Electronics

SONOS One SL (2019)

Privacy Secured or Smart Features Missed?

⚑️ Quick Verdict - SONOS One SL (2019)

  • Best For: Sonos ecosystem users seeking a high-quality, compact, and privacy-focused Wi-Fi speaker for music streaming.
  • Strengths: Excellent sound quality for its size, seamless integration into existing Sonos systems, AirPlay 2 support, compact design, and privacy due to no built-in microphone.
  • Drawbacks: Lacks integrated voice assistant functionality (by design), no Bluetooth connectivity, requires power outlet, and relies on the Sonos app for control.
  • Verdict: An ideal choice for those prioritizing audio performance and multi-room functionality over voice assistant integration.

βš–οΈ Pros & Cons Explained

Aspect Pros Cons
Sound Quality Users frequently praise its surprisingly rich and clear audio output for a speaker of its size, suitable for various music genres. Some users note that while excellent for its size, it may not fill very large rooms as effectively as larger, more expensive speakers.
Ecosystem & Connectivity The speaker offers seamless integration with the Sonos multi-room audio system and supports AirPlay 2, allowing for easy streaming from Apple devices. It lacks Bluetooth, meaning it cannot connect directly to devices without Wi-Fi or integrate outside the Sonos app and AirPlay 2.
Design & Privacy Its compact and unobtrusive design fits well into various home decors. The absence of a built-in microphone is a significant privacy benefit for users concerned about always-on listening. The dedicated design without a microphone means it cannot function as a standalone voice assistant, which some users might expect from its form factor.
Setup & Control Setup is generally considered straightforward and quick through the Sonos S2 app, which provides comprehensive control over the system. Reliance on the app means physical controls are limited to play/pause and volume, and it requires a stable Wi-Fi connection to function.

πŸ”§ What’s Included? & Why It Matters

Component/Technology Why It Matters
Sonos One SL Speaker The core product, offering premium sound and multi-room capabilities without a microphone.
Power Cable Essential for operation, as the speaker is not battery-powered and requires a constant electrical connection.
Documentation (Quickstart Guide, Legal/Warranty) Provides instructions for initial setup and important information regarding product safety and warranty coverage.

πŸ’° Is It Worth It? – Value & Cost Efficiency

Aspect Positive Negative
Sound Performance Delivers high-fidelity audio that often exceeds expectations for its size, providing a premium listening experience comparable to larger speakers. For its price point, some users might find that other speakers offer slightly more bass extension, though this is subjective to listening preferences.
Ecosystem Integration Its seamless integration into the Sonos ecosystem means users can easily expand their home audio setup over time, adding more speakers for multi-room or surround sound without compatibility issues. The investment in the Sonos ecosystem can be significant if building out a large system, and the speaker itself is not a budget option for standalone use.
Durability & Longevity Built with high-quality materials, suggesting good durability and a long lifespan. Sonos also provides long-term software support. As a connected device, its longevity depends on continued software updates and ecosystem support from the manufacturer.
Value Proposition Offers strong value for users prioritizing sound quality, multi-room audio, and privacy over integrated voice control. It's a key component for a robust Sonos setup. The lack of a voice assistant or Bluetooth might be perceived as lower value for users expecting maximum features from a modern smart speaker, especially if they don't plan to expand their Sonos system.

πŸ” Sonos Comparison – How This Version Improves Over Previous Models

Aspect Sonos Play:1 Sonos One (Gen 1) SONOS One SL (2019)
Design & Aesthetics Classic Sonos design, slightly more angular. Modern, minimalist design with a monochromatic finish and touch controls. Identical modern design to Sonos One, seamless top surface with touch controls.
Audio Architecture Two Class-D digital amplifiers, one tweeter, one mid-woofer. Two Class-D digital amplifiers, one tweeter, one mid-woofer. Improved internals for better sound processing. Same advanced acoustic architecture as Sonos One (Gen 2), offering superior sound processing compared to Play:1.
Voice Assistant No built-in voice assistant. Integrated voice assistant support (Alexa, Google Assistant) via built-in microphones. No built-in voice assistant or microphones, offering enhanced privacy for users who don't want an always-on mic.
AirPlay 2 No AirPlay 2 support. Supports AirPlay 2 for direct streaming from Apple devices. Supports AirPlay 2, identical to Sonos One.
Networking Requires SonosNet or standard Wi-Fi. Improved Wi-Fi antenna and processing for more stable connections. Improved Wi-Fi antenna and processing, identical to Sonos One (Gen 2).

βš”οΈ Alternatives vs SONOS One SL (2019)

Aspect IKEA Symfonisk Bookshelf (Gen 2) Apple HomePod mini SONOS One SL (2019)
Sound Quality (for size) Good for its price, but less refined. Surprisingly good 360-degree sound, clear vocals, strong bass for its size. Excellent, balanced, and clear sound with good stereo separation when paired.
Ecosystem & Control Integrates with Sonos ecosystem, controlled via Sonos app. Deep integration with Apple ecosystem (Siri, HomeKit), seamless for iPhone users. Core Sonos multi-room ecosystem, controlled via Sonos app, AirPlay 2.
Voice Assistant No built-in voice assistant. Built-in Siri for voice commands and smart home control. No built-in voice assistant (by design).
Connectivity Wi-Fi, Ethernet port. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, Thread, UWB. Wi-Fi, Ethernet port.
Design & Portability Can be used as a bookshelf, fairly large. Not portable. Compact, spherical design. Requires power. Compact, sleek design. Requires power.

πŸ’‘ FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

  • Can the Sonos One SL be stereo paired? Yes, you can pair two Sonos One SL speakers together for dedicated left and right channel stereo sound. You can also pair a Sonos One SL with a Sonos One (Gen 2) for a stereo pair.
  • Does the Sonos One SL have Bluetooth? No, the Sonos One SL connects to your home network via Wi-Fi only. It does not have Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Can I use the Sonos One SL as a TV speaker or surround sound? The Sonos One SL can be used as rear surround speakers in a home theater setup with a Sonos soundbar (like a Beam, Arc, or Playbar/Playbase). It cannot be used as a primary TV speaker on its own.
  • Does the Sonos One SL require a Sonos Bridge or Boost? No, the Sonos One SL can connect directly to your home Wi-Fi network. A Bridge or Boost is only necessary in specific network environments or for larger, more complex Sonos setups where a dedicated SonosNet is desired.
  • Can I control the Sonos One SL with my voice? The Sonos One SL itself does not have built-in microphones for voice assistant control. However, you can control it via voice if you have another voice assistant-enabled Sonos speaker (like a Sonos One or Arc) or a separate voice assistant device (like an Amazon Echo or Google Home device) on the same network.

πŸ‘ Positive Reviews - What Users Love

  • The sound quality is exceptional for such a compact speaker, filling rooms with clear, rich audio. It’s perfect for just enjoying music.
  • Setting up multiple One SLs for multi-room audio was incredibly simple, and the system works flawlessly across my home.
  • I appreciate the privacy of not having a microphone built into the speaker. It’s exactly what I wanted for my bedroom.
  • AirPlay 2 support is fantastic; I can stream directly from all my Apple devices without any hassle.
  • The design is sleek and understated, blending beautifully into any decor without drawing too much attention.

πŸ‘Ž Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better

  • While I knew it didn't have a mic, sometimes I wish it had Bluetooth for quick connections without needing Wi-Fi.
  • The complete reliance on the Sonos app for control can be limiting; a few more physical controls would be welcome.
  • It's a great speaker, but the price feels a bit high for a model that doesn't include a voice assistant.
  • Occasionally, the Wi-Fi connection can drop, requiring a restart, though this is rare.
  • Users accustomed to smart features might find the lack of an integrated voice assistant a significant drawback.

πŸ“‹ Key Details & Specifications

Feature Detail
Speaker Type Compact Wi-Fi speaker (no microphone)
Amplifiers Two Class-D digital amplifiers
Drivers One tweeter, one mid-woofer
Connectivity Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n, 2.4 GHz), Ethernet port
Streaming Services Supports over 100 music services via Sonos app
Apple AirPlay 2 Supported (iOS 11.4 or higher)
Dimensions (H x W x D) 6.36 x 4.69 x 4.69 inches (161.45 x 119.7 x 119.7 mm)
Weight 4.08 lbs (1.85 kg)
Power Supply Auto-switching 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz AC universal input
Controls Capacitive touch controls for volume up/down, previous/next track, play/pause
Microphone None (primary differentiator from Sonos One)

πŸ”š Summary – Is This the Right Choice for You?

  • The Sonos One SL (2019) is a compelling choice for individuals already invested in or looking to build a Sonos multi-room audio system.
  • Its primary strength lies in its excellent sound quality, delivering a rich and clear audio experience that punches above its compact size.
  • The absence of a built-in microphone makes it an ideal speaker for users who prioritize privacy or already have separate voice assistant devices.
  • While it lacks Bluetooth and integrated voice control, its seamless Wi-Fi connectivity and AirPlay 2 support ensure reliable streaming within the Sonos ecosystem.
  • If your priority is a high-performing, discreet speaker that integrates flawlessly into a multi-room audio setup and offers peace of mind regarding privacy, the Sonos One SL remains a strong contender. However, if integrated voice assistant functionality or Bluetooth are must-haves, you might consider the standard Sonos One or an alternative.

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