Between the Arc Ultra and Beam (Gen 2), the Arc Ultra comes out ahead in several specs, while the Beam (Gen 2) wins on several specs. Overall, the Arc Ultra scores 35 and the Beam (Gen 2) scores 35 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
These two are evenly matched on the broad strokes, with the decision sitting on which individual spec advantages weigh more for your use.
The Arc Ultra doesn't pull ahead on any single popular-comparison spec — its strengths sit in the spec table groups rather than the headline advantages.
The Beam (Gen 2) similarly doesn't carry a headline advantage on the popular specs — look at the full table for category-specific deltas.
Both ship with comparable total power, dolby atmos, earc, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: there is no wrong answer here — match the spec advantages to how you actually use the product. The Mars Score parity tells you both are well-rounded; the differences are about trade-offs, not quality.
Why Sonos - Arc Ultra wins
- No decisive advantages.
Why Sonos - Beam (Gen 2) wins
- No decisive advantages.
Spec comparison
Audio
| Spec | Sonos - Arc Ultra | Sonos - Beam (Gen 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | 9.1.4 | 5.0 |
| Total power | 0 W | 0 W |
| Dolby Atmosⓘ | true | true |
| DTS:X | false | false |
Connectivity
| Spec | Sonos - Arc Ultra | Sonos - Beam (Gen 2) |
|---|---|---|
| HDMI inputs | 1 | 1 |
| eARCⓘ | true | true |
| Subwoofer included | false | false |
Frequently asked
Spec-level deep dives
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