Choosing Between Premium Soundbars: Sonos Arc vs LG S90TR - A Complete Guide

Understanding Premium Soundbars

Modern TVs have become incredibly thin, which is great for aesthetics but terrible for sound quality. This is where premium soundbars come in. The $564.44 Sonos Arc and $799.99 LG S90TR represent two different approaches to solving this problem, each with their own strengths.

Premium soundbars differentiate themselves from budget options through better audio processing, more speakers and channels, and advanced features like room calibration. They're designed to create an immersive experience that approaches the quality of separate home theater speakers, but in a more convenient package.

Primary Considerations

When evaluating these soundbars, several key factors come into play. Room size significantly impacts performance - the Sonos Arc works best in small to medium rooms, while the LG S90TR has enough power for larger spaces.

The Arc, released in 2020, brought Dolby Atmos to Sonos's lineup and remains competitive today thanks to regular software updates. The S90TR, released in 2024, represents the latest in LG's soundbar technology with features like WOW Orchestra (which synchronizes with compatible LG TV speakers) and AI Room Calibration.

Core Performance Comparison

Sound Quality

The fundamental difference between these systems is their speaker configuration. The Arc uses 11 drivers in a 5.0.2 setup, meaning five horizontal channels and two upward-firing speakers for height effects. It creates a surprisingly wide soundstage for a single unit, though bass is limited without the optional (and expensive) Sonos Sub.

The S90TR delivers a full 7.1.3 experience with dedicated rear speakers and a wireless subwoofer. This creates more precise surround effects and significantly better bass response. The three upward-firing channels (versus the Arc's two) provide more convincing overhead sounds for Dolby Atmos content.

For example, in a scene with rain or helicopter overhead, the S90TR creates a more convincing dome of sound. However, the Arc's processing is excellent at creating the illusion of surround sound from a single unit.

Audio Processing

Both soundbars feature sophisticated room calibration systems. Sonos's Trueplay (iOS devices only) has been refined over years and does an excellent job optimizing sound for your space. LG's newer AI Room Calibration is similarly effective and works with any smartphone.

The S90TR supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X (another 3D audio format), while the Arc only handles Atmos. For most users this isn't a major concern, as Atmos is more common on streaming services.

Value Analysis

The LG S90TR at $799.99 includes everything needed for a complete surround sound system. The Sonos Arc starts at $564.44, but adding a Sub ($749) and rear speakers ($458 for One SL pair) brings the total to over $1,700.

However, Sonos offers more flexibility - you can start with just the Arc and expand later. The ecosystem also supports whole-home audio, which LG doesn't match.

Installation & Setup

The Arc's single-unit design makes it incredibly simple to install. Just connect one HDMI cable to your TV's eARC port (or use the included optical adapter), and you're mostly done. Setup through the Sonos app is straightforward, though Trueplay tuning requires walking around your room waving an iPhone or iPad.

The S90TR requires more planning due to its separate components. You'll need power outlets for the rear speakers and subwoofer, though they connect wirelessly for audio. The AI Room Calibration process is quick and effective.

Ecosystem & Smart Features

Sonos leads in smart features with built-in Alexa and Google Assistant, AirPlay 2 support, and an excellent app that integrates multiple streaming services. The platform's multi-room audio capabilities are industry-leading, allowing you to group speakers throughout your home.

LG's soundbar works with Google Assistant and Alexa devices (though they're not built-in) and supports AirPlay 2. The WOW Orchestra feature, which synchronizes with compatible LG TV speakers, is impressive but limited to specific TV models.

Real-World Performance

In practice, both systems excel at different tasks. The Arc produces remarkably clear dialogue and a wide soundstage that works well for both movies and music. Its upward-firing speakers create convincing height effects, though not as precise as the S90TR's three-channel approach.

The S90TR's dedicated subwoofer and rear speakers provide a more traditional home theater experience. Bass is deeper and more impactful, while surround effects are more precisely placed. This makes it particularly effective for action movies and gaming.

How to Decide

Choose the Sonos Arc if:

• You want to start with a simple setup and expand later
• Smart features and multi-room audio are priorities
• You have other Sonos products
• Space is limited
• Music listening is as important as movies

Choose the LG S90TR if:

• You want a complete surround system immediately
• Gaming features are important
• You have a larger room
• Maximum bass impact is desired
• You own a compatible LG TV

The final decision often comes down to your specific needs. The Arc excels as a versatile, expandable system that's particularly good for mixed music and movie use. The S90TR provides a more traditional home theater experience out of the box, with better gaming support and stronger bass response.

Remember that both are excellent products that will significantly improve your TV audio experience. The choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, room setup, and how you plan to use the system.

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