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.

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.

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. 

@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.

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. 

@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?

@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  

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!

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!

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

@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.

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