RS Recommends
The Rolling Stone Audio Awards 2022
From headphones to speakers, thousands of audio products come across our desk each year, but only a few can earn our editors' stamp of approval
By
Tim Chan, Nishka Dhawan, Sage Anderson, John Lonsdale, Oscar Hartzog
February 16, 2022
Klipsch
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
Today’s retail world is an audiophile’s dream — just take a look online and you’ll find super-sleek Bluetooth headphones, ultra-nice speakers, and all kinds of hype.
But which new releases are worth the price, and which ones measure up to use in real life? We’ve spent the past year testing dozens of earbuds, headphones, speakers, and sound systems to find the answer. The products in our 2022 Rolling Stone Audio Awards boast superior performance, innovative technology, and distinctive design — you can count on it.
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Best Headphones: Bose QuietComfort 45 Headphones
Image Credit: Bose
A good pair of headphones needs to combine a comfortable fit, clear sound and all-day battery life, and the Bose QuietComfort 45 manages to do them all.
These headphones come with Bose’s flagship noise cancellation technology which the brand claims should “hush” the world around you, meaning it’ll drown out voices in a crowded cafe or help you sleep soundly during your next red-eye flight. There’s also an aware mode, which lets you tune into your surroundings as needed, allowing you to listen to traffic or participate in a conversation happening around you.
As for the sound itself, you’ve got Active EQ, to keep “Heat Waves” by Glass Animals sounding just as good on low volume as it does when you’re blasting it out loud. There are also TriPort design vents that Bose claims should add depth and fullness to every chart-topping song you listen to.
You’ll also like the plush, comfortable fit, featuring synthetic leather earcup cushions and an impact-resistant headband which will protect your new headphones from minor bumps and bruises. Battery life runs a full 24 hours on a single charge so take them with you on the go or while you’re traveling. ND
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Best Wired Headphones: Drop + Sennheiser HD 8XX
Image Credit: Drop
True audiophiles know that to get the most robust and immersive sound out of their music, wired is the way to go. Drop + Sennheiser’s HD 8XX are the best wired headphones of the year for giving depth to every note of your hi-res audio.
The Drop + Sennheiser HD 8XX cups are a huge refinement to Sennheiser’s previous series, with rebalanced mid and treble ranges, and more oomph on that bass. Its open-back design gives everyone’s music an Apple “Spatial Audio”-like treatment, but hi-res lovers will rejoice in the warmth you can only get from wired listening.
While you can’t beat the convenience of Bluetooth, these wired headphones make you feel like you’ve got front row concert hall seats from the comfort of your own home. SA
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Best Wireless Headphones: Shure Aonic 40
Image Credit: Shure
You won’t find a more accurate sound profile, or highly-customizable performance, than with Shure’s Aonic 40 headphones.
With its excellent companion app, you can easily tailor your tunes to your listening preferences (more treble, less bass). The headphones are made for clarity and accuracy of sound, but play around with the EQ to get thunderous bass or crisp vocals really makes each listening experience unique. You can also control levels of active noise cancellation (ANC), and switch from “Conferencing” mode (which hones in on vocal quality for calls) or use the Environment slider to hear sounds around you over your music, both of which are practically essential for working from home.
Good-quality sound paired with noise-cancellation doesn’t come cheap, but the Aonic 40 performs as well as any big-name audio player. SA
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Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Panasonic Technics EAH-A800
Image Credit: Panasonic
Just announced at CES 2022, these EAH-A800 headphones from Technics offer one of the most tranquil listening experiences of any headphones — whether you’re at home, on the plane or in a busy cafe.
The EAH-A800’s top-notch active noise-cancellation (ANC) comes from an eight-microphone system and dual hybrid setup. The eight-mic system is also important for calls: by picking up your voice with four mics and listening to environment noise with the other four, the EAH-A800s ensure clear call quality on both ends.
You can also customize the cans’ noise-cancellation by switching on “transparent mode,” which picks up all external noise, or “attention mode,” which filters out low clamor but still lets you hear louder frequencies (say, airport announcements).
Even if you take away their excellent noise-cancellation, the EAH-A800s are a fantastic pair of headphones. 40mm drivers, an air-management Acoustic Control Chamber to manage air flow, and distortion control combine for crisp, deep sound and HiFi capability. Plus, the headphones last an impressive 50 hours with noise-cancellation on, or 60 hours with it turned off. OH
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Best Over-Ear Headphones: Sony WH-XB910N Extra Bass Headphones
Image Credit: Sony
For sound you can really feel and a comfortable design you can wear for hours, Sony’s Extra Bass noise-cancelling headphones won’t disappoint. And thanks to their deep bass delivery and built-in mic, they’re ideal for music fans and commuters alike.
You can control how your tunes sound using Sony’s app, and turn off their noise-cancelling setting by touching the earcup thanks to what Sony calls its “Quick Attention Mode.”
The Extra Bass cans deliver an impressive 30 hours of juice when fully charged, and you can get up to 4.5 hours of runtime by plugging them in for just 10 minutes. The bottom line: These might be built for bass, but they’re the kind of do-it-all over-ear headphones you want to have in any situation. JL
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Best Headphones for Travel: Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX
Image Credit: Bang & Olufsen
When you want to tune out for hours at a time while traveling, pick up these Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX headphones. As expected from the high-end Danish brand, the Beoplay HXs deliver exceptional sound quality thanks to 40mm electro-dynamic drivers equipped with Neodymium magnets. In non-techy terms, that translates to precise, premium sound quality.
But one of the best qualities with the Beoplays is comfort (hence their aptitude for travel). The earcups are made of memory foam with a supple lambskin covering, and the ergonomic headband is designed to disperse pressure. This means you can wear the cans for hours without discomfort.
The Beoplays also boast fantastic noise cancellation, which can be adjusted through Bang & Olufsen’s app. This app also lets you personalize equalizers for custom sound depending on what kind of music you’re listening to.
Plus, as with most Bang & Olufsen products, these headphones are gorgeous to boot — again largely thanks to the premium materials. OH
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Best Workout Headphones: Shokz OpenRun Pro
Image Credit: Shokz
For gym rats and marathon runners alike, a good pair of workout headphones is a must, and the Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones are just that.
They’ve got a bud-free, open-ear design to avoid discomfort and a flexible titanium-framed headband to keep your new headphones feeling safe and secure.
The sound quality is rich, with new bone conduction technology which the brand says can deliver audio through your cheekbone. There are two bass enhancers for heavy beats and also a dual noise-cancelling microphone in case you need to take a work call during your jamming session.
As for extra features, you’ve got 10 hours of battery life on a single charge plus quick charging options, and an IP55 water-resistance rating, which means your new workout headphones can withstand light rain and sweaty workouts without giving out. ND
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Best Audiophile Headphones: Mark Levinson No. 5909
Image Credit: Mark Levinson
Mark Levinson No. 5909 are over-ear headphones that look and sound like the most premium on the market, and we think you should treat yourself accordingly.
The sleek, brushed aluminum headphones’s active noise cancellation is both immersive and highly-effective. They get up to 34 hours of music playback per charge, and have an ambient mode that filters important sounds (i.e. traffic sounds, or a passing train) while still feeling seamless with your music playing.
But what’s truly impressive is how No. 5909 sounds with high-res audio, thanks to Sony’s LDAC and Qualcomm’s AptX Adaptive codecs for near-lossless Bluetooth streaming. While you can adjust the EQ in the app, the depth and purity of sound is almost unbeatable as-is.
In terms of sheer audio quality and aesthetics, the Mark Levinson No. 5909 are the cream of the crop. SA
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Best Value Headphones: Anker Soundcore Life Q30
Anker’s Soundcore Life Q30s prove that you don’t need to empty the piggy bank to get a great pair of headphones.
The brand’s previous model, the Life Q20s, was our top choice last year for the best value headphones. The latest Q30 builds on its predecessor with better active noise-cancellation and a sturdier, better-looking build. This noise-cancellation technology uses both interior and exterior microphones to pick up ambient sound and adapt to block it out.
The headphones also have three noise-cancellation modes: one is optimized for airplane engine noise frequencies, another is for traffic and wind on busy streets, and the last is for voices (say, in offices or cafes).
Battery life is also very impressive — especially for a sub-$100 pair of cans — with 40 hours of battery life while using noise-cancellation and 60 hours on standard mode. Leather cups and memory foam padding, meantime, up the comfort level for long hours of usage. OH
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Best Designed Headphones: Urbanista Los Angeles
Image Credit: Urbanista
Tired of your headphones running out of juice? Say hello to the Urbanista Los Angeles Headphones, the world’s first self-charging wireless headphones. Inspired by a city of music, parties and sunshine, these solar-powered headphones convert all light (both indoors and outdoors) into energy, to keep your tunes going all night long.
The technology means your headphones are always charging too (though a USB-C cable is included if you want to power up the old-fashioned way).
It isn’t just the self-charging technology that makes these headphones a winner in our books – hybrid Active Noise-Cancelling technology and dynamic 40mm drivers work to create a cocoon of sound that envelops you from a pair of cushy earcups. Everything is packed into a chic and sophisticated housing finished in “midnight black” and “sand gold” colorways that look as good as the city they’re inspired by. TC
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Best Gaming Headphones: HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless
Image Credit: HyperX
Gaming headphones (or gaming headsets) are meant to compliment the audio of whatever you’re playing, and not get in the way of gaming performance. HyperX’s new Cloud Alpha headset archives all of this and more, in one wireless package.
Packing in all the performance and style of their previous line, HyperX swung for the fences on battery, and boasts a whopping 300 hours of playtime on a single charge (regular gaming headsets normally tap out at 50). The padded ear cups and detachable noise-cancellation microphone and battery also makes this a dream for streamers.
The 50mm dual chamber drivers give it a groundbreaking audio quality especially with DTS Headphone:X virtual surround sound. There’s multi-platform compatibility, so it’s a great choice regardless of whether you’re a PC, PlayStation or Xbox gamer. SA
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Best Earbuds: Beats Fit Pro
Image Credit: Beats
Beats proves that they’ve finally hit their stride, taking all their best features from previous models (extended battery life in Studio Buds, wingtips in the Powerbeats Pro) and improving upon them to make our favorite earbuds of the year.
The small, flexible wingtip makes these earbuds super secure, and absolutely would not budge during our workout test (also thanks to its IPX4 water and sweat resistance rating). The Fit Pros let you comfortably listen to premium-quality sound for seven hours on a single charge, and can still power through the toughest workouts. The 9.5 mm drivers give it a balanced midrange, with a punchier, richer-sounding bass which rivals even AirPod Pros.
With a beefy bass, sportier fit, and excellent ANC, the Beats Fit Pro will make for your best workday (and workout) companion. SA
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Best Workout Earbuds: Jabra Elite 4 Active
Image Credit: Jabra
Looking for earbuds that can handle your hardest sweat sesh? Jabra’s Elite 4 Active delivers the best in both rugged strength and superior audio quality.
Jabra’s earbuds are known for being incredibly durable, and with IP57 water resistance, these are built ready for jogging in the rain and intense HIIT activity. But immersive audio is a big focus here, with solid active noise cancellation to ignore your gym’s terrible sound system, and HearThrough tech for when you need to pause and chat.
The buds get up to seven hours of battery life with noise-cancelling turned on, and an additional 28 hours of playback time thanks to the charging case. Jabra includes five silicone eartips to ensure a perfect fit, which is essential for their thumping bass and sound isolation. Jabra Elite 4 Active don’t sacrifice durability for stellar sound, and that helps them stand out. SA
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Best Noise-Canceling Earbuds: Belkin Soundform Immerse
Image Credit: Belkin
Belkin’s Soundform earbuds deliver active noise-cancelling to rival that of over-the-ear headphones. They effectively block out sound using six microphones (three per earbud) that pick up external noise and create anti-noise accordingly.
The Soundform earbuds also feature IPX5 water resistance (for sweaty runs or rain) and a clever design that won’t fall out of your ear. Inside, 12mm dynamic drivers and 24-bit audio technology help generate exceptional audio quality for such a small pair of buds.
Add 36 hours of battery life (eight in the earbuds and 24 in the charging case), and you’ve got some of the most capable noise-cancelling earbuds on the market. OH
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Best Earbuds for Travel: Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
Image Credit: Bose
Like your boarding pass, passport and suitcase, a pair of earbuds have become a travel essential. But if you plan on listening to music, watching a movie, or just blocking out all the noise around you at cruising altitude, you’ll need a high-quality set of noise-cancelling buds. That’s why we awarded the Bose QuietComforts as the ultimate travel earbuds.
From flights to commutes, no other earbuds can compete with the noise-cancelling sound quality that the QuietComforts offer. During our in-flight testing, everything from our music to TV dialogue came through crisp and clear without any interruption.
They’re also extremely easy to control with just a tap. You can cycle through sound settings from the earbuds, and customize new ones in the Bose Music app. They’re even sweat-resistant, should you need to sprint to catch your next flight.
Like your rolling carry-on, the Bose QuietComforts make travel just a little easier thanks to their 18-hour battery life with a wireless charging case, comfortable-and-secure ear hooks, and exceptional sound quality. JL
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Best Audiophile Earbuds: Sennheiser IE 300
Image Credit: Sennheiser
Wired headphones may be most audiophiles’ first choice for listening to music. but that’s about to change thanks to Sennheiser’s IE 300s, with an adjustable wrap-around style and more detailed HiFi sound than anything else that can fit in your pocket.
These German-designed buds deliver rich, robust sound, with warm mids and clear bass across every genre of music. The 7mm Extra Wide Band TrueResponse transducer creates a wider, more detailed soundscape, with impeccable clarity and detail that you won’t find in other brands.
Everything in the IE 300 earbuds is purposefully-built for big, bold sound and we can’t imagine listening to music any other way. TC
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Best Running Earbuds: Back Bay Audio Tempo 30
When it comes to running earbuds, comfort, security, and water resistance are our top concerns — these Tempo 30 earbuds from Back Bay Audio deliver on all counts.
The earbuds’ ergonomic design lays flush with the ear, and they come with six sizes of ear tips for the proper fit — no matter your ear size. Back Bay also promises rugged IPX7 water resistance, allowing you to run in the rain, get as sweaty as you like, or even shower with the earbuds afterwords. In short, the Tempo 30s can keep up with any workout.
Other noteworthy features include dual microphones for taking calls while out, and a “bass mode” for added thump. You also get 32 hours of battery life (eight hours in the earbuds and 24 more with the included charging case), which should be more than enough for any run. OH
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Best-Designed Earbuds: Sony WF-1000XM4 Earbuds
Image Credit: Sony
Featuring high-quality sound that puts most on-ear headphones to shame, the Sony WF-1000XM4 noise-canceling earbuds are a must-have for music lovers.
They’ve got 6mm drivers to deliver thundering bass and an integrated V1 processor built to deliver the most effective noise cancellation. Plus, these Sony earbuds have an eight-hour battery life, even while you’re using noise-canceling features and IPX4 water resistance, just in case you’re caught outside on a rainy day or you’re sweating it out on the trails.
With the Sony Headphones Connect App, you can further personalize your sound, including adjusting the equalizer or tuning in to Ambient Mode to be aware of your surroundings. They look as good as they sound too, with a subtle yet sophisticated design that leaves its rivals in the dust. ND
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Best Value Earbuds: JLab GO Air Tones True Wireless Earbuds
Image Credit: JLab
JLab’s GO Air Tones come in seven, skin-matching shades, to take the idea of “personalized audio” to a whole new level. The subtle tones work to compliment – rather than detract – from the wearer, while a 15% smaller fit keeps the earbuds comfortably secure.
But it isn’t just about aesthetics – get well-balanced sound, an IPX4 rating for sweat and water-resistance, and up to 32 hours of playtime with the included charging case. The best part: the earbuds come in at just $20, proving that in a world of bold and flashy buds, being a little more understated isn’t always a bad thing. TC
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Best Earbuds for Sleep: Kokoon Nightbuds
Image Credit: Kokoon
Earbuds aren’t just designed for music – a pair like these “Nightbuds” from Kokoon can also help improve the quality of your sleep.
The super soft buds rest gently in your ears, helping to block out noise with a secure seal and “dynamic noise masking” technology. Wear them on their own or pair the earbuds with your favorite playlist to help you doze off.
What we like: the Nightbuds use body-monitoring sensors and technology to adapt to your sleep schedule, automatically fading and turning off your playlist when it detects that you’ve fallen asleep. Use the accompanying app to download binaural soundscapes and to see your sleep insights and stats.
The Nightbuds are great for daytime use too – they’re incredibly lightweight and 4x thinner than average earbuds, making them an easy pick up for the office, workouts, travel and commutes as well. TC
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Best Earbuds for Personalized Sound: NuraTrue
Image Credit: Nura
Two people can hear the same song differently — that’s why Nura produced the NuraTrue earbuds for personalized sound.
The second you plug these earbuds in, your earbuds automatically measure your hearing from how you listen to treble and bass to which ear you favor for deeper beats. Through the Nura App, you can even turn up the bass and fully immerse yourself in your favorite tracks. The app also has fit detection features, allowing you to personalize not just the sound but also the fit of these earbuds so they don’t fall out of your ears.
There’s also active noise cancellation, which filters out up to 20 decibels of noise, allowing you to enjoy your music even during that crowded subway ride. Want to check in on your surroundings? Just tune into social mode and let the ambient sound in.
Since they’re IPX4 rated, you can wear them to the gym or while you’re running through light rain, and the six-hour battery life means you won’t have to worry about your new buds powering down on you in the middle of The Weeknd’s new album.
For a music experience personalized entirely to the way you listen, go with the NuraTrue earbuds. ND
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Best Soundbar: LG SN11RG Soundbar
Image Credit: BH Photo
If you want to turn a small room into a home theater, pick up this LG SN11RG soundbar system. The 7.1.4-channel setup includes a large soundbar, a beefy subwoofer, and two rear speakers for 360-degree sound.
These rear speakers support height audio, and the whole system supports Dolby Atmos for immersive, three-dimensional sound. The wireless subwoofer, meantime, delivers a capable 220 watts of power for deep bass, whether you’re playing music or action movies.
Overall, the SN11RG is balanced enough to handle every kind of audio: voices and music vocals are clear, low-end is full and rumbling, and you get several EQ presents to match different usages. Plus, the whole package is streamlined enough to blend in with decor, proving this unit looks as good as it sounds. OH
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Best Soundbar for Home Theater: Polk Audio Signa S4
Image Credit: Polk Audio
Polk Audio makes some of the best soundbars on the market, and the new Polk Audio Signa S4 lives up to your high expectations — that’s why we named it the best soundbar for your home theater.
This soundbar is Dolby Atmos-certified, which means it’s built to deliver 360-degree room-filling surround sound. It even comes with its own wireless subwoofer to boost those low frequencies and recreate a cinematic experience right at home.
Additional features like Polk Voice Adjust help you hear the dialogue in the quietest of scenes, and with multiple preset sound modes available through the remote, you’re set for a late-night movie session, a house party or even for a quiet night in while the rest of your housemates head to bed. There’s support for both HDMI and optical cables so your new soundbar will be set up within minutes
Hear every word in your favorite movies in total clarity or dance the night away with the heaviest bass beats with your new Polk Audio Signa S4 soundbar. ND
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Best Portable Soundbar: VIZIO V-Series 2.0
Image Credit: VIZIO
This compact VIZIO soundbar offers room-filling sound, without taking up too much space on your TV stand.
It’s got two full-range speakers built-in with Dolby Audio and DTS Surround Sound which means no matter what corner of the room you’re in, you should hear your audio clearly. Connect this soundbar to your smartphone via Bluetooth in case you want to jam out to your favorite beats.
As for ports, you’ve got booth HDMI and ARC inputs allowing you to easily connect this VIZIO soundbar to your TV setup, all in a matter of minutes. And, there’s even a voice assistant input allowing you to connect your smart speaker to this soundbar.
Plus, the VIZIO V-Series 2.0 only weighs about 3.84 pounds which means you can easily move it around your home, or carry it with you on the go. For big sound in a compact package, VIZIO delivers on all fronts. ND
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Best Smart Soundbar: Sonos Beam Soundbar (Gen 2)
Image Credit: Sonos
So many speakers for your TV promise big sound, but that’s the easy part. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) pumps out truly immersive audio thanks to the addition of Dolby Atmos, so every whisper, explosion, and conversation feels like you’re an extra in the scene, too. The Beam also utilizes Sonos’ Speech Enhancement tech using the app, so you can more clearly hear hard-to-hear moments.
Its impressive sound aside, the soundbar works alongside Siri (with Apple AirPlay 2) Alexa, and Google Assistant, making it easy to use your voice to cue up a song or control the volume on your gadget.
The second-generation Beam gives the other smart soundbars a run for their money, and offers a premium sound experience in a 6.2-pound package that’s smart in more ways than one. JL
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Best Value Soundbar: Roku Streambar Pro
Image Credit: Roku
You probably already know Roku best for its easy-to-use streaming platform. The brand has made the experience even more seamless with its new all-in-one Streambar Pro. It’s the top soundbar for streamers, with a painless setup experience and theater-like sound quality at a budget-friendly price tag.
The included Roku voice-enabled remote lets you start watching shows and movies in 4K with the press of a button. It’s even easier to access your favorite channels, too, from HBO Max to Disney+, all from the device.
You can also build out the rest of your surround sound setup by pairing it with Roku’s speakers or subwoofer.
With room-filling sound thanks to Dolby Audio, more built-in functionality, and quick access to your favorite channels, the Roku Streambar Pro proves that other soundbars in the game have a long way to catch up. JL
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Best Surround Sound System: Enclave CineHome II
Image Credit: Amazon
Finding a complete surround sound system (that doesn’t require extensive audio knowledge to set up) can be very tough. Enter the Enclave CineHome II: It brings the quality of a complicated, audiophile-approved 5.1 system without the hassle.
The CineHome II comes with an eight-inch subwoofer, two rear speakers, two front speakers, a center speaker, and a “CineHub.” To get it set up, just plug in each component and connect the CineHub to your TV. That’s it.
Once set up, the CineHome II delivers exceptional sound quality — far better than anything you can get with a single soundbar/subwoofer system. 12 individual drivers and six amplifiers combine for loud, full sound, whether you’re watching movies or listening to music. OH
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Best Speaker System: McIntosh Wireless RS250 Loudspeaker
Image Credit: McIntosh
Music lovers will have an easy time finding what they need in MicIntosh’s latest RS250 wireless loudspeaker system, a do-it-all sound system for upgraded home audio.
The 650-watt unit, which hit shelves in December, delivers unmatched stereo sound out of a pair of 4×6-inch woofers and multiple front-firing midrange drivers and tweeters.
McIntosh didn’t sacrifice connectivity with the RS250 either. Want to stream a song from your phone? You have plenty of choices. It supports everything from TIDAL hi-res audio, Spotify Connect to Chromecast and Apple AirPlay 2 for quick-and-easy music streaming. But streaming isn’t your only option – McIntosh made it simple to connect the RS250 loudspeaker to your record player, your TV or CD player, or to use it with your Google Assistant.
It’s a loudspeaker that ensures all your favorite ways to listen to music are all here in one superb piece of audio gear. JL
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Best WiFi Speakers: Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII
Image Credit: Amazon
We demand a lot out of WiFi speakers, including easy connectivity, good looks, and room-filling audio quality. And the Audio Pro Addon C10 does it all.
These MkIIs are the latest version of Audio Pro’s lauded WiFi speakers, building on the previous generation with AirPlay 2, Google Cast, and better HiFi sound. The Swedish company’s app lets you connect to all major streaming services, and the app’s interface is very easy to use.
Another feature we love is WiFi preset buttons on each speaker, which allow you to save up to four playlists or radio stations and play them without using your phone. However you choose to connect, the speaker’s sound quality is crisp, deep, and surprisingly good for an all-in-one speaker system. OH
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Best Smart Speakers: Noveto N1
Image Credit: Noveto
Noveto’s N1 are the speakers only you can hear, and give a whole new meaning to the phrase “wall of sound.”
The N1 is a sound bar-type device Noveto calls “invisible headphones”. By emitting ultrasonic waves through the air, it creates two audible pockets of three-dimensional sound around your ears — which everyone else around you can barely hear (there’s a 90% audio reduction from three feet away). It’s a game-changer for shared office spaces and working from home, and smart motion sensors track your head so the sound performance stays accurate.
The speaker also features 3.5mm and USB-C ports, as well as built-in Bluetooth and WiFi wireless capabilities. Noveto’s N1 has the potential to shake up the entire landscape of speaker tech, giving you an immersive audio experience like no other. SA
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Best Bookshelf Speakers: Q Acoustics M20 HD Wireless Music System
Image Credit: Q Acoustics
Don’t be fooled by the classic look of Q Acoustics’ M20 Music System – these are bookshelf speakers that can do it all.
The M20s deliver big, punchy sound from a pair of sleek and sculpted speakers, dropping a whopping 64 watts of power and rich, hi-res stereo sound.
The pair of speakers (one powered and one passive) are as ideal for your home theater as they are for your gaming rig. But music is where they shine best, with Q Acoustics’ years of audio expertise drawing out more details and nuances from your favorite songs, creating a concert-like atmosphere no matter how big (or small) your space. TC
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Best Standing Speakers: Klipsch Reference Series R-605FA Floorstander
Image Credit: Klipsch
Klipsch speakers have always been known for their classy looks and clean sound, and their latest References series shows exactly why they’re one of the best in the game.
Their brand new range of Reference speakers include three new floorstanders, two new bookshelves, two centers, an affects speaker, and two subwoofers. But we’re most impressed with their floorstanding speakers, which like the others, received an updated woofer material, but with a much more minimalist, streamlined design.
The R-605FA floorstander contains two, 6.5-inch woofers and an up-firing Atmos driver. You’ll get some of the most sophisticated surround sound possible for a home setup thanks to the Dolby Atmos connectors and the built-in wire management, and these updates only improve upon the accuracy and sound clarity.
With speakers like these in your room, Klipsch’s R-605FA floorstander will give you a sharp-looking, sharper-sounding setup. SA
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Best HiFi Speakers: Dali Katch 2
Image Credit: DALI
Dali’s slick Katch G2 gives possibly the purest, most clean sound out of any portable speaker we’ve ever heard.
The build of the body is what gives it such a powerfully booming and wide soundstage for such a slender model, thanks to the drivers located on both sides of the speaker. The dual woofers also add a significant punch to the low-end, and a two-way stereo speaker system with a passive membrane supports the woofer. The speakers also carry support for Bluetooth 5.0, and aptX HD, aptX and AAC Bluetooth for elevating any hi-fi audio listening you’re doing.
It also features a unique physical button to toggle between “Clear” and “Warm” EQ to tailor your sound performance to your tastes. But we don’t think anything superfluous needs to be added, as the Dali Katch G2’s clear, accurate sound speaks for itself. SA
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Best Portable Bluetooth Speakers: JBL Boombox 3
Image Credit: JBL
JBL has a strong showing of new audio gear this year, but we think their newly-designed portable boombox speaker will be the most likely to blow you away.
The Boombox 3 packs a punchy, deep bass, more intense clarity, and powerful sound overall. This is thanks to a new three-way speaker system consisting of a powerful racetrack-shaped subwoofer, two mid-range drivers and two tweeters.
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3 and 24 hours of playtime on a single charge, The Boombox 3 is practically built for playing from sunup to sundown. Its IP67 rating makes it waterproof and dustproof for most weather conditions, too.
Whether you’re dancing around in your living room, or taking your tunes on the go, JBL’s Boombox 3 is sure to keep the party going anywhere. SA
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Best Outdoor Speaker: Sonos Roam
Image Credit: Sonos
“Is that Sonos speaker supposed to be out in the rain?” our partner recently asked us about the Roam. The answer: Yes. And the snow. And the sun. Put simply, it’s the best compact speaker to use outdoors we’ve tested (and heard) this year.
Sonos’ first Bluetooth offering lets you stream your music wirelessly, but it can still sync up with other speaker units in the Sonos family, so you can play your tunes in every room of your house and control it all from the Sonos app. With a 10-hour battery life and a drop-resistant build, it’s a must-have for on-the-go streaming with stellar sound. JL
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Best Waterproof Speakers: Tribit XSound Mega Portable Speaker
Image Credit: Tribit
Bring the loudest beats with you wherever you go with the Tribit XSound Wireless Speaker.
There are three music modes, with one tailored solely for heavy bass, one for casual music listening and one for zoning out with your favorite audiobook.
Thus Tribit speaker also features futuristic lighting, which can be synced to the beats of your favorite songs, adding to the ambiance at your house party or outdoor pool party.
This portable speaker runs 20 hours on a single charge, has an IPX7 rating for your beachside jam sessions, and comes with a carry strap so you never leave home without it.
All in all, the Tribit XSound Mega Speaker is the party accessory you need to turn up the music — and the fun. ND
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Best Turntable: Pro-Ject A1 Automatic Turntable
Image Credit: Pro-Ject
The HiFi listening experience gets an automatic (and more approachable) update with Pro-Ject’s newest release.
While the brand has produced turntables since the early Nineties, Pro-Ject has never released a fully automatic turntable – until now.
Made for new collectors and audiophiles alike, the Automat A1 features an automatic start/stop switch and a more seamless way to spin records, no matter your setup.
Start a record with a flip of the lever and let the aluminum low-mass tonearm, Ortofon OM10 cartridge, and host of hidden anti-vibration features take it from there.
Setup is nearly plug-and-play and simple right out of the box, thanks to a switchable phono preamp and gold-plated RCA connectivity. During a recent test, we hooked up the A1 to a Sonos Play:5, letting us control the volume of our record and pair it with other Sonos speakers, both inside and outside the house.
This is total HiFi convenience — a versatile turntable that gives you new ways to experience your records. JL
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Best Sustainable Speakers: House of Marley Get Together Duo
Image Credit: House of Marley
This Get Together Duo from House of Marley proves that you can make great speakers without impacting the planet. They’re made of bamboo, recycled cotton, and hemp that not only leave a light eco-footprint but create a unique, stylish look.
Designed to be moved, the Duo includes a powered left speaker and a wireless, portable right speaker with 20 hours of battery life. This means you can quickly take one speaker outside or into another room without stopping the music.
Sustainability and ease-of-use were priorities with the Get Together speakers, but audio quality has not been forgotten: built-in woofers and tweeters on each speaker create deep, loud sound worthy of any song or Marley jam. OH
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Best Bluetooth Record Player: Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2
Image Credit: Cambridge Audio
If you want high-fidelity sound without the wires, check out Cambridge Audio’s latest and greatest, the Alva TT V2 wireless turntable. Thanks to aptX HD Bluetooth streaming, the TT V2 can wirelessly transmit HiFi sound that’s worthy of our premium speaker systems and headphones.
But the TT’s high-end sound doesn’t just come from its aptX Bluetooth: the record player features a Polyoxymethylene platter (a material favorited by audiophiles) and a smooth direct-drive motor. Throw in a bespoke MC cartridge and an integrated phono stage, and you’ve got one of the best record players on the market — wireless or not. OH
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Best Value Record Player: Crosley Cruiser Plus
Image Credit: Crosley
This portable Crosley Cruiser Plus record player punches way above its price point.
The first thing you’ll notice about the Cruiser is how good it looks. Crosley is known its vintage-modern design work, creating record players that actually elevate decor. The Cruiser is no different, and it’s offered in a range of unique colors to suit your style.
But the Cruiser is more than a pretty face: it uses solid materials and features built-in speakers that let you play music anywhere. It’s also Bluetooth-compatible and features an auxiliary input if you want to play digital music through the speakers. If you already have a speaker setup at home, the Cruiser can also connect to those. OH
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Best Portable Record Player: Victrola Re-Spin
Image Credit: Victrola
There’s no school like the old school, and while Victrola’s new Re-Spin record player is stylishly retro, its powerful internal speaker gives it modern-day sound quality.
It also packs up easier for on-the-go listening, as Victrola says it’s 20 percent smaller by size and weight than traditional suitcase turntables. There are also plenty of options for any type of vinyl aficionado: the record player includes an adapter for 7-inch vinyl, a 1/8-inch headphone jack for wired listening, Bluetooth streaming capabilities, and RCA output ports with an internal pre-amp for stereo setups.
For as much portability as you get, the Victrola Re-Spin gives you killer performance from the anti-vibration speaker, for skip-free vinyl listening and bass-forward beats. SA
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Carpool Karaoke Mic 2.0
Image Credit: Amazon
Few things brought us as much joy during quarantine than an impromptu karaoke night at home. And few mics bring us as much joy as the Carpool Karaoke Mic 2.0.
Named after the popular segment on The Late Late Show With James Corden, the handheld mic boasts six voice effects and three different sound effects. Pairing to your audio track is easy via Bluetooth and the built-in battery lasts for up to six hours — more than enough time to get through your playlist.
The best part: the wireless mic is totally portable, so now that quarantine is over, you can take your tunes — and your karaoke parties — on the go. TC
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Singtrix Portable Karaoke Machine
Image Credit: Singtrix
Few karaoke machines deliver as much fun as the Singtrix Party Bundle, which gets you everything you need for a karaoke party at home, work, wedding or well, anywhere really.
The all-in-one set gets you a karaoke mic, mic stand, device stand and a 40-watt stereo speaker with built-in subwoofer. Choose from more than 375 vocal effects, plus auto-tune, pitch correction and harmonies (basically like having backup singers on cue).
The whole system sets up in minutes and is geared to all ages and skill levels. When it comes to karaoke, Singtrix knows how to deliver a party.
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