For all those addicted to superior quality sound, Sonos has introduced its own device called Sonos amp. It helps power your existing speakers and other audio components, thus integrating them into your powerful Sonos system. But the question remains whether one should go for a Sonos Amp or a Receiver. Each of them has its own pros and cons, and these have to be considered before making a purchase. More importantly, it is necessary to analyze your requirement so that the device you choose does not go out of sync. Read on to know more about these devices so you can make a decision.
Further reading: What Is SonosNet? What You Need To Know
What Is Sonos Amp?
An amplifier is a device that is capable of amplifying an audio signal before a speaker plays it. A Sonos Amp can be connected to a speaker for the same purpose whether the speaker is in-wall, kept on the floor, in-ceiling, or anywhere else. It can be joined with the Sonos wireless system to get the best audio quality possible.
The speakers can then be controlled through the Sonos app. Sonos amp is designed so that it can be linked to your CD changers, TVs, etc, making them part of the Sonos family. The device is also the best choice if you want to make a home-theatre set up at your place.
With a single Sonos Amp, you can add stereo sound to your TV, while owning two will make possible surround sound. Unlike its predecessor, this amplifier can power up to four speakers and promises 125 watts per channel.
What Is A Receiver?
A receiver comes with an in-built amplifier, but it is just not only about amplifying audio. It comes with added functionalities like input selection, radio, tuner, volume controls, and much more. So now you know that amplifier and receiver are not one and the same.
Basically, if you own an amplifier that has a radio in it, it can be called a receiver. So all receivers can be called amplifiers, but all amplifiers are not receivers. There are many types of receivers available, and you can select the one suited to what the exact use is going to be.
A receiver is like a complete package that encompasses many units. So naturally, this can be a preferred choice for many. If you are about to have a home theatre and want every component to be connected in a single room, a receiver can be helpful.
But if you are more of a sound person who doesn’t want to compromise on the audio part, the amplifier will be better. And this is the best decision if you are looking for a multi-room setup.
The two main types of receivers are stereo receivers and A/V receivers. While the former supports only audio, the latter supports both audio and video. For casual music lovers, stereo receivers can be best as it is convenient to use. A/V receivers have several inputs to connect multiple things like gaming consoles, streaming devices, etc to the TV and speakers.
Pros and Cons of Sonos Amp and Receiver
Pros Of Having Sonos Amp
- Having an amplifier will require you to pick everything like an amplifier, pre-amps, tuner, and others separately. You get to have better control of the components in this way.
- Upgrading components separately will be an easier option. If you want to upgrade the amplifier, you just have to do that. This is way better than getting a whole unit just for the fault of one component.
Cons Of Having Sonos Amp
- Buying a Sonos Amp and then other components separately will be an expensive affair.
- A lot of space will be taken up by an amplifier as a full system needs all the components in place.
Pros Of Receiver
- Buying a receiver will make your home-theatre set up completely as it comes with everything you need, including input and volume controls, inputs for video and audio, preamp, amplifier, and mostly a tuner.
- Receivers can be space-saving as the components are in-built.
- Having a receiver with all units in it is cheaper than buying the components separately.
Cons Of Receiver
- Receiver amps cannot be as good as a separate amplifiers. As it has to accommodate all components, there exists very little space for the amplifier. This small amplifier may not be able to power the big speakers you own.
- If some part of the receiver needs replacement, the whole unit has to be replaced. There is no way to upgrade any single component.
When Do You Have To Opt For Sonos Amp?
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Purchasing a Sonos Amp will be a good idea if you want to connect your wired speakers and other audio devices to the Sonos system. This paves the way for better control of the speakers, and it also lets you take advantage of all the features available with Sonos.
For instance, if you want to connect your speakers to any of the Sonos speakers in a multi-room setup, you can go for a Sonos Amp that will combine these without any hassle. Or, if you have outdoor speakers and you want to enjoy music in your garden, Sonos Amp can make this happen for you. These are just a few instances among many others that will make Sonos amp work for you.
Sonos Amp or a receiver can be a great add-on to your home theatre system if you know which one to keep. If you just enjoy movies and music like any other person, a receiver is all you need. In that case, the system can be kept in a room with not-so-huge speakers. But if you are a hard-core music/movie addict who wants the perfect sound, Sonos Amp will be a cool choice. You can then customize it according to your taste by having larger speakers and utilizing multi-room features, and having the best time of your life.