In the ever-evolving world of portable audio, Sonos has once again positioned itself at the forefront with the launch of three stellar speakers: the Roam 2, Play, and Move 2. Each model boasts unique features and capabilities, catering to different user needs while maintaining the brand’s signature sound quality. With prices ranging from £179 to £499, the question arises: are these speakers worth the investment?
A Sound Experience Like No Other
Over the past eight years, I’ve had the pleasure of testing numerous portable speakers from leading brands, and Sonos consistently stands out for its impressive sound quality. The latest trio—Roam 2, Play, and Move 2—each delivers a performance that exceeds expectations for their respective sizes.
The Roam 2 is compact, lightweight, and ideal for on-the-go listening, while the Move 2 offers a more robust audio experience without compromising on portability. The Play strikes a perfect balance between size and sound, making it a versatile choice for a variety of settings.
The Little Giant: Sonos Roam 2
Starting at £179, the Sonos Roam 2 is the epitome of portability. Weighing in at just under a pound and easily fitting into a backpack, this speaker is designed for life on the move. Its IP67 rating means it’s completely dustproof and can withstand submersion in water—a perfect companion for beach trips or pool parties.
What truly sets the Roam 2 apart is its ability to effortlessly switch between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, ensuring an uninterrupted listening experience. The inclusion of Amazon Alexa and Sonos Voice Control adds a layer of convenience, allowing users to manage their music hands-free.
However, while the Roam 2 offers a lot, it does fall short in terms of bass performance compared to similar competitors like the JBL Flip 7, which is priced at £150. Its battery life, at around 10 hours, is also less impressive when compared to its rivals.
The Goldilocks of Sound: Sonos Play
At £299, the Sonos Play is the sweet spot in this lineup. It strikes an impressive balance between sound quality and portability, making it suitable for gatherings of all sizes. The Play delivers a rich audio experience, whether you’re enjoying classical music or hosting a lively party.
With the ability to pair multiple units for simultaneous playback, this speaker can grow alongside your social events. The Play also features a replaceable battery and a remarkable 24-hour battery life, ensuring it can keep the party going long into the night.
One minor drawback is its charging requirements; it needs a specific USB-C power source for optimal charging, which may necessitate an additional purchase for some users. Still, the Play is an excellent entry point for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the Sonos ecosystem.
The Heavyweight Champion: Sonos Move 2
For those seeking a powerhouse, the Sonos Move 2 is the answer. Priced at £499, it is the largest and most powerful speaker in the Sonos portable lineup. This model delivers an unparalleled audio experience, filling even the largest rooms with rich, immersive sound.
The Move 2’s dual tweeters produce a full stereo effect, enhancing your listening experience with clarity and depth. It also supports lossless audio quality when connected via Wi-Fi, allowing audiophiles to enjoy their music as it was intended to be heard.
With an IP56 rating, the Move 2 is built to withstand the elements, making it a great choice for outdoor gatherings. However, its weight—6.6 lbs—does make it less convenient to transport compared to the Roam 2.
Why it Matters
Sonos continues to innovate and push the boundaries of portable audio with these three speakers, each catering to different preferences while delivering outstanding sound quality. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight companion for your travels, a versatile option for home gatherings, or a robust powerhouse to elevate your listening experience, Sonos has you covered. Investing in these speakers means embracing a lifestyle centred around quality sound, convenience, and smart technology—an appealing proposition for music lovers everywhere.
