SmallNetBuilder

What It Is

The system we tested consisted of two basic components: the ZonePlayer and the Sonos Controller. Sonos software makes the whole thing work.

The ZonePlayer ZP100 is an interesting device that helps to make a Sonos Digital Network more than just the sum of its parts. The ZonePlayer (I'll refer to it as the ZP) includes a 50 W amplifier, four-port Ethernet Switch, wired/wireless transmitter/receiver, and ports for connecting speakers, a subwoofer, and external inputs. A set of three buttons controls volume and connections to the Sonosnet network.

The controller includes a rather touchy 'jog' bar, volume control buttons, and a color display that enables control of all the ZPs in the network. The controller is rechargeable, so if connected to the charger when not in use, it should be always ready for action. The network can contain as many as 32 ZPs, and up to 16 computers can be used as audio sources.

We received two ZPs, one Sonos Controller, and two pairs of speakers from Sonos. The ZPs included power cords and Ethernet cables. We weren't quite as fortunate with the speakers - they didn't come with cables, and we were sent scrambling to find some speaker wire so we could test the system.

Cost

Bundle Price of $1199 which includes two Zone Players and one controller

Additional ZonePlayers - $499
Additional Controllers - $399
Sonos Loudspeakers - $179/pair