At the forefront of wireless audio technology is Sonos, a music delivery system that provides playback from local sources such as smartphones or computers, as well as from streaming services.
Sonos both manufactures speakers that automatically connect to its wireless network, and allows for speakers, amps, preamps and receivers of other manufacturers to be integrated into its system.
A Simple But Versatile System
The Software: Sonos apps are free, and once on your computer, tablet or smartphone, it is used to access music from almost any source imaginable. The app provides control of all speakers connected to the Sonos system, and includes the capability to control each “zone” independently.
The Hardware: The Sonos Boost attaches to your WiFi router and provides a portal for streaming music from the internet. In addition, it sets up a Sonos wireless “bubble”, creating a signal independent of you router and internet connection.
Sonos allows for third party hardware to be integrated into its system. One way of doing this is by using the Sonos Connect. Attached to an amp, preamp, or receiver, the Connect will make the respective device part of the Sonos network. This is good news to audiophiles that have invested in systems they know deliver superior sound quality, but who also want to take advantage of Sonos’ benefits.
The Connect Amp works much the same way the Connect, but precludes the need for an amp as it attaches directly to speakers and provides sufficient power to drive them.
Sonos speakers come in three flavors; the Play 1, Play 3, and Play 5, with 1, 3 or 5 drivers respectively. Each has perfect applications whether it’s having a Play 1 in a small work area, or a pair of Play 5s as part of a surround sound setup.
As with most speakers, more drivers means a richer soundscape, so a standalone Play 5 will sound significantly different from a Play 1. But, the only way to get a feel for the difference between the speaker models is to hear them, and the best place to hear them is at our showroom in Sheridan Park, Bluffton.
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