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Difference Between Sonos Connect and Sonos Bridge

  • Post last modified:February 27, 2023
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  • Post category:Technology
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Definition of Sonos Connect

Sonos Connect is a device made by Sonos, a company that specializes in wireless audio systems. The Connect allows users to stream music from their smartphone, tablet, or computer to a connected stereo or powered speakers. It also includes an audio input for connecting a traditional audio source, such as a turntable or CD player, and allows for integration with other Sonos devices to create a multi-room audio system.

Definition of Sonos Bridge

Sonos Bridge is a device made by Sonos that is used to extend the range of a Sonos wireless network. It connects to a home router via Ethernet cable and wirelessly links all Sonos devices on the network, allowing them to communicate and play music together in different rooms. The Bridge allows for easy setup and eliminates the need for a direct wired connection between Sonos devices. It is typically used in larger homes or homes with thick walls where the wireless signal from the router may not be strong enough to reach all rooms.

Sonos Connect and Sonos Bridge – Differences

Sonos Connect and Sonos Bridge are both devices made by Sonos, but they serve different purposes.

The main difference between the two is that the Sonos Connect is used to stream music from external sources, such as a smartphone or computer, to a connected stereo or powered speakers. It also includes an audio input for connecting traditional audio sources, such as a turntable or CD player.

On the other hand, the Sonos Bridge is used to extend the range of a Sonos wireless network. It connects to a home router via Ethernet cable and wirelessly links all Sonos devices on the network, allowing them to communicate and play music together in different rooms. The Bridge allows for easy setup and eliminates the need for a direct wired connection between Sonos devices.

The Sonos Connect allows you to connect external devices (smartphone, computer, etc) to your Sonos system and play music through it, while the Sonos Bridge is used to extend the range of your Sonos network and enables the communication between different Sonos devices.

Comparison Chart

Here is a comparison chart that highlights the main differences between the Sonos Connect and the Sonos Bridge:

Sonos Connect Sonos Bridge
Purpose Stream music from external sources to a connected stereo or powered speakers Extend the range of a Sonos wireless network and connect Sonos devices in different rooms
Audio Input Yes (for connecting traditional audio sources) No
Ethernet Connection No Yes
Wireless Network Extension No Yes
Setup Easy Easy

It’s worth noting that while the Sonos Connect doesn’t have an Ethernet connection, it still can connect to the network via WiFi and can be used as part of a multi-room audio system with other Sonos devices.

Similarities Between Sonos Connect vs Sonos Bridge

Here are some similarities between the Sonos Connect and the Sonos Bridge:

  • Both devices are made by Sonos and are used to create a wireless audio system in the home.
  • Both devices are easy to set up.
  • Both devices can be used as part of a multi-room audio system with other Sonos devices.
  • Both devices work with the Sonos app, which allows users to control their music and audio settings from their smartphone or tablet.
  • Both devices can be used with other Sonos devices like Sonos One, Beam, Playbar, Playbase, etc.
  • Both devices are compatible with multiple streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Tidal, and many more.

Sonos Connect and Sonos Bridge are designed to work together and enhance the Sonos wireless audio experience by allowing easy control, streaming and integration with other Sonos devices, and simplifying the setup process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Sonos Connect and the Sonos Bridge:

  1. What is the main difference between the Sonos Connect and the Sonos Bridge?
    The main difference is that the Sonos Connect is used to stream music from external sources, such as a smartphone or computer, to a connected stereo or powered speakers. The Sonos Bridge is used to extend the range of a Sonos wireless network and connect Sonos devices in different rooms.
  2. Do I need both a Sonos Connect and a Sonos Bridge?
    It depends on your specific setup and needs. If you have a larger home or thick walls that may affect the wireless signal, you may need a Sonos Bridge to extend the range of your network. However, if you only need to stream music from external sources and don’t have connectivity issues, you may only need a Sonos Connect.
  3. Can I use a Sonos Connect and a Sonos Bridge in the same room?
    Yes, you can use both a Sonos Connect and a Sonos Bridge in the same room, but it may not be necessary. The Sonos Connect allows you to stream music from external sources, while the Sonos Bridge is used to extend the range of your network. If you have good wireless coverage in the room, you may not need a Sonos Bridge.
  4. Can I connect a Sonos Connect or a Sonos Bridge to a wired audio system?
    Yes, you can connect a Sonos Connect to a wired audio system using the audio input on the device. The Sonos Bridge does not have an audio input, but you can use a Sonos Connect to connect a wired audio system to your Sonos network.
  5. Do I need a separate power source for the Sonos Connect and Sonos Bridge?
    Yes, both the Sonos Connect and the Sonos Bridge require a separate power source. The Sonos Connect and Sonos Bridge both plug into a standard power outlet.

Reference Books

There are several books available that provide detailed information and instructions for setting up and using Sonos devices, including the Connect and the Bridge. Here are a few notable books on the topic:

  1. “Sonos: The Ultimate Guide: Modernize Your Music Experience” by Richard Blum: This book provides a comprehensive guide to setting up and using Sonos devices, including the Connect and the Bridge. It covers topics such as configuring your network, streaming music and integrating with other devices.
  2. “Sonos: The Missing Manual” by Andy Rathbone: This book offers a step-by-step guide to setting up and using Sonos devices, including the Connect and the Bridge. It covers topics such as connecting to your home network, streaming music and integrating with other devices.
  3. “Sonos: Your Quick Start Guide” by Chris Smith: This book provides a fast-paced guide to setting up and using Sonos devices, including the Connect and the Bridge. It covers topics such as connecting to your home network, streaming music and integrating with other devices.

It’s worth noting that these books can be found as E-books or Audible books as well and they might be more updated with the knowledge cut-off date.