β‘οΈ 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.
βοΈ 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. |
π§ Whatβs 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. |
π° Is It Worth It? β 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. |
π Sonos Comparison β 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). |
βοΈ 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. |
π‘ 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.
π Positive Reviews - What Users Love
- The sound quality is exceptional for such a compact speaker, filling rooms with clear, rich audio. Itβs 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. Itβs 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.
π 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.
π 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) |
π Summary β 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.