I have to start this review by admitting that I am a Sonos fan-boy and have been using versions of Sonos equipment for multi-room music since 2009. When I first got word that Sonos was introducing the Amp I struggled to understand what they were trying to accomplish but now that I have bought one my eyes have been opened.
I initially replaced a receiver I had configured for 3.1 operation for our family room entertainment system. I used the same speakers and sub that were in place (sans the center channel) and I could not be happier with the result. It took very little tweaking to balance my satellite speakers with the sub and maximize the phantom center channel effect. It sounds amazing. Do not let the limitation to 2 channels scare you - this thing sounds big and and the phantom center channel effect is spectacular. I am getting a better frontal sound field than ever and am optimally configured for either music, cinema, or TV. Note - we are cord cutters so no video or satellite box. Our only video sources are AppleTV and Smart TV functions. Our only audio input was a Sonos ZP90 but it has been replaced by the Amp's integration with the Sonos system.
Positives:
1. Amazing sound quality - of this I cannot say enough.
2. Ease of set up. If you are a Sonos user this will be as easy as you are accustomed to with other Sonos products. If you are new to Sonos, there is a little learning curve for the concepts but it will make sense quickly.
3. Simple operation. This is one of the best characteristics of the unit. I asked myself initially why it did not have HDMI inputs to manage/switch video sources - but Sonos engineers were thinking of a much more unique and simplified user experience. The Amp let's your TV manage video sources (including the SMart TV as a source) while using the ARC Audio Return Channel) channel for both audio and remote applications (when needed). Your TV can actually control the volume on the unit via ARC meaning you can use your TV remote for everything if you desire. If you require a more sophisticated remote system (i.e. IR repeater, etc.) you can configure the Amp to accept IR signals as well. When it comes time to use the unit as a music device, simply pull out your cell phone or tablet and manage your music just as you would any Sonos device or zone. An added bonus is that you can sync your TV audio to play on as many zones as are in your Sonos system - great for hearing Sports TV audio during games when you are walking around the house or in the pool.
4. Flexibility. Now you are no longer tied to changing HDMI standards for video causing you to continuously upgrade receivers in support. Amp even has support for legacy analog audio sources if needed. In music mode you can play audio from your phone via the Sonos app as well. Finally, the systems updates itself - you have to keep your eyes out for new functionality, etc.
Negatives:
1. I would like to see a 4 channel version of this unit - but I get it - this is a building block that makes every system scalable by adding additional components where needed you can easily go 4 channels by just buying and syncing another Amp or other Sonos speakers.
My second Amp will be arriving shortly to replace my home theater rig in our upstairs entertainment area. I am looking forward to the reduction in equipment, wires, and unneeded complexity for that system.
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Great Value for Good Product
I consider myself a mid-level audiophile. My main system is Magnepan speakers driven by a Bryston amp, with a REL subwoofer. I was looking for something tolerable for my bedroom. I work from home, which includes laptop sessions sitting my bed. So, I’m in my room quite a bit.I was sold on the idea of using Klipsch speakers. The recent reviews have been incredibly favorable. The original plan was to go with the Klipsch RP-600M, but after some good reviews I scaled down to a more bookshelf friendly (and less expensive) option with the Klipsch R-51M. I had planned on pairing them with a decent used amp and an older Sonos Connect. Then I read a good review of the new Sonos Amp, so I decided to give it a try.Having had the Sonos Connect, the first thing I noticed was the box redesign. Much improved. The Amp is very easy to set up, excellent job on the speaker connectors. Physically it’s a fantastic feeling product.I was lucky enough to have an older Sonos Subwoofer from my setup. I hooked that in to give some extra punch to the small Klipsch.The sound of this thing is pretty darn good for what it is. The class D amp puts out 125 watts per channel, which is over double their previous model. And it’s a big help. They power the Klipsch quite well. I’m confident it would easily power the bigger RP-600M’s as well. The next thing I noticed is how much better the DAC sounds over previous Sonos products. It’s very noticeable in vocal heave tracks, it sounds much more natural. Big improvement.The sound is natural and much bigger than one would guess. The amp is easily hidden behind some book, and the wireless sub is stashed under my bed, so all that’s visible are the speakers. It’s a very low key setup visually.The Sonos Amp, Sonos Subwoofer, Klipsch R-51M combo is a winner. I listen to mostly rock, but I think anyone would be happy with this system.There are some downsides here. First off, Sonos has told customer they plan on stopping support for “older” products. So, in a couple year this product may be in that group. This is a lot of money to shovel out for some thing that could be a brick in a couple years.Another issue is Sonos hasn’t kept up in the file tech. They do not support hi-res technology like MQA. This means no MQA files from Tidal.What makes this a good value is when you consider it against the Sonos Port, which doesn’t have an internal amp, or support the Subwoofer. That’s $200 less, but no amplifier. So if you’re planning on going with the Port, and adding an amp, this is basally a well match amp with a lot of power for just under $200 more. Great little set up for bedroom or small apartment. And it’s pretty much invisible. Try t find mine in the pic.
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Jesus Altonar
SONOS GENERA SONIDO POTENTE
Reviewed in Mexico on February 26, 2024Style: AmpVerified Purchase
