Some audio fans may be disappointed that there’s no room for an aux-in here, however. Thankfully, it gets far louder than will probably ever require with a detailed, well-rounded sound – including some imposing bass. It’s fairly weighty but, size-wise, you wouldn’t think it could pack much of a punch. As a smart speaker, you simply need to say “Hey, Google” to request your favourite Spotify playlist or find out the weather but, if you aren’t keen on constant listening, there’s a mic mute button on the back.Īlong with useful smart features, this speaker is a capable audio performer too. Support for these standards means you can use it to control your smart home, whether you’ve got a Google Home or Apple HomeKit setup.
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The Wi-Fi capabilities of this device mean you can use not only Bluetooth but both Google Chromecast/Home integration as well as Apple’s AirPlay 2. While Tribit’s up to eight hours of battery life isn’t pulling up any trees, that does help it to once again top the JBL Go 3 – which reluctantly showcased lacklustre battery as its biggest flaw. The one bit of finesse offered by this speaker is a flexible strap on the bottom – ideal for attaching to a shower or, as Tribit is keen to tout, a bicycle’s handlebars. The Stormbox Micro keeps things modern with a USB-C port and, unlike the Go 3, will let you pair it up with a sibling for stereo sound. The simplicity of its first impression extends to the buttons on offer – there’s volume, a Play/Pause, pairing and power button… that’s your lot. The phenomenal bass tops the already impressive Go 3, providing a much wider room-filling sound – compared to the JBL’s punchier and slightly less satisfying boom. It offers big sound, and avoids distortion even at party-inducing volumes. The Stormbox Micro adds a little extra bulk but takes it to a whole new level. Its closest rival, the JBL Go 3 (below), is smaller and stunned us with its large sound in its miniature package. But, the proof is in the pudding, and the sound this small speaker provides is wondrous. The Tribit Stormbox Micro is fairly unassuming and, particularly the black model, won’t be turning any heads. Pros: Refined sound premium design Alexa functionality good battery life Cons: No aux in At £200, its price tag is as fancy as its design, but it's well worth the investment. The 360-degree sound isn’t quite as effective as something like the Ultimate Ears Boom 3, but it does a great job at dispersing the sound wider than you’d expect from a speaker this size, giving it an airy demeanour that ensures it never sounds hemmed in or congested. In fact, the presentation is expertly balanced from top to bottom, with clarity, expression and detail to spare through the midrange and a crystal clear treble that handles percussion with precision, even at volume. The bass is deep and authoritative, with plenty of toe-tapping punch on hand for a playthrough of Fleetwood Mac’s The Chain.Ĭonsidering its size, the weight it can muster is impressive, but it’s far from the A1’s defining feature. Don’t fancy Alexa listening in? You can just as quickly deactivate it in the B&O companion app, which also includes other helpful features, like EQ controls and two-speaker stereo pairing.Īs for how the A1 (Gen 2) sounds, it’s every bit as refined as its premium design. Once you’ve approved the A1 (Gen 2) as a device within your Alexa app, its trio of built-in far-field microphones will keep their ears out for any voice requests you throw its way, and deliver the answers through the speaker. Of course, as it’s a Bluetooth-only speaker, you will need your internet-connected phone paired and within range in order for it to work. There are also better-placed controls either side of the carry handle, for things like power, playback and pairing.Īn interesting addition to the A1 (Gen 2) is its newly acquired Alexa capabilities.
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Somehow, B&O has managed to squeeze more stuff into a slimmer body, including enhanced drivers for clearer sound, a significantly improved battery that will last up to 18 hours and full waterproofing to IP67. On top, B&O has just introduced a cool and refined Nordic Ice colour option for the Gen 2 – it oozes finesse and luxury.
But look a little closer and you’ll see some careful tweaks that make this second iteration a real level up. After all, it’s still a brushed aluminium circular design, with a soft-touch polymer base and waterproof leather carry strap. Inside, there’s little between them.Īt first glance, you might not spot the differences between this model and the previous generation.
This speaker would top this list if not for the UE Megaboom’s improved capabilities when it comes to using it as an outdoor speaker and slightly better battery. If you are looking for a Bluetooth speaker to use around the house, and add a bit of class for good measure, there’s no better than the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 2nd Gen (£160).
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