These days, it’s easy to take your music everywhere – your house, the garden, the park, even the beach. Thanks to the wide range of portable Bluetooth speakers available, you don’t have to worry about wires (or the elements). But which one’s right for you?
Here are some tips to help you choose – plus some advice on how to take the party outside - without upsetting your neighbours with the sound…
1. Find the right wireless speaker
Want to dance along to your fave tunes for hours and hours? Look for a portable wireless speaker that can:
Go for ages without needing to recharge
Be carried around easily in a bag or backpack
Stream music from your phone or tablet via Bluetooth.
For deep bass and multicoloured lights you’ll love the Sony SRS-XG500 Portable Bluetooth Speaker. With it you get a massive 30 hours of music on one charge. You can also create your own light show as it comes equipped with lights that sync to the beat – how flashy!
2. Organise your party
If you’re having a big party, try to plan in advance and keep the numbers realistic. If your flat’s pretty cosy, maybe a 30-person party’s not the one. Lucky enough to have a garden or heading to a park? Make sure you check the weather forecast beforehand so you won’t be rained off.
And don’t spend all your paycheck on food and drink – get everyone to pitch in or bring their own. And put anything breakable out of reach so you won’t get a big dollop of regret to go with your hangover.
If there is an impromptu shower (this is the UK after all), don’t sweat it. With a speaker like this Sony SRS-XB43 Portable Bluetooth Speaker the music doesn’t have to stop with the rain. It’s waterproof, saltwater resistant, dustproof and rustproof. So whether it’s a sudden downpour or a day at the beach, it’s got you covered.
3. Keep the neighbours on your side
It’s only right that you let your neighbours know you’re having a get together. You could even invite them to join – a sure fire way to kill their complaints. But be mindful that not everyone has the energy to stay up all night partying, especially older people, or parents with young kids.
And if you do get a bit carried away, try to make it up to them. Flowers and a note will usually do the trick, as long as you’re not making it a regular occurrence!
4. Get the music sorted
Create a dedicated playlist on Spotify with your housemates so that you don't have to play DJ all night. If the party has a theme, pick music to match. Need inspiration? Spotify and YouTube have loads of ready-made playlists if you can’t be bothered to make your own.
5. Get your speaker set up
First, decide where your speaker is going to go. You’ll want to place it somewhere where the sound quality’s good for all your guests. Something like the JBL Charge 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker is a good shout here. With two bass radiators and a separate tweeter, you'll hear every song with clarity and depth, even outdoors.
But think about your neighbours, too. If you’ve got your patio doors open but most of your guests are inside, try positioning the speakers deeper in the house. This way, the sound won’t carry as much to other houses or flats.
Also, set a volume level you’re happy with and don’t go over it – you don’t want to give your neighbours a reason to complain, even if you did give them a heads-up beforehand.
6. Is your phone or tablet good to go?
Since your device controls the music, you’ll want to make sure:
The battery is fully charged
You've paired it with your speaker over Bluetooth
The Bluetooth range has been tested – you normally have to keep the phone within 10-15 metres of the speaker
You can access Spotify or Apple Music from your phone
Looks like you’re ready to party!
Not sure a portable speaker is for you? Take a look at our audio buying guide to discover the ideal audio device for you. Choose anything from traditional Hi-Fi systems to multi-room speakers.
