The Sonos Play arrives as the company’s first new product under its current leadership, aiming to fill a gap between the Sonos Move 2 and the Roam. Designed for portability without sacrificing sound quality, the Play targets users who need a mid-sized speaker that balances performance and convenience. However, while it introduces practical improvements—such as a replaceable battery and enhanced Bluetooth functionality—it also inherits some of Sonos’s longstanding connectivity challenges, particularly with AirPlay 2 integration.
Design and Portability
The Play lives up to its name with a grip-friendly design, making it easy to carry around the home or outdoors. Its IP67 rating ensures durability against water and dust, while the included wireless charging dock adds versatility. The speaker weighs 1.4 kg, positioning it between the heavier Move 2 and the more compact Roam, though its 24-hour battery life matches the Move 2. A notable omission is the lack of a USB-C charger in the box, a common frustration for users who already juggle multiple cables.
Key Features and Connectivity
The Play supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2, along with a USB-C port that doubles as a power bank for charging phones on the go. Its Trueplay™ tuning automatically adjusts sound based on the environment, and it features advanced beamforming microphones with a physical toggle for privacy. For outdoor use, up to four Play or Move 2 speakers can be grouped via Bluetooth for synchronized playback, though this mode lacks the app’s intuitive guidance.
Performance and Bugs
While the Play delivers solid sound and portability, its AirPlay 2 compatibility remains inconsistent. Users report issues like stereo pairing failures with other Sonos devices, including the Move 2, and sporadic volume drops when integrated into a Sonos surround setup. These problems are intermittent, sometimes resolving after a short delay, but they highlight ongoing software hurdles. Bluetooth group functionality works better, allowing seamless outdoor stereo playback without Wi-Fi, though setup requires manual steps not clearly explained in the app.
Verdict and Value
Priced at 3,499 NOK, the Play is pricier than many Bluetooth alternatives, but its dock, battery options, and ecosystem integration justify the cost for Sonos loyalists. However, the AirPlay 2 glitches and occasional connectivity hiccups may deter those seeking flawless performance. For users invested in Sonos’s ecosystem, the Play is a worthy addition—if they’re willing to tolerate its quirks.
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