Sonos, the brand synonymous with premium audio, has consistently hit the mark with its line-up of products. The Sonos Move, the brand’s inaugural attempt at a rugged, weather-resistant smart speaker, certainly didn’t break this trend. This year, they’ve unveiled the Sonos Move 2 – a speaker that, at first glance, seems to mirror its predecessor. Yet, delving deeper, it becomes clear that this sequel packs a punch with its internal upgrades.
A Fitting Successor
Launched as a direct successor to the 2019 Sonos Move, the Move 2 boasts an identical durable shell, fortified with an IP56 water resistance rating. It seamlessly integrates into your existing Sonos ecosystem with Wi-Fi, while Bluetooth ensures you’re never without your tunes, even on the move. With built-in AirPlay 2 and automatic Trueplay, the Move 2 promises optimal sound, irrespective of the environment. And while voice controls, courtesy of Sonos’ native voice assistant and Alexa, enhance user convenience, it’s worth noting that Google Assistant, available on the first generation, hasn’t made the cut this time around.
For connectivity, the Move 2 offers a versatile USB-C port which doubles for both charging and line-in functionalities (compatible with Sonos’ USB-C to 3.5mm aux adapter). Furthermore, its charging base, bundled with the speaker, has been refined to support a new removable USB-C connection.
Inside the sleek frame, Sonos has opted for two tweeters, providing a broader soundstage. And, despite its powerful sound, the Move 2 doesn’t compromise on playtime. Its improved battery promises a whopping 24 hours of continuous playback, eclipsing its predecessor by over double.
Refined Design, Rich Sound
Aesthetically, the Move 2 remains largely unchanged, albeit with a new color palette – Olive. This sits alongside the classic black and white options. Even minute details, like the embossed Sonos logo, exude an understated elegance. Structurally, the Move 2 sports a rugged matte finish, fortified with rubberized extremities. Its solid metal frame and exterior grill add both flair and robustness.
Sound-wise, the Move 2 is nothing short of spectacular. With the addition of the second tweeter and its strategic positioning, the Move 2 achieves a sound stage separation that was unattainable with its forerunner. Having extensively used two original Move speakers outdoors, I can attest to their exceptional performance, especially when paired for stereo sound. The Move 2, with its advanced configuration, gets remarkably close to emulating this stereo quality, even as a standalone unit.
Durability Meets Quality
Perhaps where the Move 2 truly shines is in its durability. My original Moves, despite being continuously exposed to Toronto’s varied climate for two years, have withstood the test of time. The Move 2, with its enhanced design and similar IP56 rating, is anticipated to fare even better, if not surpass its predecessor.
Furthermore, the Move 2’s improved connectivity, line-in feature, and adaptable charging options highlight Sonos’ commitment to enhancing user experience. This, coupled with Sonos’ trademark flawless connectivity, sets the Move 2 apart from its competition.
Final Thoughts
Four years post the launch of the Sonos Move, it’s evident that it remains unparalleled in the market. With the introduction of the Sonos Move 2, Sonos has further solidified its position, offering significant enhancements in pivotal areas. If you’re in the market for an impeccable audio experience, both indoors and outdoors, the $449 price tag on the Sonos Move 2 is not only justified but also a worthy investment. Your ears will thank you.
