The Sonos Play:1, released in 2013, was a game-changer in the world of wireless speakers. It was compact, stylish, and offered exceptional sound quality. However, with the rapid advancement of technology and the release of newer models, the question on everyone’s mind is: is the Sonos Play:1 obsolete?
Design and Build Quality
The Sonos Play:1 boasts a sleek and compact design that can fit seamlessly into any room. Its dimensions are 4.72 x 4.72 x 6.36 inches, making it small enough to be placed on a shelf or nightstand. The speaker is made of high-quality materials, with a sturdy base and a smooth, matte finish. The design has not changed much over the years, and the Play:1 still looks modern and stylish.
However, when compared to newer models like the Sonos One, the Play:1’s design may seem a bit dated. The Sonos One has a more rounded shape and a slightly smaller footprint, making it even more compact and versatile. Additionally, the Sonos One has a built-in microphone, which allows for voice control and smart speaker functionality.
Sound Quality
The Sonos Play:1 is renowned for its exceptional sound quality. It produces clear, detailed, and balanced audio that is perfect for music, podcasts, and audiobooks. The speaker has a single tweeter and a single mid-woofer, which work together to produce a wide range of frequencies. The sound is rich and immersive, with deep bass and clear treble.
However, when compared to newer models like the Sonos One, the Play:1’s sound quality may seem a bit limited. The Sonos One has a more advanced audio processing system, which allows for more detailed and nuanced sound. Additionally, the Sonos One has a wider range of frequencies, making it better suited for music and other audio content.
Features and Functionality
The Sonos Play:1 has a range of features that make it a great wireless speaker. It can connect to Wi-Fi and stream music from a variety of sources, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. It also has a built-in Ethernet port, which allows for a wired connection.
However, when compared to newer models like the Sonos One, the Play:1’s features may seem a bit limited. The Sonos One has a built-in microphone, which allows for voice control and smart speaker functionality. It also has a more advanced audio processing system, which allows for more detailed and nuanced sound.
Smart Speaker Functionality
The Sonos Play:1 does not have built-in smart speaker functionality. However, it can be controlled using the Sonos app, which allows users to stream music, adjust settings, and control multiple speakers.
In contrast, the Sonos One has built-in smart speaker functionality, which allows users to control the speaker using voice commands. It also has a more advanced audio processing system, which allows for more detailed and nuanced sound.
Compatibility and Integration
The Sonos Play:1 is compatible with a range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. It can connect to Wi-Fi and stream music from a variety of sources, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
However, when compared to newer models like the Sonos One, the Play:1’s compatibility may seem a bit limited. The Sonos One has a more advanced audio processing system, which allows for more detailed and nuanced sound. It also has a wider range of frequencies, making it better suited for music and other audio content.
Multi-Room Audio
The Sonos Play:1 is part of the Sonos multi-room audio system, which allows users to control multiple speakers in different rooms. This feature is perfect for whole-home audio, and it allows users to create a seamless listening experience.
However, when compared to newer models like the Sonos One, the Play:1’s multi-room audio capabilities may seem a bit limited. The Sonos One has a more advanced audio processing system, which allows for more detailed and nuanced sound. It also has a wider range of frequencies, making it better suited for music and other audio content.
Upgrades and Updates
The Sonos Play:1 has received several software updates since its release, which have added new features and improved performance. However, the speaker’s hardware has not been updated, and it may not be compatible with future software updates.
In contrast, the Sonos One has received regular software updates, which have added new features and improved performance. The speaker’s hardware is also more advanced, making it better suited for future software updates.
Trueplay Tuning
The Sonos Play:1 does not have Trueplay tuning, which is a feature that allows users to customize the speaker’s sound to their room. However, the Sonos One has Trueplay tuning, which allows users to create a more immersive listening experience.
Conclusion
The Sonos Play:1 is still a great wireless speaker, but it may be considered obsolete when compared to newer models like the Sonos One. The Play:1’s design and build quality are still exceptional, but its sound quality and features may seem a bit limited. The speaker’s compatibility and integration are also still great, but they may not be as advanced as newer models.
If you’re looking for a wireless speaker with advanced features and smart speaker functionality, the Sonos One may be a better option. However, if you’re looking for a compact and stylish speaker with exceptional sound quality, the Sonos Play:1 is still a great choice.
Should You Buy the Sonos Play:1?
If you’re considering buying the Sonos Play:1, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- The speaker’s sound quality is still exceptional, but it may not be as advanced as newer models.
- The speaker’s features may seem a bit limited, but it still has a range of great features, including Wi-Fi connectivity and multi-room audio.
- The speaker’s compatibility and integration are still great, but they may not be as advanced as newer models.
Ultimately, the decision to buy the Sonos Play:1 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact and stylish speaker with exceptional sound quality, the Play:1 is still a great choice. However, if you’re looking for a wireless speaker with advanced features and smart speaker functionality, the Sonos One may be a better option.
| Feature | Sonos Play:1 | Sonos One |
|---|---|---|
| Design and Build Quality | Compact and stylish, but may seem a bit dated | More rounded shape and smaller footprint, with a built-in microphone |
| Sound Quality | Exceptional, but may seem a bit limited | More advanced audio processing system, with a wider range of frequencies |
| Features and Functionality | Wi-Fi connectivity, multi-room audio, and a range of great features, but may seem a bit limited | Smart speaker functionality, Trueplay tuning, and a more advanced audio processing system |
| Compatibility and Integration | Still great, but may not be as advanced as newer models | More advanced audio processing system, with a wider range of frequencies and better compatibility with future software updates |
In conclusion, the Sonos Play:1 is still a great wireless speaker, but it may be considered obsolete when compared to newer models like the Sonos One. The Play:1’s design and build quality are still exceptional, but its sound quality and features may seem a bit limited. The speaker’s compatibility and integration are also still great, but they may not be as advanced as newer models. Ultimately, the decision to buy the Sonos Play:1 depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Is the Sonos Play:1 Still a Good Speaker?
The Sonos Play:1 is still a good speaker, but its age and lack of modern features might make it less desirable for some users. It offers high-quality sound and seamless integration with other Sonos devices, making it a great option for those already invested in the Sonos ecosystem.
However, when compared to newer models, the Play:1 lacks some key features, such as Bluetooth connectivity, voice assistant integration, and more advanced smart home capabilities. If you’re looking for a speaker with the latest and greatest features, you might want to consider a more modern option.
Can I Still Buy a Sonos Play:1?
The Sonos Play:1 is no longer available for purchase directly from Sonos, as it has been discontinued. However, you can still find it for sale from third-party retailers, such as Amazon or eBay, as well as from second-hand sellers.
Keep in mind that buying a used or refurbished Play:1 might not come with the same warranty or support as a brand-new device. Be sure to check the seller’s ratings and reviews before making a purchase, and consider the potential risks and benefits of buying a discontinued product.
Is the Sonos Play:1 Compatible with Other Sonos Devices?
Yes, the Sonos Play:1 is compatible with other Sonos devices, including the Sonos One, Beam, and Playbar. You can use the Sonos app to group multiple devices together and play music throughout your home.
The Play:1 also supports Sonos’ Trueplay technology, which allows you to customize the sound settings for each room in your home. This feature is especially useful if you have multiple Sonos devices set up in different rooms.
Does the Sonos Play:1 Support Voice Assistants?
The Sonos Play:1 does not have built-in voice assistant support, but you can control it using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant through a separate device. For example, you can use an Amazon Echo or Google Home to control your Play:1 and play music, adjust the volume, and more.
However, if you want a Sonos device with built-in voice assistant support, you might want to consider a more modern model, such as the Sonos One or Beam. These devices have Alexa and Google Assistant built-in, making it easier to control your music and smart home devices.
Can I Use the Sonos Play:1 as a Stereo Pair?
Yes, you can use two Sonos Play:1 devices as a stereo pair, which can enhance the overall sound quality and provide a more immersive listening experience. To set up a stereo pair, simply go to the Sonos app, select the two devices you want to pair, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Using a stereo pair can be especially useful if you want to create a home theater setup or enhance the sound quality in a larger room. Keep in mind that you’ll need two separate Play:1 devices to set up a stereo pair.
Is the Sonos Play:1 Worth Buying in 2023?
Whether or not the Sonos Play:1 is worth buying in 2023 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re already invested in the Sonos ecosystem and want a compact, high-quality speaker, the Play:1 might be a good option.
However, if you’re looking for a speaker with the latest features and technologies, you might want to consider a more modern model. Additionally, if you’re on a budget, you might be able to find a better deal on a newer device that offers more features and better performance.
What Are Some Alternatives to the Sonos Play:1?
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Sonos Play:1, there are several options to consider. Some popular alternatives include the Sonos One, Amazon Echo, and Google Home. These devices offer similar features and functionality to the Play:1, but with more modern designs and features.
Other alternatives might include the Bose Home Speaker 300 or the Apple HomePod. These devices offer high-quality sound and smart home capabilities, but might not be compatible with the Sonos ecosystem. Be sure to research and compare different options before making a decision.