Sonos Digital Music System reviewed

Yahoo is carrying an AP review of the Sonos Digital Music System that pretty much follows the line you'd expect—it's really cool, but it costs a bundle. Although they do point out one potential flaw that might be a deal-breaker for some—it currently won't play copy-protected music (yes, that includes PlaysForSure/Janus tracks off Napster, AAC files of ITMS, and  Real's Harmony tracks).  So if you've built up your music collection using iTunes, you'll be out of luck until someone comes up with a hack or Sonos strikes a deal with Apple; however, it's definitely worth noting that Sonos is claiming PlaysForSure compliance and the ability to play Rhapsody-downloaded files by the year's end. So for many of you who've waited this long for the Sonos, you may need to wait a little longer—or you may not.

[Eleon Gonzales @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

Just thought I would let you know... the hack for taking the protection off your music is old news... it's called hymn and has some variations, http://www.hymn-project.org/jhymndoc/ for instance. (Note: this program was designed for you to take your music to other devices you own... not the rest of the word)

[Jones @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

More overpriced audio junk. Throw this in the trash along with all the Bose garbage. Buy yourself some REAL stereo gear and spend LESS.
Leave the computer duty to computing, not HI-FI.

I'll point you to a set of components for a TOTAL of $1100.00 that'll mesmerize everybody. People don't waste your $$$ on this audio fakery !

[Mega @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

I saw a review from Walt Mossberg yesterday and he seemed to LOVE the product. In fact, he called it a lexus or Mercedes....He did mention it was pricey, but so was the first iPod I bought.

[Brad Hill @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

>> Sonos is claiming PlaysForSure compliance and the ability to play Rhapsody-downloaded files by the year�s end.

Rhapsody downloads are burned straight to CD in standard Redbook format. From there they are ripped to the hard drive in the format of the user's choice. There is never any DRM on a Rhapsody download, and Rhapsody is not affiliated with PlayForSure.

[mike @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

One problem with this system is that every box contains an amplifier, which means that if you're hooking it up to your home stereo (that's one of the main points, right?), you're paying for an amplifier you don't need. They should sell a version without an amplifier for those who already have one (or who are using powered speakers). But of course they don't.

[Alan @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

I've got a four zone system with two controllers and two 250GB NAS drives. I've got to say that this isn't junk...this is one amazing hunk of technology. If you are buying a one zone system...not a good deal...but if you want flawless music in multiple rooms with a simple design...this is it. And the fact it also works as a wireless hub, you can plug any ethernet device into it and you'll get 802.11g type speeds.

[Petra Tyzzer @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

Rhapsody is the perfect service for this type of product. I'm a long time Rhapsody subscriber and can't wait until Sonos integrates the service. The day they do, Sonos will get my $1199 in a heartbeat.

[Mega @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

Jones,

Why are you on a technically savvy site if you are going to bash digital music? Last time I checked, there were plenty of stereophile sites that you can check out.

Get with the digital age or move on bro. Those of us that have been looking to listen to our digital music all over the house now have an option.

Following on Petra's comments, Rhapsody does sound like a great application for this type of product, though that is another subscription. I just have so many right now.....

[Stephen Crosby @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

yes, use jhymn and become wiser.