Considerations in Choosing Wireless Speakers
The quality of wireless speakers varies depending on the model. While cheaply-made ones often sound tinny and distorted, higher-end models can deliver good audio quality. Better-made units also last longer. Other characteristics of good wireless speakers include:
Compatibility: Capable of connecting to a range of other devices via industry-standard technologies.Portability: Lightweight enough to move from location to location, with good battery life (for battery-powered ones).Style: Aesthetic appeal.
Several types of wireless speakers exist, each designed for specific purposes.
RF and IR Speakers
Home stereo systems increasingly use radio frequency (RF) speakers as an alternative to traditional wired ones. The rear two speakers in a surround system, for example, benefit from wireless as many homes lack the necessary pre-wiring. Wireless subwoofers have also proven useful as they can be freely placed within a room. An RF stereo system includes a radio transmitter (often embedded inside the amplifier) that sends waves on frequencies the matching speakers are able to receive. Infrared (IR) speakers work similarly to RF speakers (and the two terms are sometimes used interchangeably) except that IR signals operate on different frequencies and cannot penetrate walls or other objects.
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Proprietary Speakers
Bluetooth speakers have become popular as companion devices to smartphones and tablets. By pushing a button, these units can be paired—connected by a short-range link—with a Bluetooth-enabled host device through which audio playback or streaming can start. Designed for portability, these speakers typically run on battery power and are smaller than other kinds of speakers. Many vendors make top-quality Bluetooth speakers, including Bongo by Otis & Eleanor, FUGOO, JBL, Bose, and UE. Wi-Fi speakers connect to a home network and communicate over TCP/IP. Wi-Fi can connect over longer distances than Bluetooth and so these speakers are more commonly used for whole-house audio systems. Because they consume more power, Wi-Fi speakers typically plug into wall outlets rather than run on batteries. A few vendors have built specialized (proprietary) wireless systems that bridge to a home Wi-Fi network, such as the wireless mesh network SonosNet from Sonos. AirPlay speakers use Apple’s proprietary wireless multimedia technology. AirPlay speakers connect only to Apple i-devices or to Apple iTunes. Relatively fewer vendors produce this type of speaker, and their prices tend to be higher. Many AirPlay speakers support Bluetooth can work with non-Apple equipment.
Technical Issues With Wireless Speakers
Besides their reputation for uneven sound quality, two other technical challenges can hinder the effectiveness of wireless speakers:
Signal Interference: Radio signals in the air from other household gadgets can interfere with wireless speakers, degrading the sound quality and (in extreme cases) causing their audio to drop out completely.Power Cords: Except for the smaller Bluetooth models, wireless speakers must be plugged into wall outlets, making them not truly wireless.
