Sonos Roam 2 Speaker Review
Sonos adds a new chapter to the history of its versatile mobile speaker, Roam. This is not about groundbreaking new ideas but rather a refinement of already successful features.
The first mobile speaker from multi-room specialist Sonos, the Move 2, introduced a new acoustic concept with two-channel tweeters for stereo sound. However, no such change was expected for the Sonos Roam 2 due to its compact size. Sonos did not introduce any major acoustic upgrades but instead focused on user-requested improvements.
Design and Build quality
While the design is mostly unchanged, the Roam 2 offers an easier setup process and remains IP67-rated for durability. The speaker is available in several colors including white, black, red, blue, and green.
Ease of Use
One of these changes includes separate buttons on the back for turning the speaker on/off and for Bluetooth pairing. While not groundbreaking, it simplifies the user experience. Unlike the previous model, now, you can connect the Roam 2 directly to your phone via Bluetooth without needing to first connect through Wi-Fi using the Sonos app, a significant improvement over its predecessor.
Features
New customers previously had to set up a Sonos account to connect the speaker via Bluetooth. Now, with the Roam 2, users can skip this step and use the speaker just like any standard Bluetooth speaker.
Sonos also offers Trueplay tuning. It automatically adjusts the sound profile based on the environment, making the Roam 2 perform exceptionally well in variable acoustic settings, a feature lacking in most other portable speakers.
While the Sonos Roam 2 stands out with its Trueplay tuning and multi-room functionality, competitors like the JBL Flip 6 offer better bass response and volume at a slightly lower price point.
The built-in voice control works offline in English or French, which may appeal to privacy-conscious users. There is also a physical button to disable the microphone, so Alexa won’t pick up any conversations when not needed.
Sound Performance
The Roam 2 sounds almost identical to its predecessor, with its limitations becoming apparent at higher volumes where bass tends to struggle. However, for normal listening volumes, the sound is clear and detailed.
The Roam 2 struggles at high volumes, where the bass becomes muddy. Considering its price, this may disappoint users who prioritize sound quality over features. The Sonos Roam 2 excels as a portable speaker for personal use, ideal for small gatherings or outdoor trips. However, if you need a speaker for larger spaces or louder environments, you may find the sound lacking at high volumes.
While AirPlay over Wi-Fi provides slightly better sound quality than Bluetooth, the Roam 2 remains a solid option for mobile listening, offering up to 10 hours of playtime without needing to be plugged in.
The backward compatibility with the original Roam allows users to create a stereo pair for a better listening experience.
Measurement Performance
Frequency response at low and high volume: smooth and powerful with deep-reaching bass for its size (green), lower cutoff frequency (-6 dB): 73 Hz. At high volumes (red), the bass foundation weakens as the lower frequency limit rises to 120 Hz. Sonos performs surprisingly well in the midrange with acceptable distortion levels at high volumes.
Specs
- Model: Sonos Roam 2
- Distributor: Sonos
- Website: www.sonos.com
- Price: $200
- Warranty: 2 years
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 62 × 168 × 60 mm
- Weight: 430 g
- Remote/App: – / Yes
- Colors: Black, White, Green, Red, Gray
- Protection Class: IP67
- Material (Chassis/Surface): Plastic
- Active voice assistant: Alexa or Sonos
- Voice Control (Siri via iOS/AirPlay 2)
- Hands-Free Calling: None (voice control available with Alexa and Sonos).
Speaker
- Number of Channels/Paths: 1 / 2
- Operating Principle: Closed
- Chassis: High-frequency dome, oval mid-woofer
- Frequency Range: 73 Hz to 20 kHz (-6 dB)
- Max Sound Pressure: 90 dB SPL (1m, 200 Hz)
Functions
- Bluetooth / Version: Yes / 5.2
- Audio Codec: SBC, AAC
- DLNA/HiRes: None
- Battery Operation / Life: Yes / 10 hours
- Hands-Free Calling: None
- Special Features: Automatic room tuning
Final Verdict
Sonos fans might expect more from a new model than just small tweaks like separate buttons and a matching logo. However, the Roam 2 remains a great option for those looking for a sleek, portable speaker with good sound and backward compatibility. Its backward pairing with older models is a bonus for current Roam owners.
The Sonos Roam 2 is not a cheap option. However, with its multi-room functionality, compatibility with the Sonos ecosystem, voice control, and ease of use on the go via Bluetooth, it stands out as a versatile mobile speaker.
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