When it comes to upgrading your TV's sound, Bose offers two distinctly different approaches with the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar ($899) and the Bose Solo Soundbar Series 2 ($179). Let's explore how these soundbars compare and which might be right for your setup.
Today's soundbars range from simple TV speaker upgrades to sophisticated home theater replacements. The technology has evolved significantly since the Solo Series 2's release in 2020, with newer models like the Smart Ultra (released October 2023) incorporating advanced features like spatial audio and AI-powered sound processing.
The key differences between basic and premium soundbars typically come down to:
The Smart Ultra Soundbar represents Bose's latest technology, featuring a 5.1.2 channel configuration. This means it has five main channels (left, center, right, and two surrounds), one low-frequency channel, and two up-firing speakers for height effects. The result is a truly immersive experience, especially with Dolby Atmos content, where sounds can appear to come from above and around you.
In contrast, the Solo Series 2 uses a basic stereo configuration with two drivers. While it certainly improves upon built-in TV speakers, it can't create the same immersive soundfield. Think of it as the difference between watching a movie in a premium theater versus a good TV setup - both are enjoyable, but one is clearly more immersive.
For music lovers, the Smart Ultra's advanced speaker array and processing create a wider, more detailed soundstage - imagine being able to pick out individual instruments' locations in space. The Solo Series 2 provides clear stereo separation but lacks the same level of sophistication in reproducing complex musical passages.
Both models offer dialog enhancement, but they take different approaches:
The Smart Ultra truly shines in a dedicated home theater setting. Its ability to process Dolby Atmos and create virtual surround effects makes it an excellent choice for movie enthusiasts. The up-firing speakers add a vertical dimension to the sound, making effects like helicopters or overhead rain more realistic.
The Solo Series 2 works best in smaller rooms where basic sound improvement is the goal. While it won't recreate a cinema experience, it significantly enhances dialog clarity and overall sound quality compared to TV speakers.
For everyday TV watching in a living room setting:
The Smart Ultra's advanced processing and speaker array make it a versatile choice for music and gaming, creating a more engaging experience. The Solo Series 2 handles music playback adequately but doesn't provide the same level of detail or spatial awareness that gamers and audiophiles might appreciate.
The premium price brings significant advantages:
Offers excellent value for basic needs:
Consider these factors when choosing between the Smart Ultra and Solo Series 2:
The Smart Ultra represents Bose's latest technology, incorporating features that will remain relevant for years. Its software-updateable platform means it can potentially improve over time. The Solo Series 2, while more basic, focuses on core functionality that won't become obsolete but won't expand beyond its current capabilities.
Both soundbars serve their intended purposes well, but they target different users. The Smart Ultra is for those who want a premium audio experience with all the latest features, while the Solo Series 2 is for those seeking a straightforward TV sound upgrade at a reasonable price.
Your choice should align with your specific needs, room size, and budget. Don't feel pressured to spend more if basic functionality meets your needs, but also consider how your requirements might evolve over time. Either way, both options represent significant improvements over standard TV speakers, just at different levels of sophistication and investment.
| Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar ($899) | Bose Solo Soundbar Series 2 ($179) |
|---|---|
| Audio Channels - Determines surround sound capabilities and immersion | |
| 5.1.2 channels with up-firing speakers | 2.0 stereo channels only |
| Sound Processing - Affects audio quality and features | |
| Dolby Atmos, TrueSpace, AI Dialogue Mode | Basic Dolby Digital decoding |
| Room Calibration - Optimizes sound for your specific space | |
| ADAPTiQ automatic room calibration | No room calibration available |
| Connectivity Options - Determines compatibility and streaming capabilities | |
| HDMI eARC, Optical, WiFi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2 | Optical and Bluetooth only |
| Smart Features - Enables voice control and streaming services | |
| Built-in Alexa, multi-room audio, streaming services | Basic Bluetooth streaming only |
| Dimensions - Consider your TV size and space | |
| 34.5" x 4.5" x 3.5" (fits 50"+ TVs) | 21.6" x 2.8" x 3.4" (fits most TVs) |
| Power Output - Affects volume capability and room coverage | |
| 120W total system power | 50W total system power |
| Bass Performance - Important for movie effects and music | |
| Extended bass response (40Hz-20kHz) | Limited bass (no spec provided, est. 60Hz-20kHz) |
| Voice Enhancement - Critical for clear dialogue | |
| AI-powered dialogue enhancement | Basic dialogue mode |
| Installation Options - Affects setup flexibility | |
| Wall-mountable, tabletop, advanced calibration | Basic wall-mount or tabletop |
| Remote Control Features - Impacts ease of use | |
| Universal remote with TV control | Basic remote for soundbar only |
| Additional Features - Extra capabilities that add value | |
| PhaseGuide technology, customizable EQ, future updates | Basic EQ adjustments only |
The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar ($899) is significantly better for movies due to its Dolby Atmos support and 5.1.2 channel configuration. The Solo Series 2 ($179) provides basic sound improvement but lacks surround sound capabilities.
The main difference is that the Smart Ultra offers immersive surround sound with Dolby Atmos, while the Solo Series 2 is a basic stereo soundbar. The price difference reflects this capability gap.
The Solo Series 2 is ideal for small rooms, offering good sound quality at a lower price point. The Smart Ultra might be overkill for small spaces unless you're seeking premium features.
If you watch lots of movies and want an immersive experience, Dolby Atmos (available in the Smart Ultra) is worth considering. For basic TV watching, the Solo Series 2's standard audio is sufficient.
Both improve dialogue, but the Smart Ultra's AI-powered dialogue enhancement is more sophisticated than the Solo Series 2's basic voice mode.
Both support Bluetooth streaming, but the Smart Ultra adds WiFi, AirPlay 2, and multi-room audio capabilities that the Solo Series 2 doesn't offer.
The Smart Ultra has built-in Alexa and smart home integration. The Solo Series 2 has no smart features.
The Smart Ultra performs better without a subwoofer but can connect to one. The Solo Series 2 has no subwoofer connection option.
The Solo Series 2 has simpler setup with basic optical connection. The Smart Ultra requires more setup but includes automatic room calibration.
Yes, both the Smart Ultra and Solo Series 2 can be wall mounted, and mounting hardware is included with both models.
For basic TV sound improvement, the Solo Series 2 offers better value. For home theater enthusiasts, the Smart Ultra justifies its higher price with advanced features.
The Smart Ultra benefits from HDMI eARC connection for Dolby Atmos, while the Solo Series 2 only uses optical connection, making it simpler but more limited.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: techradar.com - bose.com - bestbuy.com - tomsguide.com - pcrichard.com - rtings.com - bose.com - boselatam.com - avsforum.com - bose.com - rtings.com - bose.com - bose.com - assets.bose.com - bestbuy.com - youtube.com - pistonheads.com - costco.com - googlenestcommunity.com - youtube.com - discussions.apple.com
