Introduction
The Sonos Era 100 is the latest addition to Sonos’s lineup of smart speakers, promising exceptional sound quality, advanced connectivity, and a sleek, eco-friendly design. With features like Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 6, USB-C line-in, and enhanced stereo audio, it’s a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the Sonos One. But is it worth the $249 price tag? Let’s dive into this comprehensive review to find out.
Sonos Era 100: Key Features at a Glance
- True Stereo Sound: Redesigned acoustic architecture with dual tweeters and a midwoofer.
- Modern Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 6, and USB-C line-in for ultimate flexibility.
- Voice Control: Supports Alexa, Sonos Voice Control, and Google Assistant (via app).
- Eco-Friendly Design: Built with recycled materials and a more sustainable approach.
Sound Quality: Stereo Redefined
Immersive Audio Performance
The Sonos Era 100 introduces dual-angled tweeters for true stereo sound—unlike the Sonos One, which only provided mono output. This improvement results in wider sound dispersion and a more immersive listening experience.
- Bass: The redesigned midwoofer delivers deeper, richer bass without distortion.
- Midrange and Highs: Clear, warm mids and crisp highs make the speaker versatile for all genres of music.
- Trueplay Tuning: Optimizes sound based on the acoustics of your room. Now compatible with Android and iOS devices.
Whether it’s a movie soundtrack or your favorite playlist, the Era 100 fills the room with balanced, high-quality audio.
Connectivity: Modern Options for Every Setup
Modern Options for Every SetupWi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0
The addition of Bluetooth makes the Sonos Era 100 stand out, offering greater flexibility compared to earlier models. Wi-Fi 6 ensures faster, more reliable connections, even in crowded network environments.
USB-C Line-In
For audiophiles, the USB-C line-in option (adapter sold separately) opens up new possibilities, allowing you to connect external devices like turntables or CD players.
Apple AirPlay 2
Stream seamlessly from Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs, with AirPlay 2 integration.
Design: Compact and Environmentally Conscious
Minimalist Aesthetics
The Era 100 features a sleek, rounded design with a premium matte finish, available in black or white. Its small footprint allows it to fit anywhere, from bookshelves to countertops.
Sustainable Build
Sonos has committed to sustainability by incorporating recycled materials and reducing energy consumption.
Improved Touch Controls
The updated control panel allows for smoother adjustments to volume and playback.
Voice Control: Hands-Free Convenience
The Sonos Era 100 supports multiple voice assistants:
- Amazon Alexa and Sonos Voice Control for hands-free control.
- Google Assistant integration through the Sonos app.
For those concerned about privacy, the speaker includes a physical microphone switch, allowing you to disable voice controls entirely.
Drawbacks of the Sonos Era 100
While the Sonos Era 100 excels in many areas, there are a few potential downsides:
- Price: At $249, it’s more expensive than many other smart speakers.
- No Dolby Atmos: Unlike the Sonos Era 300, the Era 100 doesn’t support spatial audio or Dolby Atmos.
- USB-C Adapter Sold Separately: To use the line-in feature, you’ll need to purchase an additional adapter.
Sonos Era 100 vs. Sonos One: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
The Era 100 offers significant improvements over the Sonos One, including stereo sound, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB-C input. If these features are important to you, the Era 100 is worth considering as an upgrade.
Who should Buy the Sonos Era 100?
The Sonos Era 100 is perfect for:
-
- Audiophiles seeking premium sound quality in a compact speaker.
- Smart home enthusiasts who want a versatile, voice-controlled speaker.
- Existing Sonos users looking to expand their multi-room setup.
- Design-conscious buyers who want a speaker that complements their home décor.
FAQs
1. What is the Sonos Era 100?
The Sonos Era 100 is a next-generation smart speaker offering stereo sound, Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 6, and USB-C line-in connectivity. It builds on the popular Sonos One with enhanced sound quality, modern design, and improved functionality.
2. How does the Sonos Era 100 sound compared to other speakers?
The Sonos Era 100 delivers true stereo sound with dual tweeters and a redesigned midwoofer for rich bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. It’s a step up from the Sonos One and competes strongly with other premium smart speakers like the Apple HomePod and Amazon Echo Studio.
3. Does the Sonos Era 100 support Bluetooth?
Yes, the Sonos Era 100 is one of the first Sonos speakers to include Bluetooth 5.0, in addition to Wi-Fi, for more versatile connectivity options.
4. What voice assistants does the Sonos Era 100 support?
The Sonos Era 100 works with:
- Amazon Alexa
- Sonos Voice Control
- Google Assistant (via the Sonos app, but not built-in).
You can also disable the microphone using the physical privacy switch.
5. Does the Sonos Era 100 support Dolby Atmos?
No, the Sonos Era 100 does not support Dolby Atmos. If you’re looking for a Sonos speaker with Dolby Atmos, consider the Sonos Era 300 or the Sonos Arc soundbar.
6. Can I connect a turntable or other external devices to the Sonos Era 100?
Yes, the Sonos Era 100 includes a USB-C line-in port for connecting external devices like turntables or CD players. However, you’ll need to purchase a USB-C-to-3.5mm adapter, which is sold separately.
7. What’s the difference between the Sonos Era 100 and the Sonos One?
The Sonos Era 100 improves on the Sonos One with:
- True stereo sound via dual tweeters.
- Bluetooth 5.0 for easier pairing.
- USB-C line-in for external devices.
- A more modern, eco-friendly design.
8. Is the Sonos Era 100 portable?
No, the Sonos Era 100 is not portable and requires a power outlet. If you need a portable Sonos speaker, consider the Sonos Move or Sonos Roam.
9. How much does the Sonos Era 100 cost?
The Sonos Era 100 is priced at approximately $249, making it a premium option in the smart speaker category.
10. Can I use the Sonos Era 100 in a multi-room setup?
Yes, the Sonos Era 100 integrates seamlessly with other Sonos products, making it an excellent addition to a multi-room audio system.
11. Is the Sonos Era 100 compatible with AirPlay 2?
Yes, the Sonos Era 100 supports Apple AirPlay 2, allowing you to stream directly from Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
12. Is the Sonos Era 100 easy to set up?
Yes, the Sonos Era 100 is user-friendly and comes with step-by-step instructions via the Sonos app, making setup quick and intuitive.
Final Verdict: Is the Sonos Era 100 Worth It?
The Sonos Era 100 is an impressive addition to the smart speaker market, offering exceptional sound, modern connectivity options, and a sleek design. While its price and lack of Dolby Atmos may deter some, the Era 100 delivers enough innovation and performance to make it a worthy investment for most users.
If you’re looking for a smart speaker that combines high-quality audio with advanced features, the Sonos Era 100 is an excellent choice.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.