It might be cute, but this tabletop speaker is loaded with features and projects sound in all directions, filling even large spaces. Stream using Bluetooth or via your home's wi-fi, using a smartphone app, and you can also link up to six speakers together to create a multi-room system. It has 10-hour battery and is available in four colours.
Sonos started the multi-room audio revolution with its easily expandable wi-fi connected speakers. Choose the Play:5 ; the compact Play:1, £169; the office-sized Play:3, £259; or the Connect, £279, which transforms most existing hi-fis into streaming speakers. Each speaker can be used alone or linked together using an intuitive app.
With a battery that can last up to 24 hours and six superb-quality speakers, this portable Bluetooth design (H26xW15xD5cm), made from premium leather and aluminium, can entertain listeners in any room. It can even top up your smartphone battery if you're not near the mains. Comes in a choice of six colours, with spare straps available from £29.
The perfect compromise between traditional radio and wireless streaming, the R100 has a built-in FM/DAB radio and can play music via Bluetooth or create a multi-room network with other products in the R-Line range. Control using the touch screen or an app. An optional 12-hour battery pack is available.
Beautiful and so easy to use, this Danish-designed Bluetooth speaker is finished with a soft wool cover in Sand Yellow, above, Anthracite Grey, Pebble Grey, Ocean Blue, Ice Blue or Sunset Red. The understated design hides three fantastic-quality speakers that sound every inch as good as the Oslo looks.
COUNTRY STYLE NEED-TO-KNOW
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- Don't be afraid to ask
Bluetooth, for example, is a technology that streams (sends) music wirelessly between a smartphone, tablet or computer to a compatible speaker/music system to a range of around 10 metres. Look for the ‘aptX' logo to get the best sound quality. - Subscribe to a music streaming device
Spotify or Apple Music let you enjoy millions of songs on a smartphone, tablet or computer or steam them wirelessly to a compatible speaker. Some services are free, but have adverts;
or you can subscribe for about £9.99 a month. - Set up a multi-room system
To do this you'll need to connect a family of speakers via your home's wi-fi network. It's simple to do and, once linked, you can control the music in every room in the house, all from one simple app.
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