The Meisterstück (Gen.2) is the new top radio model from Sonoro and offers a lot more besides DAB. This test reveals everything that is in the elegant device.
Table of contents
- Needs its space
- Three ways of operation
- Custom sound
- A lot in it, a lot in it
- Sonoro Meisterstück (Gen.2) in the test: Conclusion
Radios can be really classy. The manufacturer Sonoro in particular has been proving this for several years. At the top of the portfolio is the masterpiece, which is now revised in its second generation. Of course, it transmits DAB+ and FM, plays audio content from streaming services and is even equipped with an HDMI socket.
Needs its space
The Meisterstück (Gen.2) is not suitable for the kitchenette or bedside table. With its 17x57x26 centimeters (HxWxD), it would like to have the sideboard in the living room as a stage. However, this is chic radio A real eye-catcher with its matt white, gray or black painted wooden housing. The metal front with the milled speaker slots is pleasing and looks very stylish. The optical center is a 4 inch (10.16 centimeters) color display. It displays, among other things, station logos and CD covers. It displays the graphics crisply and the large font is easy to read even from 2 meters away.
Three ways of operation
The Sonoro’s buttons are arranged in a U-shape around the display. Every important function and playback source is represented on the front and thanks to the clear layout, operation of the device is easy. The labeling could just be a little bolder. In addition, the menu navigation is a little confusing at the beginning. After a few minutes, music fans quickly find their way around. The rotary control for volume and navigation is easy to grip and implements inputs precisely.
The radio, which costs 1,399 euros (price at the time of testing), is of course supplied with a remote control. Like the masterpiece itself, it appears to be of very high quality and sits well in the hand. The pressure point of the control square in the middle is quite short and therefore takes some getting used to. However, all buttons are very easy to reach. The key labeling could be a bit stronger, like on the radio. Another operating option is the free “Sonoro Audio” app (iOS and Android) for your smartphone. It has a nice, clear design and users can use it to control the radio extensively.
Custom sound
However, in order to get the optimal sound out of the Sonoro, you still need it Room correction app. Using the application, music fans start automatic sound adjustment. The device plays a test tone and the user moves through the room with the cell phone in their hand. This procedure sounds familiar to Sonos users. This is also because the measurement can only be carried out with an iPhone (from the 6th generation). If you don’t have an Apple mobile device at hand, you can borrow one from a friend or neighbor, for example. Measuring is only necessary once, unless the masterpiece is moving to another room. The automatic sound adjustment to the room offers the optimal sound. However, the Sonoro radio also sounds great out of the box: It has a very powerful and deep bass foundation. Depending on the track, the low frequencies can sound a bit too confident. In contrast, the elegant device reproduces highs very cleanly and clearly. Voices have no audible discoloration and are always clear. The precise mids round off the balanced sound. But they could like to come to the fore a little more. As a sound extra, the Meisterstück (Gen.2) also offers surround sound. This additional function is less suitable for music, but if you use the radio as a TV speaker, it ensures better spatial sound reproduction.
A lot in it, a lot in it
The Sonoro can’t just do radio. There are a variety of ports on the back, including an HDMI eARC socket. The masterpiece can be connected to the TV via the coaxial and optical digital inputs – great. But music fans also get their money’s worth. The all-rounder has two USB playback and charging sockets for storage media (USB-A and USB Type-C), two analog inputs (3.5 millimeter jack and RCA), one analog output (Cinch) and one on the front accessible headphone jack (3.5 mm jack). However, it offers many other playback options. Internet radio and the CD slot almost seem boring. The radio also connects to a smartphone via AirPlay 2 or Chromecast, for example, or plays your favorite tracks via one of the available ones Music streaming services away. Next to Spotify (via Spotify Connect) audio content can be accessed via Amazon Music Unlimited, Deezer, Play Tidal, Napster and Qobuz. Although Apple Music lacks a widespread service, this problem can be easily avoided due to the many connection options. Thanks to DLNA and UPnP, streaming via network storage is also possible. Practical: The built-in Bluetooth transmitter not only receives signals from the cell phone, but also sends them out. This means that users can also use their Bluetooth headphones connect to the Sonoro. The manufacturer uses aptx and aptx HD Bluetooth as codecs, which should ensure the best sound in conjunction with compatible headphones.
Sonoro Meisterstück (Gen.2) in the test: Conclusion
A good radio doesn’t have to be expensive. However, if you want to own the currently best device on the market, you will have to spend a whopping 1,399 euros. The Sonoro Meisterstück (Gen.2) is packed with technology and fulfills every music wish thanks to the many playback options. Despite its many functions, operation is easy and a highlight, in the truest sense of the word, is the excellent color display. But the digital radio didn’t just impress in the test with its features or controls. It delivers a great sound that is characterized by a powerful and balanced character that is previously unmatched among its peers. So the masterpiece lives up to its name and if you dig deep into your wallet, you’ll get more than just a radio with the Sonor. Test grade: very good, 1.1
