Top Picks

Top Picks Wireless Speakers

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Wireless Speakers
Sonos Roam Portable Wireless Speaker: $169
A smaller, lower-priced follow-up to 2019’s excellent Move, Roam is one of the best sounding and most feature-packed portables in its price category. It’s immune to dust and water (you can submerge it in 3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes without consequence), boasts up to 10 hours of playtime, supports Bluetooth streaming, and connects with other Sonos speakers in and around your home via Wi-Fi. The speaker is also equipped with the highly effective Trueplay auto-calibration system that adjusts EQ on the fly to adapt the sound to any environment. (June/July 2021, Read Full Review)
Soundcore Boom 2 Plus Bluetooth Boombox Speaker: $250
The boombox that was all the rage in the 1980s has reemerged with updated tech in the form of Bluetooth streaming capability (sorry, no more cassette well) and a new, streamlined form factor à la the new Soundcore Boom 2 Plus. You probably won’t see anyone hoisting this boombox up onto their shoulder and marching around (even though it weighs 8 pounds) but you will find this portable sound blaster on backyard patios, at the beach, and at picnics in the park. The Boom 2 Plus is a serious party speaker that not only plays loud and clear with surprisingly robust bass but will run for up to 20 hours on a single charge. (Posted 7/3/24, Read Full Review)
Apple HomePod (Gen 2) Wireless Smart Speaker: $300
It took a few years but Apple finally updated the all-in-one HomePod smart speaker it introduced in 2018. Like its predecessor, the updated HomePod is quite the marvel, capable of delivering true stereo sound or a genuinely immersive listening experience (depending on the source material) when two of the small speakers are combined, which is how Mark Henninger conducted his review. Following a super easy setup, Henninger paired the speakers with an Apple TV 4K box and was stunned by how close the sound was to what you’d expect to hear from a full-fledged AV system. He concluded: “This is a smart speaker that defines the category, a total aesthetic and sonic success.” (April/May 2023, Read Full Review)
Bluesound Pulse M Streaming Speaker: $399
Not to knock Amazon’s Echo line of speakers or any one of the gazillion no-name wireless speakers out there, but the Pulse M is the handiwork of Bluesound, a company specializing in wireless audio that also happens to belong to the hi-fi-centric Lenbrook Group, which owns the venerable PSB and NAD brands. The Pulse M is the real deal. And while it's certainly stylish, it won’t win any awards for originality. What it will do is put a wealth of music streaming services at your fingertips and deliver rich, full-bodied sound wherever you put it, thanks to its “omni hybrid” driver arrangement. The Pulse M isn’t the cheapest wireless speaker in town, but it’s a strong performer. (Posted 4/17/24, Read Full Review)
Sonos Move 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker: $449
If you like the Sonos Move portable speaker you’re going to love its evolved successor. The Move 2 boasts an improved battery that will keep the tunes cranking for two days straight — twice that of the original — a new super-convenient wireless charging base, and an optional USB-C line-in jack to expand your connection options. Carryovers include the same IP56-rated dust-resistant/waterproof enclosure, voice control via Sonos or Amazon, and the proven Trueplay room tuning feature that automatically adapts the speaker to its acoustic surroundings. Of course, what you hear is most important and the Move 2 brings it on in spades, delivering well-balanced sound with bass that’s tighter and deeper that you expect for a speaker of this size. (December 2023/January 2024, Read Full Review)
Sonos Era 300 Wireless Spatial Audio Speaker: $449
The Era 300 is the latest in a new generation of small, Atmos-compliant “spatial audio” speakers designed to deliver a hassle-free immersive listening experience. At $449, it costs more than the competition, though it is engineered to a fare-thee-well and delivers excellent sound quality on its own, in tandem with a second Era 300, or as a rear surround speaker in a soundbar-based home theater setup. As impressive as the sound is with one speaker, the sound is shockingly expansive when you play Dolby Atmos tracks with two speakers in play. The Era 300 will surprise and delight you with its simplicity and ability to deliver clean, spacious, full-bodied sound from a speaker you can balance in the palm of your hand. (posted 5/10/23, Read Full Review)
Sony XV800 Portable Party Speaker: $650
Sony is certainly not the only game in party town but it makes quite a statement with the SRS-SV800, a formidable portable speaker that can play loud while delivering surprisingly balanced and detail sound with a healthy dose of bass. The speaker can be used to start the party indoors or out on the patio where its Mega Bass mode really comes into its own, putting the system’s two large woofers to good use. To enhance the party atmosphere, the SV800 doubles as a self-contained entertainment center, setting the stage for karaoke fun while providing a dynamic lightshow. You can even use the speaker as a guitar amplifier. (October/November 2023, Read Full Review)
Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Wireless Smart Speaker: $799
If you follow England’s Bowers & Wilkins there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Zeppelin, the all-in-one, retro-modern speaker system the company introduced back when the iPod was king. Now in its fourth generation, the new Zeppelin looks almost identical to the original model, except for the iPod docking arm. It has been rejiggered to enhance bass output and is now a bona fide Alexa-capable smart speaker that supports streaming via Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and an app with ready access to Tidal, Qobuz, and other services. Revisiting the blimp-like speaker a decade after reviewing the iPod-based Zeppelin Air, Rob Sabin remained impressed with the big soundstage and palpable imaging it delivers. (April/May 2022 Read Full Review)
SVS Prime Wireless Pro Powered Speakers: $900/pair
The SVS Prime Wireless Pro is an outstanding two-speaker sound system that supports hi-res streaming and more than scratches the surface of what audiophile listening is all about. These compact speakers are accurate and dynamic to a fault, easy to set up and use, and more than able to fill even medium-sized rooms at serious-listening levels. (December 2022/January 2023 Read Full Review)
JBL L42ms Integrated Music System: $1,000
All-in-one wireless speakers are all the rage today with just about every speaker brand you’ve ever heard of (and many you haven’t) offering tabletop models. Even the storied JBL brand has gotten into the act with the superb sounding L42ms, which borrows design cues from the iconic L100 of the 1970s. Apart from its classic, two-way stereo design, the L42ms is a compact and versatile streaming speaker that honors the JBL name with sonic clarity, accurate tonality, and exceptional stereo imaging. (Posted 7/31/24, Read Full Review)
KEF LSX II Wireless Speaker System: $1,400
The LSX II is a well-conceived and impeccably built compact wireless music system that is completely self-contained, requiring nothing more than power and an internet connection. Fire up its app, and you have Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, Amazon Music, and other top streaming services at your immediate disposal — without having to worry about “hooking up a system.” You don’t even have to run a cable between the speakers if you don’t want to. Veteran reviewer Dan Kumin remained consistently captivated by the speakers’ ability to present a believably real sense of space, regardless of music genre. “No matter what I cued up, the sound was clear, detailed, and spatially distinct.” (October/November 2022, Read Full Review)
Sonus Faber Omnia Wireless Speaker System: $1,999
The Omnia’s large and well-defined soundscape, striking industrial design, full feature package, and connective versatility make it one of the most desirable wireless music systems available. (December 2022/January 2023, Read Full Review)
KEF LS60 Wireless Speaker System: $6,999
KEF’s LS60 is a full-on reference-level audio system masquerading as a pair of beautiful tower speakers that are anything but ordinary. Everything you need to enjoy glorious sound from your favorite streaming service is contained within these speakers, each of which features KEF’s signature Uni-Q midrange/tweeter array, a quartet of dual-opposed woofers, and 600 watts of power. KEF companion app provides Roon Ready “endpoint” functionality and puts a variety of controls and streaming options at your fingertips at up to 24-bit/96 Hz resolution. Within minutes of setting up, veteran speaker reviewer Dan Kumin declared the LS60 his new favorite streaming speaker. If you’re looking for a turnkey music system capable of audiophile quality sound, start with the LS60s. (December 2023/January 2024, Read Full Review)
Wireless Speakers Archive
Riva Concert Wireless Smart Speaker: $179
The Riva Concert is a standout in the ever-expanding world of voice-enabled smart speakers. It’s splash-resistant, can play for up to 15 hours on a single charge, and is packed with features. In addition to Alexa voice control, it supports streaming via AirPlay, DLNA, and Bluetooth and delivers sound that is well-balanced with bass output that will surprise you. All that from a speaker that stands 7 inches tall and costs less than $200. (February/March 2019, Read Full Review)
Amazon Echo Wireless Speaker/Voice-Activated Assistant: $180
Using voice activation, the Echo functions like a cross between a wireless speaker, a personal assistant ready to provide weather or news, and a home controller for lights and other connected devices. A remarkable addition to any home. (July 2015, SoundandVision.com, Read Full Review)
Sonos One Wireless Smart Speaker: $199
Sonos may be late to the smart speaker party but the Alexa-equipped Sonos One was worth the wait. Its voice control chops are formidable and it may well be the best sounding smart speaker available. As reviewer Rob Sabin put it, “By offering up the Sonos One at the same $200 entry price as the Play:1, and allowing Alexa voice control to be added to any pre-existing system, they've given hesitant buyers with a critical ear a real incentive to explore this brave new world of home automation.” (April 2018, Read Full Review)
Fluance Ai40 Powered Bluetooth Speakers System: $200
You might not expect much from two-hundred-dollar-a-pair speakers but the Ai40s from Canada’s Fluance sound as good as they look — which is to say excellent. Enthusiastically recommended by veteran reviewer Al Griffin, these speakers are not only a cinch to set up but support the convenience of aptX-enabled Bluetooth streaming with enough onboard power to deliver clean sound at a higher volume that you would expect. If you’re on a limited budget, this is a no-brainer. (Posted April 2019, Read Full Review)
Riva Turbo X Bluetooth Speaker: $199
(updated 11/30/18; original price: $349) Riva made its mark in the crowded Bluetooth speaker field with the Turbo X, a great sounding portable with a fine fit and finish and features you won’t find on other Bluetooth speakers. (July/August 2015, Read Full Review)
Sonos Play:1 Wireless Speaker System: $199
The cost of owning a Sonos wireless music system is lower than ever with the diminutive Play:1. Connect it to your router, download the free controller app to your smartphone or tablet, and start building a wireless wholehouse music system with access to dozens of streaming services. Describing its sound as spacious and engaging, reviewer Rob Sabin wrote: “There are many high-performance wireless Bluetooth speakers out there, but none of them offer the multiroom options of Sonos’ app-based control system.” (April 2014, Read Full Review)
Audioengine A2+ Wireless Speaker System: $269
There’s a lot to like about Audioengine’s A2+ speakers. For starters, their built like little tanks, with emphasis on “little” — they’re only 6 inches tall and take up hardly any space. Add to that the convenience of aptX Bluetooth streaming, plenty of onboard power, and — most important — their ability to convey sound that is warm, detailed, and spacious. (December 2019/January 2020, Read Full Review)
Klipsch The One II Bluetooth Speaker: $289
The One II is a Bluetooth-only follow-up to Klipsch’s excellent Three wireless speaker designed for folks who want a simple, self-contained music system they can stream to from a smartphone or laptop/tablet. There’s no Wi-Fi-based multiroom capability but there is a minijack input for direct connection to an audio source. The speaker delivers surprisingly robust sound from a compact cabinet that will complement any décor. (Posted 11/7/19, SoundandVision.com, Read Full Review)
Oppo Sonica Wireless Speaker: $299
Oppo, known for best-in-class Blu-ray players and Top Pick-designated headphones and amp/DACs, has made a welcome entry into the wireless speaker market. Unlike many of its competitors, the Sonica sounds great and supports both Bluetooth streaming and hi-res, multiroom playback over Wi-Fi. Reviewer Bob Ankosko wrote: “I was immediately struck by the fullness and depth of Amos Lee’s “Till You Come Back Through” (Spirit). Lee’s soulful voice filled my 12 x 12-foot office in a most convincing way.” All that from a speaker no bigger than a loaf of bread. (December 2016, SoundandVision.com, Read Full Review)
Kanto SYD Bluetooth Speaker: $330
In a world littered with mediocre Bluetooth speakers, Kanto’s SYD distinguishes itself as a stellar performer that delivers rich, powerful sound from an enclosure the same width as a standard size audio component. Best of all, it does so at an eminently reasonable price. “I was blown away by the intimacy, clarity and depth of Holly Cole and her jazz quartet performing 'Larger Than Life' from 2007’s Holly Cole) — and that’s just one example of many,” wrote reviewer Bob Ankosko. “Quite an accomplishment for such as small speaker.” (Posted 9/26/18, SoundandVision.com, Read Full Review)
Como Audio Solo & Duetto Wireless Music Systems: $299, $399
Don’t be fooled by the clock-radio appearance of the Solo or Duetto. Yes, each has a clock with dual alarms and an FM radio, but these extras barely scratch the surface of what these expertly crafted tabletop music systems can do. Both models support Bluetooth streaming and multiroom wireless via Wi-Fi with a variety of wired and wireless source options, including Internet radio, Spotify Premium, and music stored on a PC or server. You’ll be hard-pressed to find compact system that’s as versatile or sounds as good as either of these. (February/March 2017, SoundandVision.com, Read Full Review)
Denon Heos Wireless Multiroom Sound System: $300 and up
Heos is Denon’s answer to the popular Sonos multiroom music system and it ranks among the best in terms of sound quality, setup simplicity, and flexibility. It operates over Wi-Fi and you can build a system around any combination of three excellent sounding speakers: the Heos 3 ($300), Heos 5 ($400), and Heos 7 ($600). Denon also offers the Heos Amp ($499) for connecting any non-powered speakers and Heos Link ($349) for existing music systems. Everything—including the rooms in which you want music to play—is controlled by an intuitive app (Android and iOS). Heos is a worthy contender of the Goliathan Sonos and deserves serious consideration. (January 2015, Read Full Review)
Apple HomePod Wireless Smart Speaker: $349
HomePod may be late to the smart speaker party but it’s an instant contender featuring outstanding build quality and best-in-class sound. Calling it “a shining triumph of audio engineering,” reviewer Rob Sabin cautioned that some smart-speaker shoppers will find the HomePod’s Apple-centricity to be limiting. On the other hand, if you’re just dipping your toe into smart speakers and aren’t put off by the monthly commitment to Apple music, you need to ask yourself what you really plan to use your smart speaker for.” Either way, HomePod is a great lifestyle speaker well worth the asking price. (June 2018, SoundandVision.com, Read Full Review)
Sonos Move Portable Wireless Speaker, $399
It’s taken a decade and a half, but wireless speaker pioneer Sonos has finally ventured outside of the home with Move, its first battery-powered portable speaker. It does not disappoint. Apart from being waterproof, dustproof, and built to withstand a 6-foot drop, the stylish speaker is equipped with Sonos’ proprietary Trueplay calibration technology and supports voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant and streaming via Airplay 2, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, making it ideal for use out on the patio or deck. More to the point, Move is one of the best sounding portable speakers you will find. (December 2019/January 2020, Read Full Review)
Klipsch Three Wireless Music System: $400
(price increased to $499 due to addition of Google Assistant voice-control functionality) Klipsch has brought its considerable audio talents to bear on this beautifully crafted tabletop stereo system, which melds retro styling with state-of-the-art features and sound (hi-res included). Evoking what Klipsch calls the “mid-century” design legacy of its late founder Paul W. Klipsch, the Three boasts impeccably finished walnut panels, a knit grille, and something you don’t expect to see on modern gear: a toggle switch. Listening to Suzanne Vega on Internet radio, reviewer Bob Ankosko was impressed by what he heard: “The Three conveyed the breathy quality of Vega’s vocals with just the right amount of ambience.” (June 2017, SoundandVision.com, Read Full Review)
Kicker Bullfrog Jump Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker: $300
(original price $400; updated 11/30/18) The Bullfrog Jump is a rugged portable speaker that was conceived for rough and tumble use outdoors, making it ideal for tailgating and pool parties. And it more than lives up to the Kicker tradition of delivering big, bold sound, as reviewer Bob Ankosko discovered: “From Amos Lee to the Zombies, I gave the Bullfrog a serious workout on Pandora, hopping from station to station, artist to artist, and genre to genre while moving room to room and eventually outside. The Jump was a great companion.” (January 2017, SoundandVision.com, Read Full Review)
Kanto YU6 Powered Wireless Speakers: $400/pair
(original price $480; updated 11/30/18) Looking for a simplified yet versatile audio setup that skips the audio rack and its tangle of cables? Along with the convenience of built-in power and Bluetooth wireless streaming, pair of YU6 speakers from Canada’s Kanto provide an optical input and an RCA input you can switch to phono: Plug in your turntable — or any source component — and you’re good to go. Reviewer Mark Fleischmann called the YU6 a “fabulous two-channel starter system” that excels with digital sources.” (January 2018, Read Full Review)
Riva WAND Wireless Music System: Festival, $499; Arena, $249
Riva Audio proved it could build an awesome Bluetooth speaker with the mighty Turbo X and has accomplished the same with a Wi-Fi-based multiroom system comprising the mix-and-match Festival and Arena speakers. Both impressed reviewer Rob Sabin with big sound from small cabinets, although he did have a few quibbles with the Chromecast control interface. “In the final analysis, the Festival and Arena delivered a crazy-high level of engagement with the music that made my blood flow and kept me punching up track after track.” (December 2017, Read Full Review)
Sonos Play:5 Wireless Music System: $499
Sonos has given a complete makeover to its highly popular original speaker and upped the price $100. In return you get overall improved performance and Trueplay, an amazing new feature that automatically optimizes sound quality no matter where you put the speaker. Reviewer Darryl Wilkinson wrote: “I’ve tested Trueplay on different Sonos speakers, and it overcame some truly awful locations such as on a countertop against the microwave, on the bottom shelf of a nightstand, and even behind the door of a kitchen cabinet.” (February/March 2016, SoundandVision.com, Read Full Review)
Cambridge Audio Air 200 Wireless Speaker System: $190
(originally “Minx 200 Air” priced at $599; updated 11/30/18) The Minx 200 Air might be small but it’s loaded with technology, including exotic drivers, AirPlay and Bluetooth wireless connectivity, digital amplification, and DSP processing. Most important, it delivers excellent sound from an inconspicuous cabinet. Reviewer Mark Fleischmann wrote: “If you want music in the kitchen, in the bedroom, on the deck, in the garage—basically, anywhere with a power outlet—this $599 product is well worth the price. It certainly was a big hit in my home.” (SoundandVision.com, posted May 29, 2014, Read Full Review)
SVS Prime Wireless Speaker System: $600
SVS may be late to the wireless party but the company known for delivering great sound at reasonable prices has made its presence known with the Prime Wireless. The powerful dual-speaker system delivers audiophile-caliber sound, uncompromised connectivity, and a wealth of streaming options — including Bluetooth/aptX and DTS Play-Fi support — in a stylish package that won’t break the bank. (February/March 2019, Read Full Review)
B&W Zeppelin Wireless Music System: $699
Bowers & Wilkins has revised, revoiced, and updated the popular Zeppelin speaker it introduced in 2008 (and updated in 2012) to eliminate the iPhone/iPod dock in favor AirPlay and Bluetooth connectivity—and it sounds better than ever. “The Zeppelin Wireless isn’t the cheapest wireless speaker out there—and that’s pretty much the point,” wrote reviewer Mark Fleischmann. “It’s for someone who would rather pay a little more to get the best than buy something uninspiring to save a buck. It sounds gloriously musical, and without the dock, it looks more elegant than ever.” (April 2016, Read Full Review)
Audioengine HD6 Wireless Speaker: $600/pair
(original price $699, updated 11/30/18) The HD6 has a lot going for it. For starters, it’s just under a foot tall, it has built-in power, and it’s wireless—in other words, you won’t need to worry about speaker cables or having a separate receiver or amplifier. Further sweetening the deal is the choice of three gorgeous wood veneer finishes, simple setup, and awesome sound. “The speakers projected a huge, spacious soundstage, with a sense of width and depth that no single-box speaker can muster,” wrote reviewer Michael Trei. “The very top octaves were just a bit soft sounding…but I soon decided that this was a deliberate voicing decision made by Audioengine.” (May 2016, Read Full Review)
Soundcast VG7 Outdoor Wireless Speaker: $800
If Naim’s remarkable Mu-so Qb is the mother of all indoor wireless speakers, Soundcast’s new flagship VG7 speaker is its outdoor counterpart. Like the Mu-so, it carries a substantial price tag, but if you’re headed for the backyard or a tailgate party, you’ll get what you pay for in sound quality, ease of use, and reliable operation. As reviewer Rob Sabin put it, “The VG7 is a true leader in its class, and highly recommended.” (July/August 2017, Read Full Review)
Naim Mu-so QB 2nd Generation Wireless Music System: $900
If you’re looking for a kick-ass all-in-one wireless music system that doesn’t consume a lot of space, Naim Audio’s updated Mu-so QB deserves a serious look. The U.K.-based company took an already awesome system and made it even better with expanded streaming options and streamlined operation. Calling the second generation QB one of the best sounding compact speakers you’ll find, reviewer Bob Ankosko concluded: “Though it’s not cheap, it will delight you with a seemingly endless stream of musical choices and rich sound that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face.” (Posted 12/18/19, Read Full Review)
Naim Uniti Atom Wireless Music Player: $3,000
A follow-up to Naim’s outstanding Mu-so Qb Wireless Music System, the Uniti Atom is a gorgeous and impeccably-built 21st Century remake of the classic integrated amp, melding hi-res streaming capabilities with a high-performance 2 x 40-watt power amplifier. “I loved almost everything about Naim’s Uniti Atom stream-plifier,” wrote reviewer Daniel Kumin. “Everything, that is, except the price. Which is not to say that $3,000 is unfair for so beautifully conceived, engineered, and executed a product.” (June 2018, Read Full Review)
Naim Audio Mu-so 2 Wireless Music System: $1,599
If you think it’s impossible to get audiophile sound from a one-box system, think again. U.K.’s Naim Audio breaks all the rules with a newly upgraded version of its spectacular Mu-so system, which made our Top Pick list in 2015. The impeccably constructed Mu-so 2 supports wireless multiroom streaming via AirPlay and Chromecast and provides integrated access to Spotify, Tidal, and internet radio. There’s even a remote control if you don’t want to bother with the app. You won’t believe your ears. (October/November 2019, Read Full Review)

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