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After testing Bose's $1,100 Ultra soundbar, I'm a little less worried for Sonos

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Why This Matters

The Bose Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar offers notable improvements in design, sound processing, and smart features, positioning itself as a competitive option in the high-end soundbar market. While slightly overpriced, its advanced AI and room-correction capabilities make it a compelling choice for consumers seeking premium home theater audio. This development signals Bose's commitment to innovation in the home theater segment, challenging established players like Sonos.

Key Takeaways

Bose Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar 3.5 / 5 Good pros and cons Pros Excellent design

Great app support

Google Cast built-in Cons Slightly overpriced

Uncontrolled bass at loud volume View now at Bose

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Bose has been in the home theater game for a long time, though its modern product catalog favors innovation and updates in its personal audio and wearables categories. As a result, the company's home theater lineup has been stale, with only a few soundbars, rears, and subs to choose from.

Also: Forget the soundbar: How I upgraded my TV audio with spare Bluetooth speakers

Still, the company makes an effort to remind its consumer base of its home theater roots, and the new Lifestyle Ultra lineup, consisting of a smart speaker, soundbar, and subwoofer, shows it wants to continue its tenure in the industry.

I spent a week with the $1,099 Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar, swapping my beloved Sonos Arc with Bose's latest offering. With the Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar residing in the same price range as Sonos's and Sony's premium equivalents, Bose has big shoes to fill.

Visible (and invisible) upgrades that matter

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