Good morning, everyone.
I’m hoping to get some insight from the group regarding Atmos soundbars. Specifically, how much the driver firing angles actually impact real‑world Atmos performance in a built‑in entertainment center.
Quick backstory:
My wife wanted a renovation that involved removing a window and building a full wall entertainment center. I wasn’t exactly thrilled, but we compromised. She got me to build her entertainment center, and I get to upgrade my classic entertainment setup. current Sonos setup: Playbar, One SLs, and a Gen 1 Sub.
With the new entertainment center came the “need” for a new TV, so we installed a 75” Sony Bravia 9 to replace the old 950G. The cabinet opening for the TV and Playbar provides 16" of vertical clearance from the bottom (above the fireplace) to the bottom of the TV. The full cavity measures 84" wide, 56.5" tall, and 13.5" deep.
Now I’m considering upgrading to the Sonos Immersive set ( Arc Ultra, Era 300’s, and Sub 4) , but here’s my concern: Will the cabinet design restrict the up‑firing and side‑firing drivers enough to compromise the Atmos effect? At roughly 45° for the side‑firing drivers, I’m not sure they’ll clear the cavity walls, even with about 19.5" of space on each side when centered. What worries me more are the 70° up‑firing drivers. The Arc would have only about 48" of vertical travel before hitting a 12.5" overhang of the shelf, which may cause early reflections or complete obstruction.
I can afford the upgrade, but if the entertainment center prevents the Arc from performing as designed, I’m struggling to justify the purchase. The Playbar still sounds good as it is. Or am I overthinking this, and Trueplay tuning will compensate enough that the Atmos limitations won’t be noticeable?
play tuning will compensate enough that the Atmos limitations won’t be noticeable?
