Tech Talk News - Sonos Amp Multi: The Ultimate Solution for Integrators

Big homes, open layouts, and picky acoustics ask a lot from audio systems. We dig into Sonos Amp Multi, a pro-grade multi-channel streaming amplifier designed to give integrators more control and homeowners a seamless, reliable experience. From flexible zoning to quiet, fanless operation, we unpack how this hardware reshapes multi-room audio without adding complexity.

We start with the core idea: eight amplified outputs at 125 watts each, assignable to up to four zones, with any output serving any zone. That architecture unlocks adaptive system design as projects evolve, reducing rewiring and keeping plans nimble. We explore how GaN power electronics and Class D post-filter feedback deliver crisp, controlled sound while keeping thermal behaviour cool and stable over long sessions. For dense installations, we look at support for up to three Sonos architectural speakers per output and how multiple units scale cleanly across large properties.

Setup and tuning get a major upgrade, too. The Sonos app can trigger an audible ID chirp so techs identify units instantly in a rack, map zones, and manage sources with fewer steps. On the sonic side, ProTune introduces granular control with a 10-band parametric EQ, gain and width tweaks, and delay offset per output, plus optimised DSP profiles for Sonos architectural speakers. We share real-world scenarios where these tools correct awkward speaker placement, tame reflections in open spaces, and deliver consistent tonality from room to room.

Physical design choices make life easier on-site. The 1.5U chassis pairs with a dedicated 2U rack mount that builds ventilation space into the stack, so there’s no need for extra vent panels. A flat back with recessed connectors helps the unit stand upright during install, and the eight-screw process keeps timelines predictable. We also highlight how a rack-forward layout improves cable management, serviceability, and long-term reliability, cutting down on callbacks and keeping clients happy.

If you build or upgrade multi-room audio in complex homes, this conversation offers practical insights into system architecture, DSP strategy, and day-two reliability. Follow for more hands-on coverage, subscribe to get new breakdowns as they drop, and leave a review to tell us which Amp Multi feature you want us to test next.

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Chapters

• 0:01 Headlines And Launch Context
• 0:42 Why Amp Multi Exists
• 1:34 What Sets Amp Multi Apart
• 2:23 Power And Architecture Deep Dive
• 3:27 Setup, Tuning, And DSP Tools
• 4:19 Rack Design And Installation Workflow
• 5:22 Advantages For Integrators
• 7:09 Availability And First Look Details

Transcript

SPEAKER_00: 0:01

Hi, I'm Ruby, and here is your HCA Tech Talk news update for 27 January 2026. Sonos introduces AMP Multi, a professional grade multi-channel streaming amplifier built for evolving homes. Santa Barbara, California, January 27, 2026. Today, Sonos announced AMP Multi, a one-of-a-kind multi-channel streaming amplifier designed to make complex residential audio installations simpler, more flexible, and more scalable. Developed for, and in close collaboration with, integrators, AMP Multi extends the Sonos experience into larger, more sophisticated homes, while preserving the quality and simplicity the brand is known for. Why AMP Multi Exists? As homeowners adopt open floor plans and mixed-use spaces, we heard from integrators that they need a system that can adapt as designs change, without complicating installations or causing friction for homeowners. AMP Multi was developed to address that need. With eight amplified outputs, each delivering 125 watts and up to four configurable zones, AMP Multi allows professionals the flexibility to design systems tailored to their customers' homes and lifestyles. Sonos AMP is the most widely used two-channel streaming amplifier in residential installations because it's powerful, dependable, and intuitive, said Tom Conrad, CEO of Sonos. AMP Multi takes that same philosophy and applies it to larger systems. It makes ambitious designs more efficient to build and install and easier to live with. How AMP Multi is different. AMP Multi combines Sonos' streaming platform and intuitive control with an architecture designed for professional workflows. Any output can be allocated to any zone, systems can expand by adding units as needed, and high speaker counts can be managed without compromising stability or sound quality. Each output supports up to three Sonos architectural speakers, enabling dense, efficient installations across multiple rooms or spaces. At the hardware level, AMP Multi employs a highly efficient GAN power architecture combined with Class D post-filter feedback. This setup provides clear, controlled sound while enhancing thermal efficiency across every zone, enabling the system to operate silently without fans and remain stable over extended periods. Key capabilities at a glance. AMP Multi is designed to provide integrators with flexibility, control, and predictability throughout the entire project lifecycle, delivering a scalable solution that seamlessly integrates with third-party control systems and adapts to the changing needs of the custom integration sector. Flexible multi-zone capability. AMP Multi offers eight amplified outputs at 125 watts each at 8 ohms, allowing it to drive up to 24 Sonos architectural speakers, 3 per channel. Integrators can configure the outputs in any combination across up to four independent zones and install multiple AMP multi-units for larger scale installations. Premium Performance. An innovative combination of a highly efficient GAN power architecture with Class D post-filter feedback, PFFB, delivers greater accuracy, dynamic control, and thermal efficiency across every zone. This gives clients a beautifully crisp sound system that operates silently without fans and remains stable over long periods of use. Fast, predictable setup. Each unit emits a unique audible chirp that is triggered from the Sonos app, removing the need for manual pin entry and reducing time spent identifying hardware in the rack. The Sonos app also enables integrators to manage zones, sources and outputs more efficiently, while homeowners are left with an experience that simply works. Advanced tuning and DSP tools. AMP Multi also introduces ProTune, a new manual sound optimization tool that gives integrators granular control of each output, including a 10-band parametric EQ, gain, width control, and delay offset. These tools make it possible to fine-tune sound for challenging speaker placement and room geometry, while Optimized Sonos speakers delivers detailed DSP profiles for Sonos architectural speakers. Rack ready design. Built for modern racks, the 1.5U chassis, paired with the dedicated 2U rack mount, sold separately, creates built-in ventilation space above and below each unit. This layout removes the need for additional vent panels and helps maintain clean cable management. Efficient installation. AMP Multi's flatback design and recessed connectors allow the unit to stand upright while the rack mount slides into place. The entire install process requires only eight screws, making projects fast and predictable. We developed AMP Multi with integrators at the core of every decision. Leveraging their in-depth understanding of real-world installation challenges to design a product that aligns with how they operate, said Chris Heinzelmann, VP product at Sonos. The aim was to minimize friction at each stage of a project, from installation and setup to system tuning. This is about providing professionals with more control while keeping the system user-friendly for those who live with it daily. Advantages of AMP Multi for integrators. AMP Multi provides integrators with a purpose-built solution to expand their business, built on the Sonos ecosystem, with seamlessly integrated hardware and software, extensive streaming service support, and adaptable control that homeowners can trust every day. Greater freedom to design systems. AMP Multi empowers integrators to create more adaptive layouts by letting any output serve any zone. This flexibility allows fast adjustments as projects evolve without rewiring or redesigning system plans. Precision control for professional grade results. With tuning tools like Optimize Sono Speakers and the all-new ProTune feature, integrators gain deeper control over audio shaping, timing, and unique room acoustics. This tool helps them deliver consistent, high-quality sound in complex spaces and rooms that require custom treatment. Scalable for ambitious projects. AMP Multi's advanced architecture delivers stronger, cleaner output across larger systems. Integrators can confidently drive high-speaker counts while maintaining clarity, stability, and balanced performance across every zone. Designed for how pros work. AMP Multi's rack forward design and dedicated 2U mount help integrators streamline dense equipment stacks. The improved ventilation and space efficiency mean cleaner racks, more room for the client, easier serviceability, and quieter operation. Reliable performance with lower maintenance. GAN technology and a convection-cooled design reduce common failure points such as fans, dust buildup, and thermal stress. Integrators benefit from systems that stay stable over time, minimizing callbacks and improving client satisfaction. AMP Multi will be available globally through Sonos installation partners in the coming months. For more information, visit Sonos.com or contact your local Home Cinema Alliance member. An exclusive hands on first look will be available on the HCA Tech Talk podcast, streaming from 8 pm on the 27th of January 2026 on our YouTube channel.