Enhance everything
This small amplifier will fit anywhere and works with your existing speaker system. You'll get wireless sound through the Sonos Controller app. Sonos Amp also has 125 watts per channel, supports AirPlay 2, Amazon Alexa, HDMI input, connects with other Sonos speakers, is rack-mountable, and easy to set up.
For
- Works for both indoor and outdoor setups
- Provides stereo sound when connected to speakers and TV
- Is rack-mountable
- 125 watts per channel
- Comes with AirPlay 2, HDMI input, custom configurations
Against
- Pretty pricey
- You'll need your own speaker set already
Just the basics
If you just want a device that can work with your existing speaker system to turn them into wireless receivers, then the Sonos Connect does just that. It's small and compact, so it doesn't get in the way. It can connect to anything via the different analog and coaxial digital audio outputs it uses. The Sonos Connect also works with Amazon Alexa.
For
- Updates your existing speaker system with wireless streaming
- Compact size
- Connects to any receiver via analog or coaxial digital audio output
- Also includes a line-in
- Works with your existing receiver
Against
- Only comes in white
- Does not have a built-in amplifier
- No subwoofer line-out
- Doesn't work without receiver
The Sonos Connect and Sonos Amp are similar in some ways, but one is definitely a significant improvement over the other and well worth the price difference.
Let's break it down
If you care about having a unit that is compact so that it doesn't get in the way of your home audio setup, then the Sonos Connect has an advantage. However, the Sonos Amp is slightly larger and more expensive but is capable of doing so much more for your home audio system.
| Header Cell - Column 0 | Sonos Amp | Sonos Connect |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $349 |
| Works with existing speakers | Yes | Yes |
| Amazon Alexa | Yes | Yes, but requires separate Alexa device |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both | Indoor only |
| Built-in receiver | Yes | No (need your own) |
| Amplifier | Yes, up to 125 watts per channel | No |
| Sonos Controller app | Yes | No |
| Subwoofer line-out | Yes | No |
| Colors | Black | White |
Overall, we believe that the Sonos Amp is the better pick out of the two, especially if you do not already have a receiver unit in your home or are just starting out with your home audio system.
The Sonos Amp acts in place of a receiver, which usually costs around the same price anyway, so it's one less thing you need. Plus, the Sonos Amp works with both indoor and outdoor speakers, the amplifier pumps out 125 watts per channel, and it has support for a subwoofer if you have one. All of your audio can be controlled through the Sonos Controller app, and there's seamless Amazon Alexa integration built-in, along with AirPlay 2 support and HDMI input.
However, if you already have a receiver, don't have or need a subwoofer, and want to add wireless streaming capabilities to existing indoor speakers, then the Sonos Connect is fine. The Sonos Connect is also $250 less than the Connect: Amp. It also has a smaller profile, though the white color may stick out like a sore thumb if your setup is black.
It does it all
The Sonos Amp is a great addition to anyone's existing home speaker system, especially if you don't already have a receiver. It acts as one itself. The amplifier provides enough power for all indoor and outdoor speakers with 125 watts of power per channel. It even has a subwoofer line-out for the best audio experience as well as HDMI input. Sonos Amp works with Amazon Alexa, AirPlay 2, and the Sonos Controller app.
For when you already have your own receiver
The Sonos Connect is an excellent addition to your speaker system if you already have your own receiver. It's also incredibly versatile with all of the analog and coaxial connections that it uses. No matter what speakers you're already using, the Sonos Connect will work flawlessly. Just be warned that the Sonos Connect does not have support for subwoofers, only the Connect:Amp does. Sonos Connect also works with Amazon Alexa if you have a separate Alexa device, but not with the Sonos Controller app.
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