The IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker is a remarkable innovation born from a collaboration between IKEA and Sonos, fundamentally rethinking how audio integrates with home decor.

It’s designed to blend seamlessly into your living space, functioning not just as a high-quality Wi-Fi speaker but also as a discreet bookshelf, end table, or even mounted as a shelf, making premium sound accessible without clutter.

This ingenious product offers a compelling solution for those seeking both aesthetic harmony and rich, immersive sound, proving that powerful audio doesn’t need to dominate a room’s design.

It represents a practical, space-saving approach to smart home audio, aligning perfectly with IKEA’s ethos of functional design and Sonos’s reputation for superior sound technology.

Product/Category Name	Key Feature	Compatibility	Price Point Estimated	Best For
IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf Speaker	Wi-Fi connectivity, doubles as shelf/speaker	Sonos ecosystem, Apple AirPlay 2	$120-$140	Integrated audio & minimalist design
Sonos One SL	Compact, rich sound, humidity resistant	Sonos ecosystem, Apple AirPlay 2	$199	Standalone room audio, multi-room setup
Sonos Play:5 Gen 2	Premium sound, deeper bass, stereo pairing	Sonos ecosystem, Apple AirPlay 2	$499	Audiophiles, larger rooms, immersive sound
Google Nest Audio	Smart assistant integration, good bass	Google Assistant, Chromecast built-in	$99	Smart home control, casual listening
Amazon Echo Studio	3D audio, smart home hub	Amazon Alexa, Zigbee	$199	Immersive audio, smart home hub users
Wall Mount Shelves	General purpose shelving	Universal	Varies	Maximizing vertical space, displaying items
Bookshelves	Storage and display for books/decor	Universal	Varies	Organizing collections, decorative purposes

Table of Contents

The Genesis of the SYMFONISK Collaboration: IKEA Meets Sonos

The partnership between IKEA and Sonos isn’t just a happy accident.

It’s a calculated move to bridge the gap between home furnishings and smart home technology.

Think about it: IKEA excels at creating affordable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing furniture that fits into everyday life.

Sonos, on the other hand, is a titan in the multi-room audio space, renowned for its pristine sound quality and user-friendly software.

Marrying these two strengths was a stroke of genius, leading to the SYMFONISK line.

The goal? To make high-quality sound an integral, almost invisible, part of your home décor, rather than a separate, often bulky, gadget.

Why This Partnership Makes Sense

From a strategic standpoint, this collaboration offers a win-win.

IKEA gains access to Sonos’s audio expertise, elevating its smart home offerings beyond lighting and blinds.

Sonos, in turn, taps into IKEA’s massive global distribution network and reputation for affordability, reaching a new demographic who might hesitate at the price point of a traditional Sonos speaker. It’s about democratizing good sound and design.

The SYMFONISK Philosophy

The core philosophy behind SYMFONISK is integration. It’s not just a speaker. it’s a piece of furniture that also happens to produce excellent audio. This is a subtle but significant shift from traditional audio setups. Instead of placing a speaker on a shelf, the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker is the shelf. This dual functionality is key to its appeal, especially for those in smaller living spaces or anyone who values a minimalist aesthetic. Bose SoundLink Mini II Special Edition

Evolution of the SYMFONISK Line

While the Bookshelf speaker was one of the initial offerings, the SYMFONISK line has expanded to include the Lamp speaker and even picture frame speakers.

This demonstrates a clear commitment to exploring various form factors that seamlessly blend into different home environments.

Each product aims to solve a common design dilemma: how to incorporate technology without sacrificing style or adding clutter.

Design and Aesthetics: Blending In, Standing Out

The IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker is a masterclass in understated design.

Unlike many speakers that demand attention with their aggressive grilles and visible drivers, the SYMFONISK is designed to disappear.

It comes in two classic colors – black and white – making it easy to match with virtually any interior décor.

Its rectangular, almost monolithic form factor is intentionally simple, allowing it to serve multiple functions beyond just emitting sound.

Form Factors and Functionality

The beauty of the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker lies in its versatility. Here’s how it integrates:

As a Bookshelf: Yes, it can literally function as a small bookshelf, holding a few books or decorative items on its top surface. This is its namesake function and perhaps the most direct example of its dual purpose.
As an End Table: Place it vertically next to a sofa or armchair, and it serves as a convenient surface for a cup of coffee or a remote control, all while filling the room with sound.
Mounted as a Wall Shelf: IKEA provides wall brackets, allowing you to mount the speaker horizontally or vertically directly onto your wall. This frees up floor space and creates a clean, floating aesthetic, perfect for minimalist designs.
Discreet Placement: Its simple form allows it to be tucked away in cubbyholes, on existing shelves, or even within a larger shelving unit like IKEA’s own KALLAX, making it almost invisible.

Materials and Build Quality

The SYMFONISK speaker features a plastic enclosure with a fabric grille that covers the speaker drivers.

While it doesn’t boast premium metal finishes, the build quality is sturdy and feels durable for its price point. Google Home Max

The design prioritizes practicality and cost-effectiveness, aligning with IKEA’s brand.

Key Design Elements:

Minimalist Controls: A few discrete buttons on the front or side for play/pause and volume control.
Clean Lines: No unnecessary embellishments or flashy lights.
Neutral Color Palette: Black and white options ensure it fits any room.

This thoughtful design ensures that the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker enhances your living space both acoustically and visually, without becoming an eyesore.

It’s the kind of product that sparks an “aha!” moment when you realize how much it declutters and simplifies your home tech.

Sound Performance: More Than Just a Bookshelf

Now, let’s talk about the audio.

While the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker excels at blending in, its primary purpose is still to deliver sound.

And for its price point, it delivers surprisingly well.

It’s not going to blow away a dedicated audiophile setup, but for casual listening, background podcast, podcasts, and even movie dialogue, it punches above its weight.

Remember, it’s a Sonos speaker at its core, benefiting from their acoustic engineering.

Understanding the Audio Profile

The SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker typically features a tweeter and a mid-woofer, configured to provide a balanced sound. Denon Home 350

Clarity: Vocals are clear and crisp, making it excellent for podcasts or dialogue-heavy content.
Bass Response: While not earth-shattering, it provides a respectable amount of bass for its size. It’s enough to give podcast body without sounding boomy or distorted, especially in smaller to medium-sized rooms.
Soundstage: As a single speaker, the soundstage is naturally limited, but Sonos’s tuning helps it fill a room surprisingly well.
Stereo Pairing: This is where things get interesting. Pair two SYMFONISK Bookshelf speakers, and they transform into a true stereo pair. This significantly enhances the soundstage, separation, and overall immersion, making it a much more satisfying listening experience for podcast. This configuration is highly recommended if you prioritize podcast quality.

Sonos’s Trueplay Tuning

One of the standout features carried over from the Sonos ecosystem is Trueplay tuning. This is a powerful calibration technology that uses the microphone on your iOS device iPhone or iPad to analyze how sound reflects off the walls, furniture, and other surfaces in a room. It then customizes the speaker’s EQ settings to optimize the sound for that specific acoustic environment.

How Trueplay Works:

Open Sonos App: Select the speaker you want to tune.
Walk Around: The app guides you to slowly walk around the room, waving your iOS device up and down.
Analysis: The speaker emits a series of test tones, and your device’s microphone captures the sound reflections.
Optimization: The app then adjusts the speaker’s output to compensate for any acoustic anomalies, resulting in a more balanced and accurate sound.

This feature is a must, especially for a speaker designed to be placed in various orientations and locations.

It ensures that whether you’re using it as a literal bookshelf, mounted on a wall, or tucked into a corner, you’re getting the best possible audio performance.

For Android users, the app offers basic EQ adjustments, but Trueplay is an iOS-exclusive feature due to the standardized microphone quality on Apple devices.

Seamless Integration with the Sonos Ecosystem

As part of the Sonos ecosystem, it’s not just a standalone speaker.

It’s a connected component of a larger, highly flexible multi-room audio system.

This integration is perhaps its most compelling feature, offering a level of convenience and expandability that standalone Bluetooth speakers simply can’t match.

Multi-Room Audio at Its Best

The core strength of Sonos is its multi-room capability. With SYMFONISK speakers, you can:

Play Different Podcast in Different Rooms: Imagine jazz in the living room and a podcast in the kitchen, all controlled from one app.
Group Rooms Together: Link multiple SYMFONISK speakers or any Sonos speakers to play the same podcast throughout your home, perfect for parties or just filling your entire space with sound.
Expand Your System Gradually: Start with one SYMFONISK speaker, then add another in a different room, or integrate it with existing Sonos speakers like a Sonos One SL or a Sonos Play:5 Gen 2. The system is entirely modular.

Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Not Bluetooth

Crucially, SYMFONISK speakers connect via Wi-Fi, not Bluetooth. This offers several distinct advantages:

Bose Portable Smart Speaker

Higher Audio Quality: Wi-Fi allows for higher bandwidth and lossless audio transmission, leading to better sound quality compared to Bluetooth.
Greater Range: Your podcast won’t cut out if you walk too far from the speaker with your phone. As long as your Wi-Fi network reaches, your podcast plays.
Phone Call Interruption: Taking a call on your phone won’t interrupt the podcast playing on your SYMFONISK speaker.
Dedicated Podcast Stream: The speaker streams directly from the internet or your local network, meaning your phone isn’t constantly tied to it.

The Sonos App Experience

The Sonos app is the central hub for controlling your SYMFONISK speakers and your entire Sonos system.

It’s renowned for its intuitive interface and robust features.

Unified Podcast Services: The app integrates with a vast array of streaming services, including Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon Podcast, Pandora, Tidal, and many more. You can browse and play podcast from all your subscriptions within one app.
Customization: Adjust EQ settings, set alarms, group/ungroup speakers, and manage your podcast library.
Regular Updates: Sonos consistently pushes out software updates, adding new features, improving performance, and ensuring compatibility with the latest streaming services and technologies.

Apple AirPlay 2 Support

For Apple users, the inclusion of Apple AirPlay 2 is a significant bonus. This allows you to stream audio directly from any AirPlay 2-compatible app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to your SYMFONISK speaker. You can also group SYMFONISK speakers with other AirPlay 2 speakers even from different brands for multi-room audio controlled via the Apple Home app or Siri. This provides an alternative control method beyond the Sonos app, adding flexibility for Apple ecosystem users.

Practical Applications and Use Cases

The IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker isn’t just a gimmick.

It’s a highly versatile piece of tech that solves several common dilemmas in home audio and interior design.

Its ability to serve multiple purposes means it can find a home in almost any room.

Small Apartments and Dorm Rooms

For those living in compact spaces, every inch counts.

The SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker is a dream come true:

Space-Saving: It eliminates the need for a separate speaker and a separate shelf or end table. You get both in one compact unit.
Decluttering: Fewer devices mean less clutter and a cleaner aesthetic, which is crucial in tight quarters.
Multi-functional Furniture: It acts as a speaker, a display surface, and even a book holder.

Living Rooms and Family Rooms

In larger communal spaces, the SYMFONISK speakers can serve various roles: Harman/Kardon Onyx Studio 6

Discreet Audio: Blend them into your existing shelving units for unobtrusive background podcast.
Stereo Pair: Place two speakers on either side of a TV or seating area for an immersive stereo experience, enhancing movie watching or podcast listening.
Surround Sound: Pair two SYMFONISK Bookshelf speakers with a Sonos soundbar like the Beam or Arc to create a wireless 5.0 or 5.1 surround sound system. This is a must for home theater enthusiasts who want immersive audio without running wires.

Kitchens and Bedrooms

Their compact size and simple design make them ideal for more private spaces:

Kitchen Companion: Mount one under a cabinet or place it on a counter to enjoy podcast or podcasts while cooking, without sacrificing valuable counter space. Its relatively durable build can handle a bit of kitchen hustle.
Bedside Audio: Use it as a small nightstand speaker, providing ambient podcast, white noise, or an alarm clock. Its minimalist look won’t clash with bedroom décor.

Home Offices

Enhance your work-from-home setup with quality audio:

Background Podcast: Create a productive atmosphere with your favorite tunes or focus-enhancing playlists.
Conference Calls: While not a dedicated conference speaker, its clear audio output can make virtual meetings more enjoyable.
Dual Monitor Stand Creative Use: Some users have even creatively positioned it as a makeshift, low-profile monitor stand, combining audio with workspace utility though this is not its primary intended use.

Creative Mounting and Placement

Beyond the standard shelf or end table, consider these innovative placements:

Wall Mounted: Use IKEA’s SYMFONISK wall brackets to mount it vertically or horizontally, creating a clean, floating speaker/shelf. This is particularly effective for maximizing space or creating a minimalist look.
Integrated into Built-ins: Design custom shelving units around the SYMFONISK to make it appear as a seamless part of your cabinetry.
Bookend Alternative: If placed on a long shelf, two SYMFONISK speakers can act as functional bookends, holding your literary collection in place while providing sound.

The flexibility of the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker is a testament to its clever design, allowing it to adapt to diverse living situations and personal preferences. It’s more than just a speaker. it’s a versatile home accessory.

Cost-Effectiveness and Value Proposition

When evaluating the IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker, its cost-effectiveness is a major selling point.

In the world of smart Wi-Fi speakers, it occupies a unique niche, offering a compelling blend of affordability, sound quality, and design integration.

Price Comparison

Let’s put its price tag into perspective.

The SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker typically retails for around $120-$140.

Compared to other Sonos Speakers: A Sonos One SL, which is Sonos’s entry-level standalone speaker, costs around $199. A Sonos Play:5 Gen 2 can run you $499 or more. The SYMFONISK provides a significantly more affordable entry point into the Sonos ecosystem.
Compared to Smart Speakers: While a Google Nest Audio or Amazon Echo Studio might be similarly priced or slightly less, they often prioritize smart assistant features over pure audio quality or multi-room expandability in the same way Sonos does. The SYMFONISK focuses on sound first within a robust multi-room platform.
Compared to Passive Speakers + Amp: Setting up a traditional passive bookshelf speaker system with an amplifier would almost certainly cost more, require more wiring, and take up more space.

The Value of Integration

The true value proposition of the SYMFONISK goes beyond its raw price:

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Dual Functionality: You’re not just buying a speaker. you’re also getting a small piece of furniture. This inherent multi-functionality means you might avoid buying a separate small shelf or table, saving money and space.
Entry to Sonos Ecosystem: For many, the SYMFONISK is their first foray into Sonos. Its affordability makes it an accessible gateway, allowing users to experience Sonos’s legendary multi-room capabilities without a significant initial investment. This opens the door to future expansion with other Sonos products.
Design Savings: The speaker’s ability to blend seamlessly into décor means you don’t have to spend extra time or money finding ways to hide an unsightly speaker. It naturally fits.
Future-Proofing: As a Wi-Fi speaker part of an actively developed ecosystem, it receives regular software updates, ensuring compatibility with new streaming services and features, prolonging its useful life.

Considerations for Value

While the SYMFONISK offers great value, it’s important to set expectations:

No Built-in Voice Assistant: Unlike some other smart speakers, the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker does not have a built-in microphone for voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. You would need a separate Sonos speaker like the Sonos One or a dedicated smart speaker to integrate voice control fully into your Sonos system.
Audio Purity: While good for its class, it’s not designed to be an audiophile-grade speaker for critical listening. If absolute sound fidelity is your top priority, you might need to step up to more expensive Sonos models or dedicated Hi-Fi equipment.

However, for the vast majority of users looking for a versatile, good-sounding, and aesthetically pleasing speaker that integrates flawlessly into a multi-room system, the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker represents exceptional value for money.

It’s a clever hack for getting premium sound and smart design on a reasonable budget.

Setting Up and Using Your SYMFONISK Bookshelf Speaker

One of the hallmarks of the Sonos experience, extended to the SYMFONISK line, is the ease of setup and daily use.

You don’t need to be a tech wizard to get these speakers up and running.

It’s designed for the everyday user, emphasizing a seamless and intuitive process.

The Initial Setup Process

Getting your SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker connected is straightforward:

Download the Sonos App: This is the first and most crucial step. The app is available for free on iOS and Android devices.
Plug in the Speaker: Connect the SYMFONISK speaker to a power outlet. The status light on the speaker will begin to flash, indicating it’s ready for setup.
Open the App and Add Product: The Sonos app will typically detect new Sonos products on your network automatically. Follow the on-screen prompts to add the speaker.
Connect to Wi-Fi: The app will guide you through connecting the speaker to your home Wi-Fi network. You might need to press a button on the speaker to confirm the connection.
Name Your Speaker: Give your speaker a descriptive name e.g., “Living Room Bookshelf,” “Kitchen Shelf”.
Add Podcast Services: Within the Sonos app, you can easily add your preferred podcast streaming services Spotify, Apple Podcast, Pandora, etc. by logging into your accounts.
Optional: Trueplay Tuning: If you have an iOS device, the app will prompt you to run Trueplay tuning. This involves walking around your room with your device while the speaker emits sounds, optimizing its audio for your specific environment. This step is highly recommended for the best sound.

The entire process usually takes less than 10-15 minutes, and the app provides clear, step-by-step instructions.

Daily Operation and Control

Once set up, controlling your SYMFONISK speaker is effortless:

Sonos App: This remains the primary control interface. From the app, you can:
- Browse and play podcast from all your connected services.
- Control volume for individual speakers or groups.
- Group and ungroup speakers for multi-room audio.
- Create playlists and queues.
- Adjust EQ settings treble, bass.
- Set alarms and sleep timers.
Physical Buttons: The SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker has basic physical controls on the unit itself:
- Play/Pause: Single press to play or pause.
- Volume Up/Down: Increase or decrease the volume.
- Skip Track: Double press play/pause to skip forward.
- Previous Track: Triple press play/pause to go back.
Apple AirPlay 2: If you’re an Apple user, you can stream audio directly from any AirPlay 2-compatible app e.g., Apple Podcast, Spotify, YouTube to your SYMFONISK speaker. You can control playback and volume directly from your device’s control center.
Voice Control Indirect: While the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker doesn’t have a built-in microphone for voice assistants, it can be controlled via a separate Sonos speaker with a voice assistant like a Sonos One or through a dedicated smart speaker like a Google Nest Audio or Amazon Echo Studio that is linked to your Sonos system. For example, you can say, “Hey Google, play podcast on Living Room Bookshelf” if you have a Google Home device.

Maintenance and Updates

Maintaining your SYMFONISK speaker is minimal. Keep it clean with a soft, dry cloth.

Anker Soundcore 2

Sonos regularly pushes out software updates, which are automatically downloaded and installed through the Sonos app.

These updates bring new features, improve performance, and patch security vulnerabilities, ensuring your system stays current and optimized.

The ease of use from setup to daily operation is a significant factor in the SYMFONISK’s appeal, making premium multi-room audio accessible to a wider audience.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

While the IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker offers a compelling package, it’s important to consider its limitations before making a purchase.

No product is perfect, and understanding where it might fall short ensures you set realistic expectations.

No Built-in Voice Assistant

Perhaps the most notable omission is the lack of an integrated microphone for voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

This means you cannot directly issue commands like “Hey Google, play rock podcast” to the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker itself.

Workaround: You can still control it via a separate smart speaker like a Google Nest device or an Amazon Echo that’s linked to your Sonos system, or via another Sonos speaker like a Sonos One or Beam that does have voice assistant capabilities. This adds a layer of complexity if you’re aiming for a completely voice-controlled setup without additional devices.

Audio Quality for Audiophiles

While the sound quality is excellent for its price and form factor, it’s important to manage expectations for critical listening. Hotspot Shield Free

Limited Bass Extension: Physics dictates that a speaker of this size won’t produce chest-thumping bass. While adequate for most casual listening, bass heads or those seeking a truly full-range sound might find it lacking compared to larger, more expensive speakers or dedicated subwoofers.
Soundstage: As a single, compact unit, the soundstage is relatively narrow. Stereo pairing two SYMFONISK speakers significantly improves this, but a single unit will not provide the expansive, room-filling sound of a larger, dedicated stereo system.
No High-Res Audio Support Officially: While Sonos supports various audio formats, it doesn’t officially support “Hi-Res Audio” in the way some audiophile systems do e.g., 24-bit/192kHz. For most streaming, this is a non-issue, but purists might note it.

Wi-Fi Dependence

The SYMFONISK speaker relies solely on Wi-Fi for connectivity.

No Bluetooth: This means you cannot simply connect your phone via Bluetooth for quick, ad-hoc playback if your Wi-Fi is down or you’re outside your network.
Network Stability: The quality of your multi-room audio experience is directly tied to the strength and stability of your home Wi-Fi network. Poor Wi-Fi can lead to dropouts or latency.

Aesthetic Limitations for Some

While its minimalist design is a strength for many, it might not appeal to everyone.

Limited Color Options: Only black and white are available. If you desire vibrant colors or specific finishes, you’re out of luck.
Fabric Grille: While durable, fabric grilles can be susceptible to dust, pet hair, or stains over time.

Power Cord Placement

The power cord exits from the back of the speaker, which can sometimes be an aesthetic challenge depending on how you place or mount it.

While not a deal-breaker, it’s something to consider for clean installations.

No Battery Power

The SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker requires constant power and is not portable.

If you need a speaker to move from room to room or take outdoors, you’ll need a different Sonos product like the Sonos Roam or Move or a dedicated portable speaker.

Despite these considerations, for its target audience – those seeking affordable, integrated Wi-Fi audio within the Sonos ecosystem for casual listening and smart home integration – the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker remains an outstanding choice.

It’s about balancing features, performance, and price, and in that regard, it truly excels.

Future Outlook and What’s Next for SYMFONISK

The collaboration between IKEA and Sonos has proven to be a resounding success, demonstrating a strong market appetite for integrated home technology that respects design.

This success bodes well for the future of the SYMFONISK line, suggesting continued innovation and expansion. Smeg 4-Slice Toaster

Continued Form Factor Innovation

We’ve already seen the evolution from the Bookshelf speaker to the Lamp speaker and the Picture Frame speaker.

This indicates a clear strategy to explore new ways speakers can blend into furniture and decor.

Integrated Appliances: Could we see SYMFONISK technology integrated into kitchen cabinets, mirrors, or even beds? The possibilities are endless for making audio truly invisible.
Outdoor Solutions: While current SYMFONISK speakers are for indoor use, an outdoor-rated SYMFONISK speaker integrated into outdoor furniture or planters could be a logical next step, extending the smart home concept to exterior spaces.
Modular Systems: Perhaps future SYMFONISK iterations will allow for more modularity, where you can snap together different audio components e.g., adding a subwoofer module to the Bookshelf speaker directly.

Enhanced Connectivity and Smart Features

As smart home technology evolves, so too will the SYMFONISK line.

Built-in Voice Assistants: While the current Bookshelf speaker lacks a mic, it’s plausible that future versions of SYMFONISK speakers, especially as costs for integrated voice control come down, might include built-in Alexa or Google Assistant. This would streamline the smart home experience considerably.
Matter Integration: With the rise of Matter, the new smart home connectivity standard, future SYMFONISK products will likely integrate fully, offering even broader compatibility with other smart home devices and platforms beyond the Sonos ecosystem.
Smarter Sound Adjustments: While Trueplay is excellent, advancements in AI and sensor technology could lead to even more dynamic and adaptive sound tuning that responds in real-time to changes in room acoustics or even user presence.

Sustainability and Materials

IKEA is known for its focus on sustainability.

We can expect future SYMFONISK products to increasingly incorporate recycled materials and offer more environmentally friendly manufacturing processes.

Circular Design: Products designed for easier repairability or component replacement would align with modern sustainability goals.

The Role of Software Updates

Sonos’s commitment to regular software updates will continue to be a cornerstone of the SYMFONISK experience.

These updates ensure longevity, introduce new features, improve performance, and maintain compatibility with the latest streaming services and technologies.

This software-centric approach means that even existing SYMFONISK speakers can become “smarter” over time.

The IKEA SYMFONISK collaboration is not just a temporary fad.

It’s a strategic alliance that is redefining how we integrate audio into our homes. IPVanish

By combining IKEA’s design prowess with Sonos’s audio expertise, they are poised to continue delivering innovative, functional, and aesthetically pleasing audio solutions that make high-quality sound an effortless part of everyday living. Keep an eye on this space. the future of home audio looks harmonious.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker?

The IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker is a Wi-Fi-enabled smart speaker developed through a collaboration between IKEA and Sonos.

It’s designed to function both as a high-quality speaker and a piece of furniture, such as a bookshelf or an end table, or even be mounted as a wall shelf.

Is the IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker a good speaker?

Yes, for its price point and versatility, the IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker offers surprisingly good sound quality, especially when paired with another for stereo sound.

It’s an excellent choice for casual listening, background podcast, and integrates seamlessly into the Sonos multi-room audio ecosystem.

Is the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker Sonos compatible?

Yes, absolutely.

The SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker is fully integrated into the Sonos ecosystem, allowing it to connect and play alongside any other Sonos speaker, soundbar, or component for multi-room audio.

Does the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker have Bluetooth?

No, the IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker connects via Wi-Fi, not Bluetooth.

This allows for higher audio quality, greater range, and uninterrupted streaming.

Can I stereo pair two IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speakers?

Yes, you can easily pair two IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speakers together within the Sonos app to create a true stereo sound system, which significantly enhances the soundstage and audio experience. Thinkkitchen Retro Air Fryer

Can the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker be used as a surround sound speaker?

Yes, two SYMFONISK Bookshelf speakers can be used as wireless rear surround sound speakers when paired with a compatible Sonos soundbar like the Sonos Beam, Arc, or Playbar.

Does the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker have a voice assistant?

No, the IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker does not have a built-in microphone for voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

However, you can control it using voice commands via a separate Sonos speaker with a built-in voice assistant or an external smart speaker linked to your Sonos system.

Can I mount the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker on the wall?

Yes, IKEA sells specific wall brackets designed to allow you to mount the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker horizontally or vertically on your wall, transforming it into a functional wall shelf.

What colors does the IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker come in?

The IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker is typically available in two colors: black and white.

Does the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker support Apple AirPlay 2?

Yes, the IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker supports Apple AirPlay 2, allowing Apple users to stream audio directly from their iOS devices to the speaker and integrate it into their Apple Home ecosystem.

How do I set up the IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker?

Setup is done via the Sonos app.

You plug in the speaker, open the Sonos app, and follow the on-screen instructions to connect it to your home Wi-Fi network and integrate it into your Sonos system.

What is Trueplay tuning and does the SYMFONISK support it?

Yes, the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker supports Trueplay tuning. Oster 2-Slice Toaster with Quick-Check Lever

Trueplay is a Sonos feature requiring an iOS device that uses your device’s microphone to analyze your room’s acoustics and optimize the speaker’s sound output for that specific environment.

Can I use the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker as a stand-alone speaker?

Yes, you can use a single SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker as a stand-alone Wi-Fi speaker for any room.

How much does the IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker cost?

The price of the IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker generally ranges from $120 to $140, making it one of the more affordable entry points into the Sonos ecosystem.

Is the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker portable?

No, the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker is not portable as it requires continuous power from a wall outlet and does not have a built-in battery.

Can I use the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker with my TV?

Yes, you can use the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker as part of a Sonos home theater setup by pairing two of them as rear surrounds with a compatible Sonos soundbar like the Beam or Arc. It cannot directly connect to a TV via HDMI or optical cable on its own.

What streaming services are compatible with SYMFONISK speakers?

As part of the Sonos ecosystem, SYMFONISK speakers are compatible with a vast array of popular podcast streaming services, including Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon Podcast, Pandora, Tidal, and many more, all controlled via the Sonos app.

Is the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker good for podcasts?

Yes, its clear vocal reproduction makes it excellent for listening to podcasts, audiobooks, and talk radio.

How does the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker compare to the SYMFONISK Lamp speaker?

The Bookshelf speaker is designed for versatile placement shelf, wall mount, end table, while the Lamp speaker combines a speaker with a table lamp.

Both offer similar sound quality and Sonos integration but differ in their primary furniture function.

Can I control the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker with my phone?

Yes, the primary way to control the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker is through the Sonos app on your smartphone or tablet, or via Apple AirPlay 2 for Apple users. Nutribullet Smart Touch Blender Combo

Does the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker require a Sonos Bridge or Boost?

No, modern Sonos systems, including the SYMFONISK speakers, generally do not require a Sonos Bridge or Boost unless you have an older Sonos system or a very unstable Wi-Fi network. They connect directly to your home Wi-Fi.

What is the power source for the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker?

The SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker is powered by a standard AC power cord that plugs into a wall outlet.

Can I combine SYMFONISK speakers with other Sonos speakers in a multi-room setup?

Yes, that’s one of the core strengths of the Sonos ecosystem.

You can seamlessly combine SYMFONISK speakers with any other Sonos speaker e.g., Sonos One, Five, Roam, Move to create a unified multi-room audio system.

Is there a new version of the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker?

IKEA and Sonos periodically update their SYMFONISK line.

As of recent updates, there have been some minor internal revisions, but the core design and functionality remain largely consistent. Always check IKEA’s website for the latest models.

Does the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker work with Android phones?

Yes, the Sonos app is available for Android devices, allowing Android users to set up and control their SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker and the entire Sonos system. Trueplay tuning, however, is an iOS-only feature.

Can I turn off the indicator lights on the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker?

Yes, you can usually disable or dim the status indicator lights on your Sonos speakers, including the SYMFONISK, through the settings in the Sonos app.

Is the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker waterproof?

No, the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker is not waterproof or water-resistant and is intended for indoor use only.

What kind of audio quality can I expect from the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker?

You can expect clear, balanced audio with decent bass for its size. Thinkkitchen Luminate

It’s well-suited for general listening and filling small to medium-sized rooms with sound.

For critical listening or booming bass, more specialized or larger speakers would be needed.

Does IKEA offer any accessories for the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker?

Yes, IKEA offers specific wall brackets and perhaps other small accessories designed to enhance the placement and functionality of the SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker.

Is the IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf speaker good for a home office?

Yes, its compact size and good sound quality make it an excellent choice for a home office, providing background podcast or clear audio for virtual meetings without taking up much desk space.

IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf