Already have Play:3 within the space in question, just curious if Play:5 would be justifiable. In short, TSF is about 450 for the room, which is more a rectangle than a square. Dilemma (if you want to call it that) is I'd like to own the flagship Play:5 if for no other reason than to have the best technology available from Sonos, but not sure the room will be sufficient enough space for it. It's a lower level Michigan basement, where a Play:3 is presently on its own "room" assignment as a stand alone option. Currently, the sound is quite awesome but it does take the 3 being a little bit on the louder side to fill the space acoustically. I know a 5 would do that at low volume, but feel it's unlikely the 5 would ever be used in this space at anything beyond 1/3 its maximum output. As such, does it even make sense to entertain the 5? Does the lowest 1/3 of its capacity produce a different enough image than the 3 at moderate to mid-range? Would it make more sense to leave well enough alone, or potentially add a second 3 for a stereo pair?
A lot to discuss here, in terms of all available options. Please leave your opinion when time permits. Thanks, folks!
Play:3 adequate for TSF, or Play:5?
+7
This topic has been closed for further comments. You can use the search bar to find a similar topic, or create a new one by clicking Create Topic at the top of the page.
Page 1 / 2
+7
Had previously come across your Sanus review, which was helpful. Scored an open box Sanus pair last night, not adjustable but I don't need them to be. 1/2 off retail was plenty enough motivation to go simple/cheaper. Believe they'll fit the bill.
Userlevel 7
I’d have sub number 4 if it weren’t for HER as it would be in the bedroom ?
I also have Play 3’s on Flexson stands. The last stands I purchased were Sanus height adjustable stands which came with specific mounts for the Sonos One, Play One and Play 3. The latter two having the same screw mounts as the Flexsons. Saved a few bucks with the Sanus stands and have been very pleased.
If you type Sanus in the community search you should find my review ?
Cheers!
I also have Play 3’s on Flexson stands. The last stands I purchased were Sanus height adjustable stands which came with specific mounts for the Sonos One, Play One and Play 3. The latter two having the same screw mounts as the Flexsons. Saved a few bucks with the Sanus stands and have been very pleased.
If you type Sanus in the community search you should find my review ?
Cheers!
+7
I'm half-kidding about the impulsivity here, as my self-discipline thankfully will reign supreme. It's what prevents me from having 3 Subs like you! ;)
Absolutely nothing wrong with having 3 subs! I only wish I had a realistic spot for sub #4.
I know, just ribbing you. If you have the space and the budget, why not? Cheers!
I'm half-kidding about the impulsivity here, as my self-discipline thankfully will reign supreme. It's what prevents me from having 3 Subs like you! ;)
Absolutely nothing wrong with having 3 subs! I only wish I had a realistic spot for sub #4.
I can vouch for the quality of the Flexson stands for PLAY:3s, they're great. Got a pair in my bedroom.
+7
True Play will indeed be used. Those tone boxes on sonos.com are sexy, but alas another investment.
I'm half-kidding about the impulsivity here, as my self-discipline thankfully will reign supreme. It's what prevents me from having 3 Subs like you! 😉
I'm half-kidding about the impulsivity here, as my self-discipline thankfully will reign supreme. It's what prevents me from having 3 Subs like you! 😉
Userlevel 7
Lowing speakers to ear level when seated can make a difference. However if all you are concerned about is filling the room with sound then no worries.
If the speakers when on shelves are recessed with objects to left and right (or enclosed in a pocket) placing them on stands may open things up a bit. However having the speakers on shelves with a closed back can improve the low end. I’d make sure to bring them forward as much as possible with out fear of them vibrating off.
You’d really have to experiment with positioning to make an informed Decision. True play is a value tool.
Cheers!
If the speakers when on shelves are recessed with objects to left and right (or enclosed in a pocket) placing them on stands may open things up a bit. However having the speakers on shelves with a closed back can improve the low end. I’d make sure to bring them forward as much as possible with out fear of them vibrating off.
You’d really have to experiment with positioning to make an informed Decision. True play is a value tool.
Cheers!
+7
Hey, Danny... I can't come up with any good reason the 3's HAVE to be on stands, just that I agree they look better.
It would bring them a bit lower, and that might make a difference. But otherwise, to answer your questions... there isn't anything else on the shelves besides some decorative bookends, and those can be placed just about anywhere. If the shelves were not hosting the 3s, they would most definitely be moved.
I hear you on spacing things out over time, which is more or less what I've done. The 2nd 3 was my last purchase and prior to that was the Sub, the latter of which was my "major" addition for the year. At this point, I can see taking an interest in the proposed Symfonisk to see what's into them. But that will be obviously a far more agreeable fiscal decision if it happens.
It would bring them a bit lower, and that might make a difference. But otherwise, to answer your questions... there isn't anything else on the shelves besides some decorative bookends, and those can be placed just about anywhere. If the shelves were not hosting the 3s, they would most definitely be moved.
I hear you on spacing things out over time, which is more or less what I've done. The 2nd 3 was my last purchase and prior to that was the Sub, the latter of which was my "major" addition for the year. At this point, I can see taking an interest in the proposed Symfonisk to see what's into them. But that will be obviously a far more agreeable fiscal decision if it happens.
Now, to consider Flexson floor stands instead of the bookshelves where they currently reside... perhaps simply aesthetic, any thoughts?
Is there nothing else on the shelves? Would you move shelves if you didn't use them for speakers? If yes, than replacing the shelves with stands does improve the look in my opinion. I can't say that they will change the sound much, unless it also means a change in speaker location.
I use the sanus stands for a pair of play:1s located on either side of a couch. The side tables are a little small to hold the speakers and typical side table stuff, so the stands made sense. Also hides the power cord well.
Does the madness ever end?! :$
Not unless you want it to! But with that in mind, it may be best to spread out your purchase a little bit more. to enjoy the 'shopping experience' a little longer? I'm at a point where I really can't buy much more...and it's a little sad.
+7
OK, folks... 2nd P:3 arrived today. Stereo paired 3s sound is likely going to do this specific room more justice than the single P:5. That much was likely obvious, but what I didn't expect is the richness from the 2 x P:3 that I'm hearing. The 2nd P:3 still has a bit of a break-in period, as its counterpart has been in my arsenal for awhile and already sounds far more mature. I suspect once the former catches up to the latter, we'll have a winner.
Now, to consider Flexson floor stands instead of the bookshelves where they currently reside... perhaps simply aesthetic, any thoughts?
Does the madness ever end?! 😳
Now, to consider Flexson floor stands instead of the bookshelves where they currently reside... perhaps simply aesthetic, any thoughts?
Does the madness ever end?! 😳
I don't think it will happen like this. If it does, I imagine we'll see a new center channel speaker plus a box that takes in HDMI-ARC and communicates to 5 or more other speakers. This could also increase sales as it makes it a good solution for projector setups.
Userlevel 6
+15
Ditto on this - really wish you could have a beam and 4 Ones - BAM, instant true surround with stereo separation
Userlevel 7
Yeah...that would be nice. Reminds me of the old days with wires running everywhere and thinking of unique ways to hide them 😉
It's all good. If Sonos ever adoptos a setup where you can have separate L+R+C channels in the front with Sonos speakers (excluding the Amp), then I imagine we'd all agree that it will be the best setup for TV and music in a single room.
+7
To afford Play:5 x 2 would mean we wouldn't be having this conversation. :D
In light of the budget restriction, I've considered music on the paired 3's. I understand your points, though.
Doesn't change the fact that dialogue can be helpful. Danny might have perfectly good reasons (in his mind) for feeling like separate groups for music and HT are not warranted. My point, I respect each of your opinions and value the discourse.
Cheers!
In light of the budget restriction, I've considered music on the paired 3's. I understand your points, though.
Doesn't change the fact that dialogue can be helpful. Danny might have perfectly good reasons (in his mind) for feeling like separate groups for music and HT are not warranted. My point, I respect each of your opinions and value the discourse.
Cheers!
Userlevel 7
@spydrwebb
Now that’s funny...I have 3 Sonos systems setup for DD5.1. However, when I want to listen to music l go to my Play 5 x 2 in stereo pair. I also have a pair of Sonos One’s in my office.
This is a prime example of what I meant about opinions. There’s probably no right or wrong way to listen to music. I’m just more inclined to enjoy it in a traditional setting with just two speakers upfront vs in surround when played through a Sonos HT setup :)
By the same token I can’t definitively tell you that you’d enjoy the Play 3’s over the Play I’s or Sonos One’s. If I picked the Play 3 logic would dictate that the latter two are somewhat inferior which IMO they are not.
Furtmore if I were to pick the Play 3 then I’d be lamenting their discontinue (which I am not) as they are no longer available. Maybe it’s because I have my Play 5’s thus making the other Sonos speakers for music irrelevant.
I hope you are satisfied long term with whichever’ direction (speaker) you choose .
Cheers!
yes
And then, the Play:1 set could be used in other rooms?
yes
Is that what you're saying. If so, there's only one caveat -- I'd desire for the P:1s to be Ones instead because of the investment I already have in Google's ecosystem, and how eventually we'll have GA support.
I would be very surprised if you won't be able to speak to a Google home (or other variety) and request music played in any Sonos zone/room. This is how it works with Alexa. Obviously, you can replace the play:1s with Sonos Ones, but that is the more expensive option.
+7
I do have an opinion but I've found that psychologically when one is subjected to opinions (about audio) one of two things occur with the person seeking the advice:
1. They are either more confused and can't tell what they are listening for
OR
2. Are steered toward a decision not based upon their own listening experience but by overwhelming outside influence in one direction or the other.
Cheers!
I hear what you're saying and know why you hesitate, but I'm one to take the information I receive from others and bank it. I rely initially on my own opinion, after which (if necessary) I consider the difference between my preference and that of others.
In other words, I don't make others a lion and defer myself to the lamb by default.
+7
Thank you, Danny. Just to clarify, you would stick to Beam/Sub/3s (as stereo pair surrounds) and run them all the time in that configuration, whether listening to music or watching TV/Movies?
And then, the Play:1 set could be used in other rooms?
Is that what you're saying. If so, there's only one caveat -- I'd desire for the P:1s to be Ones instead because of the investment I already have in Google's ecosystem, and how eventually we'll have GA support.
And then, the Play:1 set could be used in other rooms?
Is that what you're saying. If so, there's only one caveat -- I'd desire for the P:1s to be Ones instead because of the investment I already have in Google's ecosystem, and how eventually we'll have GA support.
My opinion is that the Beam + sub + play:3s will sound better than a pair of play:1s for music. Therefore, I'd move the pair of play:1s to another location in your home so you can enjoy it there. Using 2 different setups, one for TV and one for music, isn't usually worth the effort.
Userlevel 7
I do have an opinion but I've found that psychologically when one is subjected to opinions (about audio) one of two things occur with the person seeking the advice:
1. They are either more confused and can't tell what they are listening for
OR
2. Are steered toward a decision not based upon their own listening experience but by overwhelming outside influence in one direction or the other.
If this helps...Sonos did discontinue the Play 3 and has since introduced the Sonos One. To date there has been no indication that a replacement for the Play 3 will surface :8
Cheers!
+7
Sure, planned to do that. Was just curious to hear more from other trained ears. 😉
Userlevel 7
Hi spydrwebb
Rather than rely on personal opinion regarding the sound of the Play 3's versus the Play 1's for music you have the unique opportunity to do an A/B test by setting both as a stereo pair. Do so in the room where you intend to listen to music. Setup both pairs as a separate room and play the same music on both (alternately) to determine which sound you prefer.
Note: Even though the Play 3's as a single speaker has a stereo (L/R) sound within a few feet that affect is negated when used in stereo pair or surround. In short each speaker becomes a dedicated Left and Right speaker to produce stereo and/or surround.
Cheers!
Rather than rely on personal opinion regarding the sound of the Play 3's versus the Play 1's for music you have the unique opportunity to do an A/B test by setting both as a stereo pair. Do so in the room where you intend to listen to music. Setup both pairs as a separate room and play the same music on both (alternately) to determine which sound you prefer.
Note: Even though the Play 3's as a single speaker has a stereo (L/R) sound within a few feet that affect is negated when used in stereo pair or surround. In short each speaker becomes a dedicated Left and Right speaker to produce stereo and/or surround.
Cheers!
+7
That makes sense, Thank you for clarifying.
So, the new dilemma becomes whether or not I want to dedicate the paired 3s solely to music, or use those as my surrounds and run the paired play 1s for music.
Theoretically, the 3s are more powerful and should provide a better soundstage when paired for music. But I've heard others say not necessarily, in light of the fact they love their play 1s for the same purpose.
Thoughts?
So, the new dilemma becomes whether or not I want to dedicate the paired 3s solely to music, or use those as my surrounds and run the paired play 1s for music.
Theoretically, the 3s are more powerful and should provide a better soundstage when paired for music. But I've heard others say not necessarily, in light of the fact they love their play 1s for the same purpose.
Thoughts?
Userlevel 7
Hi spydrwebb
Thanks for the update.
To your main question "yes" you can use Play 3's as surrounds. I use them as such in the vertical position on Flexson stands.
The Play 3's or any Sonos speakers when used as surrounds cannot be designated as a separate zone or grouped singularly to other Sonos speakers. In short they are Bonded to the Beam (or Playbar/Playbase or Sonos Amp).
The Beam is a full pledged soundbar with Left/Center/Right channels just in a smaller form factor. The center is not a phantom channel. The only Sonos product that produces a phantom center channel when used in a HT setup is the Sonos Amp. Therefore when using the Beam with sub and surrounds you have a DD5.1 capable system.
Here's a link to charts that compare Sonos speakers: https://en.community.sonos.com/what-to-get-228989/sonos-speaker-comparison-charts-6821929
Thanks for the update.
To your main question "yes" you can use Play 3's as surrounds. I use them as such in the vertical position on Flexson stands.
The Play 3's or any Sonos speakers when used as surrounds cannot be designated as a separate zone or grouped singularly to other Sonos speakers. In short they are Bonded to the Beam (or Playbar/Playbase or Sonos Amp).
The Beam is a full pledged soundbar with Left/Center/Right channels just in a smaller form factor. The center is not a phantom channel. The only Sonos product that produces a phantom center channel when used in a HT setup is the Sonos Amp. Therefore when using the Beam with sub and surrounds you have a DD5.1 capable system.
Here's a link to charts that compare Sonos speakers: https://en.community.sonos.com/what-to-get-228989/sonos-speaker-comparison-charts-6821929
Page 1 / 2
Enter your username or e-mail address. We'll send you an e-mail with instructions to reset your password.