Description
Introduction to the Sonos Connect:AMP (ZP120)
I’ve had the pleasure of testing the Sonos Connect:AMP (ZP120) for a while, and honestly, it’s been quite a ride. This device essentially turns your existing speakers into a wireless music streaming system, which feels like a game-changer for anyone who loves their current speaker setup but wants to embrace modern tech. With its 55 watts of amplifying power, the product promises a lot. And, of course, I had to dive in and see if it delivers on all fronts.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that struck me was the compact and sturdy build of the Sonos Connect:AMP. At 6.83 pounds and with dimensions of 1.55 x 1.55 x 1.55 inches, it’s surprisingly small for what it packs inside. Its neutral design blends seamlessly into my living room setup. I placed it on my bookshelf next to some décor pieces, and it didn’t look out of place at all.
But it’s not just about aesthetics. The device feels robust and well-made. I accidentally bumped it while rearranging some furniture, and it didn’t show a scratch. While it’s not water-resistant, it’s clear that this is meant for indoor use, and it performs beautifully in that context.
Performance and Audio Quality
This is where the Sonos Connect:AMP truly shines. I connected it to my floor-standing speakers, and the result was nothing short of spectacular. The dynamic driver delivers clear mids and highs, while the bass feels punchy without being overwhelming. I tested it with genres ranging from jazz to EDM, and it held up across the board.
One standout feature is its ability to support a 2.0 or 2.1 surround sound configuration. For someone like me who loves watching movies with crisp audio, this was invaluable. It’s worth noting that the subwoofer connectivity technology is wired, so you’ll need to factor that into your setup.
The Wi-Fi connectivity protocol worked like a charm. Streaming music from my smartphone and laptop was seamless, with no noticeable lag or drop in quality. The system also supports five power levels, which allowed me to tweak the audio output to fit different moods and settings.
Control Options
Controlling the Sonos Connect:AMP was delightfully simple. The device can be managed via its button controls, but what I loved most was the app control. The app is intuitive and offers a lot of customization options, from setting up multiple rooms to adjusting the equalizer for each connected speaker.
I remember one evening, I was hosting a small gathering. Using the app, I synced up music across multiple rooms with a few taps. It’s these little conveniences that make the product stand out.
Benefits
Here are some of the key benefits I noticed during my time with the product:
- Seamless wireless connectivity that eliminates the need for messy cables.
- High compatibility with smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops.
- 55 watts of power ensures rich and detailed sound.
- Intuitive app control, perfect for syncing music in multiple rooms.
- Compact and aesthetically pleasing design that fits any space.
Drawbacks
That said, no product is without its flaws. Here are some areas for improvement I came across:
- No Bluetooth support, which might be a dealbreaker for some.
- The lack of water resistance makes it unsuitable for outdoor use.
- Wired subwoofer connectivity might feel limiting to users accustomed to fully wireless systems.
Competing Products
Comparing the Sonos Connect:AMP to competitors like the Yamaha WXA-50 and Denon HEOS Amp, it becomes clear where each product excels. The Yamaha WXA-50 offers similar wireless streaming capabilities but includes Bluetooth support, which I missed with the Sonos. On the other hand, the Denon HEOS Amp provides slightly more power output, but its app interface isn’t as intuitive.
What sets the Sonos apart is its user-friendly multiroom system and seamless app integration. If you’re someone who prioritizes ease of use and a clean design, this product still holds its own against these competitors.
Value for Money
When thinking about the value proposition of the Sonos Connect:AMP, it’s clear that you’re paying for reliability, seamless connectivity, and a well-integrated app ecosystem. While the price point might seem steep initially, the combination of features and build quality makes it a worthy investment for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
If you already own high-quality speakers and want to bring them into the modern age of wireless streaming, this device is a no-brainer. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or need Bluetooth, it’s worth exploring other options.
Overall, the Sonos Connect:AMP (ZP120) is a fantastic addition to any home audio setup, blending modern wireless capabilities with the timeless appeal of traditional speakers.
