Sonos Arc Ultra vs Sonos Beam 2 with surrounds

Based on all the factors you’ve listed, the Arc Ultra would be my choice. 

In my opinion, if the setup is mainly to play movies and no so much music, and you’re looking for a surround experience, and due also to the size of the room, my choice would be Beam + 100

With the Arc you’ll never get a real surround feeling. And if you’re not looking for HiFi experience for music listening I think Beam + 100s would be enough. 

On the other hand, if your wife doesn’t want rear speakers, I don’t know why are you even asking. Arc Ultra is your choice. 😅

Thanks guys, for the reply. My wife doesn’t like the look of them, but allows them if they serve a purpose :D I am wondering if the surrounds have that much “meaning” or importance, or if it isn’t just better to buy a better soundbar (I’ve read some posts and Arc should be better about 30%)

I’ve tested Beam 2 (just Beam 2) at my friends and the sound was great, but sound was comming just from the front. Will Arc Ultra be better at this? 

I’m sure that Arc Ultra performs much better, but I don’t know if it’s needed in your room and with your needs. And, for sure, you’ll get better surround with the rear speakers. Anyway, other option is to purchase Arc Ultra now, and upgrade in the future with surrounds. Then the problem will be, 100 or 300 😅

You said movies is your main criteria. (Not upsetting your wife probably runs a close second?) 

If you’ll be playing Atmos movies, I believe the Arc Ultra with upfiring speakers will work better, even without rears, the Beam with them.