When you’re in the market for a wireless multiroom audio speaker, like the Sonos Era 300 or the Bluesound Pulse M, it might seem like a tricky decision. Especially if you’re already invested in one ecosystem, jumping ship to the other may not seem likely. But hold on, there’s merit in comparing these two. After all, you could be eyeing these top-tier speakers to decide if you want to dive into Sonos or Bluesound. Let’s simplify this comparison to help you make the right choice.
Price
The Bluesound Pulse M comes at $399, while the Sonos Era 300 costs $449, a $50 difference. The Era 300 justifies its higher price with its impressive hardware, boasting six drivers for immersive sound. It can also natively decode Dolby Atmos audio from Amazon Music and Apple Music, which adds to its value.
On the other hand, the Pulse M, although less expensive, offers some unique features. It has touch-sensitive controls that light up as your hand approaches, providing a sleek user experience. The fit and finish are top-notch, so despite the price gap, both speakers offer good value for your money.
Design
The Sonos Era 300 has a distinctive design with its unique driver configuration that projects sound in multiple directions. It’s easy to spot and use with capacitive touch controls. However, it may not become the centerpiece of your room’s decor.
The Pulse M, while initially resembling the Sonos Move 2, has subtle design cues that elevate its appearance. It features motion-sensing capacitive touch controls that make it a hands-on experience. It’s a speaker that invites interaction.
Features and Interface
Sonos is known for its user-friendly app, easy to set up and navigate. Its universal search function is a standout feature, especially considering its support for numerous streaming services.
Bluesound’s BluOS is also user-friendly, with easy navigation and reliability. It may not support as many streaming services as Sonos, but it integrates the ones you use most seamlessly.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Era 300 offers some unique capabilities. It can decode Dolby Atmos music and fill the room with multidimensional sound. It benefits from TruePlay technology for room correction, enhancing the listening experience.
The Pulse M, with its single woofer and angled tweeters, delivers a stereo effect even in larger rooms. While both speakers perform well, the Era 300 shines in larger spaces.
Conclusion
Both the Sonos Era 300 and Bluesound Pulse M have their strengths. Your choice depends on your preferences and needs. If you lean towards a more audiophile setup and appreciate design aesthetics, the Pulse M might be your pick. On the other hand, if you crave Dolby Atmos sound and have larger rooms to fill, the Era 300 could be the one for you. Ultimately, there’s no wrong choice here; it’s about what suits your taste and requirements.
FAQs: Choosing Between Sonos Era 300 and Bluesound Pulse M
- What’s the price difference between the Sonos Era 300 and Bluesound Pulse M?
The Bluesound Pulse M is priced at $399, while the Sonos Era 300 costs $449, making the Era 300 $50 more expensive.
- Why does the Sonos Era 300 justify its higher price?
The Sonos Era 300 justifies its higher price with impressive hardware, including six drivers for exceptional sound quality. It can also natively decode Dolby Atmos audio from Amazon Music and Apple Music.
- What unique features does the Bluesound Pulse M offer?
The Pulse M boasts touch-sensitive controls that illuminate as your hand approaches, providing a sleek and interactive user experience. It also excels in fit and finish.
- Which speaker has a more distinctive design?
The Sonos Era 300 has a distinctive design with a unique driver configuration, projecting sound in various directions. However, it may not stand out as a decorative centerpiece.
- What sets the design of the Pulse M apart?
The Pulse M, while resembling the Sonos Move 2 at first glance, features subtle design cues like curved bevels, touch-sensitive controls that light up, and an overall inviting design.
- Which speaker offers a better app and user interface?
Both Sonos and Bluesound offer user-friendly apps. Sonos is known for its universal search function and supports numerous streaming services. BluOS by Bluesound is easy to set up, navigate, and is reliable.
- What performance advantages does the Sonos Era 300 have?
The Era 300 can decode Dolby Atmos music and fill the room with multidimensional sound. It also benefits from TruePlay technology for room correction, enhancing the listening experience.
