New Sonos headset released

Sonos has introduced the Sonos Ace Ultra, an updated version of its first audio headset, the Sonos Ace, launched in 2024. The Ace Ultra features new custom drivers, improved noise reduction, and the ability to recover sound from Sonos speakers, not just soundbars. The Ace Ultra is priced at 449 euros, 70 euros more than the original Ace, which remains available at 379 euros. The original Ace was released at a higher price but is now discounted.

Enhanced audio and battery features

The Ace Ultra includes active noise cancellation (ANC), with a doubled bass response compared to the Ace. It has 10 microphones compared to the Ace's 8, and offers 35 hours of battery life with ANC on, compared to 30 hours for the Ace. The Ace Ultra also features an 8-band equalizer in the app, compared to a 2-band equalizer on the Ace. It supports transparency mode with Voice Boost and allows music transfer from Sonos speakers via Wi-Fi.

Design and comfort

The design of the Ace Ultra retains the restrained lines of the first model, with rounded and discreet aesthetics. The headset is made with materials that are pleasant to touch, with a dark and shiny metal tubular frame. The 322 grams of weight are well distributed, and the memory foam earpads fit comfortably without pressing the temples. The Ace Ultra is suitable for large heads and ears, but it is not designed for sports practice due to its movement during physical activity and lack of sweat or water resistance.

Physical controls and operation

The Ace Ultra includes physical buttons for controls, such as the Content Key on the right earpiece for adjusting volume, starting or stopping playback, answering calls, and transferring sound from a Sonos soundbar. The ANC and transparency button, also on the right earpiece, switches between active sound isolation and environmental listening. The left earpiece includes the power and Bluetooth button for turning on the headset and managing device pairing.

App integration and connectivity

The Ace Ultra can be used without the Sonos app, but using the app provides additional settings and functions, such as the 8-band equalizer. It connects to Sonos speakers via Wi-Fi, allowing music to be transferred from a speaker to the headset or vice versa. This feature requires a compatible Sonos speaker, a Wi-Fi connection, and the Sonos app. Music must be played from the Sonos app to transfer between the headset and a speaker; it is not possible to transfer music from a smartphone app like Spotify to a Sonos speaker and then to the headset.

Supported audio codecs

The Ace Ultra supports Bluetooth codecs SBC, AAC, and aptX Lossless. For Apple sources, only the basic codecs are available, but Android devices with Snapdragon Sound support aptX Lossless for lossless transmission. However, it does not support Auracast.

Improved noise cancellation

Sonos has revised its noise cancellation processing, with 10 microphones analyzing the environment. The efficiency is said to be doubled up to 65 Hz, reducing low-frequency noises such as engines, transport, and ventilation. The transparency mode allows users to hear their surroundings naturally, with a Voice Boost option to emphasize voices for easier conversations.

Sound quality and features

The Ace Ultra features new dynamic drivers with a 40 mm diameter, providing a Sonos signature sound with generous bass, a midrange with substance, and a slightly forward treble. The sound response curve shows a slight bump in the bass and a small dip in the treble range, offering a relatively neutral sound profile.

Spatial audio and call features

The sound scene is wide, with good separation of sound layers, though there is a slight lack of depth in the central axis. The Ace Ultra is Dolby Atmos compatible when used with a Sonos soundbar, providing coherent spatialization without distortion of voices or sound effects. The Ace Ultra includes ten microphones used for ANC, which also enhance call quality in noisy environments. The Sidetone function allows users to hear their own voice when ANC is active, preventing them from speaking too loudly.

Battery and color options

The battery life is up to 35 hours with ANC on, with a full charge taking up to three hours. Fast charging requires a 15-watt USB-C Power Delivery charger. The Ace Ultra is available in black, white, gray blue, or sand colors. It is in direct competition with the Apple AirPods Max 2, Sony WH-1000XM6, and Bose QuietComfort Ultra (second generation), which are priced similarly or slightly higher. The original Sonos Ace is still available at a lower price for those who do not need the speaker connectivity or enhanced noise reduction.