All of us have fond memories of our grandparents spending their afternoons with transistor radios or everyone flocking around the radio on Sunday noons to listen to Sunday Suspense.
Those days might be long gone, but the pleasure of listening to music or the spoken word has not been forgotten. Many of us still listen to radio stations on our smartphones. Audio books are hugely popular among today’s generations. But the modes of listening has obviously changed.
Nowadays, smartphones, tablets and computers are used to store music and play them, often with the help of headphones, music systems, home theatre systems, Wi-Fi speakers and Bluetooth speakers.
Bluetooth speakers are quite popular in India as both mini music systems for homes and as well as portable speakers when travelling. They have a number of advantages that make them a favourite with audio entertainment lovers.
These include portability, low power consumption, no need for tangly wires, no installation hassle, suitability for both indoor and outdoor usage and compatibility with all mobile phones and any other device with Bluetooth.
Although they do have some drawbacks like low range of distance for operation, lower audio wattage than conventional speakers and incompatibility with most dedicated music systems that do not have Bluetooth support, these are inconsequential compared to their many merits.
What to Keep in Mind When Buying a Bluetooth speaker
Form
Bluetooth speakers come in many shapes like bars, cylinders, boxes, pills and everything in between. And these are only the standard ones. A number of Bluetooth speakers are sold in the market in quirky shapes and figures.
Frequency Response
The audible range of humans is 20Hz – 20,000Hz. Thus, wider the frequency range of the speaker, the better the reproduction of a sound as close to the original as possible. However, this alone does not determine the sound quality of a speaker as the perception of the listener also plays a major role here. The age, hearing ability and sensitivity of a person determines which frequency range they most respond to, and it is sensible to buy a Bluetooth speaker based on the user’s requirement.
Bluetooth version
This plays a major role in the quality of sound the speaker produces. It is best to buy speakers using the latest version for satisfactory data transmission rate and range. Bluetooth version 4 is used in the best speakers, with a sufficient transmission rate for smooth playing, a range of about 60m and also Low Energy Profile support for longer battery life. Bluetooth version 5 has been released but it is yet to become prevalent in Bluetooth speakers.
Driver
The size, number and placement of drivers in a Bluetooth speaker is the actual and main determinant of the quality and loudness of sound produced by the speaker. Driver refers to the component that changes the electrical signal to the audio one. Larger the driver, louder the sound; but the size of the speaker increases too. Most speakers use a single driver, but some have twin driver set-up, which obviously produce higher decibels. Since portable speakers are too small to have woofers, passive radiators are mostly used to produce sufficient bass. Also, upward or downward placement of drivers give better sound displacement, while sideways placed driver give lower listening angle, but a more concentrated around.
Connectivity
Choose a speaker that allows you to connect to multiple devices via the Bluetooth, for greater functionality. It is also wise to get a speaker that has additional auxiliary cable connectivity, to not only conserve charge but also prevent signal attenuation for better sound. NFC or near-field communication allows automatic connection to a device by bringing them within 4cm of each other. If you have the budget, choose a speaker with microphone to for handsfree calling option as well as smart AI speaker-like feature using your smartphone.
Charging method
The most convenient charging port would be the ubiquitous USB port. It is an added advantage if the speaker comes with micro-USB connector: that way the user will have the option of charging via power banks too.
Usual usage location
A prospective buyer must be certain about where the speaker will be mostly used. If you are buying it for music on-the-go, a pocket-sized one is favourable. If you plan to use it for outdoor and pool parties, make sure the speaker you buy is robust with water and dust resistance.
Extra features
In this age of smart technology and AIs, it is important that Bluetooth speakers do more than just what speakers are supposed to do. Alexa from Amazon and Google’s virtual assistant have already been incorporated in their respective releases(Echo and Home). Some speakers, especially those built for party purposes, have the ability to “chain” up with other speakers to play synchronized music. If you want better control over the functions of your speaker, get one with companion app support. Also make sure your speaker supports high bitrate codecs like LDAC, aptX HD or at least aptX(AAC for Apple Users) if your audio files are rich and have high sound resolutions.
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Best Bluetooth Speakers in India
The Indian consumer base is slowly making headway into the realm of wireless speakers, not only for listening to music, but also for hands-free device operation via voice control. Some of the most popular Bluetooth speakers that are ruling the market are given below.
1. Sony SRS-XB30/BC-IN5 Portable Bluetooth Speakers
Sony is probably the most opted for brand when it comes to any audio device like speakers and headphones. The Sony SRS-XB30/BC-IN5 portable bluetooth speaker is a leader in its segment. Its first impression is a quite spectacular, with a multi-coloured light line with strobe. It features full-range dual drivers that produces extraordinary sound quality. They are coupled with dual passive radiators that, along with Sony’s Extra Bass technology, produces powerful bass perfect for EDM and rock music.
It can connect with upto 3 Bluetooth-enabled devices and play audio files from each in turns. Not only that, it is possible to sync upto 10 of these speakers using the wireless Party Chain feature to play music extra loud for parties. It even has NFC that quickly connects to compatible devices.
Being wireless, light and compact, it can be carried and used anywhere and everywhere. Its built-in power bank ensures that it runs all day long. Not only that, it has a water-resistant body, which means it can be carried to even pool parties.
Features of Sony SRS-XB30/BC-IN5 Portable Bluetooth Speakers
- It has 2 full-range, greater-than-average, 48mm drivers.
- Sony Bluetooth speaker also has 2 passive radiators and Extra Bass technology powered by Sony’s unique digital signal processor, for powerful bass production.
- It has wide connectivity options, allowing it to connect to upto 3 other Bluetooth devices(2 iOS devices). NFC allows quick detection and connection to devices
- Its Party Chain feature allows 10 of these speakers to connect and sync wirelessly to produce loud music for parties.
- It has an in-built, 8800mAh power bank that gives it 24 hours of battery life.
- This is powered by LDAC algorithm, that has a maximum transfer rate of 990 kbps. This employs Bluetooth version 4.2. It supports A2DP, AVRCP, HFP and HSP profiles.
- It is IPX5 waterproof, that makes it absolutely safe for use near pools.
- The speaker is compact and light, at 1.4kg and 24.1 cm x 17.5 cm x 11.3 cm.
- Its voltage requirement is 240V and GSM frequency is 2.4GHz.
- Sony provides 1 year warranty from date of purchase.
2. JBL Flip 4 Portable Wireless Speaker with Powerful Bass & Mic
This is the most sought-after Bluetooth speaker right after Sony’s XB30. It is powered by JBL’s Signature Sound that produces impressive sound quality and loudness. This is augmented by the powerful dual drivers and dual passive bass radiators. Its in-built noise and echo cancellation imparts sound clarity to the speaker. It is waterproof with durable fabric covering, that simultaneously complements its looks and makes it usable near pools.
Its Connect+ feature lets it sync with upto 100 more Connect+ compatible JBL speakers. It has a reasonable battery life that lasts about half a day. It has both aux-in and 3.5mm audio cable input. But its most useful feature is probably the integrated voice assistant, supporting both Google and Siri, that lets you voice-command it independent of your phone.
Features of JBL Flip 4 Portable Wireless Speaker with Powerful Bass & Mic
- Its dimensions are 7 cm x 17.5 cm x 6.8 cm and its weight is 517g.
- It has JBL Signature Sound enabled for enhanced sound quality.
- It uses Bluetooth 4.2 and supports A2DP V1.3, AVRCP V1.6, HFP V1.6 and HSP V1.2 profiles. Bluetooth transmitter power is 0 – 9dBm, transmitter frequency range is 2.402 – 2.480GHz and transmitter modulation is GFSK,π/4-DQPSK, 8DPSK.
- It has 2 40mm transducers that give a total output of 16 watts, with a signal-to-noise ratio greater than 80dB. Its frequency response range is from 70Hz-20kHz.
- It is fitted with lithium-ion polymer batteries of 3000mAh capacity, that gives 12 hours of juice and charges in about 3.5 hours.
- This has voice recognition, JBL Connect+ and 3.5mm audio cable input port.
- It is fully waterproof, with a compact, light body.
3. Bose Soundlink Revolve+ 739617-5130 Wireless Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Everyone knows a Bose can be trusted blindly when it comes to audio devices. This portable Bluetooth speaker is one of the best-selling ones around. This is owing to its superior, 360° sound that gives a truly immersive,uniform sound coverage. It sports a seamless aluminium body which is not only durable, but also water-resistant.It has a rechargeable, lithium-ion battery that gives 16 hours of playtime in one full charge.
It is capable of taking voice calls and responds to voice prompts, courtesy the built-in Google and Siri AI systems. Two speakers can be paired together for stereo or party mode playback. It can also be multi-connected to upto two devices with easy control swap.It has can pair easily via NFC with other NFC enabled devices.
The Bose Connect app helps to manage bluetooth connections, unlock features and access future updates with ease. It has a flexible fabric handle that gives it easy portability. Bose comes with an optional charging cradle that provides a home base and keeps the speaker charged. It can be attached to almost any tripod with the threaded universal mount, and comes with micro-B USB port for charging and auxiliary input to connect to other audio sources.
Features of Bose Soundlink Revolve+ 739617-5130 Wireless Portable Bluetooth Speaker
- The product dimensions are 10.5 cm x 24 cm x 18.4 cm and its weight is 1.5kg.
- Speaker surround sound channel configuration is 1.0_channel.
- It has a battery life of upto 16 hours of usage.
- Speaker has a Bluetooth range of 9 m.
- It has IPX4 waterproofing with an aluminum body.
- Bose can operate via voice prompts and has speakerphone and Google Assistant and Siri facilities.
- The 360° surround sound gives equal audio output on all sides.
- It has 3.5 mm auxiliary input and Micro-B USB ports.
4. Ultimate Ears Wonderboom Portable Bluetooth Speakers
UE is quite a popular brand to choose from when it comes to Bluetooth speakers. The Wonderboom may be pocket-sized, but it packs quite a punch with its sound. It boasts of 360° surround sound that can liven up any party when kept in the middle of the room. Its high waterproof rating ensures that you can take it to the poolside without worry. It has an impressive 30 m Bluetooth field. But the battery life is not at all long.
It has an easy connect feature that allows you to connect to other devices simply by holding down the UE button. Pressing the button once plays the song, pressing it again pauses it and double tapping skips the song. It is easy to wirelessly pair up to 2 Wonderbooms together for added loudness. You can also connect 2 Wonderbooms simultaneously to the same source.
Features of Ultimate Ears Wonderboom Portable Bluetooth Speakers
- The speaker is 10.7 cm x 11.7 cm x 13.5 cm in dimensions and 299gm in weight. Screen size is 1 inch.
- 360° sound portal wireless speakers gives powerful sound equally in all directions.
- The Double Up feature helps it connect seamlessly to other devices simply by holding the UE button.
- It has an IPX7 waterproof rating besides dust and drop resistance.
- It is powered by lithium ion battery.
- Speaker surround sound channel configuration is 1.0_channel.
- It has a loudness of 87 dB.
- This is compatible with Amazon Echo Dot for Alexa Voice Control.
- It gives 16 watts output via twin speakers.
5. Echo Dot (3rd Gen) – New and improved smart speaker with Alexa
With smart speakers taking over thousands of households in India, one of the leading choices is Amazon’s Echo Dot, that just got a revamp with the 3rd generation version. A small pill-shaped speaker, its best feature is obviously the voice control and smart features provided by Amazon’s AI Alexa. Alexa can not only play songs and games, answer questions, make calls, send messages, read the news, check the weather, set alarms, book cabs and do almost anything a smartphone can, it can even control compatible smart home devices.
As a Bluetooth speaker, the Echo Dot does not disappoint either. It can play songs from a paired device or from an online song portal. It can also pair with a second Echo Dot for rich, stereo sound. Besides Bluetooth, it also has Wi-Fi connectivity and a 3.5 mm stereo audio output for use with external speakers. It has buttons on the top for control and comes with a 1 year warranty.
Features of Echo Dot (3rd Gen) – New and improved smart speaker with Alexa
- Its size is 99 mm x 99 mm x 43 mm and its weight is 300g.
- It has a single 1.6″ speaker.
- Speaker supports A2DP and AVRCP Bluetooth profiles.
- It also has dual-band Wi-Fi that supports 802.11 a/b/g/n (2.4 and 5 GHz) networks. Does not support connecting to ad-hoc Wi-Fi networks.
- It has a power port and a 3.5 mm audio output.
- The speaker is powered by Alexa and comes with all the accompanying features,including Fire, Android and iOS compatibility.
- It has a smart light ring and buttons for instant control, besides voice control.
- Speaker can hear you from across the room, even in noisy environments, or while playing music as it has four microphones that use beam- forming technology and enhanced noise cancellation.
6. JBL GO Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker with Mic
Its massive popularity is evident from the fact that it has thousands of reviews online and a high star rating. It has twin high-performance drivers powered by JBL Signature Sound that gives a powerful bass sound. Wireless Bluetooth streaming seamlessly streams high-quality sound from your smartphone or tablet. Its noise cancellation feature helps bring sound clarity to the audio. It supports Google or Siri control, which can be activated simply by long-pressing the remote button.
It has built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery,but does not play long in one charge. This has a compact retro design and comes in 8 attractive colour options. It has easy portability and buttons on the top give easy control over its operations. It is provided with a 1 year warranty.
Features of JBL GO Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker with Mic
- Its dimensions are 8.3 cm x 3.1 cm x 6.8 cm, with a weght of 132 g.
- Its rechargeable lithium polymer batteries give a playtime of 5 hours.
- It uses Bluetooth version 4.1.
- The outer covering has a durable double-injection finishing.
- It has in-built Google and Siri voice control integration.
- Its audio output is 3 watts with a signal to noise ratio of 80dB.
- Speaker surround sound channel configuration is 1.0_channel.
- Its voltage requirement is 3.7V.
7. Sony SRS-XB10 EXTRA BASS Portable Wireless Speaker
This is a powerhouse in wireless Bluetooth speakers. It has large twin drivers that deliver powerful bass sound. It can be connected to another speaker for even greater sound output. Pairing with Bluetooth devices is extremely easy with the NFC capability. speaker has the Add Function in both double mode and stereo mode.
It has built-in mic for hands-free calling. This has a compact,portable design and can be placed both vertically and horizontally. It has a long enough battery life to last all day. Being splash-proof,it can be used without worry near water. It can be easily carried around due to a light and small body and even has a cord for hanging.
Features of Sony SRS-XB10 Wireless Speaker
- Product dimensions are 9.8 cm x 15.7 cm x 9.8 cmand it is 399 g in weight.
- It has 46mm full range double speakers for powerful sound.
- The speaker has a 10 m wireless range.
- It is powered by 1400mAh Li polymer batteries for a long life of 16 hours per charge.
- Its frequency range is 2.4GHz
- Supported Bluetooth profiles are A2DP, AVRCP, HFP and HSP and supported codecs are SBC and AAC.
- It supports pairing with devices using NFC.
- Speaker surround sound channel configuration is 1.0_channel.
- It has IPX5 waterproofing.
8. Marshall Kilburn 4091189 Portable Speakers
The most eye-catching feature of this Bluetooth speaker is probably its retro radio design. But don’t let that fool you. This Bluetooth comes with all the best features of any Bluetooth speaker in its kitty. In fact it has a maximum sound pressure level of 100 dB at 1 m. It also has a wide frequency range of 62Hz-20kHz. Marshal employs bass-reflex cabinet principle for a powerful bass experience. It has 2 3/4″ dome tweeters and 1 4″ woofer that produces rich sound.
Its powerful audio output is complemented by a large battery life owing to its large battery capacity. It has active speaker amplification and can connect to another Bluetooth device wirelessly. Speaker also has 3.5 mm aux input for seamless connection to another device. It is slightly heavy, but that does not affect its portability at all due to the handle attachment. All in all, although it does not have the fancy accoutrements of other Bluetooth speakers in the market right now, it does deliver the best in what it is supposed to do – play fabulous music over Bluetooth
Features of Marshall Kilburn 4091189 Portable Speakers
- It is 14 cm x 14 cm x 24.2 cm in size and has a weight of 3kg.
- Speaker is powered by rechargeable Li polymer battery of 2200mAh that gives 20 hours of battery life and charges in about 5 hours.
- It has a powerful 70 watts audio wattage given by the tweeters and woofer.
- Marshal gives a loudness of 100dB at 1 m.
- It can connect with another device via Bluetooth or aux cord.
- Speaker surround sound channel configuration is 1.0_channel.
- There is 1 year manufacturer’s warranty provided.
9. Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay A1 Wireless Speakers
The B &O BeoPlay A1 is the archetype of portability, sound production and battery life, all packed into a small, pill-shaped speaker that is bigger in essence than it looks. It is super-light, pocket-sized and portable, and is perfect for playing music and taking calls on-the-go. It has powerful 140 watt double speakers that pack a punch in the sound produced,especially the bass. On top of that, it is installed with massive battery power that will last all day, literally.
It has a rounded aluminium body that imparts it dust as well as splash resistance. One can connect upto to of these speakers via Bluetooth more a large stereo experience. The 360° mic at the bottom gives enhanced voice recognition and uniform speech sensitivity, which are a blessing when taking calls. Overall, this is one of the best buys for both first-timers and upgraders.
Features of Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay A1 Wireless Speakers
- Its dimensions are 19 cm x 19 cm x 8.8 cm and its weight is 599g.
- It has a built-in microphone for voice recognition and call receipt.
- Its intuitive technology helps it connect with another B & O speaker for synchronized music playing.
- It has a portable rounded design in an aluminium dome shaped body with a leather strap, and can withstand dust and water.
- The B & O Signature sound is powered by huge 140 watt double speakers that give a total maximum output power of 280 watts.
- Its audio wattage is 60 watts and operational voltage is 7.4V.
- It has an average battery life of 24 hours.
- It comes with 1 + 1 year warranty provided by the manufacturer from date of purchase.
10. Anker Soundcore Flare Portable Bluetooth Speaker
The Anker Soundcore Flare is a combination of good looks and great sound. Its award-winning design wins the heart of one and all. It has a beat-driven LED light band at the bottom that accurately captures the mood of the party. Its dual drivers are dual drivers arranged back-to-back, which give 360° sound that fills the whole room. These are supported by passive bass radiators, which ejects powerful bass beats.
This is supported by the innovative Bassup technology. It can even inject low end power for heart-thumping beats.. It has a mic that can easily pick up your voice in any environment. This speaker draws power from its Li polymer battery to provide music for long periods. It has an easily portable structure and its waterproof body makes it perfect for pool parties.
Features of Anker Soundcore Flare Portable Bluetooth Speaker
- Its dimensions are 9.1 cm x 9.1 cm x 15.2 cm and its weight is 531g.
- It has dual drivers with passive bass radiators that can give omnidirectional sound of upto 12 watts.
- Its Bassup technology can be activated with just a single button press, which instantly adds powerful beats to the music.
- It has a microphone that you can use to make calls anywhere.
- The LED light band shines in the rhythm of the music beats to effectively capture the mood.
- Its Li-polymer battery makes it run for upto 12 hours.
- It is supported by the Soundcore app that can be used to customize EQ of every song.
- It has IPX7 waterproofing.
Conclusion
The market is filled with a large number of Bluetooth speakers and each and every one has some favourable features and some disadvantages. While some focus on sound quality, some are high on battery life and yet some others cater to the Smart needs of the user. One should have a clear idea of what one is going to prioritise in their Bluetooth speaker before diving into the sea of products available.