Music speakers with Bluetooth and USB-input: features and selection criteria

Music speakers with Bluetooth and USB stick are becoming more and more popular, attracting buyers with their mobility and functionality. Manufacturers are also trying to diversify their offerings, developing options for every taste and wallet: from full-size premium to minimalistic. A detailed overview of floor standing, large acoustic and small speaker models with Bluetooth and USB output for music will help you to understand all the diversity and solve the problem of choice.

A music column with a USB flash drive is an excellent solution for those who are used to leading an active lifestyle. Portable devices boast a rechargeable power supply, impressive cordless power, built-in speakers and subwoofers. The audio system integrated into the device has elements for amplifying the sound volume. Often there is a slot for memory cards inside, a USB port for turning on music and connecting to a PC.

Functionally, music speakers working with Bluetooth and a USB flash drive can have a variety of designs. For example, they often have a built-in radio receiver. You can use external drives to play music, but the presence of a Bluetooth connection makes it possible establish wireless contact with smartphones, tablets, then broadcast the media files they play.

Among the types of music speakers with support for USB flash drives and Bluetooth, a number of options can be distinguished.

• Stationary or floor-standing. A large speaker system will help ensure that audio is heard at maximum volume. There is an additional bass booster, and the sound quality is noticeably different from miniature models. Depending on the design and number of speakers, this equipment is suitable for home use or for outdoor events.
• Portable (portable). Compact models, often equipped with a pouch with a shoulder strap or integrated handle. These devices are made in a rugged design, the manufacturers even promise full water resistance when exposed to rain.
• Mono. Column with one emitter, broadcasting sound. There is no need to expect a volumetric effect, but with the volume of most models, everything is in order.
• Stereo. Such models are equipped with two emitters - the sound is voluminous, bright. Even at low volumes, you can get impressive results when playing audio files. By experimenting with the location of the unit, you can get different acoustic effects when listening.
• 2.1. Portable speaker systems in floor performance, capable of broadcasting even the most progressive music tracks with an abundance of bass and special sound effects. Loudness and clarity of sound provides high quality playback of songs. With 2.1 format music speakers, you can arrange both a home party and a full-fledged Open Air.

Among the manufacturers of music speakers with a USB flash drive and Bluetooth, several brands can be distinguished at once. Among them JBL is a recognized leader in the mid-range portable devices market. His models have an affordable price and good quality. Lovers of pure sound should pay attention to Sony products. For outdoor parties and youth entertainment BBK speakers will do.

The top 3 big columns include time-tested brands.

• Sony GTK XB60. This is a complete music system, complemented by original lighting. In addition to stereo sound, the kit includes an Extra Bass system to improve the speaker's performance at low frequencies. The model weighs 8 kg, the battery lasts for 15 hours of autonomous work, there is 1 USB port on the case, it can be used as a karaoke system. The column costs 17-20 thousand rubles.

• Bang & Olufsen Beosound 1. An expensive designer sound system is not for everyone - a speaker costs more than 100,000 rubles. The unusual conical shape of the housing provides a 360-degree sound wave propagation, the speaker has a binaural effect. In the presence of support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, integration with Smart-TV, services Deezer, Spotify, Tuneln, Google Cast, AirPlay. The column plays up to 16 hours without a break, weighs only 3.5 kg, has a compact size - 320 mm in height and 160 mm in diameter.

• JBL Control XT Wireless... The owner of the well-deserved 3rd place is equipped with USB 2.0, a microphone, and supports different formats of music tracks. The technique is represented by a series of square-shaped devices with a wide range of sizes. The design provides comfortable handles, a practical mounting system, a speaker grill that protects it from dirt and dust, you can find waterproof versions.

Inexpensive portable speakers are also of interest. In the category up to 2,000 rubles, you should pay attention to Defender Atom MonoDrive with mono speaker and simple design.

With a budget of up to 3000 rubles, it is better to choose Supra PAS-6280. It already has stereo sound, and the battery supply will last for 7 hours. Xiaomi Pocket Audio also looks interesting with an audio line-in, 2 speakers of 3 W each, a microphone, Bluetooth, a USB slot and a slot for a memory card.

Also noteworthy are stereo speakers JBL Flip 4, Ginzzu GM-986B. For true music fans, the models with sound 2.1 Marshall Kilburn Creative Sound Blaster Roar Pro.

When choosing music speakers with a USB flash drive and Bluetooth support it is important to pay attention to certain parameters.

1. Device output power... It directly affects what volume of the sound will be available. In addition, the higher the output power, the more robust the device is to background noise. The same factor affects the power consumption and the rate of battery discharge.
2. Sound volume level. Even for a portable model, it should be at least 80 dB. For parties, playing music on the street, you should choose options with a sound level of 95-100 dB.
3. Compactness and weight of the device. The larger the device, the larger the emitter can be installed inside, increasing the clarity of the sound. But even here it is worth looking for compromises. For example, the popular Boombox weighs 5 kg or more - they cannot be called compact, portable.
4. Operating frequency range. For high-quality technology, it varies from 20 to 20,000 Hz. The perception of sound is individual, so you need to choose the best option based on personal preferences.
5. Number of bands and speakers... The more, the better the sound. Single sideband or mono models are suitable for radio or music in the background. For outdoor listening, it is better to choose models with two or more bands.
6. Supported interfaces. The presence of USB and Bluetooth allows you to choose different sources of data. Wi-Fi will help you receive system updates and use other features of the media player. The AUX output will allow you to maintain a wired connection to any of your devices.
7. Battery life... It depends on the power output of the device and the capacity of the battery. On average, manufacturers promise at least 2-3 hours of battery life. The best solution would be the option with a margin of 600 minutes, but such models are much more expensive.
8. Availability of options... Among the most useful ones are a memory card slot and an FM tuner. The increased function of protection against dust and moisture deserves attention. The body of such a device is suitable for outdoor use.

See below for an overview of the column.