Sanus Era 300 Speaker Stands Review: Conditional Buy
A Best Buy customer summed it up with a simple verdict: “Steady and safe for Sonos Era 300, no movement even under extreme use and high volume sound.” The Sanus Wireless Speaker Stands for Sonos Era 300 (Black) - Pair earn a solid 8.2/10, praised for stability, sleek integration, and cable management, but often criticized for high pricing and occasional height adjustment quirks.
Quick Verdict: Conditional Buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Heavy, stable base prevents tipping | Price considered high by many users |
| Sleek design matches Era 300 aesthetics | Height adjustment mechanism can be tricky |
| Integrated cable management | Lacks swivel/tilt for directional aiming |
| Easy assembly in 15 minutes | Cable routing can shorten power lead reach |
| Works with both Era 100 & Era 300 | Fixed-height version too low for some surround setups |
| Durable materials | Adjustment tool is removable and can be lost |
| Improves optimal listening height | Stand connector considered flimsy by a few |
Claims vs Reality
Sanus markets these stands as “offering optimal listening height, cable management, and sleek design” for any setup — home theater, stereo pairing, or ambient listening. The fixed-height WSSE31/WSSE32 models stand at 32 inches, while adjustable models allow 25"–42" positioning.
Digging deeper into user reports, that “optimal listening height” claim is disputed. A Reddit user in the Sonos Community stated: “The fixed position stands at 32 in… does not (imo) provide the optimal height for the Era 300’s when used as surround speakers. Height may be sufficient for front stage stereo pair.” The adjustable models give flexibility, but multiple owners say the mechanism “didn’t lock into place firmly… Era 300’s would slip.”
On cable management, Best Buy buyers overwhelmingly agree with Sanus’ claim about tidiness. One reviewer called them “clutter‑free… eliminates messy wires for a polished aesthetic.” However, several note the trade-off: once you run the cable through the base, removing the speaker means unscrewing parts, meaning these are best for permanent installs.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
The heavy, oversized base is the most celebrated feature. Andres MN on Best Buy declared: “No movement even under extreme use and high volume sound.” This benefits home theater enthusiasts with pets or kids who need tip-resistant gear. One buyer tested durability deliberately: “My two cats ran close to the stand and didn’t knock it down… confident they will withstand cat play over many years.”
The aesthetic integration also earns repeated praise. “Matches the speaker perfectly and completes the look of my home theatre system,” wrote Best Buy user Dunhill. For design-conscious audiophiles, Sanus' use of steel and extruded aluminum complements the premium Sonos Era finish. Even the community member critical of height found Sanus “look good” and easy to assemble for other Sonos models like Play:1.
Cable management is a thread in nearly every positive review. PhillipB called the hides “nice… tucks cables away with rubber grommets.” This matters for living rooms where exposed cords ruin a curated visual.
Common Complaints
Pricing is the sore point across Reddit, Trustpilot, and Best Buy. Edrick96 offered blunt advice: “They are adjustable but I think they are very expensive.” The high retail cost — $219.99 for the adjustable pair — is compared unfavorably to fixed-height options and alternative brands, especially for those outfitting multiple speakers.
Height adjustability itself is a mixed blessing. While Best Buy reviewer Stingy1 praised flexible positioning, Reddit’s Era 300 owner found the slide system unreliable for the heavier Era 300 models, leading to sagging over time. This affects users requiring precise driver alignment for Dolby Atmos setups.
Assembly isn’t always as effortless as the promoted “15 minutes.” Trobadour noted that “instructions weren’t clear about one piece” and that cable routing sometimes forces irreversible positioning unless you disassemble. For buyers frequently reconfiguring their space, this is an inconvenience.
Divisive Features
Fixed versus adjustable height divides the community. Sufi Mom shared: “In hindsight should have went for the cheaper fixed length ones… adjustable mechanism might not be necessary for everyone.” In contrast, others insist adjustable height is “definitely worth the extra $20” for tailoring exact positioning.
The connector between stand and speaker polarizes opinions — some barely mention it, while PhillipB warns “plastic connector… a little flimsy… only secured with 1 screw.” Those in high-use households worry about long-term wear here, despite the stability of the base.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot and community feedback don’t reveal scam concerns, but reliability talk is prevalent. Reddit veterans speak from multi-model experience: “I have used Sanus stands with Play 1 and Sonos One speakers with success… application with the Era 300 leaves much to be desired,” voicing that design choices suit lighter speakers better.
Owners using them for months or years highlight the durable base surviving pets’ contact, high-volume sound, and frequent Atmos playback tests. Still, height slippage complaints suggest potential wear in adjustable models’ locking mechanisms over time. For permanent positioning, fixed stands likely offer fewer mechanical failure points.
Alternatives
Users compare directly to Sonos’ own Era 300 stands — described by one Redditor as “an engineering marvel… balances a 9.85 lb speaker on a 37.634 in pole… only requires 4 screws.” While pricier, they’re said to offer superior surround-optimized height.
Flexson is mentioned but without available compatible models yet, leaving Sanus as the primary third-party choice. This lack of competition contributes to Sanus’ premium pricing staying unchallenged.
Price & Value
At around $219.99 for the adjustable pair and $129.99 for each fixed-height stand, many see cost as steep. On eBay, resale values suggest demand but with lower achievable prices — fixed pairs spotted at $149 or single units under $100. Savvy buyers may find deals from third-party sellers or open-box returns.
Buying tips from community: If you can commit to a permanent height and placement, the fixed versions save money and reduce mechanical complexity. For mixed-use spaces or evolving setups, adjustable models offer long-term flexibility despite the extra cost.
FAQ
Q: Are these stands stable enough for homes with pets or children?
A: Yes. Multiple owners report no tipping even under heavy bumps or animal contact, thanks to the heavy base and carpet spikes/rubber feet.
Q: Can I use these with Era 100 speakers?
A: Yes. Reviews confirm mounts for both Era 100 and Era 300 are included, allowing mixed setups or upgrades without changing stands.
Q: Is height adjustment reliable for Era 300's weight?
A: Mixed. Some praise smooth sliding and secure locks; others note slip issues over time, especially with heavier Era 300 units.
Q: Do the stands allow tilting or swiveling the speaker?
A: No. Users mention no directional aiming features, limiting sound positioning beyond height changes.
Q: Will cable management limit speaker portability?
A: Yes. Running cables internally means disassembly to remove, so these stands suit permanent installations best.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re a Sonos Era 300 owner prioritizing stability, aesthetics, and integrated cable management — particularly in spaces needing pet-proofing or visual harmony. Avoid if you frequently reposition speakers or want directional aiming; the adjustment mechanism and fixed alignment may frustrate. Pro tip from the community: If surround height is a priority, measure your ear level in seating position — fixed stands may sit too low for rear channels even if perfect for stereo fronts.
