Introduction
The Sonos Roam 2 is the new version of portable wireless speakers from the company that is Sonos. Compared to the previous edition, it is small-sized and fully compatible with the Sonos series enabling a multifunctional sound both in and out of the home. But how much has it extended on the old model, the Sonos Roam that we already have in the market? Let me elaborate it to you.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High and bold sound for the size it has
- In-app EQ
- Audio can adapt to your environment
- Supports wireless charging
Cons
- Expensive
- Hands-free Alexa doesn’t extend to music control
- Lack the Google Assistant Integration
- Outdated Bluetooth specs
Design and Build
Mostly More of the Same
Of course, the Roam 2 is quite similar to the previous Roam version, with a rather thick, triangular shape and a perforated grille. Measuring about 2. 4 by 6. 6 by 2. 4 inches and tipping just under a pound, it is small and can easily be moved around. The speaker is available in Black, Olive, Sunset, Wave, and White and only these come with respective logos unlike the Organic which came with the white logo on the center.
It is functional with the status LED, the play/pause button, and the volume controls positioned to the side of the head phones. It can be used in a parallel way either horizontally or vertically but, the performance of the speakers may change a little when placed in that position.
Sound Quality
No Different Than the Original
The beats and audio quality produced by the Roam 2 does not diminish at all from the original version. This speaker contains a single racetrack midrange driver and a single tweeter, it only produces MONO sound. Overall for the size of the speaker, the Roam 2 offers deep and rich sound but it does not have the stereo output of some of its competitors such as the Anker Soundcore Motion 300.
Bass Response and Clarity
In tracks that deliver a lot of sub-bass the Roam 2 does fairly well with the low end at normal listening levels. Nevertheless, at the loudness higher up, the digital signal processing (DSP) intervenes to reduce the thickness of the lows in order to avoid distortion. Vocals and, especially, the higher register instruments do not get obscured.
Connectivity
A Mix of Old and New
Bluetooth connectivity is somewhat limited since it only supports Bluetooth 5. 0 though the newer version is 5. 1. It supports only AAC and SBC codecs, while competitors have high-res ones, such as LDAC. However, it does have the dual-band 802. 11ac Wi-Fi for blazing fast streaming additionally to AirPlay 2 so the music can perfectly stream within the Sonos system.
The buttons at the top are new and easier to connect via Bluetooth where the speaker will automatically switch to your home Wi-Fi.
App Experience
The Biggest Change
The interface of the Sonos app was already discussed, and indeed, it was radically changed in 2024 along with the update of some models. Contrary to its early reception, enlargements have enhanced its uses. It also enables you to have command over your Sonos system in general very much not only the Roam 2.
Trueplay and EQ Settings
Trueplay employs the loudspeakers with microphones to evaluate the environment and alter the audio laden them. The application also has several presets for basic equalization of the bass and treble ranges of the sound.
Voice Assistant Capabilities
Limited but Functional
The Roam 2 also comes with bond with Amazon Alexa and Sonos Voice Control but does not support Google Assistant. However, in the Alexa, it does not support music control even though you can include it by ask the current weather or controlling smart home appliances.
Battery Life
Improvements Under the Hood
Sonos states that through the use of the rechargeable battery the Roam 2 can play for up to 10 hours on a single charge just like the Roam. But software updates have maintained the battery efficiency to improve the battery longevity. He also mentioned that the speaker is wireless charging enabled, something that is bit convenient when is on the move.
Waterproofing and Durability
Ready for the Outdoors
The Roam 2 boasts an IP67 rating, and it is dust, waterproof, and can survive up to 30 minutes in up to one meter deep water. Due to this, it can be said that it is a very suitable companion during outdoor activities regardless of the weather conditions.
Comparison with Competitors
Anker Soundcore Motion 300
For those not into the Sonos ecosystem, the Anker Soundcore Motion 300 sounds better with Bluetooth connectivity, stereo mode, and high-quality codecs at a better price. It also has a speakerphone option while this is missing in Roam 2.
Sonos Move 2
However, if you would like a more potent Sonos speaker, the new Move 2 is more recommended than the Move despite the difference in price. It produces a splendid stereo sound and higher loudness that are useful for crowded events or meetings.
Verdict
Great portable speaker but a rather mediocre follow up.
To conclude, the new Sonos Roam 2 is a good portable speaker that works well with other Sonos products. But unfortunately, they are only incremental and do not build from the original in a way that would be considered markedly superior. For an average consumer who already has the Sonos Roam, there is absolutely no need to get this one. For those who are just getting acquainted with Sonos the Roam 2 provides good sound and build but there are units which sound similar and might be found cheaper.
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