For years, Sonos has been the gold standard for wireless home audio systems. Their products have been synonymous with high-quality sound, ease of use, and sleek design. However, in recent times, there has been a growing concern among Sonos enthusiasts about the availability of one of their most popular products: the Sonos 5. Is Sonos 5 discontinued? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of Sonos and explore the truth behind the rumors.
A Brief History of Sonos 5
Before we dive into the rumors of discontinuation, let’s take a step back and look at the history of the Sonos 5. Originally released in 2009, the Sonos 5, also known as the ZonePlayer S5, was a game-changer in the world of wireless audio. This compact, all-in-one speaker system was designed to fit perfectly into any room, providing rich, detailed sound and effortless connectivity to music services like Spotify and Apple Music.
The Sonos 5 was an instant hit, praised by critics and consumers alike for its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and exceptional sound quality. Over the years, the Sonos 5 underwent several minor updates, including a refresh in 2015, which saw the introduction of a new touch interface and improved wireless connectivity.
Rumors of Discontinuation
Fast-forward to 2022, and rumors began to circulate that Sonos had discontinued the Sonos 5. This news sent shockwaves through the audio community, with many fans of the brand expressing disappointment and concern on social media. But what’s behind these rumors? Has Sonos indeed discontinued the Sonos 5, and if so, why?
Sonos’ Shift in Focus
One possible reason behind the rumors of discontinuation is Sonos’ shifting focus towards newer, more advanced products. In recent years, the company has launched a range of innovative speakers, including the Sonos Beam, Sonos One, and Sonos Move. These products have been designed to cater to changing consumer habits, such as the rise of smart home technology and voice assistants.
The Sonos Beam, for example, is a compact soundbar designed specifically for TV and movie viewing, while the Sonos One is a smart speaker that integrates seamlessly with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
With Sonos’ attention turned towards these newer products, it’s possible that the company has decided to phase out the Sonos 5, which, although still a popular choice, may no longer align with their vision for the future of home audio.
Availability and Support
So, is the Sonos 5 still available for purchase? The answer is yes, but with some caveats. While Sonos has officially stopped manufacturing the Sonos 5, many retailers still have stock available, and you can also find certified refurbished and used units online.
However, it’s essential to note that Sonos has discontinued technical support for the Sonos 5, which means that if you encounter any issues with your device, you’ll no longer be able to contact Sonos for assistance.
| Sonos 5 Status | Availability | Technical Support |
|---|---|---|
| Sonos 5 | Discontinued, but still available from some retailers | Discontinued |
Alternatives to the Sonos 5
If you’re in the market for a new wireless speaker system, there are several alternatives to the Sonos 5 worth considering. Here are a few options:
- Sonos One (Gen 2): A compact, smart speaker that integrates with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, offering improved sound quality and advanced features.
- Bose Home Speaker 500: A high-end smart speaker with excellent sound quality and support for multiple voice assistants, including Alexa and Google Assistant.
Conclusion
So, is the Sonos 5 discontinued? The answer is yes, but with some nuances. While Sonos is no longer manufacturing the Sonos 5, and technical support has been discontinued, you can still find the device available from some retailers, albeit in limited quantities.
The shift in Sonos’ focus towards newer, more advanced products is a natural progression for the company, and we can expect to see even more innovative products in the future.
For those who already own a Sonos 5, this news may come as a disappointment, but rest assured that your device will continue to function perfectly, even without technical support. And for those in the market for a new wireless speaker system, there are plenty of excellent alternatives available.
In the world of Sonos, change is inevitable, but one thing remains constant: the pursuit of exceptional sound quality and innovative design.
Is the Sonos 5 discontinued?
The Sonos 5, also known as the ZonePlayer 5, was discontinued by Sonos in 2015. The company stopped manufacturing and selling the device, and it is no longer available for purchase on the Sonos website or through authorized retailers.
However, it’s still possible to find used or refurbished Sonos 5 devices on online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay. Additionally, Sonos continues to provide support and firmware updates for the Sonos 5, ensuring that it remains compatible with the company’s ecosystem and apps.
What is the Sonos 5’s replacement?
The Sonos 5 was replaced by the Sonos PLAY:5, a newer and more advanced wireless speaker. The PLAY:5 offers improved sound quality, a more compact design, and enhanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control through Amazon Alexa.
The PLAY:5 is part of Sonos’ current product lineup and is available for purchase on the Sonos website and through authorized retailers. Sonos has positioned the PLAY:5 as a premium wireless speaker that can be used as a standalone device or as part of a larger whole-home audio system.
Can I still use my Sonos 5 with the Sonos app?
Yes, you can still use your Sonos 5 with the Sonos app, even though it’s been discontinued. The Sonos app is available for both iOS and Android devices and allows you to control your Sonos 5, play music, and access various settings and features.
However, please note that Sonos may eventually phase out support for the Sonos 5, which could limit its compatibility with future versions of the app. It’s always a good idea to check the Sonos website for any updates or announcements regarding support for discontinued products.
Will Sonos continue to support the Sonos 5?
Sonos has committed to providing ongoing support for the Sonos 5, including firmware updates and technical assistance. This means that you can still contact Sonos customer support for help with your Sonos 5, and the company will do its best to resolve any issues you may be experiencing.
While Sonos has discontinued the Sonos 5, it remains a part of the company’s product ecosystem, and Sonos is committed to ensuring that it continues to function properly and seamlessly integrates with other Sonos devices and services.
Can I still purchase Sonos 5 accessories?
Yes, you can still purchase accessories for your Sonos 5, such as power cords, mounting brackets, and other peripherals. These accessories are available through the Sonos website and authorized retailers, and they can help you get the most out of your Sonos 5.
However, please note that Sonos may eventually stop manufacturing and selling accessories for the Sonos 5, so it’s a good idea to stock up on any essentials you may need.
Is the Sonos 5 still compatible with other Sonos devices?
Yes, the Sonos 5 is still compatible with other Sonos devices, including speakers, soundbars, and home theater systems. You can use your Sonos 5 as part of a whole-home audio system, and it will seamlessly integrate with other Sonos devices.
In fact, one of the key benefits of the Sonos ecosystem is its ability to integrate multiple devices and rooms, allowing you to create a comprehensive and flexible home audio system.
Should I upgrade to a newer Sonos device?
If you’re happy with your Sonos 5 and it’s still meeting your needs, there’s no compelling reason to upgrade to a newer device. However, if you’re looking for improved sound quality, new features, or enhanced compatibility, you may want to consider upgrading to a newer Sonos device, such as the Sonos PLAY:5 or Sonos ONE.
Newer Sonos devices often offer improved performance, sleeker designs, and advanced features like voice control and smart speaker capabilities. Upgrading to a newer device can also ensure that you have access to the latest features and improvements from Sonos.