Sonos Play:1 2-Pack (White, 2013) Review” style=”max-width: 100%; height: auto; max-height: 180px; object-fit: contain;”>
Introduction
In the world of wireless multi-room audio systems, few names carry as much weight as Sonos. The Sonos Play:1 (2013) 2 Pack in White offers a compelling entry into this ecosystem, especially at its bundled price of $399. This pair of compact speakers promises room-filling sound, seamless streaming from services like Spotify, Pandora, and Apple Music, and the flexibility to play different music in separate rooms or sync them for unified listening. With a solid 4.2 out of 5-star rating from over 1,102 Amazon reviews, it’s clear these speakers have earned a loyal following. But do they live up to the hype in 2023? In this comprehensive Sonos Play:1 2 pack review, we’ll dive deep into performance, features, user feedback, and whether this older model still holds value for modern homes seeking the best wireless speakers for multi-room audio.
Product Overview
The Sonos Play:1, released in 2013, remains a staple in the Sonos lineup for its minimalist design and powerful audio punch. This 2-pack deal (white finish) saves you $50 compared to buying individually, making it an attractive starter kit for building a whole-home sound system. Each speaker measures about 6.3 x 4.7 x 4.7 inches—roughly the size of a coffee can—and weighs just 4.1 pounds, allowing versatile placement on shelves, counters, or wall-mounted with optional stands.
Key features include:
- Wireless Multi-Room Audio: Play the same music across both speakers or different tunes in separate rooms. They integrate seamlessly with other Sonos products for surrounds in home theater setups.
- Streaming Support: Access Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music, and thousands of internet radio stations via the Sonos app (available for iOS, Android, PC, and Mac).
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: No Bluetooth hassles—true wireless streaming over your home network. Initial setup requires a wired Ethernet connection for the first speaker, but subsequent ones go fully wireless.
- App Control: Intuitive interface for EQ tweaks (bass/treble), volume, playlists, and grouping. Multiple users can control simultaneously.
- Audio Specs: Single mid-woofer and tweeter per speaker deliver clear highs, balanced mids, and surprising bass for the size. Max volume reaches party levels without much distortion.
Priced at $399 for two, these are plug-in speakers (no battery), emphasizing reliability over portability. They’re S1-compatible but can upgrade to S2 software for newer features, though some older units may face limitations with the latest ecosystem changes.
Pros
The Sonos Play:1 2-pack shines in several areas, making it a smart pick for audio enthusiasts. Here are the top advantages based on hands-on testing and aggregated user insights:
- Exceptional Sound for Size: Don’t let the compact form fool you—these speakers pump out rich, room-filling audio with impressive clarity and volume. Users rave about blasting rock or jazz in garages and bedrooms, with minimal distortion even at high levels. Paired as stereo, they outperform many larger Bluetooth speakers.
- Seamless Multi-Room Functionality: The true magic of Sonos: sync the pair for stereo in one room or separate them for independent playback. Expand easily to other Sonos gear for whole-home or surround sound, perfect for parties or daily listening.
- Effortless Setup and App Control: Most users report 10-30 minute wi-fi setup via the official Sonos app. Control from phone, tablet, or PC simultaneously—no more Bluetooth pairing woes. Trueplay tuning optimizes sound based on room placement.
- Broad Streaming Compatibility: Integrates with Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, internet radio (including NPR), and local libraries. No need for aux inputs; everything’s wireless.
- Versatile and Durable Build: Sleek white design fits anywhere. Wall-mountable, humidity-resistant for bathrooms/kitchens, and powered by AC for uninterrupted play—no battery anxiety.
- Great Value in Bundles: At $399 for two ($199.50 each), it’s a steal compared to single units or competitors like Bose. Ideal starter for Sonos ecosystem expansion.
- Reliable Wireless Performance: Strong Wi-Fi mesh ensures stable streaming across homes, outperforming Bluetooth in range and multi-device support.
Cons
No product is perfect, and the Play:1 shows its age in a few spots. Here’s a balanced look at the drawbacks:
- Premium Price Tag: $399 feels steep for 2013 tech, especially without advanced features like voice assistants (Alexa/Google on newer models) or AirPlay 2. Budget shoppers may prefer newer budget alternatives.
- No Built-in Battery or Portability: Must stay plugged in, limiting use to outlets. Not ideal for outdoor or on-the-go scenarios.
- Basic Equalizer and Software Quirks: Only treble/bass sliders—no full parametric EQ. Older S1 software has iTunes playlist import issues; S2 upgrades can be finicky on legacy hardware.
- Initial Ethernet Requirement: First speaker needs a wired connection for setup, which can trip up non-tech-savvy users without easy Ethernet access.
- Occasional Connectivity Glitches: Some report dropouts, static on weak networks, or app unreliability, especially post-S2 updates. Not as plug-and-play as advertised for everyone.
Customer Reviews Analysis
With 1,102 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, the Sonos Play:1 2-pack garners strong praise tempered by common gripes. Positive feedback dominates (around 70-80% 4-5 stars), focusing on sound quality and ecosystem magic.
Top Positives from Reviews:
- Sound Quality: Users are “amazed” by the volume and clarity from such small speakers. One reviewer blasted Led Zeppelin in a 24×30 garage with “little or no distortion,” rating them “excellent” relative to size. Paired as stereo, they deliver “much better quality and fill.”
- Setup and App: “A snap” in under 30 minutes for most. Replaces Bluetooth frustrations—no pairing issues. Multi-user control is a “miracle,” with intuitive grouping and streaming from PC/iTunes/Spotify.
- Versatility: Great as standalone, stereo pairs, or surrounds. Integrates with Play:5/Sub for high-end setups. Thousands of radio stations and party-ready multi-room sync highlighted.
Common Complaints:
- Price: “Ridiculous” at full MSRP, though bundles help. Some lament discontinued starter kits.
- Software Issues: iTunes playlists don’t import properly (titles show but tracks fail); no easy fix despite Sonos support. S2 updates wipe settings, turning speakers into “paperweights.”
- Reliability: Intermittent dropouts, iPhone detection failures, and network dependency. One user called the software “quirky, unreliable,” abandoning expansion plans.
- Other: Needs Ethernet initially; basic EQ; no outdoor/battery options.
Overall, enthusiasts forgive cons for the ecosystem’s uniqueness, but casual users frustrated by glitches rate lower. Recent reviews note better longevity with strong Wi-Fi (add a Boost if needed).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Sonos Play:1 support Bluetooth?
No, it uses Wi-Fi for superior range and stability. Bluetooth isn’t supported, but the app handles all streaming needs effortlessly.
Can I use these speakers outdoors?
They’re not weatherproof or battery-powered, so indoor use only. For patios, pair with newer IP-rated Sonos models like Move or Roam.
Do they work with the latest Sonos app (S2)?
Yes, but as 2013 models, they’re S1 primary with S2 upgrade possible. Check compatibility; some features/services may limit older hardware.
What’s the battery life?
No battery—these require a constant AC power outlet for wireless operation, ensuring always-on performance without recharges.
Can I pair them for stereo sound?
Absolutely. The app lets you bond the two into a stereo pair for wider soundstage, or separate for multi-room use.
Who Should Buy This Product
The Sonos Play:1 2 Pack is ideal for:
- Sonos Ecosystem Starters: Perfect entry at a discount to test multi-room audio before scaling up.
- Music Lovers in Small-Medium Rooms: Bedrooms, offices, garages—where compact, powerful sound rules.
- Party Hosts or Families: Sync for events or independent zones; multi-device control shines.
- Streamers Ditching Bluetooth: Tired of pairing hassles? These deliver reliable, app-driven audio.
Avoid if you need portability, advanced voice integration, or ultra-budget options. Tech-savvy users with solid Wi-Fi will thrive; beginners may need patience with setup.
Final Verdict
The Sonos Play:1 (2013) 2 Pack in White earns its 4.2-star reputation as a timeless wireless speaker duo, blending compact design with ecosystem prowess that still competes today. At $399, the sound-to-size ratio, multi-room flexibility, and streaming ease make it a worthwhile investment for Sonos fans—pros like effortless control and party-ready volume far outweigh cons like price and software quirks. However, its age shows in limited EQ, no battery, and potential S2 hiccups, so consider newer models like One SL for modern perks.
Recommendation: Buy if you’re building a Sonos system (4.3/5). Great value bundle, but verify network strength and skip if portability matters. Thousands of happy users prove it’s a solid foundation for immersive home audio.
