by 
Audiophiles have no problem spending a little extra scratch to get quality wireless speakers from the likes of Sonos, but the company just released a diminutive model aimed at those with lighter wallets.
The Verge reported Monday that Sonos unveiled its latest wireless speaker this week, the compact Play:1, priced at $199. But unlike competitors, the latest offering is more of an extension than an answer to Bluetooth-enabled rivals.
For one thing, the Sonos Play:1 requires an AC outlet for power, and isn’t entirely wireless, since it also needs to be paired with a Sonos Bridge or plugged into a router via Ethernet. It’s also not very portable at more than four pounds, 6.5 inches tall and 4.75 inches in circumference.
Compared to other Sonos products, however, that’s plenty compact enough for moving around the home, and the Play:1 doesn’t appear to skimp when it comes to design chops, either.
Last but not least, a pair of Play:1 speakers can be combined to provide stereo output, as well as with other Sonos products for a 5.1 surround setup in the living room or most anywhere else.
Sonos Play:1 is now available direct from the manufacturer’s website, and is also offered at retail through Best Buy, Target and others.
Follow this article’s author, J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter
