I’ve been a big supporter of Sonos for many years. It’s the most user friendly, multi-room music system currently available on the market. The Squeezebox is good, but the usability leaves a lot to be desired. It’s not a system I would recommend to my parents. Meridian’s Sooloos is fantastic, but the price tag leaves it out of reach for most people. Other options from Linn, Olive and Naim are too esoteric and expensive for most people, making Sonos the clear winner for people who want music without any complications. The biggest gripe most people had with Sonos was controlling the system.
In the past, controlling your Sonos system meant either using the old scroll wheel CR100 controller, or your computer. Everything changed when Sonos released their app for the iPhone. It truly was (still is) a fantastic way to control the system with a touch screen. The CR100 was toast. The days of antiquated scrolling were over. Everything was a touch away thanks to the Sonos app.
However, last summer, Sonos introduced the new CR200 controller, as a replacement for the CR100. It was a complete redesign. They got rid of the scrollwheel completely. Instead, we got a 3.5″ LED backlit color LCD touchscreen. It works flawlessly. It’s highly responsive to the touch. It’s user friendly and intuitive. The interface is brilliant. What I like about it is that you don’t have to turn it on or off. The built-in sensors automatically turns it on when you pick it up.
So the big question is, is it worth it to spend $350 on this if you have an iPhone? Can’t you buy a cheap iPod touch and save money? Certainly, you don’t need the CR200 if you have an iPhone, and the iPod touch would be cheaper. However, in my application, the CR200 is invaluable. I entertain guests fairly frequently. Having a dedicated controller is a godsend. It would get old passing my phone around to people just so they can browse my music library or internet radio stations. No one has a party centered around their phone. The CR200 however works well in that situation. The iPhone as a controller isn’t conducive to socializing in my opinion. A phone is private. A controller is for everyone. I wouldn’t give my niece or nephew my phone, but I’d feel comfortable handing them the controller.
Ultimately, it is up to you. The Sonos app certainly is up to speed, but I prefer to have a dedicated controller. My iPhone is just a bonus. You really can’t go wrong with the CR200. Highly recommended.
Filed under: Audiophile, Digital, iPhone, CR200, Sonos
[...] The new iPad Sonos controller app was released yesterday, and it looks wonderful. It’s a great alternative to the CR200 controller. For my previous review of the Sonos CR200 controller, click here. [...]