Speakers features & opinions
47 articles
The argument behind the numbers: what our writers think the speakers industry is getting right, and where it keeps lying to you.
Features & OpinionsI went hands-on with JBL’s new Cove speakers, and one really stands outMore JBL speakers? Here’s the lowdown on the new Cove lineup.Dave Carr · 1w ago
Features & OpinionsThe JBL Xtreme 4 does one thing the newer Xtreme 5 can’tThere’s still one very good reason I’d buy the older Xtreme 4, and it’s not the lower price.Dave Carr · 3w ago
Features & OpinionsWhy I stopped worrying about my Bluetooth speaker battery lifeLonger battery life often comes with tradeoffs I’d rather avoid.Dave Carr · 1mo ago
Features & OpinionsSonos or Bose? Here's how I'd choose my home theaterBoth systems provide an immersive experience, but what you plan to add later could make one a much better fit.Dave Carr · 1mo ago
Features & OpinionsWhy I stopped looking for the perfect Bluetooth speakerEvery Bluetooth speaker makes compromises. The trick is finding the ones you’re happy to live with.Dave Carr · 1mo ago
Features & OpinionsTwo years later, I'm still waiting for a real Soundcore Boom 3The Soundcore Boom 2 is still one of the best values in portable speakers, but I can't wait for the successor.Dave Carr · 1mo ago
Features & OpinionsThis is the only Bluetooth speaker I trust to take campingFrom ocean paddling to alpine lakes, here's why the Soundcore Boom 3i became my camping companion.Dave Carr · 2mo ago
Features & OpinionsSkip the $129 Bose SoundLink Micro: Here are 2 look-alikes I'd buy for lessYou don't have to spend a lot of money to get a great ultra-portable Bluetooth speaker. Here's two I'd recommend instead.Dave Carr · 2mo ago
Features & Opinions3 smart speakers to buy instead of the Google Home SpeakerYou shouldn't have to pick between a good assistant and a good speaker.Adam Birney · 2mo ago
Features & Opinions8 months later, the Amazon Echo Studio is still the best-sounding smart speakerSmart speakers are turning into AI devices first, but this one still sounds good for the price.Adam Birney · 2mo ago
Features & OpinionsDon't buy a portable Bluetooth speaker until you know these 5 thingsAfter testing portable Bluetooth speakers of every shape and size, I've learned that specs alone don't tell the whole story.Dave Carr · 3mo ago
Features & Opinions3 Bluetooth speakers to buy instead of the JBL Xtreme 5Great speaker. Painful price tag. Here are your options.Dave Carr · 3mo agoMore speakers coverage