Tech

Difference between Sonos Port and Amp

Difference between Sonos Port and Amp

Sonos Port and Amp are Wi-Fi-enabled streaming components, which connect to your existing HIFI with a line in. It allows you to stream services like Spotify, TuneIn Radio, Apple Music, plus Audiables on your speakers. They both serve the same function, but there are instances where one is warranted over the other. Generally, they are used with amplifiers, CD players, older stereo systems, ceiling speakers, and turntables.

For example, you have an old stereo system that has bookshelf speakers and amplifiers. You’ll like to stream Spotify in it. You can add a Sonos Port on the amplifier and stream Spotify and other services. On the other hand, if you’re interested in installing ceiling speakers in your house. You will need to acquire a separate amplifier as such speakers are passive. A good old Sonos Amp would easily do the trick to power the ceiling speakers. Here is more on Sonos Port and Amp including what sets them apart.

Sonos Port Vs. Amp

The primary distinguishing factor between Sonos Port and Sonos Amplifiers is that the Sonos Amp has in-built amplification that can power passive speakers like ceiling speakers, in-wall speakers, and floor standing speakers. Conversely, the port does not power passive speakers since it doesn’t have in-built amplification. It’s a wireless streaming device that allows you to connect to an already powered speaker like a receiver or amplifier.

Amplifiers are somewhat superior to Sonos Port since the devices can supply power to the passive speaker but also allow you to stream any service like Spotify. Something Sonos Port can’t do. They work as a power trigger. On the other hand, Sonos Ports are tiny box-shaped components connected to amplifiers and home stereos to enhance your audio efficiency. They have in-built digital to analog converter.

What is Sonos Port?

Sonos Port is a device connected to your AV device or Stereo system to sync all speakers in your house for a better sound experience. At first glance, the device appears like a Matt-like box with an RCA that connects all audio devices. For example, you can connect your turntable, projector, and any other AV systems that are usually hard to merge with other systems.

It comes with a 12 volts power trigger, which supplies power to the receiver in standby mode when efficiently used. Furthermore, it has an in-built digital-analog converter that gives it an edge over its competitors since it provides excellent sound quality. This is in retrospect to the high demand for sound quality plus a device that allows you to have internet media playback.

When you connect this device to an amplifier, the said Amp will become an Airplay 2. This allows the connected amplifier to access Alexa Google Assistant, and you can command the speakers to do whatever you like using your voice. It also has 10/100 Ethernet ports, enabling users to connect it via a router for a top-tier connection.

What is Sonos Amp?

Sonos Amp can also be referred to as an amplifier since it amplifies and provides power to all the wired connections. It has several features like tons of streaming services like audiobooks, podcasts, radio, music, among other services. You will also any local audio that is stored on the device.

If your system has voice commands like Alexa and Google Assistant connected to an Amp, you will be able to give the speaker voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant. It supports iPhone airplay 2, which allows iPhone users to connect with the device and send sound to it and other speakers connected to the Sonos Amp. The device comes in handy to people that have in-wall or in-ceiling speakers and wish to have various speakers set up in different places in the house but are all in sync.

The speaker has true play a Sonos Amp speaker that allows you to tune speakers in the surroundings for a better listening ear. You will use the Sonos App to adjust speakers. If you have a turntable and want to listen to music over a vinyl record, you can easily do so using the Sonos System with the Sonos Amp. It comes with a physical control button that makes it easy to control.

Difference Between Sonos Port and Sonos Amp

  • Sonos Port does not have an inbuilt amplifier, whereas Sonos Amp, as the name suggests, has its amplifier.
  • Sonos Port cannot trigger power the way Sonos Amp triggers power into speakers.
  • Sonos ports are used on devices that are already powered up. On the other hand, Sonos Amp is used on passive speakers. The device will trigger power into the speaker and put them on in sync in the Sonos systems.
  • Sonos port does not come with any control buttons physically as they come with their own control button. On the other hand, Sonos Amp has physical control buttons as the passive devices do not come with their own control buttons.
  • In terms of cost, Sonos Port is affordable when compared to Sonos Amp. This is because the Sonos Amp has various features and functionalities than Sonos Port.

Conclusion

These are two audio devices that provide an explicit listening experience. You can easily incorporate old systems to be modern-like using wireless Sonos systems. The one to go for will narrow down to your personal needs. For example, if you have modern speakers or any modern AV systems, but want to include the Sonos system into your home audio system, then going for Sonos Port will suffice.

If you have an old audio system or passive speakers, you will need a device to trigger power to other speakers. The amplifier is the best device to go for. They are, however, quite expensive when you compare them with Sonos Port. But the Amp is worth every dime, as you will enjoy an exhilarating audio experience. They both do an excellent job at whatever they do to ensure you attain the best listening experience. Go for one that will satisfy your needs exceptionally.