Sonos Moves Into Audio Subscription Business With $8 Monthly HD Service

Sonos jumped into the premium music streaming business Thursday, announcing an ad-free, high-definition streaming tier of Sonos Radio. The $7.99 monthly service will have more exclusive content than the free version of Sonos Radio, delivered in lossless 16-bit/44.1 kHz FLAC, said the company. The HD FLAC coded is supported by all Sonos speakers, a spokesperson emailed. He downplayed concerns that streaming service partners would perceive the Sonos subscription as competition, saying the offering “is complementary to these services.” Sonos has a “commitment to choice,” he said, noting customers can choose from more than 100 streaming services on Sonos, including the free, ad-supported Sonos Radio and premium Sonos Radio HD. On whether Sonos plans to offer track and playlist capability in the future, bundle hardware and streaming services, or make Sonos Radio HD available to other audio hardware companies, the spokesperson said the company is “always exploring ways to bring new listening experiences to customers.” It has "nothing to share on these items." Exclusive content is part of the Sonos Radio HD service, including artist-curated stations that go in-depth with interviews, “obsessions, inspirations, and nostalgic tracks.” The first to go on air is Songteller Radio, hosted and curated by Dolly Parton; her first show is available on Sonos Radio HD and on Mixcloud. New artist-curated stations will drop regularly, Sonos said, including five new ones early next year. The service plans “deeper exploration” into genres and music scenes by curators and expert DJs, including Nashville Now and Americana Ramble, jazz performances, R&B and soul. Also on tap are soundtracks for cooking, working and relaxing, along with audio promoting mindfulness, productivity and relaxation. Sonos is offering a free one-month trial.