If you think that the media is lacking that immersive factor, then adding a subwoofer is the way to go. To be specific, you could use any generation of the Sonos Sub to bond with your Dolby Atmos soundbar. By doing so, you upgrade your surround sound experience by leaps and bounds.
Is the Sonos Arc Good by Itself?
If you’re looking for a soundbar that jives well with your minimalist setup, then make way for the Arc. It’s able to give a quality audio experience on its own, all without adding any supplementary speakers. The device is an all-in-one surround sound system – the fruit of Sonos’ premium engineering.
Arc can use ‘highly optimized beam-forming rays’ that ricochet off your walls to produce an excellent soundscape. Simply put, it has the advanced technology capable of giving you total sound immersion with the barest setup possible.
All you need to do is link it to your TV using the default cables included in the package. You don’t need any fancy setup as the Arc can be mounted, or simply settle on your tabletop.
Do You Need Additional Speakers With Sonos Arc?
The Arc is a soundbar that can deliver impressive home theater audio on its own. Buying additional speakers for it is entirely optional and will take several considerations on your end.
First off, the premium soundbar by Sonos costs $899 alone. This may be worth it, considering the Arc’s features are far better than the brand’s previous creations. However, if you’re short on dough, then you may think adding extra speakers is not needed after all.
You’ll also need to consider the setup you currently have. To be specific, check if you have the remaining space to store your additional devices. This is because the Arc is by no means a mini soundbar, measuring 45 in (1142 mm) long.
On the other hand, if you’ve given it some thought and still think you’ll need more speakers, then go for it. The Arc is remarkable on its own, but no one’s stopping you from having a complete surround system. If you truly crave a genuine home cinema experience, then you can always have the extra tech.
Can You Add More Than 2 Speakers to Sonos Arc?
You can add more than two speakers in your Arc setup, given that they fall under the requirements of Sonos’ home theater. To start with, the soundbar has a 5.0.2 configuration, but you can upgrade it to 5.1 instead. This is done by adding a single subwoofer, but you can add another one if you prefer to.
Sonos also allows the connection of a pair of surround speakers to your home cinema installation. These additions are meant to be stationed as left and right channels, so two is the limit. Any more than this and the system won’t read nor accommodate the extra speaker.
Similarly, there’s also a multi-room feature that the brand is so proud of. This perk allows other Sonos speakers to connect with the Arc through the S2 app. As long as the products are under the same account, linking will be smooth sailing.
Note that each account holds a system capable of handling thirty-two speakers. Your Arc can accommodate these numbers with the help of the controller program. However, keep in mind that they won’t work as surround speakers.
How Many Speakers Can You Add to a Sonos Arc?
You can add a total of four devices to the Arc if you’re intending to use them as part of the surround sound setup. To be specific, you’re allowed to join two rear speakers and a maximum of two subwoofers.
The Arc has eleven sound drivers, eight of which are dedicated to giving mid-range and low-range frequencies. These drivers are the reason why the soundbar emits such deep bass enough for it to be a solitary system. Despite this, Sonos still gave you the option to add a subwoofer or two.
This is because some rooms are expansive enough to not effectively carry the low frequencies of the soundbar. As such, it is desirable to double the bass output of the media for added depth and clarity. You could use any of the three Sonos Sub generations for this purpose because they’re S2-compatible.
For the rear speakers, you’re also restricted to only adding two devices to the home theater setup. It would have been great to add more, but Sonos deemed it enough to add two rears for surround sound.
On the other hand, you can also make use of Sonos’ mesh network of speakers. Each system has thirty devices at the maximum, so add them to the Arc using the Group feature.
What Speakers Can I Connect to Sonos Arc?
There’s one mutual criterion when connecting speakers to the Arc, be it for home theater or via the Group feature. This is that all devices should be compatible with the more recent version of the controller app. This is because the soundbar is only accessible within this particular S2 program.
When looking for the right device that can function as surround speakers, Sonos has quite an elaborate line-up. Your selection includes the One (all generations), One SL, Five, Play:1, Play:3, Play:5, and all the SYMFONISK speakers. You could even use the Connect:Amp to use a compatible third-party device.
As for the subwoofers, you can comfortably use any generation of the Sonos Sub. Although Gen 1 and Gen 2 are no longer manufactured, the brand still made sure you can use them with their Dolby Atmos soundbar.
The Arc can also connect with other Sonos speakers, given that they’re on the same system. All devices registered in your mesh network can link with the soundbar through the multi-room perk. These even include the brand’s portable products, namely the Move and the Roam.
Can I Connect Wired Speakers to Sonos Arc?
If you’re thinking about directly connecting devices to the Arc using cables, then it is futile. The soundbar has only two ports; one is for the ethernet to access SonosNet and the other is an HDMI port for the TV. This means that the only way for you to link devices with the soundbar is through the wireless route.
True, you could hardwire a few devices using the Sonos Amp. However, the amplifier itself will still connect to the soundbar via the S2 controller app. The Arc is not just made for wired connections, except when linking with your smart television.
Can You Connect Sonos Arc to Other Sonos Speakers?
One of the standout perks of the Arc aside from its capability as a soundbar is its compatibility with other Sonos speakers. Although it’s mainly meant to connect to your TV, the device is also able to link to the brand’s dedicated nexus. This is because the soundbar is still a member of the multi-room family and can harness the Group feature with ease.
This is all possible as long as the devices are in one system and registered under the same controller application. To be specific, the Arc is usable within the Sonos S2 program. This means whatever devices are registered in your S2 system can connect to the Arc with the right steps.
To do this, you’ll need to merge the Room in which you stationed the Arc to other Rooms of your choice. First off, open the S2 controller app on your iOS or Android gadget. Then, go to the System page and select Group beside the Room you stationed the soundbar.
Choose the Rooms you want to include in the group and click on Done. If you’re keen on merging all your Sonos speakers with the Arc, tap Everywhere instead.
You can also perform this on a MacBook or your Windows device. Simply go to the Rooms panel on the left portion of the program and tap the group icon next to the Arc’s Room. After this, tap on the Rooms you prefer to merge with the Arc or click Select All-Party Mode to group them all.
For reference, you can add up to thirty-two speakers in one system. As such, the Arc is able to connect with multiple speakers at the same time. This means you get to stream the same music from all or selected parts of the house.
Will Sonos Arc Work With Older Sonos Speakers?
As long as the Sonos speaker is compatible with the S2 controller app, then it will match well with the Arc. The soundbar is only available with this particular program, so the devices should also be in tune with the more recent app. This is because it serves as a glue to merge the speakers together, so it won’t work if the techs are not accessible with it.
For reference, most of Sonos’ products are compatible with the S2 app. However, there are still a few that only work within the S1 legacy program like the Play:5 (Gen 1) and the ZonePlayer series. These also include the Bridge, CR200, Connect (Gen 1), and the Connect:Amp (Gen 1).
Can You Add Front Speakers to Sonos Arc?
Sonos may have mad surround sound tech, but they still have not included the feature of adding front speakers to the Arc. Some may think it’s ideal to do so, but the brand stuck to having extra pair of surrounds or woofers instead.
The Arc has a default 5.0.2 system which translates to having five horizontal channels and a pair of upward-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos. For reference, the five channels include the left, left surround, right, right surround, and center.
You can upgrade for this to become a 5.1.2 system with the addition of a subwoofer but never for front speakers. There’s simply no space for any extra if you consider the soundbar’s configuration. It doesn’t mean you’re restricted to these though.
You could add additional devices through the multi-room feature instead. Although it won’t be as good as your surround sound setup, it’s enough if you want more range and loudness to your sound.
Can You Use Rear Speakers With Sonos Arc?
Using rear speakers with your Arc is a common-enough occurrence, especially if you are craving a greater level of music immersion. The Dolby Atmos soundbar may be one of the best there is, but you can always aim for greater heights. By adding rear units to your setup, you get more of the 3D and hi-fi encounters.
Imagine it like this: the Arc alone gives stellar performance without any device added to the mix. You can hear most of the highs and lows and can even occasionally feel the frequencies firsthand. However, if you place two rear speakers on both sides of the soundbar, you can have a surround sound experience on another level.
It’s as if you’re experiencing the scene in real life, with a more heightened sense of hearing. You can feel the audio vibrations, from the cracks of the ceiling to indistinct murmurs of voices. Simply put, the rear speakers will provide you with a more realistic perspective of the atmosphere.
Can You Use One Rear Speaker With Sonos Arc?
Using a single rear speaker on your Arc is impossible no matter how much you wish for it. They should always be installed in the home theater setup as a pair for deeper but equal dimensions to the sound. Using only one defeats the purpose of practical placement since one part will always reverberate audio stronger.
Two rear speakers are always positioned to the left and right for a greater sound directionality. This will provide you with localized audio for the best music media playback.
If you’re still keen on connecting a single speaker to the Arc, there is a roundabout way. This is done through Sonos’ Group feature, where you put the intended rear unit in a separate Room. You can then combine this particular Room with the one you stationed your home theater in.
However, note that the isolated Sonos speaker won’t act as part of the surround sound setup. Rather, it will only play what is streaming on your home cinema like other connected devices. As such, it’s better to purchase a pair of the same model like two One SLs for definite surround soundscape.
What Rear Speakers Work With Sonos Arc?
There are only a few Sonos speakers that can be used as rears in your Arc setup. These include all generations of One and One SL, Play:1, Play:3, Play:5 (Gen 2), and Five. You could also use all variations of the SYMFONISK speakers or third-party speakers supported by Connect:Amp.
As you’ve noticed, all the devices listed above are compatible with the S2 controller app. This is one of the non-negotiables when adding rear speakers to your Dolby Atmos soundbar. Here are other particulars you should take note of:
- Your rear speakers should be the same model or related to each other. For example, you could use two Sonos Ones or a single One and a One SL.
- Both speakers you intend to use as rears should be on the same orientation. This means that if one is vertical, the other device should match it.
- Station the surround speakers behind your listening position. In particular, they should be on the left and right of your default spot.
- AirPlay, subwoofer output, and Lin-In will not work on products that are installed as rear speakers.
- If you’re using a voice-enabled Sonos tech as rears, then be aware that the microphones on them will be disabled. Not to worry though, because the Arc itself is voice-enabled.
Do You Need Back Speakers With Sonos Arc?
The Arc has a 5.0.2 system which is enough to function as an independent home theater unit alone. As such, adding extra back speakers is not a necessity but more of a decision of your own making. To help you determine whether you need them or not, check out the considerations below:
- Available Setup Space. This is one of the main things you should think about before buying back speakers. The Arc alone is 45 inches (1142 mm), so check if you have enough room left. Also, note that surround sound may not be executed will in a small room.
- Speaker Usage. If you’re an audiophile, your priority would be to have a home theater setup that focuses on audio output. This means that added back speakers are essential to make your experience more immersive. However, if you’re one to lean more towards visual media, then you should be splurging your money on TV upgrades instead.
- Designated Funds. Installing a cinema setup at home is by no means a cheap fit, especially if it’s Sonos. A single Arc soundbar costs $899 alone, so check if a pair of surrounds is within your budget. You could buy the equipment piece by piece instead if you’re willing to expend patience aside from money.
Does Sonos Arc Need Surround Speakers?
Adding surround speakers on your Arc installment is not a matter of need but of preference. Sonos created the soundbar as a device that can perform superbly with the barest embellishments.
It can stand alone on its own, especially as it has a 5.0.2 system by default. This means that it already has the right horizontal channels to truly give you a genuine surround sound experience.
Adding left and right surround speakers that are dedicated to this purpose is awesome, but not necessary. Of course, it will sound phenomenal if you do, but the Arc alone is enough to reproduce surround audio and effects.
If you ever deem it necessary to add surrounds to your setup, then you have a variety of Sonos speakers to choose from. The brand recommends you get the Ones, but you’re totally free to mix and match as long as they can be used for the same purpose. Also, note that they should be of the same model before purchasing.
How to Add Surround Speakers to Sonos Arc
If you’ve decided to add surround speakers to your home theater, you can use the S2 app to connect them to the Arc. Here’s a quick guide on how to link these devices to your soundbar:
- Open the S2 controller program on your iOS or Android device. Go to the Settings page and navigate to System.
- Scroll down until you see the Products panel. Select the home theater room you put the Arc in.
- Click on Set up Surrounds and follow the provided instructions in the app.
On another note, here are some of the guidelines you should follow before the setup process:
- The speakers you want to use as surrounds should not be in stereo pairing.
- The soundbar and surround speakers should be registered to the same Sonos S2 system.
- The devices you intend to use as surrounds should be stationed in the same place as the Arc.
Is It Worth Adding Speakers to Sonos Arc?
It’s never a bad idea to add speakers to your Arc home theater setup. Remember that Sonos is known for its web-like network that sounds superior the more devices are joined. As such, adding an extra subwoofer or surrounds is acceptable as long as you have the extra moolah.
This is especially the case if you have an expansive room that leaves you craving for a greater home theater experience. True, the Arc is already a behemoth in perks and features, but there’s always a way of getting more. Added speakers will truly make your setup a full surround sound system.
You can opt to go the 5.1.2 system route rather than the Arc’s default 5.0.2 setup. The difference is that you add a subwoofer on top of the five horizontal surrounds and two height channels for Atmos playback. Adding a second subwoofer is plausible too – it just depends on your preference and arrangement.
Another route you can do when adding devices is the integration of extra surround sound products. You can add up to two rear speakers to further improve the game of your home theater setup.
Can You Connect a Subwoofer to Sonos Arc?
Connecting a subwoofer to the Arc is possible if you crave additional bass for depth and clarity. You can do this in the form of another Sonos product known as the Sub which you can buy separately. As long as you register both devices in the S2 controller app, then you can link them without any problem.
To do this, first identify the ideal position you would like to put the Sub in. Note that at least one side of the slot is not blocked nor restricted. For instance, if the device is stationed horizontally on the ground, avoid putting any obstruction on top.
After doing so, set the Arc up on the S2 app to configure and personalize its settings. Once done, follow the in-app prompts provided to add the Sub to the Dolby Atmos soundbar. The Arc sounds great when used alone, so imagine how elite it is when combined with a subwoofer.
Does the Sonos Arc Have a Sub Output?
If you’re thinking of linking a subwoofer to the Arc using wires, then you should be aware that it’s impossible. It has no built-in sub output and possesses a single port made for HMDI connections. This means you only have the Sonos Sub as a choice when you want to pair a subwoofer easily to the soundbar.
Rather than using a sub output, there’s a much better alternative. This is through the Sonos S2 app, a vital factor in the entirety of the brand’s ecosystem. With it, you can pair the Sub and Arc seamlessly, and even have access to a variety of features.
Does Sonos Arc Come With Subwoofer?
For a price of $899, you may mistakenly think that the Arc has an included subwoofer in the bundle. However, the package only contains the needed cables, an optical audio adapter, and the product’s guide.
Sonos did not deem it necessary to include a separate bass-focused device on their soundbar. This is because the Arc is a self-sufficient system that works wonders wherever you position it. Whether you mount it on the wall or put it on a credenza, it will sound incredible.
If you’re craving for a more desirable bass in your home theater setup, there’s the brand’s Entertainment set. This set includes a Gen 3 Sub and the Arc soundbar, which will drastically improve your surround sound experience. It costs $1648 and is available in two aesthetic colors.
Can You Use Any Sub With Sonos Arc?
All three generations of the Sub are compatible with the Sonos S2 app. As such, they’re able to link well with the Arc, which can’t be used within the older S1 program. This is because the soundbar is not part of the brand’s legacy products and belongs to the more recent models instead.
By using Sonos’ very own application, you can station the Arc and the Sub in one room. This will allow you to join both devices to set up your ideal home theater setup. You’re even capable of adding more speakers through the program, like the One SL.
Will Sonos Arc Work With Gen 2 Sub?
Since both the Arc and the Sub (Gen 2) are functional within the S2 app, they’re able to work together. You can bond the two of them even though the subwoofer version you have has been discontinued. There will be no difference at all with the exception that you can’t buy another Gen 2 Sub in the market.
That’s right, although there’s a new Gen 3 Sub released, you don’t need to worry about tweaking up your surround sound setup. The older version of the Sonos subwoofer will do just fine – although there’s a bit of a difference in the processing speed. It’s no cause of concern, though, since the Sub (Gen 2) still gives a groundbreaking audio performance.
Does Sonos Arc Work With Gen 1 Subs?
If you’re planning to purchase Subs (Gen 1) to bond with your Arc soundbar, then do so by all means. Although part of the older variety of Sonos tech, the subwoofer is still capable of adding depth and clarity to your home cinema installment. You can even save quite a bit if you’ll buy a functional Gen 1 Sub since it’ll be priced less.
All generations of Sonos subwoofers work with the Arc. However, the two older versions have been discontinued. Still, the brand won’t stop full support on the two products so you can use them for years to come.
Does Sonos Arc Work With Older Sub?
Although the Sub (Gen 3) has been released, you don’t need to think of replacing your surround sound setup. Both Gen 1 and Gen 2 Subs work with either S1 or S2 apps so they’re more than capable of working with the Arc. True, they’re both older versions but there’s still not much of a difference in service.
It’s tempting to have a subwoofer upgrade, but it’s not really a necessity. There’s certainly an edge in having the younger Gen 3 Sub, like it being future-proof for longer software support. However, if you’re still happy with the older Sonos subwoofers, then enjoy them by all means.
Is Sub Necessary With Sonos Arc?
The Arc isn’t dubbed as an all-in-one surround sound system if it requires a subwoofer to function. As such, it is not a necessity to add one if you’re aiming for a more minimalistic home theater setup.
If you’ve had a bit of quality time with this soundbar alone, you’ll realize that it leans towards a neutral sound profile. This means it has a well-balanced bass and treble that won’t be a bother if played independently.
However, each owner has unique tastes and hearing preferences. It’s understandable to want a bit more bass to your home cinema if you feel like it’s lacking. This is where the Sonos Sub enters the scene: to add more depth and life to your tracks and media.
By adding the subwoofer to your home setup, you get to enjoy the vocals and other types of melodies. This is because the Sub takes the whole load of the bass output. As such, the Arc can give out more in terms of other audio aspects.
Is Sonos Arc Good Without Sub?
It’s not an understatement to say that the Arc is the pinnacle of Sonos’ surround sound technology. The soundbar is self-sufficient by itself and can perform phenomenally without the support of added Sub. In fact, it’s exceptional enough to give you deep bass without tweaking your minimal setup.
All you need is a television that has an HDMI ARC port and a source device with the S2 app. There’s no complicated requirement for you to enjoy the soundbar by its lonesome, it’s an independent powerhouse. Any extra subwoofer is completely based on your preference, be it the Sonos Sub or any other bass-focused speaker.
The Arc’s genius architecture is the source of all these – it’s made with eight elliptical woofers. These sound drivers not only give you bass but thumping ones you can actually feel. This is unlike its smaller Beam counterpart, which is lacking in lower-frequency outputs.
Is Sonos Arc Better With Subwoofer?
Although the Arc is already a monster of a soundbar, you can still improve it with an extra subwoofer. Don’t let the seemingly-perfect sound discourage you, your home theater can always be brought to greater heights.
Remember that the soundbar may be an all-in-one device, but it’s still a product of Sonos. The brand is known for its integrated system that gets refined the more speakers are combined into it. In the case of the Arc, you could add a subwoofer to create a 5.1.2 system.
Most setups would require multiple speakers to create an authentic theater experience. However, the combination of Arc and a single Sonos Sub is enough to make you feel every pulse, boom, and flow playing on TV.
If you want a surround sound effect you can feel right through your bones, then think of getting the soundbar with a subwoofer. To note, Sonos offers a $1648 set of Arc and Sub which you can buy for more detailed audio.
Is Sonos Arc Better With Two Subwoofers?
It’s better to add a second subwoofer to your Arc setup but only if you have wide enough room to handle the powerful bass. This is also the case if you have an impressive home cinema that sounds lifeless with a single bass-oriented device.
For the record, Sonos allowed this setup only on the release of the third-generation Sub. This is a game-changer that would drastically improve the user’s surround sound experience. Some may think it’s overkill but adding two Subs actually benefits the right home cinema design.
With the right positioning, you can get a home theater setup that will not only emphasize the highs but the lows of audio as well. The two subwoofers will provide you with depth, clarity, and an awesome soundstage.
Is Sonos Arc With Sub Worth It?
Sonos knows best how to provide the best quality experience on their products. They recommended the Entertainment Set with the Arc–Sub duo because the company thinks it’s worthwhile. This is for good reason: the soundbar may be a great performer by itself but there’s always room for improvement.
If you’re an avid Sonos fan, you’ll realize how far the brand’s surround sound technology has gone. Their Playbar and Playbase easily gained fame in the market but the Arc easily surpassed the two. It’s a self-sufficient system that does not lack any kind of performance, including the bass and trebles.
However, an excellent production can always be made perfect. Its soundstage alone is satisfactory, but wait till you hear it with the Sub. You may even realize that the addition of a subwoofer makes the Arc better than a full-blown surround sound system.
Should I Add Sub to Sonos Arc?
Adding the Sonos Sub to your Arc setup should not be a decision made overnight. You’ll need to make a few contemplations and prepare for a few scenarios, like thinking about your budget and room.
First off, the Arc gives a stellar performance even when installed in the barest layout possible. This makes the device ideal for a minimalist setup without the need for a large space. If your room is on the smaller side and the soundbar seems enough, then don’t add the subwoofer.
Also, consider the funds you’ll be expending when you add the Sub. The soundbar alone costs $899, so think about your budget before spontaneously buying the $749 Sub. It may be tempting if you consider the quality, but splurging ain’t good if it leaves you with nothing to spare.
On the chance that money or space is not a hurdle, then that’s a good chance to consider adding the Sub. Here’s why you should add a subwoofer to your Arc home theater setup:
- It’s Not Just the Bass. Adding the Sub to your Arc setup does not only improve the low-frequency transients. It also adds depth and clarity to the sound, giving you mind-blowing realism.
- Minimizes Sound Distortion. There are instances where tweeters and drivers overwhelm the lower bass frequencies. The addition of the Sonos Sub to your home theater setup eliminates this possibility. With it, you get to play media loud without worrying about distortion.
- Raises Sound Experience to Another Level. The assistance of an extra subwoofer to the independent Arc system will improve quality by leaps and bounds. The Sub will enhance the frequency spectrum and bring out the sound’s utmost potential.
How to Add Sub to Sonos Arc
If you’ve fully decided to purchase the Sub, installing it in your Arc surround sound setup is easy. All you need to do is adhere to a few requirements and all will be smooth sailing from there:
- If you’re adding the Sub (Gen 3), you’re required to use the Sonos S2 app. On the other hand, Sub (Gen 1) and Sub (Gen 2) are compatible with both apps.
- Position the Sub in your intended spot and plug the device into power. One side should not be blocked, so make sure that neither the front nor the top part is not obstructed.
- If you’ve purchased both the Arc and the Sub at the same time, set up the soundbar first.
Here’s the know-how on adding the Sub to your home theater setup:
- Launch the right Sonos controller program. Note that the Sub (Gen 3) only works with S2.
- Go to the Settings page, characterized by the gear icon. Scroll until you find the System tab.
- Within the Products category, select the Room you prefer to include the Sub in. This should be the same Room you stationed the Sonos soundbar.
- Click on Add Sub and follow the in-app prompts.
You could add a total of two Subs with your home theater setup. Here’s how you add another one to your already premium cinema:
- Go to the Sonos controller app on your iOS or Android device.
- Navigate to Settings and click on System.
- On the Products tab, select the home theater room you intend to place the second Sub.
- Press Connect Second Sub.
- In-app instructions will be provided to help you integrate the second device into your setup seamlessly.
