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Arc ULTRA - lack of bass with sub gen 4

  • May 19, 2025
  • 7 replies
  • 313 views
F

I’ve seen this issue discussed on various forums and across the internet, but no real solution has been provided to the users.

 

Configuration: Arc Ultra + 2 Era 300 + Sub Gen 4

 

When I switch off the Sub Gen 4, the bass becomes much more present and dynamic—it really pops out of the mix. However, with the sub enabled, the bass in the 80Hz–40Hz range sounds muffled and recessed.

 

Try playing Fast Car by Tracy Chapman in high resolution. It’s very noticeable: with the Sub Gen 4 disabled, the bass sound is clear and well rounded, but when the sub is active, it loses clarity, body and impact.

 

I’ve already experimented with Trueplay (on both Android and iOS), sub volume, sub phase, and EQ settings. The issue persists and seems to be related to a crossover problem between the Arc Ultra and the Sub.

 

Best regards

 

Federico

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7 replies

buzz
  • buzz
  • May 19, 2025

Does the physical location of SUB make any difference?

R
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  • Rhonny
  • Prodigy II
  • May 19, 2025

​@FedeBenji 

What level number is the Sub 4 set to in the Sonos app?

F
  • FedeBenji
  • Author
  • Contributor I
  • May 19, 2025

​@Rhonny default level, zero. If I boost it only sub frequencies gets boosted, 50-60hz don't pop up. 

This happens with music playback, Atmos music is more balanced. 

 

 

F
  • FedeBenji
  • Author
  • Contributor I
  • May 19, 2025

​@buzz I tried to move it around, no noticeable improvements

Stanley_4
  • Stanley_4
  • Lead Maestro
  • May 19, 2025

Maybe switch phase? Also trying alternate locations at both phase settings.

Pools-3015
Pools-3015
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  • Pools-3015
  • Prodigy I
  • May 19, 2025

Use an extension cord when moving the Sub so you do not have o wait for it to power on everytime. With every move, don't forget to do a Quick Trueplay.

Stanley_4
F
  • FedeBenji
  • Author
  • Contributor I
  • May 21, 2025

I tried different positions, running Trueplay each time, but noticed no significant difference. I listened very closely, placing my ear next to the Arc Ultra's sound motion speaker, and it seems that during music playback (non-Atmos), bass frequencies are still being played even with a subwoofer configured, causing phase cancellation with the sub.

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