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Sub or no Sub Decision

  • November 24, 2023
  • 12 replies
  • 2104 views

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I just got the Arc installed in my 16’ x 17’ media room. I’m happy with the purchase but it’s not as full a sound as I was hoping for. Trying to decide whether to add the Sub … or try (2) Era 100 speakers for surround sound.

Curious if others have tried Arc + 2 Era 100 without the Sub in a TV room and what your thoughts are on sound depth/fullness for TV and movies.

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12 replies

jgatie
  • November 24, 2023

It's all in what you like.  If directional effects or ambient sounds are your thing, get the surrounds.  If loud booms and pictures rattling on your walls are more to your liking, get the sub.


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  • Author
  • Avid Contributor I
  • November 24, 2023

That’s a good point, @jgatie … I think what I want most is the directional effects and ambient sounds. I feel that’s what’s missing the most from the Arc.


AjTrek1
  • November 24, 2023

Hi,

I say from experience if you want the low-end effects associated with movies then get the Sub as the Arc will provide a simulated surround with the right room dimensions. Yours is a close match to mine unless the ceiling height exceeds 9 feet. An eight foot ceiling is ideal.

IMO if budget is a consideration I’d go for the sub as it relieves the Arc of low-end duties. Doing so allows it to focus on the mids/highs, dialogue and surround effects more efficiently.

If budget is not an issue get both Sub and Era 100’s for a more immersive sound experience. Get Era 300’s as surrounds for a complete Dolby Atmos experience. 


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  • Author
  • Avid Contributor I
  • November 24, 2023

@AjTrek1 … I have 8-foot ceilings in that room. And budget is my main issue. I’m really torn now. Maybe I’ll just save up for the Sub then.


AjTrek1
  • November 24, 2023

Hi

Didn’t mean to make things more difficult. If as you said earlier you prefer the wiz-bang effects, then get the Era 100’s and save up for the sub.

Note: The Era 100’s will only provide DD 5.1 effects and do not produce Dolby Atmos. You’ll need Era 300’s if full Dolby Atmos is your end goal. 


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  • Author
  • Avid Contributor I
  • November 24, 2023

@AjTrek1 ... actually, I really appreciate your perspective. So no worries! Do you know if the Sub qualifies for the 15% upgrade discount Sonos offers existing customers throughout the year?


AjTrek1
  • November 24, 2023

@Contrarian33 

The 15% to 30% upgrade credit should be an available if you have a qualifying Sonos product. Click on “Upgrade”and log into your account to see if you have eligible Sonos gear. Good luck 🍀 


AjTrek1
  • November 24, 2023

Hi @Contrarian33 

The sub is 20% off today. However you can’t combine discounts. Therefore check your account page to see which is better. FYI, all Sonos speakers are discounted today!


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  • Author
  • Avid Contributor I
  • November 25, 2023

Thanks, @AjTrek1. Yes, I knew about the speaker sale going on right now, but I can’t take advantage of it at the moment, so that’s why I was asking about the Upgrade program. I just logged in and saw that I have several products that are eligible, so I’ll just use that 15% toward the discount for the Sub when I have the money saved up for it. Thanks for your help!


  • Lyricist I
  • December 6, 2023

Must have surrounds before making a decision. I have Arc and Era 100 in the rear.  Sound is outstanding. I was wondering if I need a sub mini. But I just don’t know


AjTrek1
  • December 7, 2023

@rdboston7866 

The sub will enhance your listening experience. It will relieve the Arc of low-end duties allowing it to focus on mids, highs, and upward firing speakers. Typically a full size sub is used with an Arc. However, room size is an important factor. Think…bed room for sub-mini.


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  • Author
  • Avid Contributor I
  • December 7, 2023

@rdboston7866 … I’m really leaning toward buying two ERA 300’s. Big price tag, but I’m thinking long term.