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REGULAR Menu Lifewire Tech for Humans Newsletter! Search Close GO Home Theater & Entertainment > Audio 33 33 people found this article helpful
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lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on November 1, 2021 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email
In This Article
Expand Jump to a Section Considerations RF and IR Speakers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Technical Issues Wireless speakers promise all the same benefits as wired speakers, with an added flexibility that helps you connect to the world of digital audio. Whether you want to play music, stream podcasts over the internet, or configure your smartphone to use a louder speaker, these devices can do the job.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire The Complete Guide to Home Audio Systems for Beginners The 7 Best Bluetooth Speakers, Tested by Experts How to Make Wired Speakers Wireless What Is Wireless Home Theater? 5 Things to Consider Before Buying Stereo Speakers Which Wireless Audio Technology Is Right for You?
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The Truth About Wireless Speakers for Home Theaters The 8 Best Outdoor Stereos in 2022 The 7 Best Speakers of 2022 How to Use a Speaker Switch for Easy Multi-Room Audio How to Splice Wires for Speakers and Home Theater Systems How to Connect a Projector to a Speaker How to Fix Common Car Amp Problems RF Interference With Wireless Home Automation Devices How to Make a Bluetooth Speaker Louder How to Connect Your TV to an External Audio System Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies
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