Sonos Play 5 Gen 1 vs Gen 2: A Comprehensive Comparison

Choosing the perfect speaker is pivotal for a superior listening experience. The Play 5 Gen 1 and Gen 2 comparison is important to the Sonos lineup. This guide delves into a comprehensive analysis of both models, providing an in-depth understanding of their distinctions and aiding your decision-making process.

Important Note: It’s worth noting that the Sonos Play 5 Gen 1 is no longer in production, though it remains accessible on platforms like Amazon. Given its inception in 2005, it’s prudent to lean towards the technologically advanced Sonos Play 5 Gen 2.

Comparison Table Of Sonos Play 5 Gen 1 vs Sonos Play Gen 2

Parameters of Comparison	Sonos Play 5 Gen 1	Sonos Play 5 Gen 2
Release Year	2005 (Discontinued)	2015
Sound Performance	Good bass performance and sound output	More drivers, high-quality, crystal-clear audio
Connectivity	Bluetooth, WiFi, 3.5mm aux-in jack	WiFi, Apple AirPlay 2, Alexa voice control
Controls	Physical buttons, smartphone app support	Touch controls, voice commands via Siri remote, built-in speakerphone
Design	Square box with glossy finish	Slightly triangular, matte finish
Size and Weight	Smaller and lighter (8 pounds)	Larger and heavier (14 pounds)
Price	Less expensive, lacks advanced features	More expensive, additional drivers and features

Sonos Play 5 Gen 1 vs Gen 2: Major Differences

The principal variance between these models revolves around their software architecture. While some features bear semblance, a comprehensive comparison reveals disparities in size, design, audio quality, and control options.

Release: 

Sonos Play 5 Gen 1, a pioneer from 2005, stands as an entry-level Sonos speaker. Its connectivity encompasses Bluetooth and Ethernet but lacks speakerphone and multiroom functionality. Conversely, Sonos Play 5 Gen 2 debuted in 2015, a decade after its precursor. Armed with updated firmware, it boasts backward compatibility and multiroom capabilities. Moreover, it excels in delivering high-fidelity digital audio and eliminates the need for an external amplifier.

Sound Quality: 

Gen 2 triumphs in audio quality, attributed to its adeptness in handling low latency, frequent firmware updates, and robust driver assembly. With 6 amplifiers, 3 mid-woofers, and 3 tweeters, Gen 2 thrives in delivering pristine and immersive audio. Gen 1, housing 5 amplifiers, 2 mid-woofers, 2 tweeters, and 1 woofer, imparts powerful sound output, particularly excelling in bass performance.

Style and Look: 

Gen 1, presented in a square, glossy form, exudes elegance, while Gen 2’s slightly triangular shape and matte finish lend a professional aura. Both iterations are available in black and white, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences.

Controlling Methods: 

Sonos Play 5 Gen 2 enhances control with touch controls and compatibility with Siri remote for voice commands and speakerphone use. Gen 1 relies on physical buttons and smartphone app support, positioned more as a computer speaker, whereas Gen 2 embraces a more intelligent approach.

Connectivity Options: 

Gen 1 boasts Bluetooth connectivity, whereas Gen 2 opts for WiFi and Apple AirPlay 2. Both models embrace Alexa voice control. Gen 1 provides a 3.5mm aux-in jack and Ethernet port, enabling physical connections. Gen 2 ensures wireless connection via WiFi and leverages Apple AirPlay 2 for seamless streaming, cementing its place in the modern digital landscape.

Size and Weight:

Sonos Play 5 Gen 1 spans 4.8×14.4×8.5 inches, offering portability at 8 pounds. In contrast, Gen 2’s dimensions of 14.3x8x6 inches and weight of 14 pounds confer a more extensive and weightier profile. Both models facilitate versatile placement, supporting various orientations and even the option of mounting on a ball stand.

Price: 

Sonos Play 5 Gen 2 commands a higher price point, justified by its additional drivers, enhanced audio quality, and advanced control and connectivity features.

SONOS PLAY 5 GEN 1 VS 2 COMPARISON CHART

Feature	Sonos Play:5 (Gen 1)	Sonos Play:5 (Gen 2)
Audio Quality	Excellent sound quality	Enhanced sound quality
Amplifiers	5 Class-D amplifiers	6 Class-D amplifiers
Drivers	5 drivers: 2 tweeters, 2	6 drivers: 3 mid-woofers, 3
	mid-woofers, 1 subwoofer	tweeters, 1 subwoofer
Trueplay Tuning	No	Yes
Line-In	Yes	No
Audio Line-Out	Yes	No
Ethernet Port	Yes	No
Wireless Connectivity	Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5 GHz)	Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5 GHz)
Apple AirPlay 2 Support	No	Yes
Trueplay Tuning	No	Yes
Dimensions (H x W x D)	4.8×14.4×8.5 inches	14.3 x 8 x 6 inches
Weight	8 Pound	14 Pound
Supported Streaming Services	Wide range of streaming	Wide range of streaming
	services via Sonos app	services via Sonos app
Multiroom Audio	Yes, with other Sonos speakers	Yes, with other Sonos speakers
Stereo Pairing	Yes	Yes
Voice Assistance Compatibility	None	Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
Wall Mountable	Yes	Yes

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the comprehensive evaluation underscores the superiority of the Sonos Play 5 Gen 2 over Gen 1. The technologically advanced features, superior audio quality, and enhanced connectivity of Gen 2 solidify its position as the preferred choice. Given Gen 1’s discontinuation and outdated firmware, investing in Gen 2 promises an immersive and unparalleled auditory experience.

FAQs

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Are Bose speakers better than Sonos? 

Both Bose and Sonos are renowned brands for speakers, each with its strengths. While Bose is known for its exceptional surround sound capabilities, Sonos specialises in enhancing speech clarity. For instance, the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 offers a well-balanced sound profile and less distortion at higher volumes than the Sonos Playbar.

What makes Sonos speakers so popular? 

The popularity of Sonos speakers can be attributed to their exceptional sound quality and broad compatibility with a wide range of streaming services. From popular platforms like Pandora and Spotify to Tidal, SiriusXM, and more, Sonos ensures a seamless and enjoyable listening experience across multiple apps and services.

How many Sonos speakers can be connected? 

You can establish a Sonosnet, a dedicated wireless network within your home theater, to connect up to 32 Sonos speakers to a primary or master speaker. This secure wireless connection, Sonosnet, facilitates synchronized audio playback throughout your space.

What’s the suitable number of Sonos speakers for an average room? 

Generally, a single Sonos speaker, such as the Sonos One, is well-suited for an average-sized room, providing satisfying audio quality. However, if your room is more prominent, opting for a stereo pair with two speakers, like two Sonos One speakers, can significantly enhance the audio experience and deliver louder sound output.

Is it possible to power off a Sonos speaker?

Unlike traditional devices, Sonos speakers are designed to remain on most of the time. When inactive, they automatically transition to a lower power mode, conserving energy. This approach eliminates the need for frequent power on/off cycles, ensuring speakers are always ready to deliver high-quality audio without inconveniences.

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