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Sonos CEO Rennie Addabbo is advocating for the preservation of live music, drawing parallels to Japan’s dedicated listening bars, following the launch of the company’s new Play portable speaker. Addabbo shared his philosophy of immersive listening – “Phones down, ears out, just breathing” – after unveiling the new device.

The Play speaker, designed for portability and high-fidelity audio, marks a new direction for Sonos, aiming to bring premium sound quality to more spaces. Addabbo’s comments on live music emerged as part of a broader discussion about the importance of dedicated listening experiences. He highlighted the Japanese concept of “listening bars,” which are specially designed rooms focused entirely on the appreciation of vinyl records and sophisticated audio systems.

These listening bars, common in Japan, provide a space free from distractions, encouraging listeners to fully immerse themselves in the music. Addabbo’s vision appears to align with this philosophy, suggesting that Sonos aims to create products and experiences that foster a deep connection with audio, whether it's live performances or recorded music. The launch of the Play speaker and Addabbo’s advocacy for live music underscore Sonos’s commitment to delivering exceptional sound quality and promoting mindful listening practices.