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WIRELESS AND SMART SPEAKERS TOP TENS HOT
HOT BUY
UPDATE
Sonos Move
Amazon Echo (4th Gen)
The Sonos range of wireless speakers had been crying out for a battery-powered portable model for ages – and finally our favourite multiroom audio specialist caved in. Luckily, the Move was worth the wait. Its adaptability and sound quality mean it’s fine value for money, and a no-brainer for anyone who’s already a fan of the brand. Not only is this the speaker Sonos should have launched years ago – it’s one of the best products of its type and price that we’ve heard.
While this magic orb of a smart speaker looks like something you might see in an older Star Trek episode, the latest Echo from Amazon wins because it’s just so efficient. Setting up connections between devices has never been simpler, thanks to an integrated Zigbee hub, and it’s helped along by Amazon’s excellent Routines app. It may not have omnidirectional speakers but that doesn’t matter – you were just going to stick it in a corner anyway. Isn’t that right?
Stuff says ★★★★★ Sonos finally gets up to speed with the portable speaker craze, and in style
Stuff says ★★★★★ While smart speakers are growing in popularity, Amazon is still way ahead of the pack
from R9 500 / takealot.com
UE WonderBoom 2
R2 000 / superbalist.com
UPDATE
DreamWave Tremor
Apple HomePod Mini
from R3 500 / takealot.com 50W of thumping audio output, a 20800mAh rechargeable battery that provides up to 18 hours at medium volume (or eight at full tilt), and the most rugged body we’ve ever seen in a speaker. Stuff says ★★★★★ It’ll last all day: come rain, snow or sand
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5
from R4 000 / takealot.com While Siri is growing more competent with more and more updates, it’s still not as advanced as Alexa or Google. Still, this smart speaker will do what you need and look good while it’s at it. Stuff says ★★★★★ Apple still has a way to go before it’s competitive
UE Megaboom 3
UPDATE
JBL Xtreme 2
UPDATE
★★★★★ R4 000 / takealot.com You’ll struggle to find a better, longer-lasting or more feature-laden portable speaker.
★★★★★ R5 000 / takealot.com The updated Xtreme offers all the bass for 15-odd hours.
Google Nest Audio
R4 600 / superbalist.com Google has refined its smart speaker with a sound that may be fuller but is still better suited to casual listening. It’s fast and efficient but you should be aware that compatibility can be a problem. Stuff says ★★★★★ While a little finicky, it’s still an impressive device
from R1 500 / takealot.com These speakers are so good that they consistently sell out in South Africa; if you see one available, you should jump on it! Excellent sound, fantastic battery and super portable, this is one of the best value options out there. Stuff says ★★★★★ A rugged little wonder with a sonic boost
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5
Sonos One
★★★★✩ R5 000 / takealot.com Easily the best speaker quality available, we’re just not fans of the chunky design.
JBL Link Portable
★★★★✩ R3 350 / takealot.com While this portable smart speaker is cool, it’s not as fully featured as its competitors.
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