The new Sonos Play has become my go-to desk and kitchen speaker
"A new speaker combines home and portable use, but app issues remain."
Sonos has launched its first new device in over a year, the Play speaker. The $299 speaker is a hybrid, part home speaker and part portable, designed to sit on a desk or be carried around the house. Weighing 1.3 kilograms, it features a "utility loop" on the back, making it easy to transport. The speaker is IP67-rated, meaning it can handle rain and brief submersion, and can also charge a phone in a pinch.
The Play relies on dual-angled tweeters, a mid-woofer, and three digital amplifiers, with two passive radiators to reinforce bass outdoors. This results in balanced and detailed sound at moderate volumes, with good instrument separation. However, the soundstage is narrow, and at higher volumes, the mix loses some clarity. The speaker is well-suited for a desk or patio, but not designed to fill a room.
One of the key features of the Play is its ability to be paired with another unit to create a stereo configuration. This can be done through the app or by holding the play/pause button on both speakers simultaneously. The result is a noticeable difference for music, although less so for television audio. The Play also includes Trueplay, which uses the speaker's microphones to automatically calibrate sound based on the room.
Sonos has had well-publicized struggles with its app, including disappearing speakers and glitchy volume controls. While the company has made improvements, some issues remain. Sync between the Play and a MacBook can be laggy, and playing or pausing audio on YouTube sometimes produces a noticeable delay. Switching audio between speakers can be cumbersome, and the "Apply" button in the Sonos app feels like an unnecessary extra step.
Despite these app issues, the Sonos Play is a solid speaker that largely delivers on its premise. The portability and ease of use make it a great option for those who want a speaker that can be easily moved around the house. The sound quality is good, although not exceptional, and the ability to pair two units for stereo sound is a useful feature. However, those who do not need portability may find that other Sonos options, such as the Era 100 or Era 100 SL, offer more volume for less money.
The Play is a significant release for Sonos, which has been facing increased competition in the smart speaker market. The company has been working to improve its app and expand its product lineup, and the Play is a key part of this effort. With its portability and ease of use, the Play is well-positioned to appeal to a wide range of consumers, from those who want a simple speaker for their desk to those who need a more robust sound system for their home.
In terms of competition, the Play faces a crowded market with many established players. However, its unique combination of portability and sound quality sets it apart from many other speakers. The Play is also well-integrated with the Sonos ecosystem, making it a great option for those who already have other Sonos products. This integration, combined with the speaker's ease of use and good sound quality, make it a strong contender in the smart speaker market.
Overall, the Sonos Play is a well-designed and functional speaker that is well-suited for a variety of uses. While app issues remain, the company has shown a willingness to iterate and improve its products. With its portability, ease of use, and good sound quality, the Play is a great option for those looking for a versatile and reliable speaker. As the smart speaker market continues to evolve, the Play is a significant release that is sure to appeal to many consumers.
