Beolit 12
Size: A heavyweight. You’ll need a sizeable duffel bag to carry this with you.
Sound: We were pleasantly surprised by its crisp sound, which holds up when transitioning between bass, mid-bass and midrange tones.
Looks: Its leather carrying straps, clean front face and aluminium grill make it the kind of package you’d want to show off anywhere.
Verdict: √√√√
$1,200 from Bang & Olufsen Hyatt
Bose Soundlink Mini
Size: The dimensions bid well in terms of portability. Some may find it a tad bulky, but that’s just an indicator of its impressive sonic quality.
Sound: Deep and rich. Be it for an office party or a beach barbeque, this baby’s all you need.
Looks: The sleek design and silver finishing also adds a touch of luxe. Plus, it’s surprisingly affordable.
Score: √√√√√
$299 from Bose @ Millenia Walk
Jabra Solemate
Size: Slightly on the hefty side but it’ll still fit snugly in your tote bag or backpack if you’re lugging it around.
Sound: We like the loud thumps and bass it produces, but the treble is sorely lacking and distorted when played loud.
Looks: The Solemate has a threaded rubber base, which looks like the underside of boot. And there are just three highly visible and simple buttons on its crown. You won’t find anything more rugged than this.
Verdict: √√√
$228 from EpiCentre
Marley Chant
Size: The runt of the family. Just slightly bigger than a drinks can and you can even hang it from your belt with a karabiner.
Sound: Not incredibly loud but it’d be fine for a picnic.
Looks: Neat. It’s got a wooden finish, but it’s the red, yellow and green stitching, befitting its namesake, that makes it a winner.
Verdict: √√√
$138.90 from HMV
Loewe Speaker 2go
Size: Slim and travel-friendly. Leaves plenty of leftover space in your luggage but don’t be fooled by its dimensions—it packs a punch elsewhere.
Sound: Sonically superior to the rest of the pack, and versatile when alternating between soft, acoustic tracks and club or rock tunes. A rubber stand allows you to re-focus the sound around the room
Looks: Minimal finishing for those looking for something more subtle.
Verdict: √√√√
$599 from Atlas Experience Boutique
We get tips from Soren Kokholm, General Manager of Bang & Olufsen, on how to achieve great sound at home.