Sonos Amp Alternatives [For All Of Your Streaming Needs]
Sonos is an excellent audio streaming brand, but they may not have all the features you need or want to see in their line of products. You might also have a different preference for streaming services and might be looking for other options.
Whatever the reason, we’ve specially compiled the best Sonos Amp alternatives for all of your streaming needs.
What is a Sonos Amp?
Sonos is a sound-based company with a music streaming service that can connect to affiliated Sonos products. These devices stream music over the wi-fi but cannot link to third-party speakers such as passive bookshelf speakers and ceiling speakers.
That’s where the Sonos Amp comes into play.
The Sonos Amp can connect to these third-party devices and stream music and audio via wi-fi. It runs about $700 and uses roughly 125 watts per channel.
It’s often regarded as the leading provider of house audio systems, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only one available.
As we’ve just stated, Sonos is one of the best streaming devices out there, but certainly not the only one. Various others work just as well (if not better) and may provide different services that better tailor to your needs.
Here are just a few of the best ones:
Amazon Echo Link Amp
Do you have a household full of Amazon streaming products such as Alexa and the Amazon Fire TV?
If so, then you might want to consider the Echo Link Amp as your go-to amp. Not only is it cheap (running about $300), but it’s also compact and has a sleek black design.
It’s voice-controlled, has a pretty well-designed, easy-to-use app, and comes with a multitude of digital and analog plugs.
The issue is that it can only connect to streaming devices manufactured by Amazon. If your house isn’t already powered by Amazon, then this one might not be the best option.
If you do own an Amazon Echo, then you’ll be happy to hear that they support most major streaming services such as Apple Music, Pandora, Spotify, and Amazon Streaming.
Fosi Audio BT20A Bluetooth 5.0
The Fosi Audio BT20A Bluetooth 5.0 is the second cheapest amp on this list, coming in at only $80.
The product does as the name suggests and establishes a connection via Bluetooth so that you can stream audio to your house’s passive speakers.
In addition to its extremely inexpensive price tag, the device is also compact and has treble, bass, and volume dials on the front.
Note that the Fosi Audio BT20A can only connect to passive speakers and not powered speakers.
Still, this AMP is rated #1 in audio component amplifiers on Amazon and is a considerable bang for your buck if you’re looking for something that’s cheap and works reliably.
Bluesound Node Amp
The Bluesound Node Amp runs a similar price tag as the Sonos Amp (only about 100 bucks less) and is manufactured by one of the best competing companies to Sonos.
It is well received and has exceptional connectivity, but it’s an especially good option since it can connect to Amazon products. Whereas the Amazon Echo Link Amp could connect exclusively to Alexa, this one can be linked to other third-party, passive speakers.
Another plus is that it supports big-time streaming services such as Apple and Spotify.
It’s easy to set up, has a similar control app to the Sonos app, and has a great sound. If you’re looking for a Sonos alternative that hits close to home, then this is likely your best option.
Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Stereo Network Streamer
This one is a bit pricey (over $1000!) compared to some of the other options on this list, but it’s nonetheless a great option.
The Cambridge Audio CXN V2 is the predecessor to its previous models and by far has some of the best sound quality on the market.
Like many of the other devices on this list, the Cambridge Audio CXN V2 supports most major streaming services such as Pandora, Google Play, Spotify, Tidal, and Apple music.
Furthermore, its ease of use, heavy capabilities, and highly profound sound makes it the highest quality option on this list. It is the most expensive after all, so this is probably to be expected.
There are a few minor issues, such as its bulky size (which it makes up for in capability and volume) and dim LCD lighting. Other than that, this is an appreciable option if you’re looking for a high-quality alternative to the Sonos Amp.
Andover Audio Songbird
The Andover Audio Songbird is another one of the cheaper options on this list, coming in about $130 and is overall of decent quality.
It has a more straightforward control interface than the other amps we’ve previously mentioned and is mostly just a “plug and play” device. This provides a convenient music streaming device for those not looking for anything complex.
Overall, its sound is pretty good, though it’s not anything to ride home about. If anything, it’s excellent for its price, but don’t expect the best quality in the industry.
Still, we can’t lie and say this device is terrible because it’s really not. It’s a great device at a fantastic price, and we definitely recommend it.
Audioengine B1
The Audioengine B1 will run you slightly less than the Amazon Echo Link Amp and offers a crystal clear sound to your house’s audio system.
It has a wide Bluetooth range of about 100ft and comes in a condensed model size to fit anywhere in your house. The streaming quality is solid, and it’s a good mid-range option as a Sonos Amp alternative.
Be warned that a common complaint is the Audioengine B1 has trouble connecting to Apple devices but is otherwise of high quality.
The Audioengine B1 has an extremely easy-to-use app that allows you to stream audio to your Bluetooth devices from the internet.
Xiaomi Mi Box S
And for the number one cheapest Sonos Amp alternative is the Xiaomi Mi Box S. This one’s not only the least expensive but also the smallest (only about the size of your hand).
So what can you expect from something so small and so cheap?
Well, probably what you might think: it’s simple, uncomplicated, but does its job. Its interface is even more straightforward than the Andover Audio Songbird. This means that it isn’t for everyone, but if you’re a minimalist looking for a deal, then this one is definitely for you.
Aside from that, the sound is what you would figure, and while it has a few functionality flaws (such as lower quality sound and design), it’s still a great value option.
In short, it’s not the best amp on the market, but it’s the best at its price.
Your home audio system plays a crucial role in your daily life, whether it’s streaming music or listening to the latest news. If you want to make the most of your gear, it can be hard to decide which amp will tie it all together.
Regardless, if you’re looking for different features, a good deal, or a higher quality audio streaming amp, we hope this list could provide you with some of the best Sonos Amp alternatives.
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