Sonos is a well-known brand in the home audio industry, famous for its high-quality speakers that offer seamless multi-room audio experiences. However, when it comes to Bluetooth speakers, the answer is not a straightforward one. In this article, we will delve into the world of Sonos and explore whether they make Bluetooth speakers, what options are available, and what you can expect from these products.
Understanding Sonos’ Approach to Bluetooth Speakers
Sonos has traditionally focused on creating Wi-Fi enabled speakers that can be controlled using their proprietary app. This approach allows for a more seamless and integrated listening experience, especially when it comes to multi-room audio. However, this also means that Sonos speakers often rely on a stable internet connection to function, which can be a limitation for those who want to use their speakers on-the-go or in areas with poor internet connectivity.
Why Sonos Was Initially Reluctant to Adopt Bluetooth
In the past, Sonos was hesitant to incorporate Bluetooth technology into their speakers. This was largely due to concerns about audio quality and the potential for interference. Bluetooth compression can result in a loss of audio fidelity, which was a major concern for a brand that prides itself on delivering high-quality sound. Additionally, Bluetooth signals can be prone to interference from other devices, which could disrupt the listening experience.
Introducing the Sonos Move: A Bluetooth-Enabled Speaker
In 2019, Sonos finally released a Bluetooth-enabled speaker, the Sonos Move. This portable speaker is designed to offer the best of both worlds – the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity and the high-quality audio that Sonos is known for. The Sonos Move is a battery-powered speaker that can be used both indoors and outdoors, making it perfect for backyard barbecues, camping trips, or simply moving it from room to room.
Key Features of the Sonos Move
The Sonos Move boasts an impressive array of features, including:
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity: Seamlessly switch between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modes to suit your listening needs.
- Long-lasting battery life: Enjoy up to 11 hours of playback on a single charge.
- Water and dust resistance: The Sonos Move is designed to withstand the elements, with an IP56 rating for protection against rain and dust.
- High-quality audio: The speaker features two Class-D digital amplifiers, one tweeter, and one mid-woofer, delivering clear and balanced sound.
Other Sonos Speakers with Bluetooth Capabilities
While the Sonos Move is the only portable Bluetooth speaker in the Sonos lineup, some of their other speakers do offer Bluetooth connectivity, albeit in a more limited capacity.
Sonos Beam and Sonos Amp
The Sonos Beam and Sonos Amp both feature Bluetooth connectivity, but it’s primarily used for setup and configuration purposes. These speakers are designed to be used as part of a larger home audio system and are not intended for portable use.
What to Expect from Sonos Bluetooth Speakers
If you’re considering purchasing a Sonos Bluetooth speaker, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Audio quality: Sonos is known for its high-quality audio, and their Bluetooth speakers are no exception. However, the audio quality may not be identical to their Wi-Fi enabled speakers, due to the limitations of Bluetooth compression.
- Range and connectivity: Sonos Bluetooth speakers typically have a range of around 30 feet, although this can vary depending on the environment and the presence of obstacles.
- Compatibility: Sonos Bluetooth speakers are compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
Alternatives to Sonos Bluetooth Speakers
If you’re looking for alternative Bluetooth speakers that offer similar quality and features to Sonos, here are a few options to consider:
- Bose SoundLink Revolve+: A portable Bluetooth speaker that offers 360-degree sound and up to 16 hours of battery life.
- UE Wonderboom: A compact and waterproof Bluetooth speaker that offers 360-degree sound and up to 10 hours of battery life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sonos does make a Bluetooth speaker, the Sonos Move, which offers a unique blend of portability, high-quality audio, and seamless connectivity. While their other speakers may offer limited Bluetooth capabilities, the Sonos Move is the only true portable Bluetooth speaker in their lineup. If you’re looking for a high-quality Bluetooth speaker that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the Sonos Move is definitely worth considering.
| Speaker | Bluetooth Connectivity | Portability | Audio Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sonos Move | Yes | Yes | High-quality |
| Sonos Beam | Limited | No | High-quality |
| Sonos Amp | Limited | No | High-quality |
By understanding the options available and what to expect from Sonos Bluetooth speakers, you can make an informed decision about whether a Sonos speaker is right for you.
Does Sonos Make a Bluetooth Speaker?
Sonos does make a Bluetooth speaker, but it’s not as straightforward as you might think. While Sonos is known for its Wi-Fi enabled speakers, the company has released a few products that support Bluetooth connectivity. However, these products are not traditional Bluetooth speakers, and their functionality is limited compared to other Bluetooth speakers on the market.
The Sonos Bluetooth speakers are designed to work seamlessly with the Sonos ecosystem, allowing users to stream music and other audio content from their devices using the Sonos app. However, they may not be compatible with all devices or support all Bluetooth features. If you’re looking for a traditional Bluetooth speaker, you might want to consider other options. But if you’re already invested in the Sonos ecosystem, their Bluetooth speakers can be a great addition.
What Sonos Speakers Support Bluetooth?
The Sonos Move and Sonos Roam are the two speakers that support Bluetooth connectivity. The Sonos Move is a portable speaker that can be used both indoors and outdoors, while the Sonos Roam is a smaller, more compact speaker that’s designed for on-the-go use. Both speakers support Bluetooth 5.0 and can be paired with devices using the Sonos app.
It’s worth noting that while these speakers support Bluetooth, they’re still primarily designed to work with the Sonos ecosystem. They can be used as part of a larger Sonos system, and they support features like multi-room audio and voice control. However, if you’re looking for a speaker that can be used with multiple devices or in different environments, you might want to consider other options.
How Does Sonos Bluetooth Work?
Sonos Bluetooth works by allowing users to pair their devices with their Sonos speakers using the Sonos app. Once paired, users can stream music and other audio content from their devices to their Sonos speakers. The Sonos app also allows users to control their speakers, adjust settings, and access additional features like voice control and multi-room audio.
However, it’s worth noting that Sonos Bluetooth has some limitations. For example, it only supports the SBC codec, which means that audio quality may not be as high as it would be with other codecs. Additionally, Sonos Bluetooth may not be compatible with all devices or support all Bluetooth features. If you’re looking for a more traditional Bluetooth experience, you might want to consider other options.
Can I Use Sonos Bluetooth with Any Device?
Sonos Bluetooth can be used with most devices that support Bluetooth, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. However, the Sonos app is required to pair devices and control the speakers, so you’ll need to have a device that’s compatible with the app. Additionally, some devices may not be compatible with Sonos Bluetooth, so it’s a good idea to check compatibility before purchasing a Sonos speaker.
It’s also worth noting that Sonos Bluetooth is designed to work seamlessly with the Sonos ecosystem, so you may get the best experience if you’re using a device that’s already connected to your Sonos system. If you’re looking to use your Sonos speaker with multiple devices or in different environments, you might want to consider other options.
Is Sonos Bluetooth Better than Wi-Fi?
Sonos Bluetooth and Wi-Fi have different strengths and weaknesses. Bluetooth is a more portable and convenient option, allowing users to take their speakers on the go and stream music from their devices. However, Bluetooth has limitations in terms of range and audio quality, and it may not be compatible with all devices.
Wi-Fi, on the other hand, offers a more reliable and high-quality connection, and it’s required for many of the advanced features that Sonos speakers offer, like multi-room audio and voice control. However, Wi-Fi requires a stable internet connection, which may not always be available. Ultimately, the choice between Sonos Bluetooth and Wi-Fi will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Can I Use Sonos Bluetooth for Phone Calls?
Yes, Sonos Bluetooth can be used for phone calls. Once you’ve paired your device with your Sonos speaker, you can use it to make and receive phone calls. The Sonos speaker will use the Bluetooth connection to transmit audio to and from your device, allowing you to take hands-free calls.
However, it’s worth noting that Sonos Bluetooth may not support all phone call features, like call waiting or call merging. Additionally, audio quality may vary depending on the device and environment you’re using. If you’re looking for a speaker that’s specifically designed for phone calls, you might want to consider other options.
Is Sonos Bluetooth Worth It?
Whether or not Sonos Bluetooth is worth it will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re already invested in the Sonos ecosystem and you’re looking for a portable speaker that can be used on the go, Sonos Bluetooth may be a great option. The Sonos Move and Sonos Roam are both high-quality speakers that offer great sound and convenient features like Bluetooth connectivity.
However, if you’re looking for a more traditional Bluetooth speaker or you’re not already invested in the Sonos ecosystem, you might want to consider other options. Sonos Bluetooth has some limitations, and it may not be compatible with all devices or support all Bluetooth features. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your specific needs and preferences.