What To Know
- The Arc uses a dedicated app for setup and control, providing a more comprehensive and customizable experience.
- The HT-A700 excels in immersion and soundstage width, while the Arc provides a more balanced and customizable experience with integrated voice control.
- Both the HT-A700 and the Arc offer excellent sound quality, but the HT-A700 has a slight edge in immersion and soundstage width.
The world of home audio has been abuzz with the release of two exceptional soundbars: the Sony HT-A700 and the Sonos Arc. Both devices promise an immersive and cinematic audio experience, but which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the depths of each soundbar, analyzing their features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Features and Design
Sony HT-A700:
- 7.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
- Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force PRO Front Surround for immersive sound
- HDMI eARC, optical, and analog inputs
- Built-in Chromecast and AirPlay 2 for wireless streaming
- Sleek and compact design with a low profile
Sonos Arc:
- 5.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
- Trueplay room correction for optimized sound
- HDMI eARC, optical, and analog inputs
- Built-in voice control with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
- Elegant and curved design with a discreet profile
Audio Performance
Soundstage and Immersion:
- Both soundbars offer wide and expansive soundstages with precise channel separation.
- The HT-A700’s Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force PRO Front Surround create a more immersive experience, extending the sound vertically and horizontally.
- The Sonos Arc’s Trueplay room correction ensures optimal sound quality tailored to your specific room acoustics.
Clarity and Detail:
- The HT-A700 boasts a crisp and detailed sound with excellent midrange and treble clarity.
- The Arc has a slightly warmer sound profile, delivering rich bass response and a natural midrange.
- Both soundbars handle vocals and dialogue with precision, ensuring clear and intelligible speech.
Bass Response:
- The HT-A700 comes with a dedicated subwoofer for deep and impactful bass.
- The Arc has a built-in subwoofer that provides a decent amount of bass, but may not be as powerful as the HT-A700’s external unit.
Features and Connectivity
Wireless Streaming:
- Both soundbars support Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay 2 for seamless wireless streaming.
- The Arc additionally offers Sonos’ proprietary multi-room audio system for whole-home sound.
HDMI Inputs and eARC:
- The HT-A700 and the Arc both have HDMI eARC inputs for high-quality audio transmission from compatible TVs.
- eARC allows for uncompressed Dolby Atmos and DTS:X sound formats.
Voice Control:
- The Sonos Arc has built-in Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control, enabling hands-free operation.
- The HT-A700 does not have integrated voice control.
User Interface and Setup
User Interface:
- The HT-A700 has a simple and intuitive on-screen display for easy navigation.
- The Arc uses a dedicated app for setup and control, providing a more comprehensive and customizable experience.
Setup:
- Both soundbars can be set up quickly and easily using the included HDMI cables.
- The Arc’s Trueplay room correction feature requires a compatible iOS device for optimal sound performance.
Value and Conclusion
The Sony HT-A700 and the Sonos Arc are both premium soundbars that offer exceptional audio performance and a range of features. The HT-A700 excels in immersion and soundstage width, while the Arc provides a more balanced and customizable experience with integrated voice control.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize an immersive cinematic experience with powerful bass, the Sony HT-A700 is the superior option. If you value voice control, whole-home audio, and a more refined sound signature, the Sonos Arc is a solid choice.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which soundbar has better sound quality?
A: Both the HT-A700 and the Arc offer excellent sound quality, but the HT-A700 has a slight edge in immersion and soundstage width.
Q: Do both soundbars support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X?
A: Yes, both the HT-A700 and the Arc support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for an immersive cinematic experience.
Q: Which soundbar has more connectivity options?
A: The Sonos Arc has a wider range of connectivity options, including AirPlay 2, Sonos multi-room audio, and built-in voice control.
Q: Can I use the HT-A700 for music as well as movies?
A: Yes, the HT-A700 is suitable for both music and movies, delivering a balanced and engaging sound experience.
Q: Which soundbar is more user-friendly?
A: The Sonos Arc has a more intuitive user interface and setup process, thanks to its dedicated app and Trueplay room correction feature.
