Upgraded Play1s to 5s.

After a year or more of consideration I recently purchased a pair of 5s. They’ve replaced my much used and loved pair of Play1s + Sub Mini combo.

Firstly, let me say the Play1s and Sub Mini punches well above it’s weight. I was never not impressed with the combo and what it achieved. However, the upgrade was an itch that I just couldn’t scratch (I’m sure we’ve all felt it before).

The research suggested the two set ups would be closer to each other than one might expect. I read that the Play1s and Sub combo was a close 2nd to a stereo pair of 5s, so maybe not worth the investment. After a week I’m going to say that the two sets ups are NOT close. The 5s absolutely take it without a question. The sound is so much more, in every way (as it should be).

Again the purpose of this is not to shit on the Play1 set up. It’s really good and I’d highly recommend it. The purpose for people who are thinking of doing the same upgrade and are reading that the results are comparable. Bottom line is they’re not even close.

Another question was if the stereo pair of 5s would gain much from pairing the Sub Mini. It does add some low end, but only at medium and higher volumes. It’s not a night and day difference but for sure a difference. Aside from the extra low end I can’t say there’s a noticeable difference in the character of the 5s as some say there might be. If I toggle the Sub Mini off in the app, the only noticeable difference is the loss of the the bottom end. I do find the base can cross into being a little too boomy with the sub on. That may suit some more than others.

Worthy upgrade - YES!