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Average Price: $454

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$300

$801+

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Description

Engineered to deliver premium sound quality for your studio, the Sonos Play:5 Gen 2 is an active studio monitor that redefines what you expect from your audio equipment. With six custom-designed drivers, this powerhouse ensures every note, beat, and harmony is captured with precision. Whether you're mixing tracks or simply enjoying your favorite tunes, the Play:5 provides an immersive listening experience with its state-of-the-art acoustic architecture.

Perfect for both professional and home studios, the Sonos Play:5 seamlessly integrates into your audio setup, offering flexible connectivity options and intuitive controls. Its versatile design allows you to position it either horizontally or vertically, adapting to your space and aesthetic preferences. Plus, the Trueplay tuning technology fine-tunes the sound based on the acoustics of your room, ensuring that you always get optimal audio performance.

Compatible with the wider Sonos ecosystem, the Play:5 can be easily paired with other Sonos speakers to create a fully immersive sound environment. Stream directly from your favorite music services or connect via line-in to enjoy a world of audio possibilities. Whether you're a seasoned producer or a passionate music lover, the Sonos Play:5 Gen 2 is a reliable companion for superior studio sound.

Key Features:

  • Six custom-designed drivers for powerful, precise sound
  • Trueplay tuning technology for acoustic optimization
  • Compatible with the Sonos ecosystem for multi-room audio
  • Flexible placement options: horizontal or vertical
  • Line-in connectivity for additional audio sources
  • Intuitive touch controls for easy operation
Music Trade Center

Music Trade Center

Kef Ls50 Wireless Vs. Sonos Play 5 Gen 2 (Stereo Pair). Keith Don't Go.

Video thumbnail for Kef Ls50 Wireless Vs. Sonos Play 5 Gen 2 (Stereo Pair). Keith Don't Go. by Music Trade Center

Kef Ls50 Wireless Vs. Sonos Play 5 Gen 2 (Stereo Pair). Keith Don't Go.

Music Trade Center

Music Trade Center

Video thumbnail for Sonos Play 5 Gen 2 Vs. Marshall Stanmore Multiroom by Music Trade Center

Sonos Play 5 Gen 2 Vs. Marshall Stanmore Multiroom

Music Trade Center

Music Trade Center

Video thumbnail for Sonos PLAY 5 Gen 2 Review by Urban Republic

Sonos PLAY 5 Gen 2 Review

Urban Republic

Urban Republic

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent sound quality fills room with rich audio

  • Simple and intuitive setup process

  • Seamless wireless streaming across multiple devices

  • Ability to control music from PC, tablet, or smartphone

  • Allows for simultaneous multi-room music playback

  • Wide access to streaming services and internet radio

  • Strong bass response, especially with paired subwoofer

  • Sturdy and solid build quality

  • Multiple users can control playback at the same time

  • Can adjust EQ settings via basic bass/treble controls

CONS

  • High price point for the product

  • Basic equalizer lacks advanced customization options

  • Requires AC power, not battery-operated

  • Known issues with defective Wi-Fi/network cards

  • Some complications with importing iTunes playlists

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sonos Play:5 Gen 2.

Use cases and applications

  • In large spaces like a 60m² room, combining multiple speakers (e.g., Beam, Ones, Sub Mini) with Play Fives creates a fuller audio experience.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Users have found bargains on newer Play:5s through third-party platforms like Facebook Marketplace, illustrating potential for significant savings.

    Source
  • Some owners suggest investing in a Sub Mini or smart home accessories instead of upgrading from a Play:5 Gen 2 to a Sonos Five if sound differences are negligible.

    Source
  • The Sonos Play:5 Gen 2 offers impressive sound quality at a lower cost compared to traditional high-end audio setups.

    Source

User experience

  • A user who bought two Play:5s at a discount decided to keep both due to the enhanced sound experience, despite not needing two in their space.

    Source
  • Owners report that using a subwoofer with Play:5 Gen 2 enhances the audio setup, offering significant bass improvement even though it's not necessary for everyone.

    Source
  • Trueplay tuning significantly improves the stereo pair's performance, making them a strong contender despite not being traditional hi-fi.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users retrofit Play:5s with Raspberry Pi for AirPlay capabilities, making them "smart" amps with increased functionality.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Older Play:5 models are noted for superior build quality compared to current Sonos Fives, with users observing differences in design and materials.

    Source
  • Sonos Fives are praised for bass extension and mids, comparable to more traditional hi-fi setups in terms of enjoyment.

    Source
  • Owners find the Sonos Play:5 midrange superior to Genelec monitors, despite Genelec's reputation for accuracy.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Play:5's DSP is highly praised, but some users suggest turning it into a two-way speaker with an external DSP for enhanced EQ flexibility.

    Source
  • The Play:5 is engineered with side-firing tweeters intended for enhanced soundstage in single speaker use.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Play:5 Gen 2 and Five cannot be paired for stereo; both speakers in a stereo pair must be of the same model.

    Source
  • Early Play:5 Gen 2 models had Wi-Fi card issues; newer Sonos Five models feature improved Wi-Fi cards, enhancing stability for wireless music playback.

    Source
  • The Sonos app is widely criticized for poor functionality, negatively impacting user experience.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Sonos Play:5 Gen 2 performs best in a two-channel, toed-in setup with low volume for optimal bass and stereo imaging.

    Source

Critic Reviews

REVIEW: Sonos PLAY:5 (2nd Gen) - At Home in the Future

athomeinthefuture.com

The Sonos Play:5 Gen 2 is a powerhouse that redefines home audio with its striking design and unparalleled sound quality. The speaker's setup process is effortless, enhanced by the innovative Trueplay room tuning feature that tailors the listening experience. However, its premium price tag may deter budget-conscious buyers, especially when compared to cheaper alternatives. Still, those willing to invest will be rewarded with rich audio and flawless wireless integration. Overall, the Play:5 Gen 2 stands out as a top choice for audiophiles, but its cost might raise eyebrows among casual listeners.

positive

Sonos Play:5 (2015) review: The best-sounding Sonos speaker yet - CNET

cnet.com

The Sonos Play:5 Gen 2 delivers rich, powerful sound and an impressive design that makes it a standout in the wireless speaker market. However, its $500 price tag may deter budget-conscious buyers, especially if you're considering a stereo setup. While it excels in bass-heavy genres and offers seamless integration within the Sonos ecosystem, some critics noted a slight boxy sound and sibilance in the treble. Ultimately, the Play:5 is a worthy investment for those seeking quality and aesthetics, but it might not satisfy strict audiophiles looking for top-tier sound quality.

positive

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Paul McCartney uses Sonos Play:5 Gen 2

Paul McCartney

Singer, Bassist

The Beatles

...
Verified via Hog Hill Mill Blog

Paul McCartney uses the Sonos Play:5 Gen 2, as mentioned in the "Monitors & Headphones" section of the Hog Hill Mill Blog.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Sonos Play:5 Gen 2, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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