![]() (Note: Google play was added to Sonos after I initially wrote this article, so I decided to update this article. In other words, there are a lot more apps that work with Airplay using an iOS device. For example, if you currently want to stream iTunes Radio, Tidal, Overcast, JazzRadio, Downcast, or audio from most any other iOS app (including sending audio from video apps) to an Airport Express, you can do so with Airplay. These apps are designed to work with different services that have a Sonos plug in.Īirplay audio works with nearly every audio app on iOS. However, I have never used a wireless solution, so I am not sure how well they work.Ĩ. Also, there are devices available by Outlaw and others that will make any speakers wireless. You should be able to put together a wired setup that is cheaper and sounds better for less money, though. I am not aware of anyone making wireless 5.1 systems for Airplay (although there are so many Airplay devices that I could be wrong). The sound bar is $699, the sub is $699, if you use Play1s for your surrounds, they are $199 each + the $49 for the Bridge. I should mention that I can put an Airport Express in 4 systems for the same price as the Connect + Bridge.ħ. It also works on wifi or by direct ethernet connection. It costs, $349 + $49 for the Bridge (the bridge is no longer needed) if you connect it via Sonos wifi.Īpple makes the Airport Express that connects to your current system via digital or analog. Sonos makes a Connect that will attach to your current system via analog or digital. ![]() Unlike Sonos, most bookshelf speakers actually publish their specs.Ħ. However, I would highly suggest getting an Airplay capable receiver and wired bookshelf speakers if you want to use Airplay in a stereo environment. You can buy Airplay systems like the Phillips DS9800W that comes with stereo speakers. I am not aware of any Airplay speakers that have this ability. Sonos has the ability to add another speaker and use them for stereo. The speakers with USB inputs can charge and play audio from devices like the iPad and iPhone.ĥ. When outside of wifi, some of them have Aux (the cheapest Sonos Speaker with Aux input costs $399) and USB inputs that make them more versatile for a portable setup. Unlike Sonos, many have batteries and can be portable. Since it is available in many different products, you can find speakers in the $75 range. These speakers need to be plugged in and they start at $199.Īirplay is available in individual speakers, too. The Airplay devices connect directly to your current network via wifi or a direct connection via ethernet.Ĥ. (Note: This is no longer required unless you are using their surround system or want to continue using their mesh network) Sonos requires a $49 Bridge that connects to your router to setup a wifi network. ![]() It connects directly to your current network.ģ. The Airport Express can bridge or expand your wifi network. This can be beneficial if your wifi is a problem. Sonos sets up a separate "mesh" wifi signal (in late 2014, Sonos added an update to allow you to also use your regular network) that works outside of your main wifi setup. Airplay can be used for video, photos, and for mirroring a computer screen with the AppleTV.Ģ. They also license the use of Airplay to many different companies from inexpensive devices by Phillips to high end products by McIntosh.īelow I am going to list several features of each of these wireless streaming services and how the other compares (NOTE: Be aware that I strongly suggest buying either product from a vendor with a good return policy in case you have problems that you can't resolve):ġ. Apple makes the Apple TV and the Airport Express that both receive an Airplay signal. Airplay is a small part of the Apple ecosystem. ![]() All of the Sonos devices are made by Sonos. For example, Sonos makes individual speakers, a sub, and a device that is simply for connecting to a separate DAC/receiver. Sonos and Airplay are used for wireless/wired streaming in many different devices. For those that aren't aware, Sonos and Airplay have many similarities, but there a major differences between the two. Since Sonos new marketing blitz, I have seen a lot of questions related to how Sonos compares to Apple's Airplay. NOTE: Please make sure you also check out my newer 2010 Mac Mini vs Sonos Connect article. ![]()
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