How to Choose a Bluetooth Speaker

Choosing a Bluetooth speaker can be a bit of a pickle, given the zillions of options available out there. But hey, that’s why we’re here—to help you navigate through this labyrinth.

Understanding Bluetooth Speaker Specifications

Before you deep dive into the world of Bluetooth speakers, you need to understand the jargon and how Bluetooth speakers work.

Power Output and Volume

You might have heard the saying, "the bigger the better." Well, that's not always true, especially when it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers. Just take the No Bounds Bluetooth speaker from House of Marley as an example. A bigger speaker might output more power, but it's not always about loudness. Power output, measured in watts, can affect the speaker's clarity and quality of sound, especially at higher volumes.

Frequency Response

Frequency response is a measure of the range of sound a speaker can produce. Generally, the wider the range, the better the ability to reproduce audio as it was intended to be heard. The sweet spot for human hearing is usually between 20Hz and 20kHz, so look for a speaker that can hit those marks.

Bluetooth Version and Range

The Bluetooth version affects the speaker's range and audio quality. Bluetooth 5.0 is the latest and offers a range of up to 800 feet in open space. Always look for a recent Bluetooth version to ensure great sound and wider connectivity. House of Marley Bluetooth speakers come with Bluetooth version 5.0, so you can ensure you’re getting the latest technology.

Battery Life and Charging Options

Arguably the biggest drawback when comparing wireless vs wired speakers is the fact that they need to be charged. You don't want your favorite tune interrupted because the speaker's battery decided to go on vacation. Always check for a speaker with a decent battery life. The Get Together 2 XL from House of Marley boasts 20+ hours of battery life, so your tracks are never amiss. Additional charging options like USB-C or wireless charging can be a bonus.

Water and Dust Resistance

Who doesn't love a beach party or a picnic on a dusty trail? If you're an outdoor lover, choosing a splash-resistant Bluetooth speaker with dust resistance is an absolute must, like with the Get Together 2 Mini. Look for the IP rating (Ingress Protection) - IP67 or IP68 are what you should be aiming for.

Considering Design and Portability

Don't underestimate the importance of aesthetics and portability when choosing a Bluetooth speaker.

Size and Weight

The best Bluetooth speaker isn't always the biggest. If you want a portable speaker, you should consider a smaller, lighter model like the Chant Mini that you can throw in your bag without a second thought.

Build Quality and Durability

Let's face it, accidents happen. A wireless Bluetooth speaker with a solid build quality can withstand a few knocks and drops. But hey, I'm not suggesting you play basketball with it!

Aesthetics and Material Choices

While sound quality is crucial, you can't ignore how a speaker looks. After all, it's going to be a part of your living room, bedroom, or even your backpack. Luckily, House of Marley speakers are elegantly designed, built with sustainable and stunning materials like bamboo. 

Evaluating Sound Quality

Here's where the rubber meets the road. Ultimately, it's all about the sound.

Audio Drivers and Speaker Configuration

This isn't rocket science, but the number and arrangement of drivers (the components that produce sound in a speaker) can dramatically influence the audio quality. A good rule of thumb? More drivers can help create a more balanced and immersive soundstage.

Passive Radiators and Bass Performance

For those who love to feel the beat, the presence of passive radiators in a Bluetooth speaker can enhance the bass output. Essentially, these act like subwoofers, giving your tunes a solid low-end punch.

Stereo and Surround Sound Capabilities

If you're a cinephile or love to immerse yourself in music, consider a Bluetooth device with stereo or surround sound capabilities. Stereo sound gives a sense of direction to sound, while surround sound takes it to another level, creating a home theater-like experience.

Additional Features and Connectivity

Look for portable Bluetooth speakers with some extra goodies up their sleeve.

Voice Assistant Integration

Looking for more than just a speaker? How about one that can tell you the weather, set reminders, and play your favorite playlist without lifting a finger? A smart speaker with voice assistant integration like Google Assistant can make your life a whole lot easier.

Multi-Room and Multi-Speaker Pairing

If you want to fill your entire house with music or amplify the party outdoors, look for a Bluetooth speaker that supports multi-room and multi-speaker pairing, like the Get Together 2. This way, you can link multiple speakers and enjoy synchronized music throughout your home.

Wired Connection Options

While wireless is the way to go, having a wired connection option like AUX-in can be a lifesaver when your Bluetooth decides to play hide and seek. One of the benefits of Bluetooth speakers from House of Marley is that many feature these AUX inputs. 

Setting Your Budget

Ah, the money talk. Let's delve into how your budget can shape your Bluetooth speaker choice.

Price Ranges and What to Expect

Generally, Bluetooth speakers range from affordable ones under $50 to high-end models costing $500 or more. As you climb up the price ladder, you can expect better sound quality, build, battery life, and additional features.

Balancing Features and Cost

Don't blow your budget on a speaker just because it has all the bells and whistles. The best Bluetooth speaker for you is the one that balances the features you need with a price you're comfortable paying.

Warranty and Customer Support

Warranty is like an insurance policy for your speaker, and good customer support is like a trusted mechanic. They might not seem crucial when buying, but they're worth considering, especially for higher-end models. House of Marley offers a two-year limited warranty on all our products.

Explore Bluetooth Speakers from House of Marley

Looking for a sustainable and quality option? House of Marley offers a range of Bluetooth speakers that not only sound great but are also made with recycled materials. Whether you want a small speaker for conference calls or a bigger speaker to rock your next party, they've got you covered.

In the end, choosing a Bluetooth speaker boils down to your personal needs and preferences. What's the perfect speaker for your friend might not be the same for you. But don't worry, armed with this guide, you're well on your way to finding your ideal Bluetooth speaker. Now, let the music play!