If you’re in the market for an exceptional Dolby Atmos soundbar, the Sonos Arc Ultra is tough to surpass. However, Sonos is still bouncing back from its controversial 2024 software updates, leaving some longtime fans looking for alternatives. One popular choice is Bluesound, a Canadian brand that offers a robust, wireless multiroom audio system.
Bluesound has a similar lineup of speakers, subwoofers, and music streamers as Sonos, and it’s especially favored by audiophiles who appreciate its support for lossless, high-resolution audio formats—often at a higher price point (Bluesound products generally cost 30% to 50% more than their Sonos equivalents).
Like Sonos, Bluesound provides home theater audio options, but it has previously struggled to deliver on the height-channel sound effects central to Dolby Atmos. That changes with the launch of the $1,499 Pulse Cinema, Bluesound’s first Dolby Atmos soundbar that features dedicated up-firing drivers and a center channel.
### A Sonos-Like Footprint
Photograph: Chris Haslam
The Pulse Cinema includes a single HDMI-ARC/eARC port, along with an array of inputs: an analog input, a digital input, a USB port for external storage, and two-way Bluetooth with aptX Adaptive. You can connect it via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, and it even has a wired subwoofer output—a feature not commonly found in most soundbars. While it lacks additional HDMI inputs, the selection of features offers more versatility than the Arc Ultra.
In terms of size, the two soundbars are quite similar. The Pulse Cinema measures 47 inches, making it just one inch wider than the Arc Ultra. Both are well-suited for 50- to 65-inch TVs, but the Pulse Cinema’s soft curves and fabric grille may cater to those seeking a subtler aesthetic. A bracket for wall-mounting is included, while Sonos sells its mounting options separately.
Equipped with a powerful 500-watt, 3.0.2-channel, 12-driver array, the Pulse Cinema delivers impressive detail for both movies and music. This dual focus on audio quality helps the soundbar stand out in a crowded market. While most soundbars provide a significant upgrade over TV speakers for movies, few also excel at delivering a fulfilling music experience.
### Great for Dialog
Photograph: Chris Haslam
For TV audio, dialog clarity is a particularly strong feature of the Pulse Cinema. Voices come through clearly and are easy to understand, even in scenes filled with background noise and surround sound effects.
