A portable speaker is not a new device on the market, designed for comfortable listening to music. A review of the best-selling wireless devices will tell you how to choose the best option among the variety of models. Modern smartphones still cannot produce high-quality and rich sound, because they are not able to accommodate good speakers. That is why music lovers prefer portable speakers - compact, but at the same time powerful devices that allow you to listen to music at any time convenient for the user. The choice of portable devices is huge, but after learning more about popular models, everyone can find a suitable gadget.
Criterias of choice
When choosing a portable speaker for listening to audio files, do not forget about the pitfalls that appear after purchase and cause a lot of inconvenience to the owner. The main selection criteria are:
Power. The power of portable speakers is several watts, and a simple rule works here: the higher the power, the louder the sound. Speakers up to 5W sound about the same as laptop speakers. In the 15-20 W range, you get volume comparable to portable speakers that can drown out street noise. Please note that high power does not guarantee high-quality, balanced sound. We decided to rely on power - look at the battery capacity: if the battery is weak, the music will sound loud, but not for long. Pay attention to this parameter if you are planning a long event, for example, the JBL Xtreme 2 with a power of 20 W is capable of continuously reproducing sound for 15 hours - this is a good indicator.
Number of channels: mono or stereo. Portable speakers differ in the number of sound channels. If there is one channel (indicated as 1.0), the speaker will play in mono mode, if there are two (2.0) - in stereo. The number before the dot indicates the number of built-in speakers. If you see a unit after point (2.1), it means you have a model with a subwoofer. For those who prefer surround sound, stereo models such as the HUAWEI Mini Speaker are definitely suitable.
Frequency range of playback. Let's not dive deep into physics. Just know: the wider the frequency range, the better the sound. In mid-level portable speakers, manufacturers are usually limited to a frequency range from 20–500 Hz at the lower limit to 10,000–20,000 Hz at the upper limit (for example, in the 12SRS-XBSony model it is 20–20,000 Hz). An excessive value at the lower end of the range makes the sound flat, and a low value at the upper end leads to wheezing and blurs the sound at high frequencies.
Battery life. This parameter depends on the power of the portable speaker and the capacity of its built-in battery. For example, on JBL Go 2 you can listen to music for up to five hours, and the built-in battery capacity is only 730 mAh. Various portable speakers can last from 5 to 20 hours on a single charge. The spread is very large. If you want more portability, choose a model that supports charging not only from the mains, but also via USB, like the JBL Clip 3.
Weight and dimensions. These parameters are important if you are going to take a portable speaker on a hike or plan to constantly carry it in a small bag. On average, the devices we are talking about weigh 200–400 grams. If you like everything miniature, the size of, say, a smartphone, then you are unlikely to find many options among suitable speakers with high-quality sound and a good ratio of power and autonomy. We advise you to come to terms with the fact that the devices we are choosing now are not for a pocket, but rather for a backpack.
Autonomy. On average, this figure reaches 10-12 hours. But over time, the battery life is halved, so initially you need to select a model with a high rating.
Control. Some portable speakers are equipped with buttons for volume control and song switching. But there are models without such additions, so you have to control them only using a smartphone.
Sound and cost. In this case, everything is simple - the higher the price of the product, the better the sound quality. But it is worth remembering that world-famous manufacturers inflate the cost of their products, which is why it is not always appropriate to count on excellent sound.
Additional speaker features.
- Appearance. Some people like stylish gadgets in a minimalist design, while others like a warm tube retro style. And sometimes the design can be ergonomic.
- Dust and moisture protection. The protected case will help out in “field conditions”: if you want to provide yourself with high-quality sound while walking in the forest, fishing or while relaxing on the beach. Speakers marked IPX7 and IPX8 are most reliably protected from moisture.
- Memory card support. If the speaker can reproduce sound from a memory card or USB flash drive, this will allow you to do without a smartphone. Some will say that pre-recording music onto a card is inconvenient. We agree, but sometimes it will be inconvenient for you that every time you get a call on your mobile, everyone else is left without music.
- Built-in Powerbank. Some models of Bluetooth speakers themselves work autonomously and can recharge other devices connected to them.
- FM receiver. A selection of your favorite radio stations diversifies the musical accompaniment - another option in which you free up your smartphone.
- Combining several portable speakers into one audio system. An option for music lovers. It allows you to get more powerful and loud sound in stereo.
- Wireless connection. Most speakers have a Bluetooth module, which is why they are often called Bluetooth speakers. Plus, some models have an NFC chip, which is also used to connect the speaker to a smartphone or tablet with one touch.
- 3.5 mm headphone jack.
Let's summarize
The principles described will help you choose several speaker models that are most suitable for you. And the final choice of the “very, very” suitable acoustics is best made based on the listening results. Don’t be lazy, stop by your nearest salon and listen for yourself.
And not so much a consultant as a technician. If the certainty with the dimensions and manufacturer of your potential speakers did not bring satisfaction and left too many options to choose from, in the second part of this article we will try to deal with the purely technical side of the issue.
Continuation: Part two - about speakers
Prepared based on materials from the Barnsly Blog portal, December 2017
blog.barnsly.ru
This article was read 32,503 times
The article is included in the sections:
How to choose. Buyer's Guide
The best manufacturers of portable speakers with good sound
The most famous manufacturers of portable speakers:
- JBL is a company with more than 70 years of history. It produces a wide range of high-quality equipment, including portable speakers.
- Xiaomi is a Chinese corporation; it has repeatedly appeared in the top equipment of the mid-price segment. The acoustics for smartphones are high quality.
- Sony is a Japanese corporation and guarantees that its products meet the highest standards.
- Sven is a domestic brand that produces high-quality equipment known all over the world.
- Harman is an American brand that produces a wide range of electronics. Harman acoustics are very high quality.
The Best Cheap Wireless Portable Speakers
JBL Flip 4
The JBL Flip 4 portable speaker features powerful drivers that fill large rooms and outdoor areas with balanced, loud sound that captures every musical detail.
The cylindrical body enhances bass and minimizes interference for vibrant, rich sound. Portable acoustics impress with both sound quality and endurance - a full battery charge lasts for 12 hours of continuous operation. The speaker is also compatible with Siri and Google Now, so the device can be controlled using voice commands. Specifications:
Power: 2×8 W;
Battery powered;
Bluetooth;
Moisture protection.
Advantages
- neat design
- sound quality
- light weight
Flaws
- not specified by users
SVEN PS-170BL
An excellent acoustic system for those who like to spend their holidays actively, in nature and listening to their favorite music. A capacious battery allows you to play tracks for up to 20 hours without interruption. Communication with the audio source is maintained at a distance of up to 10 meters.
Advantages
- wired or wireless audio transmission
- playing music from a memory card
- presence of a microphone
- long service life
Flaws
- poor sound quality compared to analogues
- awkward volume control
- vibrations of the speaker itself when playing low frequencies
SUPRA BTS-680
A good functional model with a well-thought-out control system. The logo is clear, the assembly is of high quality, there are no joints or other defects. A small ergonomic handle is provided to carry the speaker. The buttons come with a rubber coating, which prevents slipping and other problems. The tactile sensation is pleasant. The speakers are hidden behind a mesh, with luminous elements on the sides. There are rubberized plastic washers around the circumference. This makes the bass clear and tight. The transmitter has a long stroke; even when the speaker is installed on its side, the sound will be of high quality. The entrances are closed with plugs.
Advantages
- high build quality
- stylish design
- LED backlight
- autonomy
Flaws
- few low frequencies
JBL GO 2
A compact model that allows you to listen to music outdoors. JBL GO 2 will delight you with balanced sound, reliable build and advanced design. The case is shockproof and will not break if dropped to the ground. The speaker is packaged in a stylish plastic box, so it can be suitable as a gift for a child or teenager. The device comes with a charging cable and clear instructions, so there will be no difficulties with control. The JBL GO 2 is loud for its size. It is comfortable to take it with you on walks, trips out of town or to a party in the apartment. In addition, the model is protected from moisture according to the IPX7 standard, so it is not afraid of getting caught in the rain. Users praise the acoustics for the sound quality in the mid and high frequencies. JBL GO 2 plays almost all genres, delivering clear audio. But there are problems with bass reproduction, since the lower frequency range is 180 Hz. The manufacturer declared autonomy at 5 hours. This is strange, because... According to user measurements, the speaker lasts longer on a single charge.
Advantages
- sound quality
- Impact-resistant housing with moisture protection
- reliable assembly
- autonomy
Flaws
- not enough power
- no bass
Ginzzu GM-986B
A stylish and powerful speaker with impressive functionality and an attractive price will delight loyal fans of Ginzzu. Sound sources - tablets, smartphones or PCs - are connected to the speaker system in various ways.
Advantages
- high quality low frequency sound
- stylish design
- user-friendly interface
Flaws
- low battery life
- Signal disappears when tuning FM radio
- bass sound quality
- sound volume
Functionality of portable audio systems
The main purpose of the speaker is to output sound from a playing device (gadget, computer, TV or other device). But there are devices with the following additional options.
- Read audio files directly from a flash drive or microSD card. As a rule, the most common formats are played, for example, MP3, WMA, WAVE. This feature turns the speaker into a convenient multimedia player with high-quality sound.
- Playing the radio. Acoustics with an FM tuner are used as a radio receiver, into the memory of which you can store your favorite stations.
- Time display. Models with a display often combine a clock and an alarm clock.
- Availability of a built-in microphone (otherwise known as a speakerphone). Such a speaker can replace a telephone headset, as it allows you to answer a call without turning off the music. Some models have a noise reduction system.
- Connecting headphones. The mini-jack input can be used for more than just connecting to another device.
- Charging gadgets. Thanks to the USB connector, the model’s battery will turn into a power bank, which is very convenient on the road or at a country picnic.
- Availability of equalizer. To adjust the sound, you can use the speaker itself, rather than changing the player’s software settings.
- Lighting and visual effects. The surface of a number of models changes color and glow intensity depending on the user’s settings or the nature of the sound.
The best premium wireless portable speakers
JBL Boombox 2
The speaker will rock any party in a rented apartment or cottage. The sound is provided by 60 W speakers, which are amplified to 80 W when operating from the mains. Of course, in Boombox 2 the emphasis is on low frequencies. The bass is rich, but other frequencies do not look faded against their background. With this speaker you can listen to vocals, hip-hop, and good old rock and roll. The device is sold in two body colors: khaki and black. Boombox 2 looks like other speakers from the manufacturer: most of the body is covered with fabric, and passive speakers are placed on the sides. There is a hard plastic handle at the top that makes the speaker easy to carry. Without it, taking the speaker with you would not be easy, because... she weighs almost 6 kg. High autonomy is another reason to take Boombox 2. If similar sound speakers can withstand 10-12 hours, then this new product will work for a day without recharging. Confirmed by tests.
Advantages
- super autonomy
- clear sound
- build quality
- comfortable handle
- easy to find on sale
Flaws
- price
Marshall Kilburn II
Provides clear and detailed sound at any volume level. Despite the fact that Marshall is associated exclusively with rock, portable acoustics also reproduce club music well. Thanks to its vintage design in the form of a guitar amp, the device fits perfectly into any interior, which is also important for this type of device. There is support for Bluetooth version 5 with the ability to connect several phones at the same time, but the acoustics reveal themselves fully only with a wired connection to the playback device. The housing is protected from water.
Advantages
- Sound
- Power
- Design
Flaws
- Price
- Bluetooth turns off after 20 minutes of inactivity
JBL Boombox
A powerful speaker with great sound that lasts all day. You can safely take it to the beach or on a hike - the built-in splash protection system expands the functionality of the model and allows you to use it without restrictions. It is possible to connect a couple of smartphones or tablets at once and play sound from them one by one. Portable speaker system is a new format for pocket-sized portable music. A full battery charge will give you 24 hours of high-quality, powerful sound. There are 2 outputs for charging. The settings have modes for outdoor and home use; choose the optimal one for yourself before turning on the device. If you want to further boost your sound power, do so with JBL Connect+.
Advantages
- high quality sound
- famous brand
- power
- autonomy
- possibility of simultaneous connection of gadgets
Flaws
- you'll have to dig into the settings
Harman/Kardon Go + Play Mini
The Harman/Kardon Go + Play Mini offers a sleek design and a complete, high-performance wireless speaker system. Four speakers provide the opportunity to fill the room with perfectly high-quality sound. The built-in capacious battery provides up to 8 hours of battery life and allows you to charge devices via a USB port. The device is made from high-quality materials - a stainless steel handle and a fabric cover on the grille will add style to the interior of your home. Play music wirelessly via Bluetooth and enjoy rich, clear sound.
Advantages
- bass quality
- sound quality
- interesting design
Flaws
- not allocated by users
Advantages and disadvantages of the device
Having considered all the pros and cons, it is easy to come to the conclusion how convenient the device is to use and whether it is advisable to purchase it.
pros
- quality sound relative to size. At first glance, it cannot be said that such a compact device is equipped with a powerful speaker;
- work autonomy. A capacious battery provides several hours of operation without recharging;
- weight and size. There are speakers so small that they fit easily into a bag.
- wireless connection with gadgets. No cables needed; just activate bluetooth and the devices will quickly connect to each other;
- a powerful battery allows you to use the speaker to recharge your smartphone;
The main disadvantage is that if the speaker dies and there is no source of electricity nearby, you will not be able to hear the music.
As you can see, the advantages of portable speakers far outweigh the disadvantages. And if you like music that accompanies you everywhere, this is the right choice.
The best wireless portable speakers in terms of price/quality ratio
JBL Partybox 100
This popular portable speaker supports Bluetooth connectivity and has an attractive design with RGB lighting that will brighten up even a dull party. The connectors include USB 2.0 and 3.5 mm output. The sound of the Partybox 100 is provided by speakers with a total power of 160 watts. They clearly play different music genres across the entire frequency range. Fans of loud music will appreciate the “bass boost” function, which will add power to the reproduced sound. As for autonomy, the speaker system is fine with this. When fully charged, the battery will last 12 hours. With moderate use, you need to connect the speaker to power no more than 3 times a week. Judging by the reviews, it takes 6.5 hours to fully charge the battery. And if the battery dies at the wrong moment, Partybox 100 will continue to work from the network, preventing the party from being interrupted. For its power, the acoustics weigh a little - 9.7 kg. This makes it easier to transport.
Advantages
- loud speakers
- bright backlight
- build quality
- durable, reliable body
- autonomy
- works on battery and mains power
Flaws
- takes a long time to charge
Canton musicbox XS
Musicbox XS is the first wireless portable speaker from the popular German manufacturer. The design of the acoustics is made in the spirit of minimalism: a pleasant elongated body, no flashy elements. The structure is made of machined aluminum that is wear-resistant. The dimensions of the speaker are compact - 185x55x63 cm. At the same time, the product weighs less than 1 kg, so it is easy to carry and fits in a backpack pocket. The speaker will delight even the most demanding user with its advanced functionality. It can remember up to 5 smartphones, which makes it possible to listen to Canton musicbox XS with the whole family. There is an NFC sensor, Bluetooth 4.0 with aptX, microUSB and an AUX-IN connector (3.5 mm). Therefore, there will be no connection difficulties. A few words about autonomy, which will not disappoint. The built-in battery of the acoustics will last up to 10 hours of listening to music at medium volume. If you turn the speaker to the maximum, then the speaker will work a little less.
Advantages
- build quality
- reliable brand
- compact dimensions
- connection options
- speaker power
Flaws
- not found
Bose SoundLink Revolve
The SoundLink Revolve is a stable, vertical cylinder. Its dimensions are 82 x 152 x 82 mm and its weight is 0.68 kg. For comfortable movement, the device has a flexible rubberized handle. The case is made of metal, plastic and rubber, and is resistant to moisture, dust and accidental drops. The soft buttons are pleasant to the touch and respond well to commands. The portable speaker is equipped with two passive radiators. An innovative design was used to create the device; it contains one wide-range speaker and an acoustic diffuser. As a result, sound travels in all directions. The battery is designed for 16 hours of continuous operation. The acoustics connect to external devices via Bluetooth or a wired connection. In addition to the buttons, the speaker is easy and convenient to control and configure through the application. There is also a voice assistant and a built-in microphone. But recharging external devices and backlighting are not provided. Buyers like the quality of the speaker. Clear and loud sound that extends 360 degrees and the ability to combine two devices to create a powerful stereo system.
Advantages
- 360 degree sound
- High quality of the device
- Availability of a voice assistant
- Possibility of combining two speakers into high-quality stereo
Flaws
- There is no function for charging external devices and backlighting
JBL Flip 5
Reviews from experts praise this speaker from JBL, which offers excellent value for money in its segment. It has mono sound, its power is 20 W, and the frequency range is 65 - 20000 Hz. It can be controlled using buttons or from a smartphone; Bluetooth 4.2 is used for communication. Charging is carried out via USB-C, the case is protected from moisture according to the IPX7 standard. The model is available in a variety of colors and its battery lasts for 12 hours. Weight – 540 grams.
Advantages
- compact
- powerful bass
- high quality sound
- moisture protection
Flaws
- not identified
Sony SRS-XB12
Portable acoustics, made in the form of a “barrel”. Its dimensions are 74x92x74 mm, so the SRS-XB12 fits comfortably in the hand and can easily be carried in a backpack pocket or in the glove compartment of a car. The case is protected from moisture according to the IP67 standard, which allows you to immerse the device to a depth of 1 m for up to 30 minutes. The control panel contains power and pairing buttons, volume controls, an ADD key for creating a stereo pair of speakers, as well as play/pause. With the help of the latter, you can not only control playback, but also answer calls. Two speakers are responsible for the sound: a wide-range one with a diameter of 46 mm and a passive one mounted at the bottom. For its class, the SRS-XB12 plays well. Moreover, the range of 20-20000 Hz declared by the manufacturer is not exaggerated: there is bass, expressive mids and clear highs. Reviews praise the speaker's autonomy. The model will operate for 16 hours on its own battery. This is 1.5-2 times more compared to similar models.
Advantages
- looks stylish
- 16 hours of continuous operation
- volume reserve for a manual speaker
- moisture protection IP67
- compactness
Flaws
- not found.
③ Bluetooth speaker T&G TG113, 10 W, with FM radio
Rating: 4.9 Price: 993.17 rub.
Go to the T&G store TG113 is an attractive portable Bluetooth speaker with FM radio support. It is inferior to the older model TG117 in terms of autonomy (3.5 hours instead of 4) and weight - TG113 is 100 grams heavier. IPX6 rated nylon mesh provides protection from water and dust. The speaker supports all known music formats: WAV, MP3, FLAC and even APE.
Advantages:
- clear sound;
- availability of FM radio;
- moisture protection according to IPX6 standard;
- memory card slot and support for USB flash drives, AUX.
Flaws:
- 1200 mAh battery;
- Quiet, little bass.
Buy on AliExpress.com
The best mid-range wireless portable speakers
DreamWave Tremor
Despite the fact that the power of this portable speaker is only 50 W, it sounds very loud.
The acoustics can operate on battery for 15 hours. There is support for Bluetooth and NFC, you can also connect external playback sources via the line input. The case reliably protects the speaker from moisture and dust. The sound is detailed and rich with powerful low frequencies. Great for club, rock or metal music. Specifications:
Country: USA;
Autonomy: 15 hours;
Power: 50 W;
Weight: 5.7 kg.
Advantages
- Loud and high-quality sound
- Autonomy
- Moisture protection
Flaws
- High price
- No USB port
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay P2
The presented model is a development of the Danish company Bang & Olufsen, specializing in the production of luxury consumer electronics. This includes televisions, telephones and audio products. The brand was created in 1925 by Peter Bang and Sven Olufsen. The speaker has a convenient oval shape and compact dimensions of 140 x 80 x 28 mm, so it is very convenient to hold in the palm of your hand. But there is also a carrying strap. The body is available in milky, black or blue. It is dustproof and waterproof and the material is anodized aluminum. Despite its small size, the Beoplay P2 model is a representative of stereo acoustics, which makes the sound more spacious and of higher quality. Reproducible frequency range 68 - 21000 Hz. The rechargeable battery lasts for 10 hours of continuous operation. The speaker connects to external devices via Bluetooth or wires. There is a built-in microphone. The speaker has a non-standard control method: by double-tapping the grille, you can start or stop playback, and if you shake it, the next track will turn on. These settings can be changed through the application on your smartphone. Buyers love the sound quality in such a compact size. Many people also find the control method interesting.
Advantages
- High-quality device
- Good clear sound
- Compact, user-friendly design
- Non-standard control method
Flaws
- Continuous operation time at full volume no more than 3 hours
Marshall Emberton
This speaker from a professional audio equipment manufacturer is a mono device with a power of 20 W. It has a wide frequency range of 60 – 20,000 Hz, which guarantees excellent sound. The controls here are located on the body, charging is carried out via USB-C, and connection to a smartphone is via Bluetooth 5.0. The model is IPX7 waterproof and has a battery life of 20 hours. Weight – 700 grams.
Advantages
- premium appearance
- high-quality assembly and materials
- decent sound
- long autonomy
Flaws
- not identified.
LG XBOOM Go PL5
The review of portable speakers continues with a model from the famous Korean manufacturer LG. It has a stylish appearance, IPX5 splash protection and charging via a modern USB-C connector. The power of the model is 20 W, there is support for control from Android and IOS, as well as the ability to combine several speakers for synchronized sound. The device has an equalizer, a subwoofer, and the total power is 20 W. The device is equipped with a microphone, connects via Bluetooth and has 18 hours of battery life. Weight – 620 grams.
Advantages
- sound quality
- convenient control
- long autonomy
- high-quality assembly
Flaws
- few sound sources
- the white body is quite easily soiled
JBL Charge 4
The JBL Charge 4 portable speaker reproduces sound through one powerful newly designed speaker, complemented by two JBL passive radiators. The model provides the ability to connect external devices using a Bluetooth wireless module and a mini-jack connector. There's also a standard USB charging port. The design provides a bright LED power indication. The speaker system is suitable not only for use as a portable home speaker, but also for listening to music outdoors.
Advantages
- neat design
- build quality
- sound quality
Flaws
- not detected by users
⑦ Portable Bluetooth speaker T&G TG506, 5 W, FM radio
Rating: 4.8 Price: from 789.71 rub.
up to
970.56 rub.
Go to the store The T&G TG506 speaker is wrapped in soft plastic, so it's nice and comfortable to hold in your hand. To carry the gadget, there is a strong strap on the side panel. The built-in microphone for phone calls allows you to communicate hands-free. The 400 mAh battery provides up to 5 hours of music playback.
Advantages:
- there is FM radio;
- presence of a slot for a memory card, support for USB flash drives, AUX;
- price;
- compact size - for some this is a plus, but for others it is a minus;
- The sound is good for 5 Watts, but quiet and without bass.
Flaws:
- open connectors at the back;
- The radio only works when the cable is plugged in, however, like many inexpensive speakers.
Column dimensions
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