Soundbar Showdown: Sony HT-A7000 vs Sonos Arc vs Samsung HW-Q990D – Which Dolby Atmos Champ Reigns Supreme?

Looking to upgrade your home theater sound with a top-tier Dolby Atmos soundbar? You’re not alone. Three heavy-hitters dominate the premium soundbar arena right now: Sony’s HT-A7000, Sonos Arc, and Samsung’s HW-Q990D. These flagship sound systems promise immersive Dolby Atmos surround sound, thundering bass, and a host of smart features – but they go about it in very different ways. In this in-depth comparison, we’ll pit the Sony HT-A7000, Sonos Arc, and Samsung HW-Q990D against each other. We’ll examine their sound quality (for movies, music and gaming), features (think Dolby Atmos vs. DTS:X support), connectivity options (HDMI eARC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.), smart assistant integration, expandability (adding subwoofers or surrounds), and how they perform in real-world use. We’ll also discuss design and build, price & value, and what experts and users say – quoting trusted reviewers along the way. Plus, we’ll update you on firmware upgrades and new models on the horizon from Sony, Sonos, Samsung and others that might sway your buying decision.

Get ready for a battle royale of soundbars – whether you’re a movie buff craving cinematic audio, a music lover, or a gamer needing that extra edge, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the Atmos soundbar showdown of 2025!

Sound Quality and Performance

When it comes to sound quality, all three contenders support 3D immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos – but each has its own approach to delivering room-filling sound. Let’s break down how they perform in different scenarios:

• Movies & Dolby Atmos:
  Samsung HW-Q990D: This Samsung packs an 11.1.4 channel system (soundbar + wireless subwoofer + two wireless rear speakers) for true surround sound in a box. It delivers a “large, immersive and three-dimensional sound” field whathifi.com. With actual rear speakers and up-firing drivers, Atmos effects like rainfall or aircraft flyovers are convincingly placed overhead and all around you. DTS:X is supported too, so whether it’s a Netflix Atmos stream or a DTS:X Blu-ray, the Q990D can handle it. Reviewers say it produces dynamic, weighty, and detailed audio that few soundbar packages can match whathifi.com whathifi.com. Explosions and action scenes hit with thumpy, punchy bass from the dedicated subwoofer rtings.com rtings.com, yet dialogue remains clear thanks to a dedicated center channel rtings.com. In fact, RTINGS calls the Q990D “excellent for movies”, noting its balanced sound keeps explosions impactful “without drowning out dialogue” rtings.com. If you want the full cinema experience in your living room, the Samsung’s physical surround speakers give it an edge. Sony HT-A7000: Sony takes a different route – the HT-A7000 is a 7.1.2 channel single soundbar unit (sold on its own), relying on virtual surround processing plus dual up-firing speakers to create Atmos effects. Out of the box (with no separate sub or rears), it produces a wide soundstage with Sony’s proprietary Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force Pro Front Surround tech expanding the sound in height and width whathifi.com whathifi.com. In movie tests, the A7000 impressed experts by projecting sound well beyond the bar itself – What Hi-Fi? noted in Gravity’s opening scene they kept checking for speakers at their sides because of the Sony’s convincing side sound beams whathifi.com. Atmos height cues are also effective; Tom’s Guide said the A7000’s Dolby Atmos performance “helps viewers feel more involved with what’s happening on the screen” and was “more effective than I imagined,” even if it’s not quite like having real speakers above you tomsguide.com tomsguide.com. Dialog is a strong point too – the dedicated center channel and Voice modes ensure speech is “clear and crisp” rtings.com rtings.com. However, without a separate subwoofer, the deep bass in action scenes is limited – reviewers note it “struggles to reproduce the deep thump” of low bass, so rumble from explosions isn’t as strong until you add a sub rtings.com rtings.com. The A7000’s soundstage is actually comparable to the Sonos Arc’s in height and precision, and even wider in some respects whathifi.com, but overall it can’t match the total immersion of the Samsung unless you invest in the optional rear speakers for true surround channels. Sonos Arc: The Arc is a 5.0.2 channel standalone soundbar – meaning it has front and side-firing drivers and two up-firing drivers, but no sub or rear units by default. Despite that, it delivers an impressive Atmos experience for a single bar. Sound effects extend well beyond the Arc’s physical footprint: Business Insider found “sound easily fills the area in front of you for a wide, 180-degree soundfield”, and overhead Atmos effects make it “never feel like you need satellite speakers” (at least in moderate-sized rooms) businessinsider.com businessinsider.com. The Arc’s strengths are in its clarity and soundstage: it produces “wonderful audio quality with brilliant dynamic range and incredibly detailed sound,” according to one reviewer businessinsider.com. Dialogue comes through perfectly clear, and instruments or sound effects are distinctly placed, creating an enveloping front-stage. However, as a one-piece system, the Arc has limits in surround placement and deep bass. It uses psychoacoustic tricks to simulate rear surround, which can’t fully compare to having real rear speakers behind you. The Bass is clean but not very powerful on its own – “a bit lacking in bass,” especially in larger rooms, and it “just can’t provide the deep low frequencies and rumble that a dedicated subwoofer offers,” as one reviewer noted businessinsider.com businessinsider.com. Notably, the Arc does not support DTS:X (only standard DTS 5.1 after a firmware update) techradar.com businessinsider.com, so it’s less ideal if your media library includes a lot of DTS:X content (common on some Blu-rays). For Dolby Atmos streaming, though, it’s excellent. Overall, the Sonos Arc gives you big cinematic sound from a single bar, but to truly rival the wraparound immersion of the Samsung, you’d need to add the optional Sonos Sub and surround speakers.
• Music Playback:
  All three soundbars double as music systems, but there are subtle differences in audio character and capabilities for music lovers.
  Sonos Arc: Sonos has a heritage in multi-room music, and it shows. The Arc is “superb with music as well as movies,” delivering dynamic and powerful sound that belies its slim profile techradar.com techradar.com. Stereo tracks have a wide soundstage and excellent detail – many users report that the Arc can “fade from view so that only its audio is left front and center,” imaging performers as if they were in the room businessinsider.com. It handles vocals and instruments with accuracy and brightness, and thanks to support for Apple AirPlay 2 and the Sonos app, you can stream high-quality tunes easily. The Arc supports high-bitrate formats like FLAC via the Sonos S2 app and even spatial audio mixes (Dolby Atmos Music from services like Tidal). One caveat: as noted earlier, bass depth is limited by the lack of a dedicated subwoofer. For bass-heavy music (EDM, hip-hop, etc.), the Arc can sound a bit thin on its own – though it remains very clear and balanced. If you’re a music enthusiast who craves deep bass, pairing the Arc with a Sonos Sub (or the smaller Sub Mini) is a worthy upgrade. Still, for many genres and casual listening, the Arc’s musical performance is top-notch, often cited as one of the best-sounding one-box soundbars for music forbes.com. Sony HT-A7000: Sony’s A7000 also holds its own with music. It has a neutral, balanced tuning with a “touch of extra punch in the bass” rtings.com rtings.com – meaning out-of-the-box it gives a little warmth to drums and basslines without muddying the mids. Reviewers note that vocals and instruments sound clear and natural, thanks in part to Sony’s signal processing and high-quality drivers rtings.com. The soundstage is wide for a single bar, so stereo music doesn’t feel constrained. Additionally, the A7000 supports hi-res audio and Sony’s 360 Reality Audio format (for immersive music tracks on services like Tidal and Amazon Music) whathifi.com whathifi.com. In practice, that means it can decode special music mixes that create a sense of being “in the room” with the band – a neat perk if you use those services. The bar also features DSEE Extreme upscaling to enhance compressed music streams tomsguide.com. Without the separate sub, the A7000’s dual built-in woofers do an admirable job – What Hi-Fi? was impressed by the “taut, controlled and powerful” bass from the internal subwoofers, noting that only the much pricier Sennheiser Ambeo beat it for single-bar bass performance whathifi.com whathifi.com. That said, the Sony still rolls off the very low frequencies; you won’t get window-rattling sub-bass on its own, and very deep notes may lack rumble rtings.com rtings.com. For critical music listening or large-room parties, you might consider adding Sony’s optional wireless subwoofer (the SA-SW5) for more impact tomsguide.com tomsguide.com. But if your tastes lean toward clarity, balanced sound and occasional high-res listening, the A7000 will not disappoint. Samsung HW-Q990D: With its powerful subwoofer and numerous speakers, one might assume the Q990D is a home theater beast but perhaps overkill for music. In reality, Samsung has tuned it to be surprisingly versatile. RTINGS found the Q990D “excellent for music,” citing a balanced sound profile where vocals and instruments are clear and accurate, and there is “enough bass for genres like EDM and hip-hop” to have satisfying thump rtings.com rtings.com. Having a discrete subwoofer gives it a natural advantage in bass-heavy tracks – it can produce the deep lows that the Arc and A7000 (by themselves) cannot. Drums hit hard and electronic basslines have floor-shaking capability on the Q990D. Yet Samsung didn’t make it just a bass cannon; the midrange and treble detail are well-preserved, avoiding the muffled or boomy sound that some older Samsung bars had. In fact, the sound signature is quite neutral overall rtings.com rtings.com, so the Q990D can handle delicate music passages as well as bombastic ones. Another plus: there are extensive sound customization tools (EQ, presets, etc.) accessible via the Samsung SmartThings app or remote, so you can tweak the music profile to your liking rtings.com rtings.com. For example, you might dial back the subwoofer a bit for classical music or boost the treble for low-volume listening. In terms of music formats, the HW-Q990D supports Bluetooth streaming and Spotify Connect, and it even has Apple AirPlay 2 for higher-quality wireless audio rtings.com rtings.com. While it doesn’t integrate a multi-room system as seamlessly as Sonos, you can still group it with other Samsung “SmartThings” speakers or use AirPlay multi-room. All told, the Q990D is great for music if you want big, room-filling sound and the ability to shake the walls at a party. Audiophiles might find the Sony or Sonos marginally more refined in the midrange, but the differences are small – and the Samsung’s sheer power and fullness are hard to beat.
• Gaming Performance:
  If you plan to connect a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, or gaming PC, there are a few key considerations: HDMI 2.1 support (for 4K @ 120Hz video passthrough, VRR, etc.), latency, and how immersive the sound is for game audio.
  Samsung HW-Q990D: This soundbar was practically made with gamers in mind. New for the Q990D was full HDMI 2.1 passthrough on its two HDMI inputs, meaning it can passthrough [email protected] and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) signals to your TV rtings.com rtings.com. Older models lacked VRR support, but the Q990D’s HDMI 2.1 “is ideal for playing video games on a newer console” because you don’t have to sacrifice advanced video features to route through the soundbar rtings.com rtings.com. Essentially, you can plug your PS5/XSX into the Q990D, and the video (4K120, HDR, VRR, ALLM) will cleanly pass to a capable TV while the soundbar handles audio – no lag or dropped features. Speaking of lag, the Q990D has very low audio latency on all inputs; RTINGS measured no lip-sync issues and praised its lightning-quick response suitable for gaming rtings.com rtings.com. And of course, the immersive soundfield is a huge plus in games – you’ll hear enemies approaching from behind or above in FPS games and get a true surround sense in open-world environments. The dedicated “Game Pro” mode on Samsung soundbars can further enhance directional cues. Whether it’s story games or competitive multiplayer, the Q990D’s combination of booming explosions and precise positional audio can really elevate your gaming experience. Just be aware that with all pieces (rear speakers and sub), you’ll need space to set it up in your gaming room or living room. Sony HT-A7000: Sony’s bar also caters to gamers, though in a different way. It comes with two HDMI 2.1 inputs capable of [email protected] and Dolby Vision HDR pass-through (great if your TV is limited on 4K120 ports) whathifi.com whathifi.com. Initially, the A7000 did not support VRR or ALLM, which was a disappointment for PS5 owners. However, Sony released a firmware update (v1.799) that added VRR and ALLM pass-through support in late 2023 reddit.com whathifi.com. With that update applied, you can now enjoy tear-free high-frame-rate gaming through the soundbar – so the Sony caught up to Samsung on this front whathifi.com whathifi.com. The A7000’s soundstage and clarity benefit gaming as well: its wide dispersion means you get an enveloping experience in story-driven games, and the clear dialogue is useful in narrative-heavy RPGs or when listening for subtle audio cues. The downside is, without real rear speakers in the default setup, the surround effects in games are virtual – they add atmosphere but are not as pinpoint as Samsung’s rear speakers for competitive play. Latency isn’t an issue on the Sony either (when using eARC or HDMI, it stays in sync). If you’re a PS5 gamer with a Sony BRAVIA TV, the A7000 has an extra trick: Acoustic Center Sync, which uses the TV’s speakers as part of the center channel when paired with compatible Sony TVs t3.com t3.com. This can make dialogue and in-game voices sound like they’re coming right from the screen – a cool integration for a more lifelike gaming experience. Overall, the A7000 after updates is very gamer-friendly, but to truly match the all-encompassing sound of the Q990D, you might consider adding the optional rears (SA-RS5 or RS3S) for surround channels, especially if you play a lot of Atmos-enhanced games. Sonos Arc: The Sonos Arc has the simplest hardware setup for gaming – just one HDMI eARC port – but that means no HDMI passthrough at all. You must connect your console to the TV (or an HDMI switch/receiver) and then send audio to the Arc via eARC. If your TV supports [email protected], VRR, etc., you can still get those features directly on the TV. The Arc will happily play the Dolby Atmos or multichannel audio coming back through eARC with very low latency (Sonos engineered the Arc to minimize audio delay, and users report no lip-sync issues when eARC is working properly). The limitation is if your TV’s eARC has any quirks – some older TVs might downmix audio or have latency, but newer TVs generally handle it fine. Once set up, the Arc provides an immersive audio boost to games – explosions are dynamic and impactful (within the Arc’s bass limits), and the wide soundstage gives a good sense of space. You’ll clearly hear dialogue and ambient sounds. But compared to the Sony or Samsung, the Arc by itself cannot reproduce rear positional audio as distinctly. It’s great for single-player adventure games or casual gaming, but serious competitive gamers might find it harder to pinpoint sounds behind them. One solution is to add a pair of Sonos surrounds: interestingly, if you add two of Sonos’s new Era 300 speakers as rears with the Arc, the system gains actual rear surround and rear height channels, effectively creating a 7.1.4 system that does rival discrete setups. (Arc + Sub + two Era 300 was dubbed the “Ultimate Immersive Set” by Sonos, and indeed reviewers found it dramatically improves surround imaging). Of course, that raises the budget considerably. Out of the box, the Arc is good for gaming in terms of sound quality and latency, but it’s not a gamer-focused device in the way Samsung’s is with HDMI switch functionality. It also lacks any specific “game mode” audio preset. So if you’re a casual or story-focused gamer who prioritizes clean, rich sound and you already value Sonos’s ecosystem, the Arc will serve you well. But if you’re an FPS enthusiast who wants the absolute best directional audio, you might lean toward the Samsung (or augment the Arc with those rears later).

Features and Connectivity

Next, let’s compare the bells and whistles – audio format support, connectivity options, smart integration, and expandability of each system.

• Audio Format Support (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, etc.): All three soundbars decode Dolby Atmos, whether from streaming apps or Blu-ray (via TrueHD or Dolby Digital+). The Sony HT-A7000 and Samsung HW-Q990D also support DTS:X and legacy DTS formats whathifi.com whathifi.com. The Sonos Arc notably did not support DTS:X, which is a drawback if you watch a lot of DTS:X discs; however, Sonos did add support for standard DTS 5.1 surround in a firmware update, so it can at least handle core DTS tracks businessinsider.com. Still, if you need full DTS:X, Arc isn’t the best choice. All three support common Dolby formats (Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital+, TrueHD) and LPCM. They also each have their proprietary 3D sound processing: Sony’s Vertical Surround Engine (to up-mix non-Atmos content), Samsung’s Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X processing for stereo sources, and Sonos’s Trueplay tuning which subtly adapts the output to your room (more on Trueplay below).
• HDMI and Physical Connections:
  Sonos Arc: Simplest of the lot – it has one HDMI port, which functions as an HDMI eARC/ARC output to connect to your TV. There are no additional HDMI inputs on the Arc techradar.com, so it cannot act as an HDMI switch. If your TV lacks HDMI ARC, Sonos includes an optical adapter (the Arc can accept optical audio via the HDMI port adapter). This minimalist approach means setup is easy – just one cable – but as mentioned, console or Blu-ray players must go into the TV or another switch. There’s also an Ethernet jack for wired network (useful if Wi-Fi is spotty) and a power connector, but no analog or optical inputs beyond the eARC/optical route. Sony HT-A7000: The Sony is loaded with ports. It has 1 HDMI output (eARC) to the TV and 2 HDMI 2.1 inputs for other devices whathifi.com tomsguide.com. These inputs support up to 8K@60Hz or 4K@120Hz video passthrough with Dolby Vision HDR, so you can plug a 4K Blu-ray player and a game console directly into the soundbar. (One early limitation was no VRR/ALLM at launch, but as noted, firmware updates have added those features reddit.com whathifi.com.) There’s also an optical digital input, a USB-A port (for music playback from a stick, or firmware updates), and even a 3.5mm analog input tomsguide.com. Uniquely, the A7000 has an “Acoustic Center Sync” output – a special port to connect to a compatible Sony BRAVIA TV, which allows the TV’s built-in speakers to act as part of the sound system (center channel reinforcement) whathifi.com. In terms of supported audio formats via HDMI, the Sony covers virtually everything: Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced audio, Hi-Res audio, and Sony 360 Reality Audio as mentioned whathifi.com whathifi.com. The inclusion of two HDMI inputs is great for those with limited TV ports or older TVs – it effectively works like a mini A/V receiver for a couple of devices. Samsung HW-Q990D: Samsung provides 1 HDMI output (eARC) and 2 HDMI inputs, similar to the Sony, and on the 2024 Q990D those inputs are HDMI 2.1 with [email protected] and VRR support whathifi.com whathifi.com. This is an upgrade over previous models, making the Q990D a true hub for high-end video sources. There’s also an optical (Toslink) input for legacy TVs or extra sources. No analog input here, and no USB audio playback port on most Samsung soundbars (the USB is usually for service). Samsung supports both Dolby and DTS formats (Atmos, DTS:X, etc.), and it has eARC so it can receive uncompressed Atmos from a modern TV. A feature to note is Q-Symphony: if paired with a newer Samsung TV, the Q990D can synchronize with the TV’s speakers (like Sony’s Acoustic Center Sync) to expand the soundstage whathifi.com whathifi.com. This only works with Samsung TV models that support Q-Symphony, but it’s a nice add-on if you’re in the Samsung ecosystem – the TV speakers will join the party as additional channels, potentially making dialogue even more centered on the screen.
• Wireless Connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Streaming):
  Wi-Fi & Streaming: Both the Sony A7000 and Sonos Arc have built-in dual-band Wi-Fi and robust streaming platform support. The Sonos Arc operates as part of the Sonos multi-room system, which is famous for streaming: via the Sonos S2 app you can play Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Pandora, Tidal – you name it – directly on the Arc, or group it with other Sonos speakers throughout the house. It also supports AirPlay 2, so any Apple device can beam audio to it instantly businessinsider.com businessinsider.com. The Arc does not support Bluetooth audio streaming at all (true to Sonos form), so you can’t, say, send audio from an Android phone via Bluetooth – you’d use Wi-Fi or the Sonos app/AirPlay. This isn’t a big issue given the Wi-Fi focus, but keep it in mind if you have guests who want to quickly connect their phone’s audio; they’d likely need to install the Sonos app or use AirPlay. The Sony HT-A7000 also has full Wi-Fi capabilities. It supports Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast built-in, and works with Google Home and Apple HomeKit for multi-room streaming whathifi.com whathifi.com. This means you can easily stream music to the A7000 from virtually any app or ecosystem. Chromecast support is great for Android users or those with Google Assistant (“Hey Google, play jazz in the living room” will send tunes to the A7000). Sony’s Music Center app aggregates streaming services as well. Additionally, the A7000 can integrate into wireless multi-room setups with other Sony speakers (though Sony’s multi-room ecosystem is not as unified or popular as Sonos’s). Bottom line: the Sony gives you a lot of wireless streaming options – more than Samsung, on par with Sonos – and even has Bluetooth as a fallback. The Samsung HW-Q990D has Wi-Fi and supports Apple AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect as well rtings.com. Samsung doesn’t have Chromecast, but you can use Spotify or AirPlay easily, and Samsung’s SmartThings app also allows streaming music to the soundbar (and you can group Samsung speakers in the app, though it’s not as widespread a system as Sonos). Bluetooth is also available on the Samsung for simple pairing from any device. One cool feature: you can pair the Q990D via Bluetooth to your phone and also pair it to a Samsung TV via Bluetooth simultaneously, giving a kind of wireless TV connection option (though HDMI eARC is generally preferred for better quality). Overall, Samsung covers the important bases but doesn’t have quite the “one-app” multi-room finesse of Sonos. Bluetooth: Both the Sony and Samsung soundbars include Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming (Sony uses Bluetooth 5.0) whathifi.com, so you can pair a phone, tablet, or laptop and play audio directly, which is handy for guests or devices that may not be on your Wi-Fi network. The Sonos Arc lacks Bluetooth audio support entirely rtings.com – an intentional Sonos design choice – so Wi-Fi is the only way to send audio to the Arc (aside from the TV eARC connection). This difference could be meaningful if, for example, you want to quickly play a YouTube video’s sound from an Android phone on the soundbar; with Arc you’d need to go through the Sonos app or AirPlay via a different device. With Sony or Samsung, you could just hit Bluetooth pair and go.
• Smart Assistants and Voice Control:
  Sonos Arc: The Arc has built-in far-field microphones and supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant natively. You can choose which voice assistant to configure during setup (or disable mics entirely with a touch control). If enabled, you can say “Alexa, turn up the volume” or “Hey Google, play my workout playlist” and the Arc will respond – essentially functioning like a smart speaker. Many users enjoy having Alexa built into their soundbar for hands-free control of TV (if using a Fire TV) or just for typical smart speaker tasks. The voice feature can also control the wider Sonos system (“play music in all rooms” etc.). So Arc doubles as an Alexa/Google smart speaker in your living room. Sony HT-A7000: Interestingly, the A7000 does not have built-in voice assistant mics on the bar rtings.com rtings.com. Sony instead makes it compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant in that you can integrate it with an external Echo or Google Home device. For example, you could tell a nearby Echo Dot “Alexa, play jazz on Sony soundbar” once you’ve linked the A7000 in the Alexa app, and it will stream via Spotify Connect or Chromecast accordingly. But you can’t talk directly to the soundbar – there’s no always-listening mic array for voice commands. Sony assumed many users already have a preferred smart speaker or use their phone for voice. So, if having a single device that acts as your living room’s voice assistant is important, Arc or Samsung might be more appealing. If you prefer not having microphones in your soundbar, Sony gives that peace of mind (and one less thing to disable if privacy is a concern). Samsung HW-Q990D: Samsung has Amazon Alexa built-in to the Q990D – with a mic mute button if you want privacy rtings.com rtings.com. You can speak to Alexa directly, similar to the Sonos Arc. (On recent Samsung soundbars, there’s typically an LED that lights up when Alexa is listening, and you just say “Alexa, …” to issue a command). Google Assistant is not built-in, but the Q990D can be configured to work with Google Assistant devices on the same network (in some regions Samsung has allowed Google Assistant control, but in the U.S., Alexa is the main option) rtings.com. There’s no support for Siri, except via AirPlay control from an iOS device (“Hey Siri, play music in the living room” would work through AirPlay to the soundbar). One note: Samsung’s voice control may not be as fully featured as Sonos’s integration – Sonos leverages its multi-room prowess and deep Alexa/Google integration, whereas Samsung’s Alexa might be more limited to basic functions and streaming via Amazon Music, etc. Still, it’s quite handy to adjust volume, inputs, or ask for weather through the soundbar.
• Expandability and Ecosystem:
  Sonos Arc: The Arc is part of the Sonos ecosystem, which means expandability is a huge selling point. You can start with just the Arc, then later add a wireless Sub (Sonos Sub, Gen 3) to drastically improve bass, and/or add wireless surround speakers. Sonos allows two surrounds – traditionally users add a pair of Sonos One SL or Sonos One as rears (for 5.1.2 sound total). Recently, Sonos introduced the Era 300 speakers, which, when used as surrounds, bring their own up-firing drivers – turning an Arc + Sub + 2 Era 300 setup into a 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos system (each Era 300 adds a rear height channel) whathifi.com. This “ultimate” Sonos home theater set has received praise for approaching the immersion of systems like the Samsung, though at a high cost (over $2,000 total) whathifi.com. The nice thing is you can mix-and-match Sonos components: even a smaller Sub Mini can be paired if your room is small, or older Play:1s as surrounds if you have them. Everything connects wirelessly (aside from power cords), so setup remains cable-free. Beyond home theater, the Arc can also bond with other Sonos speakers for multi-room audio – play music in sync throughout the house or use the Arc in stereo pairs (though you wouldn’t stereo pair two Arcs – Sonos expects you to use one Arc per TV). Bottom line: Sonos offers excellent expandability and a whole-home audio ecosystem. If you think you might build up piece by piece, Arc gives you that flexibility. Sony HT-A7000: Sony also designed the HT-A7000 to be expandable. It’s compatible with Sony’s add-on wireless subwoofers (the SA-SW3 or more powerful SA-SW5) and wireless rear speaker kits (the SA-RS3S, or the newer SA-RS5 which even include up-firing drivers and built-in batteries for easy placement). You can mix a sub and rears for a full 7.1.2 + 2 setup. For example, add the SA-RS5 surrounds and you effectively turn the system into a 9.1.4 channel configuration (as the RS5 rears each add a rear channel and a rear height channel). Sony uses a technology called 360 Spatial Sound Mapping in conjunction with these optional speakers to create “phantom” speakers – essentially calibrating and bouncing sound to fill gaps and mimic a full array t3.com t3.com. Interestingly, Sony updated their 2024 lineup so that even without rear speakers, the new models can generate phantom speakers to enlarge the soundstage t3.com, but on the HT-A7000 you needed the rears to do the fancy 360 mapping. Still, it’s great that you can start with the bar and later add hardware to push performance further. The cost for Sony’s expansion can be high – as per one estimate, an A7000 ($999) plus a sub ($699) plus rears ($350-$600) could total around $2,100 whathifi.com. That actually makes it the most expensive route of the three to get a full 5.1.4 system. But you do get to customize your setup (maybe you don’t need rears in an apartment; or you prioritize the sub first). Sony’s ecosystem for multi-room music is not as unified as Sonos – while you can Cast audio to multiple Chromecast-enabled speakers, Sony doesn’t have as seamless an app for grouping speakers in different rooms. So expandability here is mainly about home theater add-ons rather than whole-home audio. If you have a Sony TV, the integration (Acoustic Center Sync) is a plus as mentioned. Also worth noting: the A7000 is part of Sony’s Bravia product family – in 2024 Sony rebranded its lineup, replacing the A7000 with the Bravia Theatre Bar 9 as the new flagship t3.com t3.com. These new models continue to support the same sub and rear options, so Sony seems committed to that expandable approach. Samsung HW-Q990D: The Samsung comes complete with subwoofer and rear speakers included in the box. There isn’t an option to add more speakers – but you frankly won’t need to, since it already covers every channel (fronts, center, sides, rear surround, rear height, etc. plus sub). Samsung doesn’t have an equivalent of additional wireless speakers for expansion; their lower models sometimes allow buying an optional rear kit, but the flagship already includes them. One expansion-ish feature is Samsung’s SmartThings multi-room audio: you can group the Q990D with other Samsung wireless speakers (or even compatible Samsung TVs) to play music simultaneously. However, Samsung’s ecosystem isn’t as widely adopted as Sonos, and the use-cases are more limited. Another “add-on” to mention: if you have a newer Samsung TV, Q-Symphony (as discussed) lets the TV speakers join in with the soundbar for a bit extra fullness whathifi.com. This doesn’t cost extra (aside from owning a Samsung TV), so in a sense the ecosystem advantage for Samsung users is that TV+soundbar combo performing together. In summary, the Q990D is more of an all-in-one home theater bundle – you buy it and you’re done, no extra modules needed (or possible). That simplicity is nice, though it means less flexibility. If you don’t want rear speakers or a giant sub, Samsung isn’t really configurable in that way – you might instead opt for a smaller model entirely. But for those who do want the full monty out of the box, Samsung delivers.

Having covered capabilities and features at length, let’s distill the key specs in an easy side-by-side comparison:

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Table Notes: Prices in USD. Current prices may vary with discounts. Sonos Arc price was $799 at 2020 launch, increased to $899 in 2022 techradar.com. Sony HT-A7000 saw price drops after newer model introduction whathifi.com. Samsung Q990D launched at $1,999 but is frequently on sale whathifi.com. Channels denote base configuration (expandable systems can achieve higher channel counts with additions). Dimensions from manufacturer specs or reviews; Samsung dimensions approximate.

Design and Build Quality

All three soundbars are premium offerings, and their design reflects that – but there are notable differences in style and footprint:

• Sony HT-A7000: The A7000 is a beast of a soundbar physically. At about 51 inches long, it spans the width of many 55-inch TVs tomsguide.com tomsguide.com. It’s also fairly deep (~5.5″) and tall enough (3.1″) that it could potentially block the bottom of very low-sitting TVs. The design is a mix of materials: a perforated metal grille covers the front, a fabric mesh covers the up-firing speaker sections, and the entire top surface is a polished, glossy black panel whathifi.com. That glass-like top looks sleek and modern, especially with touch-sensitive buttons embedded, but it does attract fingerprints and dust easily whathifi.com whathifi.com. The build quality is excellent – Tom’s Guide remarked that “Sony doesn’t cut corners… the HT-A7000 feels precision-made with a good mix of quality materials that reflect its flagship status” tomsguide.com. It’s a hefty unit at ~8.7 kg (19 lbs), giving an impression of solidity. On the front there is a small LED display behind the grille that scrolls text to show volume, input, and audio format info. This is handy for seeing what mode you’re in, though some found it a bit limited (for instance, it might not show a full “Dolby Atmos” label due to space) tomsguide.com tomsguide.com. The soundbar can be wall-mounted (Sony sells optional brackets). One design synergy for Sony TV owners: if wall-mounting below a Sony Bravia TV, the Acoustic Center Sync cable can be hidden and the styling matches nicely with Sony’s minimalist TV stands. One minor aesthetic point: the remote control Sony provides is functional but looks a bit dated (a plasticky black wand with many buttons – compared to Sonos which has no remote, and Samsung’s slim remote). Not a big deal, but you’ll likely use your TV remote for volume via HDMI CEC anyway. Overall, the A7000 has a serious, utilitarian look – not as decor-friendly as the Sonos Arc, but it blends with black TVs and AV gear. It is large, so make sure you have a TV stand with about 51 inches of clearance (or plan to wall-mount). As one reviewer noted, you might need a wider bench if your TV stand is small, because the feet of the A7000 are at its very edges and require support length tomsguide.com tomsguide.com.
• Sonos Arc: Sonos went for a sleek and décor-friendly design. The Arc is slightly shorter in length (45″) but has a distinctive curvy shape with rounded edges and a wraparound grille. The grille is actually a single piece of acoustically transparent plastic with thousands of tiny perforations, covering the front and even the top (over the up-firing drivers). This gives the Arc a smooth, continuous form – a contrast to the segmented look of many soundbars. It comes in matte white or matte black, so you can choose what fits your room (white is great for blending with light walls or furniture). The build quality is premium; even though it’s mostly plastic, it “oozes a premium look and feel” according to Business Insider businessinsider.com businessinsider.com. It certainly looks more like a designer piece than a piece of AV equipment. The Arc’s top has touch controls (play/pause and volume) and an LED that indicates status or voice assistant activation. Notably, the Arc has no front display – just a small LED. Many Sonos users prefer the minimalism, though it means you rely on the Sonos app or TV on-screen prompts to know the volume level or audio format. In terms of mounting, the Arc was designed to sit in front of a TV or be wall-mounted (Sonos sells a custom wall mount that positions it correctly). At 3.4″ tall, it could block IR sensors or the bottom of some TVs, but Sonos smartly designed it with an IR repeater just in case and many newer TVs use Bluetooth remotes anyway. One consideration: the Arc is a bit shallower in depth (4.5″) so it doesn’t stick out too much on a stand. If you wall-mount it, it looks very clean due to its curved shape melding into the wall. The Sub (if you add one) is also well-designed – a wireless cube with a gloss finish and a center cut-out – and the Sonos One/One SL or Era surrounds are compact and stylish as well. All in all, Sonos puts as much emphasis on aesthetics as performance. The Arc will appeal if you want a modern, living-room-friendly look that isn’t just a black box. It tends to draw less attention to itself visually than the Sony or Samsung bars.
• Samsung HW-Q990D: The Samsung soundbar takes a more traditional AV design approach. The main bar is about 48” wide, with a rectangular shape. It is usually finished in dark charcoal/black color with metal grilles covering the front and top speaker openings. The top of the bar likely has cutouts in the grille for the up-firing drivers (two on top of the bar, plus one on each rear unit). The build is sturdy, using metal for grilles and high-quality plastic elsewhere. The subwoofer is quite large – a tall rectangular box made of wood/MDF with a side-firing 8-inch or larger driver and a port; it’s wrapped in a dark fabric or matte finish. The rear speakers are small but each contains a forward-facing driver and an up-firing driver on top, with metal grilles as well. They require power cables (wireless signal, but not wireless power). In terms of style, the Q990D is functional and blend-in rather than a design statement. Everything is black, which helps the units disappear in a dark home theater or against a TV. There is a front display on the soundbar, but as What Hi-Fi noted, it’s a bit “hard to read” and indeed Samsung often tucks the display on the top surface of the bar, which means when you’re sitting on the couch you might not see it clearly whathifi.com. It usually shows input or volume briefly. Samsung’s provided remote is a small black stick with a few buttons – simple and easy to use (and you can use your TV remote for volume too). The build quality is high: the pieces feel solid, but the rear speakers are lightweight enough to wall-mount if desired (Samsung includes wall-mount brackets for the rears in the box, which is a nice touch). The overall footprint of the system is the largest of the three: you need space for the sub (which is about 9” x 17” base area and 17” tall) and for placing the two rear speakers behind your seating. If you have a dedicated media room or you’re okay with speakers around, the Samsung’s design is no problem; if you want a minimal look, the extra boxes might bother you. Still, many users put the rears on stands or shelves and find that the immersive payoff is worth a couple of visible speakers. In summary, Samsung’s design prioritizes function – it’s a bit utilitarian compared to Sonos’s elegance, but it’s by no means ugly. The subwoofer and rears do announce that you have a “surround system” in the room, whereas the Sonos or Sony with no rears (or very small ones in Sony’s case if added) could keep a cleaner look.

Price and Value for Money

Value is an interesting discussion with these three, because their pricing and what you get for the money differ significantly:

• Sony HT-A7000: Initially priced around $1,299 for just the soundbar, the A7000 is a premium investment – and that doesn’t include a subwoofer or surrounds. The value you get is a very feature-rich bar (lots of ports, format support, streaming, etc.) and Sony’s high-quality engineering. On its own, the A7000 could be “enough” for many people in small to medium rooms, delivering solid 7.1.2 audio. However, if you start adding the optional subwoofer (up to $600+) and rear speakers ($350-$600), the total cost climbs to or above $2,000 whathifi.com. In fact, What Hi-Fi calculated that a full A7000 + sub + rears setup would cost around $2,100 (approx £2500) whathifi.com. That’s more than the Samsung package and more than a Sonos Arc 5.1.2 set. So the Sony is a bit of a modular splurge – you pay a premium to assemble a system piece by piece. The upside is you can do it gradually and choose your combo (maybe you skip rears or choose the smaller sub). It’s also worth noting the A7000 has been on the market for a while and has seen discounts; since its successor was announced in 2024, you might find the A7000 for around $1000 or less now, which does improve its value considerably whathifi.com. For $1000, it’s a compelling high-end bar especially if you don’t need the extra speakers immediately. Also, if you own a Sony TV (Bravia XR series, etc.), the synergy features (Acoustic Center Sync) add intangible value by enhancing the experience when used together t3.com. Sony’s build quality and longevity (firmware updates like adding VRR support show they didn’t abandon it) also add to value. Overall, if judged as a single-unit soundbar, the HT-A7000 is expensive but delivers a lot – great sound, extensive features, and future expandability. As a full surround system, it’s pricey and perhaps harder to justify versus competitors unless you specifically want Sony’s approach or ecosystem.
• Sonos Arc: The Arc by itself costs $899 (current MSRP) – significantly less than the Sony bar – making it the cheapest entry point of the three. For under $1000 you get a premium Atmos soundbar and the whole Sonos ecosystem capabilities. That is great value if you want an all-in-one solution for improving your TV sound and adding multi-room music. Many people buy the Arc solo and are very happy, especially apartment dwellers or those who can’t accommodate subs/rears immediately. However, the Arc’s value proposition changes when you consider the add-ons. A complete Arc-based 5.1 system with a Sub ($749) and a pair of One SL surrounds (~$400) comes to roughly $2,000. And the ultimate Arc 7.1.4 system with Era 300 surrounds would be over $2,500. So, similar to Sony, a maxed-out Sonos home theater isn’t cheap. What Hi-Fi noted that an Arc + Sub + 2× Era 300 set runs about $2,076 (in US pricing) whathifi.com – interestingly, just slightly less than the Sony full setup, but more than the Samsung’s typical street price whathifi.com whathifi.com. The value, though, is multifaceted: with Sonos, you’re also paying for the user experience (best-in-class app, easy streaming, reliable ecosystem) and a product that tends to hold its value and get updates for many years. Sonos also has a strong resale market if you ever upgrade. It’s one of the “safest” choices because even if a new Arc comes out, your current Arc can still work as part of a multi-room or surround setup with newer Sonos gear. If you love music and plan to do multi-room audio, the Arc’s value increases a lot – it’s not just a soundbar, it’s part of a whole-home sound system. On the other hand, if you only care about movie surround bang-for-buck, the Arc alone can’t match Samsung’s immersion, and by the time you add pieces, the cost is higher than Samsung’s all-in-one. So for a pure home theater buyer, Sonos might seem pricy for what you get in surround terms. For a mixed-use home theater + music enthusiast, Sonos offers excellent long-term value.
• Samsung HW-Q990D: The Q990D’s MSRP was around $1,799-$1,999 (it varies by retailer, but effectively ~$1,899 at launch in the US). That price includes everything – the soundbar, subwoofer, and two rear speakers. While that’s a high upfront cost, you’re done; no need to budget for extras. And importantly, Samsung flagships often see discounts sooner than other brands. Indeed, within a year the Q990D has been found for ~$1,399 or even less during sales whathifi.com. What Hi-Fi? in late 2024 pointed out that the outgoing Q990C (2023 model) was selling for only ~$1,100 on sale whathifi.com, implying the Q990D will likely see similar cuts whathifi.com. At ~$1,3–1.4k, the value is outstanding considering you get a true 11-channel Atmos setup. The bang-for-buck in terms of audio channels per dollar is clearly in Samsung’s favor. For roughly the price of a bare Arc and Sub, you get a full-blown system with the Q990D. Plus, you don’t have to fuss with deciding which components to add – it’s a straightforward proposition. The value is especially clear if you compare building a Sonos or Sony system to match it: as noted, those easily exceed $2k. That said, the Samsung is a large system, so value also depends on you using those components. If you live in a small apartment and can’t put rear speakers behind you, then paying for them is wasted – you might find a cheaper 3.1 or 5.1 soundbar better value. But assuming you can take advantage of it, the Q990D is arguably the best value for a no-compromise home theater audio solution. Another aspect: Samsung includes extras like wall-mount brackets, and their products, while updated less frequently than Sonos, usually receive a couple of firmware enhancements too. For instance, Samsung added some tuning improvements via updates to previous models, and the Q990D launched with features (HDMI 2.1) that early adopters appreciate, which adds future-proof value.

In summary, if we sum it up: Sonos Arc is the value pick for a premium single-bar solution (cheaper entry price, but can become costly when expanded). Samsung Q990D is the value pick for maximum theater experience per dollar (since it’s one purchase for the whole kit, often discounted). Sony HT-A7000 is a bit of a splurge for flexibility – you pay more to have the Sony brand quality and the option to upgrade gradually. None of these are budget soundbars by any stretch; all are premium, so it’s about which offers the value in the areas you prioritize (be it sound channels, ecosystem, or features).

Expert and User Reviews Roundup

Each of these soundbars has earned praise (and some critiques) from experts and owners alike. Let’s see what the consensus is from trusted publications and reviewers:

• Sony HT-A7000: The HT-A7000 garnered a lot of positive reviews for delivering truly cinematic audio from a single bar. What Hi-Fi? gave it 5 stars, stating “the A7000 produces powerful, cinematic audio and an immersive, detailed soundfield from a single soundbar that impresses more than most multi-unit systems” whathifi.com whathifi.com. They highlighted how well it created surround effects and tight bass for a standalone unit, effectively outperforming some competitors that rely on separate subs or rears. Tom’s Guide similarly praised its Atmos delivery: “This soundbar’s Dolby Atmos performance is certainly more effective than I imagined”, with the wide-spaced tweeters providing a “great sense of scale” and the vertical engine adding real height dimension tomsguide.com tomsguide.com. Another compliment often mentioned is the build quality and features – reviewers love the Swiss-army-knife nature (HDMI 2.1 ports, streaming options, etc.), implying it’s a soundbar that “raises the bar” for what a flagship should offer tomsguide.com. On the critical side, some noted that the A7000 doesn’t play as loudly as the largest multi-speaker setups; it’s tuned for quality over sheer volume, so very large or open rooms might tax it. RTINGS gave it a modest score for loudness and also noted “its surround and Atmos performances are disappointing” without the optional speakers rtings.com rtings.com. However, that’s in direct comparison to systems with real surround speakers – for a single-bar, it’s among the best. A few user comments (on forums or Reddit) pointed out that without a sub, the deepest bass was lacking for their taste – which is expected. Overall, user sentiment on the A7000 is positive, especially from those who added the subwoofer and were then “blown away” by the difference. The common refrain is that it’s expensive but high-quality, and great for people who want top-tier performance without filling the room with devices. Many Sony fans also appreciate that it “just works” smoothly with Sony TVs (no sync issues, etc.).
• Sonos Arc: The Arc quickly became one of the most recommended soundbars in its class since launch. CNET called it “one of the best soundbars you can buy”, praising how it brings Dolby Atmos with incredible precision and volume for its size forbes.com. TechRadar also lauded it as “an impressive and premium Dolby Atmos experience even without a subwoofer or extra speakers”, noting that “when it comes to dynamic audio that’s perfectly clear from a single-box package, it’s as good as you can get for the price” techradar.com techradar.com. Music performance is frequently highlighted – unlike many soundbars that focus solely on movies, the Arc is “excellent with music as well as movies” techradar.com, which makes it a favorite for general use. Users often comment on the spacious soundstage – it “fills the room” and can even startle you with how sounds appear to come from sides or above, given no external speakers. The downsides noted by experts: lack of DTS:X support (which for some home theater geeks is a miss) techradar.com, and the reliance on an iOS device for Trueplay tuning (Android users have to borrow an iPhone to tune, which is not ideal) techradar.com. Also, a common user critique is that the Arc really should be paired with a Sub to shine for action movies; many initial Arc buyers end up adding a Sub after hearing it – “once I added the Sub, it was a game changer,” as one Sonos forum user put it. That being said, owners who primarily use it in apartments or at moderate volumes often say the Arc alone is more than sufficient and love the simplicity. The voice assistant integration has been positively received too – effectively you’re getting a soundbar and a smart speaker in one, which is great value. Summing up reviews: the Sonos Arc is celebrated for its clarity, soundstage, and ecosystem, with some reservations around bass impact without a Sub and no DTS:X for disk collectors.
• Samsung HW-Q990D: By the time the Q990D came out, Samsung had refined its flagship formula to the point where critics were seriously impressed. What Hi-Fi? gave the Q990D their Award in 2024 and a five-star review, stating “The Q990D delivers Dolby Atmos (and DTS:X) in a way that very few soundbar packages can match” whathifi.com. Especially noted was the added HDMI 2.1 support which they called “a game-changer for some” (i.e. gamers) whathifi.com. They described the sound as “large, immersive and three-dimensional” as well as “dynamic, weighty and detailed” whathifi.com. In other words, it checks all the boxes: loud and impactful, yet also nuanced. RTINGS.com similarly gave it an excellent rating (8.6/10 overall), calling the Samsung “excellent for mixed usage… This bar can do it all.” They praised its very balanced sound profile that’s versatile for movies, TV, and music, plus the fact it “delivers thumpy and punchy bass” with the sub rtings.com rtings.com. Many reviewers essentially say the Q990D sets the bar for what a true home theater soundbar can achieve, frequently comparing it favorably to separate component systems. On forums, enthusiasts who purchased the Q990D often rave about how immersive the experience is, like having a high-end receiver + speakers setup, but without the complexity. Some user critiques: a few people have reported that the bass, while powerful, can be a tad “one-note” or boomy in certain rooms (sometimes needing a bit of manual adjustment down). There was even a Reddit user saying “the bass is alright, but it feels like a giant WOOF” – suggesting maybe not the most detailed bass texture for music reddit.com. But others counter that placement and calibration (using SpaceFit) resolves this for them. Another small gripe is the tiny display and the lack of on-screen GUI (setup is via the LED or SmartThings app, which can be less intuitive). However, in terms of raw performance, experts and users almost unanimously agree the Q990D (and its immediate predecessors) are the kings of enveloping sound. It consistently wowed testers with how sounds genuinely came from behind and above.

In essence, expert reviews crown the Samsung HW-Q990D as the current surround sound champion for those who want no-compromise immersion whathifi.com, while the Sonos Arc is often recommended as the best single-bar solution especially for mixed movie/music use techradar.com, and the Sony HT-A7000 is praised as a feature-rich, high-performing bar that bridges the gap (with the ability to expand). User reviews echo these sentiments: Samsung for theater fanatics, Sonos for ecosystem lovers and elegant design, Sony for a balance of both worlds.

Current Availability and Release Timeline

Knowing where each product stands in its life cycle is important – are they new models, due for replacement, or hard to find? Here’s the scoop:

• Sony HT-A7000: Released in late 2021, the HT-A7000 has been Sony’s flagship soundbar for a few years. It’s currently available at major retailers, often at discounted prices since a successor has been announced. In April 2024, Sony unveiled the Bravia Theatre Bar 9, which “replaces the Sony HT-A7000” as the new top model t3.com. The Theatre Bar 9 (sometimes referred to as HT-A9000 in some regions) has 13 channels and similar features, essentially an evolution of the A7000 t3.com t3.com. The A7000 is likely to be phased out once existing stock sells through, but as of mid-2025 you can still find it in stores and online. If you’re eyeing the A7000, you might snag a good deal because retailers are making room for the new Bravia series. Sony typically supports their soundbars for several years with firmware updates (as we saw with the VRR update in 2023 that gave the A7000 a new lease on life for gamers). If you prefer having the latest and greatest, you should note the Theatre Bar 9 brings improvements like 13 drivers, integrated 360 Spatial Sound Mapping without needing rears, etc. t3.com t3.com. It launched at a similar price point ($1,299) in 2024. So the HT-A7000, while still excellent, is now last-gen in Sony’s lineup. Availability is still decent as of 2025, but it will gradually dwindle. The expandable accessories (subwoofers and rear speakers) remain compatible with the new models, so those will stick around. If you find the HT-A7000 at a steep discount and are okay with not having the very latest model name, it’s still a fantastic buy through 2025. But if you want the absolute newest tech from Sony, the Bravia Theatre Bar 9 is the one to watch (and we’ll discuss upcoming models more soon).
• Sonos Arc: The Arc was released in June 2020, making it just over 5 years old. Normally, that might suggest it’s due for a refresh – and indeed rumors and reports indicate Sonos has been developing a next-generation flagship soundbar. Codenamed “Sonos Lasso”, the Arc’s successor was leaked in mid-2024, with images and details emerging theverge.com theverge.com. The new model is said to look similar externally, but internally feature completely redesigned drivers, more powerful bass, and even Bluetooth audio playback, which would be a first for Sonos soundbars theverge.com theverge.com. It’s also expected to carry a higher price (possibly around $1,200) and integrate tech from Sonos’s Mayht acquisition for advanced acoustics theverge.com theverge.com. However, Sonos has delayed the launch of this Arc successor. In an August 2024 earnings call, the CEO announced that two major product launches (one of which is “likely to be the successor to Sonos’ flagship Arc soundbar”) were being postponed to focus on fixing the Sonos app experience macrumors.com macrumors.com. This means the new soundbar – which some call Arc Gen2 or “Lasso” – didn’t come out in 2024 as anticipated. The timeline is a bit uncertain, but most expect Sonos to release it in late 2024 or early 2025, once their software issues are ironed out. As for the current Arc, it’s still fully supported and part of Sonos’s lineup. In fact, Sonos has kept selling the Arc at its $899 price point, even introducing it in new packages (e.g., bundles with Sub Mini, etc.). Availability is widespread; Sonos rarely discontinues a product without a replacement ready, so Arc will be on shelves until the new model arrives (and possibly even after, if they choose to sell it at a lower tier, though that’s not confirmed). One more note: Sonos has expanded the Arc’s ecosystem since launch – notably by releasing the Era 300 in 2023 as a surround option that unlocks those extra Atmos channels. Also, in late 2021 they pushed a firmware update giving the Arc (and other Sonos HT products) the ability to decode DTS 5.1 audio, which it lacked at launch businessinsider.com. So the Arc now is more capable than it was in 2020 in terms of format support. If you’re considering an Arc in 2025, know that a new model is on the horizon with likely improved performance – so you might leverage that to get a discount on the Arc or decide to wait. Sonos has not officially announced anything as of August 2025, though, so the timeframe isn’t guaranteed.
• Samsung HW-Q990D: This model was released in 2024 as Samsung’s flagship. Samsung has a pretty predictable cadence of releasing a new top-of-the-line Q-series soundbar each year, usually aligning with their new TV lineup. Prior models include the HW-Q950A (2021), HW-Q990B (2022), HW-Q990C (2023). The jump from Q950A to Q990B involved a name change to match their 2022 TVs, and since then they’ve stuck with the 990 designation. The HW-Q990D (2024) came out around mid-2024 and is the latest available. As of 2025, it’s widely available in stores, and often on sale as mentioned. We haven’t seen a “HW-Q990E” yet, but if Samsung continues the trend, one might be expected in 2025 (perhaps launched around summer or earlier, possibly renaming it to Q995 or something if they change convention). There haven’t been big rumors of drastic changes; each year’s update tends to be incremental (e.g., Q990C added more tuning options and slight design tweaks over Q990B, and Q990D added HDMI 2.1 support primarily). If Samsung were to do something new, maybe they’d explore wireless rear speakers with battery (like Sony did) or different form factors, but nothing concrete has surfaced. One thing to keep an eye on: sometimes Samsung releases “tweaked” versions or region-specific variants (for example, the search results referenced a Q995D which is likely the same hardware sold in some markets under a different number flatpanelshd.com). The Q990D should remain Samsung’s top offering until a new one is announced. Typically Samsung might unveil new soundbars at events like CES or in the spring. So far in 2025, if no news, the Q990D remains a safe buy – it’s at the pinnacle of their tech, and any successor is likely to be an iteration rather than a revolution. In terms of support, Samsung will issue firmware updates if needed (often to fix any bugs or improve Q-Symphony with new TV models). Availability is good; you can purchase the Q990D from big box retailers, Amazon, etc. If you see a great price on the Q990C (last year’s model), note that the main differences are the HDMI 2.1 support and perhaps some tuning – many reviews noted the sound quality on Q990D got a slight upgrade, but Q990C was already excellent. So budget-conscious buyers sometimes grab the previous model at a steep discount. But if you want the latest, the Q990D is it for now.

In summary, Sony HT-A7000 is still available but officially superseded by a new model in 2024 – a factor to consider for future updates and resale. Sonos Arc is ripe for replacement soon, with a next-gen model (codename Lasso) likely in testing and due potentially within the next product cycle; however, it remains on sale as the current model at this moment. Samsung HW-Q990D is current flagship, with any replacement not yet announced but likely on an annual schedule (so possibly late 2024 or mid-2025 if following pattern).

Recent News and Firmware Updates

Staying current on firmware and news can affect your decision – sometimes a new update adds major features or fixes. Here’s what’s been happening with each:

• Sony HT-A7000 Updates: The most noteworthy firmware update came in September 2023, when Sony finally enabled HDMI VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM passthrough on the HT-A7000 (and A5000 and HT-A9) reddit.com whathifi.com. This was a promised feature at launch that took some time to deliver, but it means the A7000 now fully supports next-gen console video signals when using its HDMI inputs. Gamers who have a PS5 or Xbox Series X greatly benefited – no more choosing between connecting to TV for VRR vs. soundbar for audio. Sony also issued minor updates improving stability, and enabling works-with Google Assistant/Alexa functionality. Another update a bit earlier added support for Sony’s 360 Spatial Sound Mapping when used with the newer SA-RS5 wireless rear speakers (this allows the A7000 + RS5 combo to create phantom speakers similarly to the 2022 HT-A9 system). In general, the A7000 is feature-complete at this point, and future firmware may just maintain compatibility or minor fixes (since Sony’s focus moved to the new model). One “news” item: the launch of the Bravia Theatre Bar 9 in 2024 (as mentioned) is newsworthy itself – reviews for that suggest Sony improved the overall immersion and included the latest tech. But if you have an A7000, rest assured that with the VRR update it’s actually more capable now than it was when launched – a nice example of a product aging well with software.
• Sonos Arc Updates: Sonos is known for frequent software updates. Since its 2020 launch, the Arc has gotten several. The biggest functional update was in late 2021, when Sonos added DTS Digital Surround (5.1) decoding support to the Arc via a firmware update. Previously, Arc would ignore DTS audio; now it will play standard DTS from DVDs/Blu-rays (still not the object-based DTS:X, but better than nothing) businessinsider.com. Sonos also continuously tweaks Trueplay and other sound algorithms – for instance, a 2022 update improved the “Balanced” auto tuning and made dialogue even clearer in the Night Sound mode. In 2023, Sonos released the Sub Mini and Era 300 speakers, and accompanying firmware allowed the Arc to pair with those new devices (Arc works with Sub Mini for a more affordable bass option, and with Era 100/300 as surrounds, whereas originally it was only Ones or older speakers). So Arc owners saw new upgrade paths appear. On the app side, Sonos did a major app overhaul in mid-2024 (Sonos app version 15+ with a new UI), which was “poorly received” initially macrumors.com. The CEO openly apologized and has been pushing frequent app updates to restore or improve features macrumors.com macrumors.com. This doesn’t directly change the Arc’s sound, but it affects user experience. As part of that, Sonos has made the system a bit more flexible – e.g., you can now adjust EQ settings per surround speaker, etc., in recent updates. There is also talk that Sonos might introduce Dolby Atmos TrueHD (lossless) support once their next soundbar comes, but currently Arc still relies on Dolby Digital+ Atmos when streaming (as do all these bars, unless you feed them via Blu-ray). On the horizon, the leaks about the Arc successor (“Lasso”) which promises things like Bluetooth audio mode (a first for Sonos) theverge.com and much improved bass response have been the big Sonos news. But alongside that was the delay news – meaning software fixes are priority and new hardware might have been pushed to 2025 macrumors.com macrumors.com. If you buy an Arc now, you can expect Sonos will keep updating it with at least basic features for years, but big new features might be reserved for the new model. It’s unlikely Arc will suddenly get Bluetooth or some huge change via firmware – that will be hardware-limited.
• Samsung HW-Q990D Updates: Samsung typically issues a firmware or two for their soundbars, often to refine performance or add compatibility with new formats (for example, some earlier models got an update to support HDR10+ passthrough on HDMI, etc.). For the Q990D, early 2024 firmware addressed minor bugs and ensured the system works well with 2023/2024 Samsung TVs (Q-Symphony 3.0 support, etc.). By April 2025, Samsung rolled out support for Wi-Fi Dolby Atmos (for those using certain Samsung TVs that can send Atmos to the bar via Wi-Fi instead of HDMI) on its 2024 lineup, which may include the Q990D if used with the latest TVs. Another area of update could be SpaceFit Sound Pro calibration; sometimes Samsung refines the room EQ algorithm to improve bass response or surround balance. Users have reported after a firmware update that the subwoofer blending improved, smoothing out that occasional bass “boominess”. On the news front, a quirky bit: Samsung collaborated with Amazon to include Alexa in many of its devices, and the Q990D being Alexa-built-in might get future enhancements as Amazon updates Alexa capabilities (like grouping Alexa speakers in multiple rooms – a Q990D could potentially join an Alexa multi-room music session, although that’s not heavily advertised). So far there’s no scandal or major bug to report with the Q990D – it’s been solid. If anything, the news is just how many awards it’s winning and that it’s continuing Samsung’s streak. There is talk that Samsung’s 2025 lineup might experiment with wireless rear speakers that are truly wireless (battery-powered) or a soundbar with detachable surrounds (like JBL has done), but that’s speculative and not specific to the Q990D. For owners, the key is Samsung’s support – which historically is shorter-term than Sonos (you might see firmware support for 1-2 years after release). But given eARC and formats aren’t changing radically right now, the Q990D should remain current until you decide to upgrade hardware years down the line.

Upcoming Models and Competitors: Should You Wait?

Lastly, let’s discuss the future – are there upcoming soundbar models from these brands or others that could shake up the market and impact your buying decision?

• Sony: As detailed, Sony has already launched the Bravia Theatre Bar 9 (call it HT-A7000’s successor) in 2024 t3.com. If you’re a Sony fan, that’s the one to watch. It brings 13 drivers, built-in Spatial Sound Mapping, and presumably even better integration with new Bravia TVs. Also launched was a Bravia Theatre Bar 8 (replacing the HT-A5000) for a step-down model t3.com. So Sony’s 2024 lineup is fresh. It’s unlikely they release another flagship in 2025, since the Bar 9 should carry that mantle for a couple of years. However, one unique offering from Sony’s 2024 range is the Bravia Theatre Quad – a direct replacement for the HT-A9 home theater system (which uses four wireless speakers instead of a soundbar) t3.com t3.com. The new Theatre Quad has four speakers that produce 4.1.4 Atmos via 16 total drivers and might appeal to those who want a different form factor than a soundbar t3.com. It’s not a soundbar per se, but it’s a competitor in the high-end wireless home theater space (like a Sonos system or Nakamichi system competitor). Beyond Sony, no rumors of any “A8000” or such – they’ve pivoted to the Bravia naming.
• Sonos: The Arc successor (Gen 2) is the big one looming. Given the leaks, we know it’s coming – it’s more a question of when. Most bets are on a 2025 release since Sonos delayed it from late 2024 macrumors.com macrumors.com. This new flagship (codename Lasso) should have notably stronger bass (possibly reducing the immediate need for a sub) and Bluetooth audio for flexibility theverge.com theverge.com. It will also use that Mayht driver technology to get more output from smaller drivers theverge.com theverge.com. It’s expected to be pricier (maybe $1,100-$1,200). If you’re deep in Sonos ecosystem or willing to be, it might be worth waiting to see what the Arc 2 brings – it could very well set a new benchmark for single-bar performance and maybe even include an HDMI input or other features (though that’s speculative; Sonos might still keep one-port philosophy). Sonos is also rumored to be exploring other home theater products – for instance, a smaller soundbar between the Beam and Arc (though the Beam (Gen 2) from 2021 already covers the mid-range), or even a home theater OS/streamer device (rumors of a Sonos streaming box) whathifi.com. But immediate impact for soundbar buyers is mainly Arc’s successor. Sonos competitors to note: In 2023, Bose updated its lineup with the Smart Soundbar 600 (a midrange Atmos bar) and has the older Smart Soundbar 900 (Atmos, $899). Bose might have a new flagship in late 2024 or 2025 if they respond to Sonos. Bose 900 is an Arc competitor (with similar price and a focus on sleek design and voice assistant built-in), though reviews often put Arc ahead in immersion. If Bose releases a “950” or something with improved spatial performance, it could be interesting for those who want an Arc alternative that supports DTS:X (Bose 900 does support DTS:X, by the way). Another competitor is Sennheiser – their Ambeo Soundbar Max was a $2,500 monster bar that arguably still has the best sound quality and bass of any single enclosure (including built-in sub performance that beats even A7000’s according to some). Sennheiser followed it with the Ambeo Soundbar Plus ($1,499) in 2022, a smaller 7.1.4 bar. While these aren’t as mainstream, Sennheiser could have future Ambeo models – maybe a refresh around 2025? If they drop prices or introduce an Ambeo 2, that’s something a true audiophile might consider instead of the trio we discussed.
• Samsung: Samsung’s next expected flagship might be tentatively the HW-Q1000E or Q990E (if they continue incremental improvements). There’s no concrete info yet – likely, it would be introduced around the same time as their 2025 TV lineup announcements. Perhaps CES 2025 could have a teaser. If they have any new tricks, it could be even higher channel count (though 11.1.4 is already at the top end for a bar system), or wireless improvements like making the sub and rears battery-powered or truly wireless. They might also refine the form factor – but given the formula has worked (they’ve won Awards repeatedly), big changes might be unnecessary. One area they could improve is the user interface (like providing a better on-screen display via the TV, as LG does). Also, DTS:X Pro support or more advanced calibration might come. It’s hard to say if waiting for the 2025 Samsung yields huge benefits – likely it would be an evolution, unless Samsung surprises with something radical (like a modular soundbar or soundbar with detachable wireless rear modules, etc., which JBL and LG have tried). If history is a guide, the differences between Q990D and its successor might be subtle – so grabbing a Q990D on sale now is probably fine unless you want absolute newest.
• Other Competitors: It’s worth mentioning LG – LG’s flagship in 2022 was the S95QR, a 9.1.5-channel system (with an interesting center up-firing speaker). In 2023/2024, LG had models like SC9 and S77, but those were more designed to pair with specific TVs (the SC9 came with a stand mount for C-series OLEDs). LG hasn’t put out a new “wow” model above the S95QR recently. Perhaps in 2025 they might launch a new flagship soundbar, potentially to take on Samsung’s dominance. LG’s strength is often slightly better music quality (they collaborate with Meridian) and unique features like a triple up-firing speaker array. If they do, that could be another top-tier choice. JBL launched the Bar 1300X in 2023 – a novel design with detachable wireless surround speakers (you dock them on the main bar when not in use). It’s a 11.1.4 system akin to Samsung’s channel count, priced around $1,699. It got good reviews as well, especially for flexibility (you can also use the detachable pieces as wireless speakers anywhere). So if you want a system that can transform (surrounds when you need, soundbar-only when you don’t), JBL is an interesting competitor. Nakamichi, a more boutique brand, made waves with its Dragon 11.4.6 ultra-premium soundbar system in 2023 – at $3,500, it’s for extreme enthusiasts, but it arguably outperforms even Samsung in sheer channel madness (it has four subs, for example!). That’s a niche, though, and probably overkill for most consumers (plus no streaming features etc.). Apple doesn’t have a soundbar; some wondered if the HomePod could be used in pairs for Atmos (you can pair two HomePod 2’s with an Apple TV for Atmos 5.1.2 sound, which is another route, but not quite on par with these systems).

In plain terms: if you need a soundbar now, there’s always something new around the corner, but the current models we compared are among the best you can get and will remain excellent. However, consider these timelines:

• If you’re leaning Sonos and not in a rush, it might be wise to wait for the Arc’s successor (expected by 2025) because it promises meaningful improvements (better bass, new features) theverge.com. On the flip side, Sonos rarely discounts products, but the Arc has seen small price drops lately (down to ~$799 at times) techradar.com. If you find a great deal and are okay with 5-year-old tech that’s still very competitive, the Arc is a proven choice that you could enhance with a Sub or surrounds down the line.
• For Sony, the Bravia Bar 9 is already here – if you want the latest Sony, go for that over the A7000. If the A7000 is heavily discounted and budget matters, it’s still a fine pick, just remember it’s a generation behind and won’t have quite all the refinements of the new model (like phantom speakers without rears, etc.).
• Samsung’s cycle is more predictable and the differences year to year are small. The Q990D will give you a state-of-the-art experience for at least the next year or two. If Samsung announces a 2025 model with, say, no rear wires or some crazy 13.1.6 setup, then early adopters might feel FOMO, but realistically the Q990D already maxes out what most content can even offer (there’s hardly any 13-channel movie mixes out there; most Atmos tops out at 7.1.4 or 9.1.6 for home).
• For others: Bose could drop a Soundbar 1000 with Atmos, etc., but none of the leaks suggest it’s imminent. Bose 900 is still their latest. LG likely will revamp their line; they often announce at CES. LG’s advantage is usually pricing (their flagships often undercut Samsung by a bit) and support for both Dolby and DTS like others. Keep an eye if LG comes with something like “WOW Orchestra” (their version of TV+soundbar synergy) improvements, etc.

In conclusion on upcoming vs buying now: if you want the best right now for movies, Samsung Q990D is a sure bet – nothing currently on the market clearly beats it in immersion, and it’s available. If you want a more lifestyle-friendly system and music is as important as movies, Sonos Arc is great now, but the next Sonos might redefine that segment, so weigh how soon you want it. Sony’s A7000 remains a top pick for a do-it-all bar, but the upgraded model suggests Sony is pushing boundaries further, so early adopters might jump to that Bar 9 instead. Also consider your personal ecosystem: if you have other Sonos speakers, Arc/Arc2 is a natural fit; if you have a new Sony TV, the synergy with A7000/Bar9 is compelling; if you have a Samsung TV, Q-Symphony with Q990D is a plus.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Sony HT-A7000, Sonos Arc, and Samsung HW-Q990D ultimately comes down to your priorities and usage. All three are superb in their own right, but each targets a slightly different user:

• For home theater enthusiasts craving the most immersive, room-shaking surround sound, Samsung’s HW-Q990D is hard to beat. It’s a complete Atmos powerhouse – with real rear speakers and a thunderous sub – that delivered “large, immersive and three-dimensional sound” in our testing whathifi.com. It shines in movies and gaming, making every scene or firefight come alive around you. And despite the bombast, it’s also refined for music and everyday TV, with a neutral tuning and loads of features rtings.com rtings.com. The Q990D is a investment, but as a one-and-done purchase (often found on sale) it offers tremendous value for a flagship home theater in a box. Just be ready to accommodate the extra speakers and give that sub some room to breathe – your ears (and maybe neighbors) will notice the difference!
• For those who want a premium sound upgrade but also value a sleek design, multi-room music, and simple setup, the Sonos Arc remains a fantastic choice. It’s the living room-friendly choice – with a single cable you get expansive Atmos sound and the robust Sonos ecosystem behind it. The Arc impressed us with its crystal clear dialogue and wide soundstage for both movies and music businessinsider.com businessinsider.com. Yes, to equal the surround impact of the Samsung you’d eventually need to add the Sub and surrounds, but the beauty is you can start with just the bar and build up over time if desired. Meanwhile, you’re enjoying an elegant piece of tech that seamlessly streams your Spotify or Apple Music and obeys your Alexa/Google voice commands. With a rumored Sonos Arc successor on the horizon boasting even more bass and features theverge.com theverge.com, Sonos is a brand to watch. But even today, the Arc holds its own as “one of the best soundbars you can buy” for a balanced movie+music experience forbes.com.
• For a high-end soundbar that strikes a middle ground – offering immersive sound in a single unit with tons of connectivity and expandability – the Sony HT-A7000 is a top contender. It delivers powerful, cinematic audio that surprised many reviewers given it’s just one bar whathifi.com whathifi.com. Sony packed it with tech: two HDMI 2.1 inputs (now with VRR support for gamers) whathifi.com, hi-res audio support, and unique integration with Sony TVs (Acoustic Center Sync) t3.com. Out of the box, it’s great for clear dialogue and virtualized Atmos height – “impressively wide soundstage” and “transparent clarity” in soundtracks tomsguide.com whathifi.com. Add the optional sub and rears, and it transforms into a true surround system with even more depth. It’s a bit pricier piecewise, but the flexibility to start with the bar and upgrade gradually is a plus. With Sony’s new Bravia Theatre Bar 9 now succeeding it, you might find the HT-A7000 at a bargain – making it a savvy choice for Sony aficionados or anyone who wants a feature-packed premium bar that does almost everything well.

In the fast-moving world of home audio, these three soundbars have risen to the top by catering to slightly different needs. The Samsung HW-Q990D is the go-to if you want maximum cinema-at-home and don’t mind multiple components. The Sonos Arc is ideal if you prefer a stylish, networked audio solution that can gradually expand into a full system (and if you prize music streaming and ease of use). The Sony HT-A7000 appeals to those who desire versatility and cutting-edge features in one bar, with the option to beef it up further – a great choice especially if you have or plan a Sony-centric setup.

No matter which you pick, you’ll be getting an impressive piece of audio engineering that will elevate your entertainment. Just remember to match it to your usage: consider your room size, content mix (movies vs music vs games), and whether you’ll appreciate things like voice assistants or multi-room audio. And keep an eye on the upcoming models and updates we discussed – the soundbar landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with exciting innovations like new Sonos tech or Sony’s spatial mapping on the horizon.

Here’s to many nights of epic movie soundtracks, heart-pounding game audio, and beautiful music – all delivered by the right soundbar for you. Happy listening!

Sources:

• RTINGS – Comprehensive testing of soundbars including Sony HT-A7000, Sonos Arc, Samsung HW-Q990D rtings.com rtings.com
• What Hi-Fi – Reviews and news on HW-Q990D (2024 Award winner) and Sony’s new Bravia Theatre soundbars whathifi.com t3.com
• TechRadar – Sonos Arc review (updated 2024) highlighting its performance and value techradar.com techradar.com
• Tom’s Guide – Sony HT-A7000 review detailing design, sound quality, and features tomsguide.com tomsguide.com
• Business Insider – Sonos Arc review praising its sound quality and describing its design/setup businessinsider.com businessinsider.com
• The Verge – Leak report on Sonos’s next flagship soundbar (codenamed “Lasso”) theverge.com theverge.com
• MacRumors – News on Sonos delaying the Arc successor to focus on software fixes macrumors.com macrumors.com
• What Hi-Fi – News on Sony firmware adding VRR/ALLM support to HT-A7000 (for gamers) whathifi.com whathifi.com
• What Hi-Fi – Samsung HW-Q990D review noting its immersive sound and HDMI 2.1 support whathifi.com whathifi.com
• Reddit (user feedback) – User impressions of HW-Q990D subwoofer performance reddit.com
• T3 – Announcement of Sony’s Bravia Theatre Bar 9 replacing HT-A7000 t3.com t3.com