(pictured above: Sonos Play 3 from Superfi)
Summer is here and that means lots of parties, barbeques and music. If you or your friends have a smartphone then chances are you already know of some pretty neat ways to get the music booming and the party started; docking stations, Bluetooth speakers and of course DJ software controllers all allow you to sync your iPhone or other smart device and flood the streets with the latest ‘banging’ tunes.
Wireless speakers are undoubtedly one of the best ways to share music with friends and the beauty of them is that they’re not confined to a mains power supply. Instead, they’re battery operated and very often rechargeable, making them perfect for trips to the beach or a picnic with your other half.
Your laptop, smartphone and tablet computer should all have Bluetooth connectivity; this is the main wireless connection method for wireless speakers. If you’ve got a Bluetooth enabled device, here’s how to choose the best wireless speakers for the summer.
1. Budget
This is the most important stage of your purchase. It’s no good looking at portable speakers before you set yourself a budget, because you’ll get all gooey eyed over a piece of kit you simply can’t afford. Good portable speakers can be picked up from as little as £60 (SoundScience QB Mito) or as high as £599 (Bang & Olufsen Beolit 12). Whatever your budget is, stick to it. Click here to see a full range of wireless speakers.
2. Reviews
Almost every single portable speaker on the market has been reviewed by a leading industry source. Whathifi.com have fantastic reviews on audio equipment and gdgt.com draw together reviews from across the internet to give a product an overall score. Before jumping in to a purchase make sure you know what you’re getting in to, as reviews note any downsides to the buyer.
3. Research
Once you have narrowed down your favourite portable speakers you should carry out research online to find the best price. A products RRP does not reflect the consistent pricing of stores, and each store will have its own special offers.
4. Money saving tactics
Just because a website has a portable speaker listed at £99.99 does not mean that’s the price you have to pay. Hot UK Deals is also a fantastic place to hunt for bargains, although products listed there are on a first come first served basis. Check out specialist audio sites clearance sections for the real bargains and you’ll be sure to snap them up first if you sign up to their newsletters.
Overall
Portable speakers are a fantastic accessory for your smartphone, tablet computer or laptop. When deciding on a purchase be sure to look for its maximum audio output and its connectivity method, as cheaper portable speakers tend to connect via USB and not wirelessly.
