Sonos Amp vs. Connect

The Sonos Amp and Connect are great tools to use if you want to integrate your existing speakers or your old school vinyl recorder into your Sonos system.

However, both are also pretty different from each other. Since Sonos Amp actually comes in with a built-in D-class amplifier that will enhance the sound quality output and also includes its own receiver. While Sonos Connect is designed specifically to integrate with an external amplifier or receiver and bring Sonos functionality to a third-party system.

There are also other ways in which both models differ from each other, such as Apple Airplay 2 compatibility, outdoor use, and more!

So, read on to see which model will blend in well with your HiFi system.

Feel free to use our navigation system to skip down to any part you prefer.

Sonos Amp vs. Connect — Differences

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Difference #1: Amplifier – A big difference between Sonos Amp and Connect is the class-D digital amplifier that comes with Sonos Amp. This addition will produce 125 Watts at 8 ohms worth of power, giving your favorite tracks that much needed boost.

You can even expect to hear a return of 55 watts per speaker which is pretty impressive, especially when considering the size of this device.

While Sono Connect doesn’t come with an amp since it’s designed more as a tool to implement your Sonos into your already existing HiFi system.

Difference #2: HDMI ARC – A HDMI ARC, otherwise known as “Audio Return Channel”, is an HDMI function that’s built into various receivers, TVs and Sound Bars. It basically simplifies the setup process and uses a single connection to send audio from your TV, directly to your speaker.

This handy feature is available with Sonos Amp, which will allow you to connect your TV to an audio source without needing a lower quality analog to digital conversion.

Difference #3: Outdoor Use – Additionally, Sonos Amp is also suitable for indoor as well as outdoor use, as opposed to the Connect which is best left indoors. Making Sonos Amp ideal for those of you who want to take your HiFi system outside to your pool party, or family barbeque.

Difference #4: Built-In Receiver – Sonos Amp also includes an already built-in receiver, which is designed to receive audio signals from different sources and then sends the output to desired destinations, which in this case is the speaker.

While Sonos Connect doesn’t come with one included, so you’ll need to purchase one separately, such as the Yamaha RX-V685.

Difference #5: Subwoofer – A subwoofer is a great device to add if you want a deeper and richer bass sound to accompany your favorite tracks or movies. And a model such as the Sonos Sub will do just that!

Fortunately, Sonos Amp also includes a line-in designed for a subwoofer, allowing you to consider the addition for your home, while Sonos Connect doesn’t come with one included.

Difference #6: Apple Airplay 2 – For the dedicated iOS users out there, you’ll also be glad to know that Sonos Amp is also compatible with Airplay 2! A software that allows you to seamlessly stream your favorite tracks, podcasts and more, directly from your smartphone to your speakers.

Difference #7: Size & Design – Sonos Connect is definitely smaller with its measurements of 2.91 x 5.35 x 5.51 in, vs. Amp’s 2.52 x 8.54 x 8.54 in.

Making Sonos Amp easier to place on a shelf, or behind your TV without it being in the way too much.

Additionally, Sonos Connect comes in a white color option which may be more difficult to blend into your home decor, while Sonos Amp features a more modern, sleek black color choice.

Difference #8: Sonos Controller App – A Sonos controller app is required in order to have full control over your Sonos Wireless HiFi system from any room at any time, right from your iOS or Android smart device.

Using this app you can search for your favorite tracks, listen to countless of podcasts and news stations, as well as have access to over 50 different streaming platforms such as Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Audible, and more!

The Sonos app is only compatible with Sonos Amp.


Sonos Amp vs. Connect — Comparison Chart

  Sonos Amp Sonos Connect
Amplifier Class-D digital amplifier.
125 W/Ch at 8 ohms
N/A
Adjustable Bass & Treble Yes Yes
Power AC AC
Network 802.11b/g, 2.4 GHz WiFi 802.11b/g, 2.4 GHz WiFi
Ethernet Ports Dual Ethernet ports Two 10/100 Mbps
Ethernet ports
HDMI ARC Yes N/A
Line-in Connection (RCA) Yes Yes
Works With Existing Speakers Yes Yes
Alexa Yes/ Built-In Yes
Suitable for Outdoor Use Yes N/A
In-Built Receiver Yes N/A
Sonos Controller app Yes N/A
Subwoofer Line-in Yes N/A
Apple Airplay 2  Yes N/A
Dimensions 2.52 x 8.54 x 8.54 in 2.91 x 5.35 x 5.51 in
Finish Black White

Sonos Amp vs. Connect— Things in Common

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RCA – Both Sonos Amp and Connect include the line-in connection point or RCA, which is what will turn your vintage record player into a new modern tool you can enjoy your favorite old school tunes on!

This will allow you to input any of your old players, and share them with any of the Sonos smart speakers.

Adjustable Bass & Treble – You can also easily adjust both the bass and treble levels on either Sonos Amp as well as Connect, to get that perfect sound accompanied by a rich bass throughout the room.

Alexa – Have hands free over your Sonos Amp and Connect with Alexa’s voice commands! All you need is an Alexa enabled devices, such as Echo Show or Echo Spot, and you can easily turn on or off your device, or have your party playlist on without needing to press any buttons or leave the couch!

Network – Make sure that you have a sufficient WiFi connection strength before setting up your new device, as both Sonos Amp and Sonos connect require a 2.4GHz network in order to operate at their optimal level.

If you’re worried that your WiFi might not be able to handle it, you can check out the Sonos Boost which acts as a WiFi extender for your Sonos devices.

Additionally, both devices also include two Ethernet ports, so you can always connect directly to the router for a more reliable network connection and speed.

Power – Also, both models need to be plugged in in order to be operated and don’t have a wireless option.


Sonos Amp vs. Connect — Accessories

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Now that we have gone over both Sonos Amp and Connect, let’s check out some of the accessories that they have to offer!

Sonos comes with a huge line of many different products to enhance your listening experience both at home as well as away. For example, Sonos Move smart speaker can also be battery operated for up to 10 hours per charge, meaning that you can bring your speaker along to your camping trips, and even to the beach as this handy device is both sturdy and waterproof!

And if you have decided of the Sonos Amp and like the sound of a subwoofer, then check out the Sonos Sub, with its impressive audio capabilities and flexible smart home integration.

For those of you who are old school with a modern streak, will enjoy this Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC Turntable for vinyl, designed for Sonos users. As it’s compatible with Sonos Amp, Port, Connect and Connect: Amp.

Lastly, check out this Sanus Wall Mount for your new Sonos Amp. This secure mount is suitable for most flat surfaces and will allow you to set your Amp up at the level you prefer for improved sound quality.


Sonos Amp vs. Connect — Our Thoughts

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In the end, it’s clear that Sonos Amp is the better choice among the two, particularly if you don’t already own a receiver unit, or if you’re simply just starting out with your home HiFi system.

Sonos Amp is fairly flexible, as it’s compatible with both outdoor as well as indoor speakers, and even includes an impressive amplifier which pumps out 125 watts per channel, as well as including support for a subwoofer if you choose to have one, not to mention support for an HDMI input, as well as Apple Airplay 2.

However, if you already own a receiver, and don’t want a subwoofer, but still want to add wireless streaming capabilities for your home speakers, the Sonos Connect will suit you fine too, while also coming at a slightly cheaper price, thus making it a simpler option for your HiFi system.

Last update on 2024-03-29 at 03:13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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