CONCLUSION

It’s easy to understand why the Playbase spent three years in development. This is a beautifully executed product that eclipses the performance of the Playbar by some margin. The more we listened to it, the more we loved it. What we have here is a genuine alternative to a separates based hi-fi system.

There are caveats of course. The Sonos ecosystem still cocks a snoot at Hi-Res Audio - 16 bit/44.1kHz is as good as it gets. It also takes a tough line when it comes to connectivity. But drink the Kool-Aid, and the Playbase rewards with a simplicity and fullbodied performance that will leave enthusiasts satisfied and newbies converted.

It’s expensive but excellent.