The Launch
Sonos has introduced the Era 100 SL, a more budget-friendly version of its popular Era 100 smart speaker. Priced at $189/£169, the SL model aims to attract new users to the Sonos ecosystem by offering the same premium audio performance and sleek design as its predecessor, but without the integrated microphone and voice assistant capabilities. This strategic move positions the Era 100 SL as a direct competitor to Apple’s HomePod, providing a compelling audio solution for Apple device users who prioritize sound quality and seamless AirPlay 2 integration.
Key Specifications and Design
The Era 100 SL retains the compact dimensions of the original Era 100, standing 183mm high, 120mm wide, and 131mm deep. It is available in black or white and features a pair of tweeters for high frequencies and a single woofer for mid-range and bass, each powered by its own amplifier. The omission of voice control hardware makes the SL model fractionally lighter, weighing 1.95kg. While it supports Bluetooth and dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), it notably lacks Dolby Atmos or spatial audio support.
How It Works
The Sonos Era 100 SL is primarily designed for wireless audio streaming. Its core functionality revolves around Bluetooth and dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring broad compatibility with various devices and networks. For Apple users, the inclusion of AirPlay 2 support is a significant advantage, allowing for effortless streaming from iPhones, iPads, and Macs, and enabling integration into existing multi-room audio systems alongside other AirPlay-compatible speakers.
Connectivity and Limitations
While wireless connectivity is robust, wired connections present a notable limitation. The USB-C port on the rear of the speaker does not support direct audio input from devices like laptops or smartphones. To achieve a wired connection, users must purchase a separate Sonos adaptor. A basic adaptor with a 3.5mm audio connector costs $19.00/£19.00, while a “combo” adaptor including a 3.5mm connector and an Ethernet interface for wired networking is priced at $39.00. This requirement adds an unexpected cost and inconvenience for users who prefer wired setups or need to connect non-wireless devices.
Who Wins, Who Loses
The introduction of the Sonos Era 100 SL presents a clear win for budget-conscious consumers, particularly those within the Apple ecosystem. The $189 price point makes premium Sonos sound more accessible, offering a strong alternative to the HomePod. Apple users benefit from the enhanced AirPlay 2 integration and the ability to expand their multi-room audio setups at a lower cost. Existing Sonos users looking to add more speakers to their home cinema or multi-room system also stand to gain from this more affordable option. However, users who prioritize built-in voice assistants or require straightforward wired audio input without purchasing additional adaptors may find the Era 100 SL less appealing. The need for a separate adaptor for wired connections could be seen as a drawback, potentially leading to increased overall cost for some users.
| Feature Comparison | Sonos Era 100 SL | Apple HomePod (2nd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $189 / £169 | $299 / £299 |
| AirPlay 2 Support | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Assistant | No | Yes (Siri) |
| Wired Input | Via Adaptor | Via USB-C (limited) |
| Spatial Audio | No | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Thread |
Risks & Compliance Watch
| Gap or Failure Mode | Financial Consequence | What To Monitor |
|---|---|---|
| Wired connection dependency | Increased total cost for users needing wired input | Availability and pricing of Sonos adaptors |
| Lack of voice assistant | Reduced appeal for users prioritizing smart home integration | Competitor pricing for voice-enabled smart speakers |
| Potential for adaptor loss/damage | User frustration and additional replacement cost | Sonos accessory market and user reviews |
Key Takeaways
- The Sonos Era 100 SL offers a compelling audio experience at a competitive price point, targeting users seeking an affordable smart speaker.
- AirPlay 2 support makes it an attractive option for Apple device users looking to integrate with their existing ecosystem.
- The absence of a built-in microphone and voice assistant differentiates it from the standard Era 100 and competitors like the HomePod.
- Users requiring wired audio connections must factor in the additional cost and inconvenience of purchasing a separate Sonos adaptor.
- The speaker’s sound quality is praised for its detail and power, making it suitable for various music genres.
- Consider the Era 100 SL if sound quality and AirPlay 2 are priorities and voice control is not essential.
Note: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice.
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Source: Sonos Era 100 SL Review: A cheaper AirPlay speaker for Apple users by Macworld Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Sonos Era 100 SL and the original Era 100?
The Sonos Era 100 SL omits the built-in microphone and voice assistant features found in the original Era 100, making it a more affordable option.
How does the Sonos Era 100 SL compare to Apple's HomePod?
The Era 100 SL is positioned as a more budget-friendly alternative to the HomePod, offering similar sound quality and AirPlay 2 support but lacking Siri and spatial audio.
Can I connect devices to the Sonos Era 100 SL using a USB-C cable?
No, the USB-C port on the Era 100 SL is not for audio input. You need to purchase a separate Sonos adaptor for wired connections.
What is the price of the Sonos Era 100 SL?
The Sonos Era 100 SL is priced at $189 in the US and £169 in the UK.
Does the Sonos Era 100 SL support Bluetooth?
Yes, the Sonos Era 100 SL supports Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio streaming.
Can I use the Era 100 SL in a multi-room audio setup?
Yes, it supports AirPlay 2, allowing it to integrate with other AirPlay-compatible speakers in a multi-room system.
Does the Era 100 SL support Dolby Atmos or spatial audio?
No, the Sonos Era 100 SL does not support Dolby Atmos or spatial audio.
What are the dimensions of the Sonos Era 100 SL?
The speaker measures 183mm high, 120mm wide, and 131mm deep.
What is the cost of the required Sonos adaptor for wired connections?
A basic 3.5mm adaptor costs $19.00/£19.00, and a combo adaptor with Ethernet is $39.00.
Is the Sonos Era 100 SL suitable for users who don't own Apple devices?
While it supports Bluetooth, its key advantage for Apple users is AirPlay 2. For non-Apple users prioritizing sound quality and Bluetooth, cheaper alternatives might exist.