Hi fi with wifi speakers

Thanks to the manufacturer's proprietary calibration, Sony's Reality Audio is an immersive experience. Stereo tracks are processed in a manner that fills a room with crisp, rich sound, specifically adapted for the room the speaker is located in. The surround sound design is set up so that the beam tweeters can spread sound or music vertically within a space while an Omni diffuser delivers horizontal audio to fill a room.

In addition, deep bass is achieved by two passive radiators, all neatly housed in a stylish oblong speaker. Specs : Wi-Fi, 7. Some Wi-Fi speakers make it tricky to connect to a home network successfully.

Sweden-based Audio Pro has been well-known for producing speakers since the s that deliver superior sound quality, and the C10 speaker makes connecting wirelessly as simple as possible. In most cases, all you need to do is plug the speaker in, choose the network and connect. The C10 will remember the network, so you don't have to pair the device again. Plus, you can set up your favorite content using the Wi-Fi preset buttons by pressing one down while playing the content you'd like to save.

You can even connect a turntable or CD player through the AUX port, and the speaker will broadcast what you're playing to other C5 or C10 speakers in other rooms that are connected to the same home network.

Specs : Wi-Fi, 3. The small cube design packs a powerful punch and was clearly designed to deliver the best possible listening experience over a Wi-Fi network.

What makes the second generation of the Mu-so QB unique and flawlessly gorgeous in sound is connecting to a home's Wi-Fi network using an ethernet cable.

Most audiophiles will remark that the sound quality is deeper and more authentic than rival versions from Sonos or Audio Pro. Each cube is designed to play independently with the ability to access and play files from your home's network as well as stream using Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, internet radio and other options via Bluetooth. The second-generation Mu-so Qb isn't able to play well with other V2s yet, but there are enough options that lessen the compatibility drawback.

The Echo Studio's sound quality won't be as rich and layered as the Naim Mu-so Qb V2, but you can stream stereo Wi-Fi audio featuring an immersive level that, for most ears, is impressive.

Five speakers are pointing in multiple directions inside the compact shell that produce a decent midrange, crisp and clear high notes and a deep bass you won't miss. The device automatically senses a room's acoustics to adapt playback for optimal listening. The Echo Studio uses Dolby Atmos tech for the utmost in spatial audio depth and clarity.

Choosing the best Wi-Fi speakers may require a little technical knowledge. Luckily for you, we did most of the homework, so you can rest assured any of the models that made this best-of guide will serve you well. We chose the best wireless speakers based on several factors:. Wi-Fi compatibility : We reviewed technical spec sheets and customer reviews to get a grasp of how successfully each Wi-Fi speaker connects to a home network.

Dealing with networks can be complicated enough -- finding the right speakers that require minimal effort to join is essential. In addition, we looked for companies that provided good customer support for technical issues in case you were unsuccessful at connecting. After all, you're paying more for a Wi-Fi speaker than you would be for Bluetooth connectivity.

It's important you get your money's worth. Sound quality : It goes without saying that a Wi-Fi speaker's most important asset is the sound it delivers.

We chose models capable of outputting high-fidelity stereo sound. Models with multiple speakers, including tweeters and woofers, topped the list to provide a deep, clear and rich, ambient experience.

Pricing : Believe it or not, we looked at Wi-Fi speakers that provide the most value. However, Wi-Fi speakers are often more expensive based on the build and sound quality they output. It's not unusual to spend several thousand dollars for just one wireless speaker. Compatibility : We preferred speakers that are integrated with the most popular streaming audio apps such as Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, Tidal, Apple Music and more.

Compatibility with platforms such as Apple AirPlay and Chromecast was a bonus. If you're just delving into the world of superior sound, Amazon's Echo Studio may be all you need, with crisp notes and powerful bass.

When we tested its older sibling, we pitted it against models almost double its price and found it bettered them. We miss the leather handle and fun, slightly rock'n'roll aesthetic and sonic presentation of the original, but we can't argue with three options for multi-room streaming AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast and Audio Pro's own slick and functional app or the levelled-up grippy bass and improved hi-fidelity performance.

The HomePod Mini really is bijou. At just 8. Get its swirling orb of coloured light up and running when Siri is listening or processing though, and you realise you've got a classy performer on your hands. It goes loud, too. Read the full review: Apple HomePod Mini. At What Hi-Fi? Yet still, it was quite the surprise when first we heard about one made by Naim, with its second generation of the Mu-so Qb wireless speaker.

The previous iteration was great, earning five stars when it was first reviewed. This version, however, is is truly phenomenal. You can now choose between an Olive, Terracotta or Peacock grille alongside the standard black, but the best tweaks Naim has made go far deeper.

Remove whatever colour grille you've gone for and you'll be rewarded with upgraded and optimised midrange and bass drive units, all powered by a total of W of amplification. Belying its box-like dimensions with a punchy bass alongside sparkling and rich tones across frequencies, the Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation scooped up a What Hi-Fi? Read the full review: Naim Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation.

Let's address the elephant in the room: the Series 3 is the most expensive wireless speaker we have tested. Can such an outlay be justified?

Well, yes. Linn Exakt aims to reduce phase errors by intentionally delaying higher frequencies so they arrive at your ear at the same time as lower frequencies. Whatever we throw at it, the Series 3 appears at ease — partly down to its balance and clarity but also the seamless integration of its drivers.

Its insight sets it apart from its more affordable competitors, too. Read the full review: Linn Series 3. Its looks can be divisive and you'll need to consider investing in a Roon subscription to get it at its glorious best, but even if you forgo Roon entirely, it's an excellent standalone performer. This is basically the wi-fi-enabled, multi-room version of Audio Pro's Addon T3. It has the same minimalist looks that the Scandinavian company is known for, complete with textured surfaces and embossed leather carry handle, but the wireless tech adds a whole new dimension to your listening.

It's just a shame that controlling it using the smartphone app isn't a bit better thought through. Still, this is a belter of a speaker, make no mistake, and a fine addition to any home set-up. A What Hi-Fi? Read the full review: Audio Pro Addon C3. The JBL Link Portable's neat connectivity features bring a plethora of streaming options to the table — features rarely seen at this end of the market, including AirPlay 2, Chromecast and hi-res support.

You also get hands-free voice assistance, a charger cradle and wireless streaming via wi-fi or Bluetooth. The Link Portable looks and feels like a premium product. For a speaker of this size, it has oodles of detail and an expansive mix with everything present, including bass.

The Dynaudio Music 5 is a powerful proposition, but one that still displays the sonic nous to keeps things refined. While the Award-winning Naim above just edges it for both subtlety and a slightly livelier sound, there isn't much in it — and the Dynaudio Music 5 boasts superiority in other ways.

In a larger room, it boasts better weight, scale and authority. It also offers something smooth, detail-rich, refined and resoundingly listenable — a sonic performance that will suit many tastes.

Depending on your room size and requirements, the Dynaudio Music 5 brings a meatier — and more easily adaptable — performance to the table. Read the full review: Dynaudio Music 5.

Audio Pro consistently makes some of the best Bluetooth speakers on the market and the Addon C10 is another impressive Award-winning model.

Connectivity is among the most thorough you can expect at the money, with wi-fi, Bluetooth and AirPlay, plus aux and RCA inputs. It has all the major music streaming services, including Spotify, Tidal and Qobuz. The Addon C10 sounds big and bold, but is equally able to capture the subtler, more nuanced tracks as it is firing out big bassy numbers.

Award winner, a title it also stormed away with in Read the full review: Audio Pro Addon C They're not cheap and the aesthetic won't appeal to everyone, but if you want a wireless pair of standmounts that nothing comes close to right now in terms of sound, you've just found them.

The Duos are deadly precise speakers with excellent clarity and a performance that makes you want to dig out tune after tune just to hear what they can do. The multi-room feature set, while not perfect we'd prefer a single app to handle every function , is more than made up for by the superb audio performance. The Naim Mu-so-2's extensive feature set includes all manner of wireless streaming technologies such as AirPlay 2 and Chromecast.

The Naim looks like a premium wireless speaker and it sounds like one too, with a rich, confident sound, packed full of detail and delivered with immense rhythmic drive. Bass is plentiful and of a high quality. Read the full review: Naim Mu-so 2. The second-generation Sonos One is really a Sonos Play:1 in new clothing, but that's no bad thing. It now boasts Amazon's Alexa smart assistant for voice controls, and it's all the better for it.

In fact, with its room-filling sound, it stands apart from the glut of smart speakers that are smart first and speakers second. Throw in Apple's AirPlay 2 tech and the fact that the One fits seamlessly into a multi-room set-up, and you've got a winner on your hands. Read the full review: Sonos One.

This is actually an all-in-one system, comprising a network streamer, Bluetooth receiver and amplifier, all built into a pair of stereo speakers. The speakers talk to each other wirelessly, so there's no need for a joining ethernet cable, and they come in a range of bright but stylish colours. But you will need to plug them into the mains. And the sound? As beautifully expressive, tonally even and rhythmically astute as you would expect given their lineage.

A Sonos One without voice control is still a great wireless speaker, whether stereo paired, added to a home theatre set-up or used solo. For the uninitiated, this is a product that looks identical to Sonos' latest five-star smart speaker, the Sonos One above , but without the smart aspects — ie. How is it better than its older brother, the wireless-but-not-voice-activated Sonos Play:1? For those who either already own a Sonos One or want to buy into Sonos but don't care about speaking to their speakers, this should be on your radar.

Read the full review: Sonos One SL. An innovative and entertaining sequel you'll find the originals below that became a What Hi-Fi? Award winner in and retained it for DSD music files are now on the menu too, as well as MQA decoding for the playback of compatible downloaded files and hi-res Tidal Masters. Their Uni-Q driver array, beautiful Carbon Black, Titanium Grey, Mineral White and Crimson Red Special Edition finishes, and curved front panel all combine to create a thorough head turner — and really, they ought to be.

As a new product following in the footsteps of such a huge success, the KEF LS50 Wireless IIs arrive with a world of expectation on their shoulders — but they well and truly live up to those expectations.

Make no mistake, this is a sequel of rare quality. This is one of the less portable speakers in this list, but it can still be carted around thanks to the carry handle. It's robust rather than heavy, and boasts a battery life of up to 30 hours at half volume or 12 at full blast. And that is where the upgrade on something such as the Roll 2 is justified — the noticeable leap in audio quality will have you enjoying music much more readily than on a smaller speaker.

Read the full review: Audio Pro Addon T3. Audio Pro has switched up the design for the A10, stepping away from the more industrial-looking Addon range. But you'll be pleased to hear it has the same winning sound quality — it's versatile, dynamic and has an impeccable sense of timing. The cylindrical design disperses sound throughout the room, too.

You can use the onboard controls or the Hitachi Hi app. Using the Hitachi app, you can connect your favorite streaming services, add more Hitachi Smart speakers, and change audio settings. If you do want to add more Hitachi speakers, the W50, W, and W models are all compatible with each other. So, if you want to build an affordable multi-room WiFi speaker set up, you can do this with the Hitachi Smart Speaker range. Alexa users will be disappointed to note that the W is not compatible with Amazon Echo devices.

You can, however, connect an Echo via Bluetooth in which case Alexa will play through your W The first thing to note about the Hitachi W WiFi speaker is this little thing is loud! The W delivers a stereotypical compact speaker bass response which is a little punchy but not very big. Mid-range is present albeit a little muddy when compared to the other WiFi speakers on this list.

Below this level and the W performs just fine. These speakers are nice and compact which means they can fit just about anywhere, including a nightstand. While they might not sound as good as the more expensive WiFi speakers on this list, I actually like the Hitachi Smart Speaker range for the competitive pricing, features, and compact size. An acoustic cloth covers the front and sides of the WX while the rear of the speaker features durable aluminum and on top, you have a capacitive touch control panel.

Overall, the WX is minimalist and stylish which should pair neatly with most home decor. You also have the option of black or white. Behind the speaker grille, sits a total of four drivers. Impressive for a speaker of this size.

One of the best features Yamaha offers is the incredible MusicCast. MusicCast takes multi-room audio setup to a whole new level.

Not only can you pair other MusicCast speakers but multiple Yamaha MusicCast products including speakers, soundbars, receivers, HiFis, subwoofers, a turntable, keyboard and more! Another small but useful feature to point out on the WX is the ability mount the speaker.

There are two options for this. Using the threaded mount or via a simple screw hook. This is great if you want to use the WX for rear surrounds in a home theater system or to mount the speaker neatly out of the way.

Cable ports are in recessed areas so the WX will sit flush against the wall when mounted. Apple users also have the option of Airplay.

As the WX is a couple of years old, this is Airplay 1 and not Airplay 2. There is also an Ethernet port at the bottom of the speaker for those who prefer a wired connection.

The WX can be controlled using the on-board capacitive touch panel or via the MusicCast app. There are also three LEDs indicating various modes or functions.

If you plan to stream music to the WX you will need to download and connect the Yamaha MusicCast app. Using the app you can pair the WX with other MusicCast devices, play your favorite streaming services, adjust audio settings, and more. What you can do is connect the MusicCast app which then allows you to adjust audio settings to match your preference.

The WX certainly delivers a premium, warm sound, on par with the Sonos One. The mid-range is clean, upfront and provides a surprising amount of detail for a speaker this size. The highs are nice and crisp while still keeping within the overall warm profile of the WX Not only does it sound great but the speaker offers a wide range of premium features.

So, if the WX is so great, why would we list the Hitachi W, which is the same price, be higher on this list? The WX has recently been discontinued which means sometime during , this speaker will sell out.

The good news is that the WX will continue to work just fine with other Yamaha MusicCast products. A: At the moment, WiFi is a better wireless speaker option. Bluetooth is limited in terms of sound quality, range, connection stability, and a host of other factors. Given the choice, I would use WiFi over Bluetooth every time.

Especially at home where there is a solid WiFi connection. Unless you are using the speaker in a room where WiFi dropout is an issue, there is no point running an Ethernet cable to a WiFi speaker. It defeats the point of having a WiFi speaker. WiFi speakers are for convenience and fun. Matt is a sound engineer and self-confessed vinyl-junkie! His work as a sound engineer includes both live production and venue installations.

While traveling the world, Matt shares his knowledge and expertise with us! Join Our Newsletter. Best Lists.

Matt January 4, Add comment. Our Pick! Best Portable WiFi Speaker. Best Overall Our pick. Sonos Play Power 80 W. Weight 14 lbs. Size Sonos Play:5 Power cable Ethernet cable. Klipsch Heritage Wireless Three. Weight Bose Home Speaker Power 50 W. Weight 4. Size 6. Bose Home Speaker AC cord. Sonos One. Power 40 W. Inputs WiFi. Size 4. Marshall Stanmore II. Power 65 W. Marshall Stanmore II Power cable. Bose SoundTouch Power 30 W. Weight 2.

Size 5. Inputs WiFi, Bluetooth. Weight 3. Size 3. Hitachi W WiFi Speaker. Power 12 W. Size 9. Hitachi W Power cable.