solutions you can do to address this inconvenience:

• Plug the Cable Into a Compatible Port. The Dolby Atmos soundbar is only capable of linking to a television with an HDMI ARC port. As such, check if your TV is capable of hosting this kind of protocol. If it is not, then it should at least have an optical port for the optical adapter to work.
• Use the Right Cable. The Arc is compatible with a high-speed ethernet HDMI cable, known as a 1.4 plus line. Any lower than this is not guaranteed to work with the soundbar. Sonos provided you with this particular cable, but you can use any equivalent if you’ve damaged or misplaced it.
• Secure the HDMI Connection. There are times when the problem lies simply with how you plug the HDMI cables on both your soundbar and TV. Connection failure can easily be solved by securely linking the wires to their respective ports.

Why Is My Sonos Arc Not Connecting to Phone?

It can be annoying when you want to use the Arc with your phone but to no avail. This occurs because the Sonos app is having difficulties linking to the soundbar, which may be due to a few reasons. Here are the most common roots of failure to establish a phone to Arc connection:

• Faulty Power Connection. Your Sonos Arc is not powered by lithium-ion batteries. Like most of the brand’s products, it’s dependent on the power outlet, so you need to check the AC power input. This will ensure the soundbar is powered on and discoverable by the Sonos app on your phone.
• Unstable Wi-Fi Connection. There are instances where the Wi-Fi network is fluctuating, or the system is being buggy by itself. This is one of the factors why the Arc can’t link to your mobile phone. Sonos is a brand that sets its foundation on the home network, so the connection is impossible without it.
• Wrong Wi-Fi Network. If you have multiple routers stationed at home, the soundbar may have trouble identifying which one to link to. In this case, you should check whether the Arc is linking to your intended network or a different Wi-Fi on the radar.

Similarly, you should also check your mobile phone’s status. It may not be tethered to your intended local network, or the source device may be out of range. If you’re an iPhone user, you may also want to take a look at another possible reason.

Apple mobile device users linking the Arc to the Sonos app on their phone need to check their software. If your gadget is running on iOS 14 and above, you have to allow the Sonos app to connect to your system. This will set the connection between the soundbar and your phone, so it’s best to enable access.

Additionally, for Apple users, the Arc is an AirPlay-compatible device. This is another alternative if you don’t want to use the Sonos software as an intermediary. However, there will still be cases where the Arc can’t link to your iPhone via this route.

First off, you may have forgotten to activate the AirPlay feature. It’s located on the Control Center panel of your iPhone, so don’t forget to turn it on. Also, check whether the Arc is powered on if it can’t link to your device via Apple’s wireless protocol.

Why Is Sonos Arc Flashing Orange?

If you’re setting the Arc up in the Sonos app and it flashes orange, it means that it’s creating a linkage. The soundbar is in the process of connecting to your Sonos system via the source device you’re using. This usually happens when you’ve just purchased the product, or when you put it in a factory reset.

If this is not the case, then it may be blinking orange because there’s no existing playback queue made. The soundbar can be used as a general Sonos speaker when not linked to TV, so it can stream songs using the S2 app. The LED light will show a flashing orange light when there’s no available song for playback.

In some cases, the flashing orange light is accompanied by white light. There’s no need to worry about this, the Arc is simply updating its firmware. It’s an indicator that the device is getting development and upgrades for its features.

Why is Sonos Arc Giving Solid Orange Light?

Solid orange light on the Arc means that the device has failed the setup process. This is the case if the system has been interrupted or the Wi-Fi signal is unstable. No sweat though, you can easily clear this up by rebooting the soundbar.

There’s also the possibility of overheating, in which the Arc’s systems are going into overdrive. If this occurs, turn off the soundbar and wait for a while to cool it down before turning it back on. If it still stays the same, it may be a serious problem so reach out to Sonos Support.