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Our top hardware picks for traveling music producers

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Maintaining a disciplined routine and striving for output-based goals can be key pursuits for promoting creativity and success as a musician.

One of the most obvious yet inevitable ways in which these goals are confronted would be in times away from home. Whether it’s due to daily commutes or international touring, our home setups (or the studio spaces in the cities we’re based in) won’t always be available to us when inspiration hits, or when we find ourselves with the time to explore an idea. In these moments, a few pieces of hardware that can endure the road—and ideally leave some bag space for our necessities—are crucial.

If you’re reading this and thinking, “My music gear is a necessity,” then you’re in the right place, but please, don’t forego a toothbrush or a phone charger!

How we chose the hardware on our list

The variables considered when building this list were a combination of dimensions, weight, shape, and user sentiment, primarily around durability. These pieces of hardware should be suitable for a backpack as well as a purse, a sling, or whatever shrinking image of a bag is currently allowed by basic economy airline tickets. This list isn’t meant to be exhaustive, though we’ve intended to provide you options suiting a range of budgets.

For many producers, purchasing a travel-ready piece of music hardware is likely not about building a separate gear locker to only be utilized in times of travel. Rather, financial and spatial limitations would lead us to identify tools that compliment existing gear and also serve a purpose at home. This includes, as one Splice team member shared, a piece of gear whose proper place in the home is right on the living room couch!

Portable electronics

1. Teenage Engineering Pocket Operator (~$49.00, 0.2 lb, 2.4” x 4.9” x 1.2″)

With a wide range of options to choose from, and the ability to chain them together for an expanded sonic playground, the Pocket Operator series is a no-brainer for jamming on the go. Each model touts 16 patterns, 16 core sounds, 16 effects, three BPM settings, and the ability to loop custom chord progressions.

The user experience can be absolutely hypnotic, though as an exposed circuit board, it’s best to plan for some level of protection rather than throwing it loosely in a bag. The Teenage Engineering website and countless Etsy designers provide a range of cases for pocket operators. That said, repurposing a microphone pouch can also be enough to keep it secure, prevent its solder points from catching on clothing, and keep it safe when it’s not in use.

It would be silly to not recommend the OP-1 as well, a well-known staple by the same manufacturer (but a far more significant investment). To each their own!

2. KORG Volca Series (~$129.99, 0.79 lb, 7.60” x 4.53” x 1.57”)

This pocket synth is an absolute staple for many producers around the world, and for good reason. With ten models and counting, the Volca series is one of the best ways to experience a taste of KORG’s brilliance without investing in their higher-end products.

If you’re not sure which one to try, take stock of two things: your existing gear (and what sonic gaps you might be able to bridge), and what type of sounds you’re interested in exploring when moving about the world.

Our picks for portable audio interfaces

1. Behringer UM-2 (~$59.00, 0.57 lb, ‎6.3” x 8.3” x 3.5”)

No frills here, though this audio interface is unique in its accessibility to beginners and functionality for experts. At this price point, and with reliable performance, this piece is ideal to pick up knowing it’ll be wedged in a tight corner of a bag someday.

2. Arturia MiniFuse 2 (~$149.00, 1.1 lb, 7.9” x 3.9” x 1.7”

While the price jump is notable here, many would argue it’s worth it for the difference in sound quality for this bus-powered interface from Arturia. This purchase also comes with 500 of Arturia’s legendary presets, a Splice Creator Plan, three months of Autotune unlimited, and access to Ableton Live Lite, among other benefits. If you’re in need of more or less inputs, there’s a single input model for $50 less or a four-input model for $70 more.

3. Apogee One Interface (~$179.00, 0.5 lb, 6.3″ × 2.2″ x 1.2″)

We’ve decided to highlight the original model, though there’s also an alternative designed to specifically cater to Mac and iOS users. That model even charges Mac products, should you need that in a pinch! This little guy provides two ins / outs, as well as an omnidirectional microphone for additional on-the-go flexibility.

4. Focusrite Scarlett series (exact size and pricing varying depending on the model) Focusrite’s Scarlett series is another proven go-to, especially for new producers. The price points, especially for low-input interfaces, are difficult to beat when considering the quality and durability of the product. With the 4th Generation launched ahead of Black Friday 2023, it has earned a special mention.

Portable control surfaces

Dj controllers:.

1. Numark DJ2GO2 Touch (~$89.00, 0.8 lb, 12.4” x 3.4” x 0.6″)

If this isn’t the tiniest commercially-available DJ controller on the market, please write in to correct us. This is an excellent toy to get started with, or just to travel with lower anxiety with if something happens to it. Owners enjoy the included access to Serato DJ Lite.

2. Reloop Mixtour (~$319.00, 1.77 lb, 5.08” x 12.2” x 1.02”)

A special mention here for those who have more prescriptive needs for their DJ sets, such as spontaneous sets in non-traditional venues, and also have a bit more to spend than the Numark requires. If you’re running sets through an iPad or other mobile device, this piece is for you.

MIDI controllers:

1. Novation Launchkey (~$109.99, 1.5 lb for the smallest size, 13.0” x 6.8” x 1.6″)

Here’s yet another product that allows you to pick the size that’s best for you. For the purpose of an article like this, we’re looking at the smallest of four sizes with 25 keys. Novation brings us this line of controllers touting built-in Ableton Live integration, a solid collection of plugins and samples, and standalone functionality if your computer has to take a nap in the overhead compartment.

If you fall in love with this piece of hardware, you can always add the largest 61-key model to your home studio. That’d certainly make for a seamless transition between home and on-the-go production! 2. ROLI Seaboard Block M ($349.00, 11.0” x 5.5” x 0.8″) ROLI, pioneers of Midi Polyphonic Expression , re-introduced the portable Seaboard series in late 2023. For producers who embrace the newest of MIDI technology, finding a portable option is a particular challenge. While many professional musicians might travel with their Ableton Push , another powerful MPE instrument, many of us won’t have that much space. Enter both the Block M and more traditional LUMI Keys , which can even be snapped together and played simultaneously if you so choose. Both are instruments like any other that could make time fly on even the longest of travel days. Make sure to pick up a snap case when they are in stock as well, for maximum protection of your instrument while traveling!

Sequencers and samplers:

1. KORG SQ-64 Poly Sequencer (~$329.00, 2.2 lb, 14.49” x 5.67” x 2.91”)

We’ve crossed two pounds for the first time—this is getting dangerous, but we couldn’t resist. The only polyphonic step sequencer included today, the SQ-64 is a sleek piece of hardware with a versatile set of 64 buttons to play with. If it can make the cut on the road, there may be no better piece of hardware to pass hours of time with than this one, no matter your skill level.

Depending on the time you’re reading this, Reverb has a number of these available at a $200 price drop via the KORG USA Warehouse Outlet. Be sure to check that out and use this as a reminder to search your trusted new and used marketplaces for the other products you’re interested in from this list.

2. Roland SP-404MKII Sampler (~$559.99, 1 lb, 5.1” x 9.1” x 17.1”)

Certainly one of the larger products impacting bag space and wallet space, the Roland SP-404MKII Sampler boasts “Guerilla beat making” capabilities through 17 velocity-sensitive pads (including one sub pad), six effects buttons surrounding the display screen, thousands of samples and patterns, and customizable face plates to top it off. Many consider this to be a “buy it and you’ll never need to level up again” type of purchase.

Travel-friendly microphones

1. Shure MV88 (~$249.00, video kit)

With the original MV88—optimized for iPhone and an absolute game changer for this writer in a past life of podcast production—discontinued, enter the MV88+ optimized for video. One downside is that the microphone isn’t available as a standalone product. Still, the cost of the accessories haven’t pushed the price too high for what this powerful little stereo condenser provides. The Shure MOTIV app allows for a surprising amount of control and flexibility for both audio and video, making this a must-have for any traveling creators in need of capturing vlog footage or other types of social media content.

2. LOM Audio Geofón (~€160, 190 g / 0.42 lb including the cable and magnet, 52.5 mm in height, 36.5 mm in diameter)

We know that recommending a sold-out item is a brutal move. But, hear us out—Bratislava-based LOM Audio produces some of the finest field microphones in the world, though their stock tends to sell out quicker than festival tickets.

Many of the recommendations on this list help us look inward, to find the flow of creativity and conjure something special no matter where we are. This product (or a future release by the brand in general) is for those who are eager to look outward , to capture the sounds of the exact place in the world that you find yourself in. If interested, also check out their label on Bandcamp .

3. Sennheiser MKE 400 (~$199.95, 0.2 lb, 2.6” x 1.5 x 5″)

Our sole shotgun microphone recommendation for today, this piece mounts easily to DSLR cameras to distinguish itself from the functionality of the Shure recommendation. This supercardioid features a low-cut filter, three sensitivity settings, and the ability for sound checking via an independent headphone jack.

You may be all heads-down as a producer on the road, but if you’re looking to promote, educate, or capture multimedia content, this could be for you. If you’re tempted but find the cost too high, consider the MKE 200 for half the price.

In closing…

This piece only scratches the surface of gear that could be labeled as travel-ready. With new products constantly in the pipeline, what’s important is that you surround yourself with the tools that you feel comfortable with, connected to, and challenged by. Musicians don’t exactly have the best reputation in terms of using all of their gear, and there’s nothing worse than lugging unnecessary weight while traveling.

This is all to say that we hope this piece helps you begin your journey of realizing your ideal travel rig. As you discover new products, or if we missed a staple of yours here, please let us know by starting a conversation on the Splice Discord or emailing me directly at [email protected].

One final word—be sure to not forget the accessories. Products like a mobile battery, laptop cooling stand, durable headphones, and an external hard drive for constant backups should also be in consideration. So get scheming, creators!

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Just Van Life

traveller music system

7 Best Music Systems and Stereos for Rv’s and Camper Vans

Discover How To Use The Power of Authority Marketing To Make You Money While You Adventure!  

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Over the years, music has not only developed to be one of the areas of life with so much concentration but has become a lifesaver to several people. Asides from the physical and social benefits, music also does a lot of benefits to the body. According to researchers, music creates happiness and relaxation in everyday life. Likewise, it improves mood as well as regulates emotions. Since most music comes in low pitch as well as slow tempo, this helps to reduce stress in people with a weak health system. It also reduces anxiety, especially in people with cancer. Besides, music also eases pain and improves memory.

Meanwhile, many people, especially campers and van life travelers, tend to miss listening to music while they are on a trip. Some of them move with low-quality music systems which only play songs for a short period. To play different songs in every space, high-quality music and stereo systems are the perfect models for your RVs as well as camper Vans. Unlike other music systems, stereos expand your music library via multiple streaming sources. The unit allows you to travel around the beautiful cities of Canada while you enjoy the soundtrack of your favorite music.  While a slew of home speakers creates clutters, these music systems allow you to save enough space for more music.

Searching for the best music system and stereos has become more difficult over the last few years. This is because there are hundreds of thousands of radios on the market today. As a result, searching through all these models can be an exhausting activity for a potential buyer. However, we tend to make it easier by providing a buying guide for this process. This guide will take you through every essential topic about these useful devices.

How to choose the best music system and stereos

Choosing the best RV radio stereo will come down to various factors. This section will cover each of them to ensure the process becomes easy and straightforward. After reading this section, you should have a sound idea of what you’re looking for in an RV stereo.

The cost will be a massive factor in your final decision. Honestly, it might be the most important given it will have an enormous impact on your overall happiness with your purchase. This is why creating a well-constructed budget is such a crucial step in your search.

Your budget will need to account for everything you’re looking for in an RV stereo. For instance, a person who wants a double din system should make sure their budget reflects their higher prices. It is little details like this that makes the budget useful.

Bluetooth functionality in an RV stereo has become much more common over the last few years. You’ll have to decide whether this particular feature is necessary within your chosen model.

This feature does provide a bit more convenience than you might imagine from an RV stereo. It allows you to take calls and do other useful functions without ever taking your hands off the wheel.

Easy to Use

Any product worth your time will have an easy using process. It should provide a simple operation that requires little thought to do what you want from this device. Making sure your RV stereo has a touch screen could go a long way in this process.

This feature will make using your RV stereo a breeze. After all, it’ll give you complete control over the experience with just a swipe of your finger. But more importantly, you should take a long look at each product’s customer reviews to examine this factor honestly.

People tend to get slightly mad when a product is more complicated than necessary. This issue causes them to reflect their anger through negative customer reviews. You should take advantage of these resources and use them to your benefit.

CD Compatibility

RV stereos with CD and DVD compatibility are becoming less popular in today’s market. This decrease in popularity comes from everyone having access to things like smartphones, Bluetooth, and streaming services.

With these advances in technology, CDs and DVDs have become rather unwanted. This issue has caused RV stereo companies to build their products without these features. As a result, you should note whether each product you’re considering has these functions.

You can then decide whether their inclusion happens to be necessary. In my case, I’m always going to make sure any stereo I get has these functions. This action will ensure I have a backup plan when my Bluetooth, smartphone, and streaming services don’t feel like working correctly.

You’re going to want an RV stereo that lasts a long time. These pieces of equipment aren’t cheap and can put quite a dent into your bank account. Given this info, you’ll need to make sure each product can stand the test of time.

This action means checking their durability before making a final decision. An easy way to accomplish this task is by reading customer reviews. These resources should provide an in-depth look into how each product works and holds up over time.

A major decision to make regarding your new RV stereo will be its size. In other words, you’ll need to choose whether a single or double din is the right option for you. You’ll need to think about what type of mounting kit your situation requires.

This choice tends to be made rather easy as RV stereo makers will ensure that it's stated if the product’s a single or double din in their product description. If you plan on installing the new stereo yourself, I’d suggest you get a model that’s an exact fit into where your old model was located.

Extra features

You should also decide what type of additional features should be in your chosen RV stereo. For instance, do you need a USB control, touch screen, HDMI inputs, voice recognition, or phone call support?

These choices are things that you’ll need to think about before making a final decision. Some people might find these extra features a little bit unnecessary, and others will view them a bit differently. It all comes down to what you feel is worth a spike in the product’s price tag.

1. BOSS Audio Systems 850BRGB Car Stereo

traveller music system

The first authentic product that we bring to you is the BOSS 850BRGB Audio System. It has been confirmed as authentic and genuine to be used by Van travelers. This model comes with all you could desire in an RV stereo and comes in a very favorable price range. If you’re looking for an RV stereo replacement available at a fair price, the BOSS Audio BV6658B RV Stereo is worth your consideration.

With this device, you can expect a lot of versatility. For instance, this camper radio DVD player does more than its designation suggests. It doesn’t just play music and movies, but also offers other features like a USB port. Unlike the older models of stereo systems used, this is very different, especially with the advanced technology.  This aspect allows you to upload files on a flash drive and plug it into the stereo itself. The radio will play the data as long as they’re in either WMA or MP3 format. This feature gives you the option to have a vast library of audio files at your fingertips. The auxiliary input is a convenient way to hook up to your MP3 player

With this, you can connect your phone into the stereo, ensuring a hassle-free and straightforward task to do. From there, you’ll have access to all the music stored on your phone. All that is needed to do is to connect using the audio input located on these devices. Plus, this RV stereo’s Bluetooth capabilities aren’t anything to sneeze at either. This unique device allows you to take calls with a push of a button.

You can make calls and be hands-free with no distractions. The built-in microphone picks up your voice, and your car speakers let you hear the person on the other side. These calls will take place without ever needing to take your hands off the wheel, which ensures that you do not become a victim of disobeying the driving rule. Due to this, the BlueTooth technology will make your trip a much safer experience for everyone involved. It’ll also let you control apps like Pandora or Spotify wirelessly.

This device lets you pop in a CD for more options, and can also tune into the AM / FM radio stations to get updated with your favorite news. This product has a 2-zone function aspect that gives you the option to choose what plays in two different areas within your van. It will allow you to play one thing through the front speakers and something entirely different from the back speakers. Functionality is the key to this high-end model.  BOSS 850BRGB Audio System allows you to get 80 watts x 4 Max Power from the 850BRGB to power your speakers. An amplifier is also recommended to make sure your speakers are well powered. To ensure proper and safe functionality of this model, we strongly encourage a professional installation. For Van travelers who are lovers of music, the built-in Preset EQ allows you to choose from preset EQ curves for a variety of music styles such as Rock or Pop. Likewise, the ESP, a feature that buffers the disc while playing, storing 5 seconds of music. If the disc is interrupted, the stored data fills in for continuous performance.

Another feature to attract Van lifers is the Pre-Amp Outputs and SwitchableTuner, which lets you expand your system by adding up to 3 amps or signal processors for your front and rear channels. The selectable tuner function allows you to adjust this receiver's tuner to receive radio broadcasts in either the US or Europe. Asides that, is the ID3 Tag that enables the audio file to store and display additional data such as title, artist, album, track number and more.

The best thing about this product is its price. Regardless of its amazing features, it is equally very affordable, that is, one of the least costly on our list. Moreso, with the multi-colour illumination feature, you can set the mood and make your Van into what you desire. With over 16 million color combinations, you can set a different tone every day of the week.

2. Pyle Double DIN PLRVST400 In-Dash Car Stereo

traveller music system

When residing in a camper van either temporarily or permanently without having a good and standard music system to enjoy yourself with, you'll likely experience boredom which won't make the trip or Van life an interesting one. To fully enjoy the ride, set the mood by purchasing one of the best products which are Double Din PLRVST400 Car Stereo.  One of the unique models of Pyle. It will ensure your driving trips are filled with fun. As a perfect travel companion, it is equipped with many features to ensure you have a pleasant road trip or Van lifestyle. A reliable multimedia device that lets you have control over your Van’s music or visual entertainment anytime, any day. Besides that, it is equipped with AM/FM radio. This is one of the essential features that Van travelers lookout for because with this, they get to know more about what’s going on in their surroundings, the weather forecasts and all other essential things to know since they are mostly on the road. Also included is the CD/DVD player plus an integrated alarm function.

The stereo system has a built-in Bluetooth, one other feature to look out for. The in-dash car deck console unit allows you to connect various devices such as phone, iPod, MP3, MP4 or any with 3.5mm connectors to the RCA or AUX IN, USB port for a flash drive or media device. Pyle Double DIN in Dash Control also possesses a 3 Zone Audio Control.

This 7-inch universal auto double-DIN radio is equipped with a multiplayer 3-zone audio source feature that enables you to connect and control three speakers for a more surround sound experience. This feature is spectacular as it is not all stereo systems that have three speakers. All you need to do is select by pressing the A, B and C buttons. However, the in-dash car amplifier also features a Digital LCD Screen. Just press the DIM button to adjust the brightness. It has a crisp front panel button and knob controls for adjustment. The LCD screen helps make the information on it clear and readable when facing some glare. Plus the controls below the screen on its front panel are easy to use and likewise durably made. This model comes with a remote control, power and wiring harness.

Moreso, it is a wall mount vehicle stereo that features wireless Bluetooth which allows you to play either the audio or video file from your device and also stream music and movies wirelessly using your smartphone, iPad etc. Other features include a MAX power output of 4 x 50 Watt, a sound mode of either stereo or mono, an electronic shockproof (ESP) function amongst others. One of the high-end models that have established themselves on the market as one of the impressive Stereo systems.

3. Sound Storm DDML28B Multimedia Car Stereo

traveller music system

One of the beauties of travelling in a camper van is that you are almost always going around and to enjoy all those exciting days. It is vital to invest in an ethical and satisfactory stereo system. Sound Storm DDML28B is a great driving companion that provides you with an exceptional balance of comfort, fun and functionality. Constructed with unique and durable materials that make it incredibly strong. If on a limited budget, this is one Stereo System to look out for in your Van. It is a product built with the budget of Van lifers in mind. Also offers an excellent performance supported by a lifetime guarantee.

Unlike incandescent stereo systems of the past, this is a surprising and startling model. One of the things that makes it unique is its versatility. Head out on the road with great music using the Sound Storm DDML28B Double-DIN Stereo System. While on the way, you can hook your smartphone or MP3 player up to the auxiliary input then tune into your favorite AM/FM radio station or for more music options, plug into the USB port. The USB port has proven its capability of charging both Android and iPhone devices, through the built-in 1A charger. With this, you do not have to worry about experiencing a low battery with this device onboard. All you have to do is connect it when driving, and it will get charged. It supports USB flash drive files of up to 32 GB for music playback on units without monitors and music, photo and video playback on units with monitors.

Digital media support includes MP3 and WMA file formats.

However, the Bluetooth technology is also worth mentioning as this product does make use of Bluetooth. It lets you play and control music apps like Pandora and Spotify, likewise making calls hands-free. Advanced Bluetooth Supported profiles include A2DP, AVRCP and HFP. With the Sound Storm model, choose your sound style with the built-in Preset EQ and take control with the wireless remote. Moreso, the switchable tuner function allows you to adjust this receiver's tuner to receive radio broadcasts. At the same time, the unit’s Pre-Amp outputs let you expand your system by adding up to 3 amps and signal processors for your front, rear and subwoofer channels.

The Aux Input allows you to connect to the audio output of an external device such as an MP3 Player or Smartphone so you can enjoy your music through your system. The product’s dimension is four by 7.1 by 4.1 inches with the weight, 2.3 Lbs and a 60 watts x 4 Max power. It also has an ID3 TAG that allows the audio file to store and display additional data such as title, artist, album, track number and more. As you know by now, this product provides many benefits. In all, Sound Storm DDML28B Double-DIN Stereo System has done a great job by creating a product that's perfect for Van life’s style.

4.  Marine Stereo Receiver Speaker Kit - in-Dash

traveller music system

Another on the list of our top best stereo systems highly suited for van travelers is Marine Stereo Receiver System. One of the unique features of this model is its water-resistant radio shield face cover for weather-resistant protection. Add marine grade and water-resistant sound to your surroundings with the Pyle Bluetooth Marine Receiver & Waterproof Speaker Kit. The numerous features embedded are enough to attract a Van traveler in purchasing it. Asides being used in the Van, it is perfect for all boat and watercraft applications. It serves correctly to replace an existing audio system or can be applied as a new application digital stereo system upgrade, thanks to universal mounting ability. Installation is quick and hassle-free as the included Single DIN global standard head unit and 6.5-inch speakers were designed with OEM parts in mind.

The head unit receiver is packed with a single DIN universal size standard at 200-watt power peak that supports MP3, WMA, and CD, CD-R, CD-RW disc compatibility. The in-dash receiver features ID3 that tag song readout for artist name or song title in the LCD digital display panel. It also has an illuminated front panel button controls for rear panel RCA (L/R) and preset equalizer (EQ). Inclusive is a built-in Bluetooth for wireless music streaming receiver and integrated front-panel microphone for hands-free calling. It is compatible with all of your favorite Bluetooth devices like iPhone, Android, Smartphones, iPad, etc.

Moreso, Pyle receiver kit includes two 6.5” waterproof speakers with polypropylene cone, molded ABS machined basket and grill. The speaker is packed with 150 watts, 4-ohm rating, 20 oz. circuit magnet, and 80Hz - 18 kHz frequency response. The Pyle marine receiver and speaker kit have a 30 AM/FM stereo radio tuning.

The head unit features include Bluetooth wireless music streaming receiver with an integrated front-panel microphone for hands-free calling, which is compatible with all of your favorite Bluetooth devices. Also included is AM/FM radio with 30 station memory which opens you to several available stations of your choice to listen to. The radio searches from the current frequency and checks the signal strength until one cycle search is finished. Store stations into the corresponding preset number button. Besides, it features a USB flash and SD memory card readers, MP3 Digital Audio Support, along with an Aux (3.5mm) Input Jack to connect and stream audio from even more additional devices. The loudness and EQ function helps to adjust the volume by rotating the audio knob while also featuring EQ audio configuration.

5. JENSEN MPR319 Single DIN Car Stereo

traveller music system

JENSEN MPR39 Single DIN Stereo will bring a whole lot of enjoyment into your Camper Van living quarters. This model has all the fixings needed to ensure your travels do not become boring or stale. This Camper Van Stereo System makes using the device a more straightforward process than you’d find with other models. This aspect is perfect for Van dwellers as it will make accessing the RV stereo much less dangerous when traveling.

Meanwhile, it all starts with the product’s standard AM/FM tuning and presents. This feature provides access to those radio stations and also keeps you updated on news events. With this device, you can also play music using either the CD/DVD player or plugging a device into the AUX input. That is, these options will provide a user with more control over what kind of music comes out of the stereo. Jensen MPR319 single DIN car radio comes equipped with the latest and greatest cutting edge technology. The upgraded built-in Bluetooth wireless technology instantly pairs with your smart devices and will immediately remember previously paired devices. Its hands-free capabilities allow you to manage all incoming and outgoing calls right from your car stereo. The Jensen MPR319 double DIN car stereo receiver with 7 Character LCD built-in Bluetooth/MP3/USB will make the best addition to any vehicle.

The large seven-character high definition LCD receiver provides you with a comfortable viewing experience. While also being extremely user friendly and responsive, keeping all your favorite options within fingers reach.

This model is precisely crafted to exceed all your expectations. Its built-in Bluetooth wireless technology easily pairs with your mobile Bluetooth devices allowing you the ease of making and receiving all your calls hands-free with phonebook support.

Regardless of the distance, no road trip is complete without great music to enjoy. Jensen car stereo includes numerous listing options, music apps such as Pandora, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Podcasts, Audio Books and stored music in your Apple, Android or Media devices by effortlessly connecting via Bluetooth or plugging into your conveniently located front panel USB or AUX ports. The easily accessible front panel USB port gives you the freedom to play your favorite music from your smartphone while charging it, ensuring that you don't drain your battery. However, the USB port does not work with iPhone and iPod. Likewise, you might have difficulties connecting the stereo to iPhone or iPod via Bluetooth.

Being able to customize your car stereo music settings makes it your own, so you have a two-band tone Control (Bass/treble) and four preset EQ curves (Pop, Jazz, rock & Flat) to choose from. Given this info, you shouldn’t have issues playing your favorite songs. The device turns your iPhone into a wireless remote to ensure you have access to your music library whenever needed. It even has a 33-foot range, which means you shouldn’t have issues accessing it from outside your RV either. It also can work with various video formats such as DVD-Video, MPEG-4, VCD, and JPEG. The stereo is one of the affordable radios on the market today. You don’t have to break your bank to purchase any of these units.

It is built with the budget of users in mind. You don’t have to break up your bank to purchase. Thus, JENSEN MPR319 Single DIN Car Stereo does not include a backup camera so you can watch your rear with your mirror while you reverse in traffic. The brand offers a 1-year hassle-free part on the stereo. If you are looking for a music system stereo that brings your favorite music right with you on your camping, look no further than this model.

6. Double DIN PLDNAND621 Android Stereo

traveller music system

A remarkable and exceptional product that promises excellent performance along with high affordability is the Double DIN Android Stereo. It is another camper radio DVD player ready to be a useful device for whoever ends up buying it. It’ll make sure your driving trips are filled with fun rather than endless boredom. You see, embedded in this device are many features to ensure you have a pleasant road trip. One of these aspects is the wireless Bluetooth, which allows you to play video or music files from your chosen device. Take advantage of the built-in Bluetooth and stream your audio to your receiver. The double din stereo with backup camera is equipped with Bluetooth for wireless streaming. Powered by Android (KitKat) and 3G WI-Fi hotspot connectivity that allows web surfing, gaming, and downloading apps. Also supports Apple iOs. Use it for wireless music streaming and play your favorite soundtracks or enjoy hands-free talking along with the ability to import your phone's contact list.

As a result, you can stream films or music wirelessly using your tablet, smartphone, iPad, or iPhone devices. It also comes with AM/FM radio to offer you another source of entertainment for people who love listening to the news or sports. However, using the receiver's display is just like using your tablet or smartphone. The multi-touch capacitive touchscreen display allows you to navigate and control it all with ease. While the crisp picture display, the super-smooth response rate enables you to bring next-generation ability to your vehicle's dashboard.

This high-end model is a built-in Android Computer. This is one of a model built with the latest computer operating system. It's designed for performance with simplicity in mind to use settings that are customizable to your preferences. It's all easy-to-use and within arm’s reach.

This artistically inspired two din car stereo that supports a rearview backup camera. Also features digital file playback that allows you to connect and stream your favorite audio, video and image files, picture configuration- brightness, contrast and color.

It also comes with a touchscreen control interface GPS navigation system. To ensure route and destination guidance, it uses Google Maps Software for quick instructions and destination management with a talking turn by turn voice navigation assistance. While driving, if connected to Wi-Fi, you can use Google Maps. Also, it is a car stereo with a CD/DVD player. Along with the USB Port, it's compatible with a wide range of media files. While you're out on the next road trip, you can listen to your favorite soundtracks, watch your favorite movies or show your friends a slideshow of images. The Pyle Android Double DIN Touchscreen Stereo System allows an unlocked versatile multimedia computing ability and mobility. Also, it comes with a 6-inch monitor head unit receiver, user-friendly interface with full HD 1080p support. Aside from those mentioned above, the in-dash car stereo touch screen also has equalizer audio controls, integrated google play store, multi-touch capacitive display screen and Mirror Link or Airplay support.

7. About BIT 7 inch Double Din Digital Media Car Stereo

traveller music system

The last product on our top list is the 7 Inch Double DIN Digital Media Stereo System. Unlike other products on the market today, this unique model is a lot different because of the remarkable features attributed to it. While enjoying the ride, you plug into the USB port, turn on the radio or hook up your smartphone to the auxiliary input for a variety of music. This efficient and iconic model stands out from the competition on account of its ultra-design and superior construction. This is an excellent budget head unit that provides all of the functionality of an expensive brand at a much more affordable price. It has won the hearts of several users because of its amazing features.

The Bluetooth technology provides you with complete control of your entertainment while on the road, while also being able to manage all your calls for a truly hands-free experience. Also, with the Bluetooth at your fingertips, you can stream music via smartphone or MP3 player. The device has a remote control that lets you take control of your choice of music anywhere you are around the vehicle. That is, you don’t have to stand very close to the system before it can be operated.

You can also charge supported devices through the USB port. The remote control lets you take control of your music while you relax in the hammock. About BIT 7 inch Double Din Digital Media Car Stereo is built with the design of the users in mind. This model is one of the most attractive music systems and stereo on the shelves. Apart from the fact that you can play your favorite music while you ride your van around cities, this model allows you to watch movies while you are stocked up in traffic.

All you need to do is to connect your mobile device with the stereo via Bluetooth or USB. Likewise, you can store up your college pictures on the unit and view anytime you want. The group has a 1024 x 600 HD screen which delivers your video in their highest quality. It works perfectly with 1920 x 1080P video. Unlike other stereos on the market today, this product comes with a rear and a front view camera. With the rearview camera, you can easily back out your van from a parking spot while listening to Michael Jackson's Thriller. Likewise, the front camera allows you to have a better view of the road ahead, therefore, avoiding collisions with vehicles.

This stereo is a budget-friendly model. You don’t have to go through any stress to purchase it. It is one of the best value stereos on the shelves. Aside from the high impact bass that produces a good feeling of the music, this product comes with a built-in subwoofer output which delivers smooth sound characteristics and seamless sounds. The stereo also includes AM/FM radio which is durable as well as reliable and work correctly in any weather. So, you can listen to the latest weather forecast from this high sensitive radio system with clear sound.

To enjoy the old-time music of Elvis Presley from your mobile devices such as smartphone or MP3, About BIT 7 inch Double Din Digital Media Car Stereo includes the Aux Input. With the built-in preset EQ, this stereo enables you to select the best music style of your choice. So, you can easily choose from the beat, classic, jazz, pop, or rock, depending on the form that best produces the most pleasant sound. While you ride the van, you can control the stereo via the van's existing steering wheel control buttons. However, the control button is not included with the product, so you have to purchase it separately. The product is designed to last for a lifetime. It will not break down even when it undergoes rugged use.

Having the best RV stereo makes a massive impact on the fun of your RVing experience. This piece of equipment will make sure you always have access to some entertainment when on the road. It makes you feel home away from home in your van when you have full access not only to your evergreen music but also to your college pictures as well as your favorite movies.  Here is a list of the best music system and stereo on the market today. These models have been chosen considering all the necessary factors to get you the right unit for your RV, camp and van life trip.

4 thoughts on “7 Best Music Systems and Stereos for Rv’s and Camper Vans”

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I used Pyle Double DIN PLRVST400 RV Stereo and it has a big issue with the system being too loud, even on the lowest volume setting. This aspect could cause a few problems for me with riders who are looking to sleep during my trips from place to place.

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Hrmm I wonder if there would be a way to tweak the voltage it outputs so it’s not as loud? It might be a bit past your electronics level but it could salvage your buy!

Good to note definitely though, sometimes loud is a bit too much!

I am not sure about this so I bought a new stereo that is iRV Technology iRV66 Wall Mount RV Radio Stereo. I am very satisfied with it. By the way, thanks for sharing, I really like your article.

Super late reply but thanks Samantha! I’m working on the electrical for my van now it’s been a headache all week I’ve had to do a deep dive back into my old textbooks to do a lot of this stuff but I’ll be building out my Van in the next few months so I’m quite excited :D.

iRV66 Wall Mount RV Radio Stereo looks a bit pricey but for a permanent installation of sound I think the price is justified! If I didn’t have my own sound system I planned on exporting into the van I’d grab one too :O!

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Best portable PA systems 2024: Lightweight and mobile PA solutions for musicians and events

Easily transportable sound solutions from the likes of Bose, LD Systems, Roland, Mackie for bands, buskers and more

Best for acoustic gigs

Best for quick set up, most portable option, lightweight option, best for guitarists, best battery option, best budget option, best for reliability.

  • Buying advice
  • How we choose

Best portable PA system

1. The list in brief 2. Best for acoustic gigs 3. Best for quick set up 4. Most portable option 5. Lightweight option 6. Best for guitarists 7. Best battery option 8. Best budget option 9. Best for reliability 10. Buying advice 11. How we test

Love them or hate them, PA systems are a necessary part of live music - and if you're a gigging musician, it pays to have your own. Now, we fully understand why many performers are - dare we say - a little scared of PA speakers. Sound reinforcement was once purely generated by carpet-clad, oblong boxes that were not only difficult to set up, but they threatened to give you a hernia if you simply looked at them. Nowadays, things have thankfully moved on, with the best portable PA systems able to deliver room-filling sound despite their small size and lightweight nature. 

In this guide, we've chosen to focus on speaker systems that are specially designed for smaller venues - in particular, portable PA systems to suit solo singers, duos and trios on the move. While it's true that a band could use these portable PAs - albeit as just a way to amplify the vocals - really, you'd want to go for a larger solution. 

We've made sure to include options from the most prominent names in pro audio, with mobile systems from the likes of Bose, Roland , JBL and Yamaha , among many others.

Daryl Robertson

I'm a Senior Deals Writer at MusicRadar, and I'm responsible for writing and maintaining buyer's guides on the site - but that's not all I do. As part of my role, I also scour the internet for the best deals I can find on gear and get hands-on with the products for reviews. I'm also a fully qualified sound engineer with experience working in various venues in Scotland. I've worked for various bands, as well as my fair share of pantomimes, dance shows and even opera. I have also operated the sound for some of the country's top comedians, including Alan Carr, Ed Byrne and James Acaster, among others.

Best portable PA systems: Quick list

1. Bose S1 Pro System

When it comes to game-changing  PA speakers , Bose is the leading force. Known for their crisp, hi-fi style sound, clever ToneMatch technology, and world-class build quality, Bose PA systems are among the best available - and that's why the S1 Pro+ takes our top spot. 

Read more below

2. Yamaha Stagepas 1K

There aren't a lot of PAs on the market that we could say are fully idiot-proof, but the Stagepas 1K is undoubtedly one of them. From speaker columns that simply slot into the sub-unit with minimal effort, Yamaha's one-knob EQ, and simplified global mode control, this PA is impossible to get a bad sound out of - trust us, we've tried! 

3. LD Systems Maui 5 Go 100

This sleek and modern mini-line array is the latest offering from LD Systems and is designed with portability in mind. The newly designed lithium-ion battery can deliver up to 12 hours of continuous operation - when used at 98 dB - and allows you to play music absolutely anywhere. 

4. Mackie Thump GO

Mackie has long been a trusted name in the world of sound reinforcement, with the running man logo being a staple of venues around the world. So whether you are looking for a cost-effective mixing desk, a complete speaker rig or even in-ear monitors, Mackie is guaranteed to have a product for you. However, as this guide mainly focuses on the more portable end of the loudspeaker spectrum, we've decided to showcase the Mackie Thump Go. 

5. Roland Cube Street EX

Portable and battery-powered, Roland's Cube Street EX PA system features four independent channels for connecting a variety of mics and instruments, including iPhone or  iPad  to play backing music, but seems particularly aimed at busking guitar players with its modelled COSM amp sounds - Clean, Crunch, Lead and acoustic simulator options for  electric guitar  and a preamp for  acoustic guitars .

6. JBL Pro EON ONE Compact

JBL has covered many options with this compact all-in-one box which is ergonomically designed to be easy to carry and can be set up monitor-style or vertically. The battery offers 12 hours of operation and is rechargeable via an IEC mains socket while the unit is being used. Four channels allow a variety of uses although it seems ideally suited to solo vocal and guitar performers who may wish to take advantage of the onboard FX. 

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7. Behringer Europort MPA 40BT Pro

Busking in the town centre and don't relish carrying your PA? How about rolling it? Behringer's MPA 40BT Pro has a retractable handle and wheels just like a piece of rolling luggage. It's a very compact 40-watt system with two mic/instrument inputs and an aux input for a music player if you don't want to stream music to it via the in-built Bluetooth. 

8. Electro-Voice Evolve 30M

Now, the Electro-Voice Evolve 30M arguably offers the most features out of everything on this list and is by far the best option for those looking to amplify more than two or three instruments. With a whopping eight inputs, the Evolve would easily handle a small band - vocals,  electric guitar ,  bass ,  keyboard  and  drums . And better yet, the QuickSmart mobile app means you can mix the sound wirelessly from anywhere in the room. 

Recent updates

14/03/24: We recently reviewed the Bose S1 Pro+ and were so impressed that the system now takes our top spot. 24/01/24: We have recently improved the navigation of this page, so hopefully it is now easier than ever to find the perfect portable PA system. Want to get to the good stuff without reading walls of text? Well, use the "quick list" section to get to know our top choices without any fuss. There are also links to read a more detailed review of each model if you'd like to learn more. 

Best portable PA systems: Bose S1 Pro System

1. Bose S1 Pro+ System

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ Buy if you are a solo performer or duo: This system is simple to use, lightweight and ideal for small setups like solo musicians or acoustic duos. ❌ Avoid if you are in a band: While this is a stellar-sounding PA system, it isn't designed for larger ensembles or bands.  

When it comes to game-changing PA speakers , Bose is the leading force. Known for their crisp, hi-fi style sound, clever ToneMatch technology, and world-class build quality, Bose PA systems are among the best available - and that's why the S1 Pro takes our top spot. 

Explicitly designed for singer-songwriters, duos or event speakers, this lightweight and compact speaker system employs devilishly clever tactics to get the most out of its miniature size. For starters, the S1 Pro+ can be tilted up when on the floor to project sound where it's most needed, it can sit comfortably flat on a table or be stand-mounted to get wider coverage. 

The first two channels feature combo XLR and 1/4" inputs, with independent EQ and reverb controls - perfect for acoustic guitar and vocals - and the third channel is dedicated to music playback, with options for 3.5 mm input or Bluetooth streaming. For us, this is a profoundly versatile portable PA system that's built like a tank and incredibly simple to use and set up - what more do you need? 

Read our full Bose S1 Pro+ review

Best portable PA systems: Yamaha Stagepas 1K

2. Yamaha Stagepas 1K MKII

✅ Buy if you are new to PA: This system is incredibly simple to use and ideal for anyone new to PA speakers. ❌ Avoid if you are in a band: Like the Bose unit above, this portable PA system isn't designed for bands.  

For us, the Stagepas 1K really shines in a small to medium-sized venue. We've personally used this system for an open mic night in a busy city centre pub and the 1000W of power was more than enough to ensure the vocals and acoustic guitars were heard over the clanking of glasses and sound of punters in high spirits. The one-knob EQ control was also very effective in balancing the sound when switching between different performers. 

It's no secret that we are big fans of Yamaha here at MusicRadar, and the Stagepas 1K features everything we love about this legendary brand - great built quality, simple control layout and superb sound. 

Read our full Yamaha Stagepas 1K review

Best portable PA systems: LD Systems Maui 5 Go 100

3. LD Systems Maui 5 Go 100

✅ Buy if you need a long battery life: The Maui 5 Go uses a lithium-ion battery which can deliver up to 12 hours of continuous use! ❌ Avoid if you need effects: Unfortunately, this portable PA system doesn't have any onboard effects such as reverb. 

This sleek and modern mini line array is the latest offering from LD Systems and is designed with portability in mind. 

The newly designed lithium-ion battery can deliver up to 12 hours of continuous operation - when used at 98 dB - and allows you to play music absolutely anywhere. We found that the quad of 3" neodymium speakers housed at the top of the column delivered fantastic clarity while the 8" ferrite subwoofer - which acts as the base of the unit - kicked out plenty of low-end thump. 

With a maximum output of 120dB, the Maui 5 Go 100 will certainly serve a number of small venues, with LD saying the Maui is perfect for audiences of up to 100 people - hence the name. So whether you are looking for a powerful, lightweight system for busking or an understated PA for small pub gigs, it’s worth considering the LD Systems Maui 5 Go 100. 

Read our full LD Systems Maui 5 Go 100 review

Best portable PA systems: Mackie Thump GO

4. Mackie Thump GO

✅ Buy if you need decent power on a budget: Coming in at 200W, the Mackie Thump Go delivers an impressive amount of power for the price. ❌ Avoid if you need more than two channels: Unfortunately, this speaker only has two independent channels, so if you require more inputs you'll need to purchase a mixer as well. 

Mackie has long been a trusted name in the world of sound reinforcement, with the running man logo being a staple of venues around the world. So whether you are looking for a cost-effective mixing desk , a complete speaker rig or even in-ear monitors , Mackie is guaranteed to have a product for you. However, as this guide mainly focuses on the more portable end of the loudspeaker spectrum, we've decided to showcase the Mackie Thump Go. 

Now, it has to be said that Mackie does offer other options in this category, namely the FreePlay Live and SRM-Flex. Still, we feel the Thump Go is a formidable rival to the ever-popular Bose S1, offering stellar quality at a more attractive price, and thus we've decided to feature it. 

Similar to the S1, the Thump GO features two independent channels, can be run off mains power or batteries and comes with the ability to stream music via Bluetooth. Setting up the Thump GO for any environment couldn't be easier. Simply choose from four different application-specific voicing modes - music, speech, monitor or sub - and the EQ profile of the speaker will change to better suit your current situation, taking out all the guesswork in setting up your new speaker. 

Best portable PA systems: Roland Cube Street EX

5. Roland Cube Street EX

✅ Buy if you are a busker: With plenty of onboard guitar effects, the Roland Cube Street EX is the ultimate tool for busking guitars and singers. ❌ Avoid if you aren't busking outdoors: This is a great-sounding portable PA system, but if you aren't a bunker, then there are better units out there for the same money. 

Portable and battery-powered, Roland's Cube Street EX PA system features four independent channels for connecting a variety of mics and instruments, including iPhone or iPad to play backing music, but seems particularly aimed at busking guitar players with its modelled COSM amp sounds - Clean, Crunch, Lead and acoustic simulator options for electric guitar and a preamp for acoustic guitars .

There's also a tuner , 3-band EQ, reverb and a choice of chorus or delay. A 50W setting offers maximum output but there are also quieter 25W and 10W output power modes, saving on battery power. There's also iPhone/iPad recording via i-CUBE LINK and the free CUBE JAM app.

Read the full Roland Cube Street EX review

Best portable PA systems: JBL Pro EON ONE Compact

6. JBL Pro EON ONE Compact

✅ Buy if you need Bluetooth audio:   With the ability to stream audio via Bluetooth, the JBL Pro EON ONE Compact just made it even easier to control your backing tracks and preshow music. ❌ Avoid if you don't like apps: To get the most out of this portable PA system, you need to use it with a smartphone or tablet. 

JBL has covered many options with this compact all-in-one box which is ergonomically designed to be easy to carry and can be set up monitor-style or vertically. The battery offers 12 hours of operation and is rechargeable via an IEC mains socket while the unit is being used. 

Four channels allow a variety of uses although it seems ideally suited to solo vocal and guitar performers who may wish to take advantage of the onboard FX – all controlled from an iOS or Android app. There's a Bluetooth connection and a pair of USB sockets to charge attached mobile devices.

Best portable PA systems: Behringer Europort MPA 40BT Pro

7. Behringer Europort MPA 40BT Pro

✅ Buy if you need an easy-to-carry option: With built-in wheels and a handle for easy mobility, this PA system is as portable as it comes. ❌ Avoid if you need effects: Unfortunately, this portable PA system doesn't have any onboard effects such as reverb. 

Busking in the town centre and don't relish carrying your PA? How about rolling it? Behringer 's MPA 40BT Pro has a retractable handle and wheels just like a piece of rolling luggage. 

It's a very compact 40-watt system with two mic/instrument inputs and an aux input for a music player if you don't want to stream music to it via the in-built Bluetooth. 

There are no effects, but you get an overall basic 2-band EQ. It's mobile busking made easy - guitar gigbag on your back, mic stand in one hand while you pull this with the other - making it one of the best truly mobile PA systems.

Best portable PA systems: Electro-Voice Evolve 30M

8. Electro-Voice Evolve 30M

✅ Buy if you need multiple channels: With eight channels and an intuitive digital mixer built-in, this PA is ideal for larger performances.    ❌ Avoid if you need battery power: Unfortunately, this portable PA system is not battery-powered. 

In recent years, we've seen a massive boom in personal line array style systems, with almost all the leading brands in pro audio offering their own take on the format. So it's easy to see why so many musicians gravitate toward this style of system. They are typically simple to set up, easy to transport and are able to fill a room with a well-balanced sound. 

Now, the Electro-Voice Evolve 30M arguably offers the most features out of everything on this list and is by far the best option for those looking to amplify more than two or three instruments. With a whopping eight inputs, the Evolve would easily handle a small band - vocals, electric guitar , bass , electronic keyboard and drums . And better yet, the QuickSmart mobile app means you can mix the sound wirelessly from anywhere in the room. 

The EV is also fully loaded with studio-quality effects, including chorus , delay , flanger and reverb , which can be turned on and off via a footswitch - you can introduce the next track without sounding like you're speaking from the bottom of a well. 

Best portable PA systems: Buying advice

Crowd enjoys an outdoor concert

How to choose the best portable PA system for you 

MusicRadar's got your back Our team of expert musicians and producers spends hours testing products to help you choose the best music-making gear for you. Find out more about how we test.

Getting the correct PA system for the job is incredibly important. Get it right, and you’ll never have sounded better, however, get it wrong and you may not be heard at all. Of course, as you’d imagine, which portable PA you go for really depends on the size of the venues you’re playing, how many sound sources you plan on plugging in and your budget.

Band on stage with PA speakers and pink lights

Is it better to hire or buy a PA system? We weigh up the pros and cons of purchasing vs renting. 

Inputs For a starting place, let’s first look at the number of inputs you require. Luckily, every portable PA system on this list allows you to plug instruments and microphones directly into the speaker via the onboard mixer, meaning you don’t need to invest in any extra gear - not to mention it’s one less thing to carry! However, it does mean that you need to think carefully about the number of inputs you need before you make a purchase. 

While units such as the Bose S1 or Mackie Thump GO will happily allow a singer-songwriter to plug in an acoustic guitar, vocal microphone and backing track, it’s worth considering if you’ll need any more inputs for additional instruments further down the road. 

Power The next consideration is, of course, the power of the system. Now, how powerful - or loud - your system needs to be, depends on several factors. Everything from the size of the venue, the number of audience members in attendance or whether or not you are indoors or outdoors will dictate what wattage you go for. Most manufacturers will give you a rough indication of the size of the gig their speakers are capable of, so it’s worth checking their website for guidance. 

What features does my portable PA system need?

Modern-day PAs often come loaded with extra features, but how many of these hi-tech add-ons do you really need? Well, most systems come with built-in effects such as reverb, chorus, delay and compressors . These are a must for music performances but not needed at all for spoken word applications. A robust EQ section is handy for both situations and allows you to finely shape the sound. 

It’s also worth noting that many systems these days come with an accompanying mobile app, which allows you to mix the music wirelessly from anywhere in the venue - a convenient feature indeed. 

How we choose the best portable PA systems

Wedge monitors on a live music stage

Here at MusicRadar, we are experts in our field, with many years of playing, creating and product testing between us. We live and breathe everything music gear related, and we draw on this knowledge and experience of using products in live, recording and rehearsal scenarios when selecting the products for our guides. 

When choosing what we believe to be the best portable PA systems available right now, we combine our hands-on experience, user reviews and testimonies and engage in lengthy discussions with our editorial colleagues to reach a consensus about the top products in any given category.

First and foremost, we are musicians, and we want other players to find the right product for them. So we take into careful consideration everything from budget to feature set, ease of use and durability to come up with a list of what we can safely say are the best portable PA systems on the market right now.

Find out more about  how we test music gear and services  at MusicRadar.

Related buyer's guides

  • The  best microphones for recording : beginner to pro musicians
  • Best vocal mics : vocal microphones for the studio and stage
  • Protect your hearing with the  best earplugs for musicians
  • The  best in-ear monitors : IEMs to suit all budgets
  • The best consoles for live mixing : gig-ready boards

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Daryl Robertson

I'm a Senior Deals Writer at MusicRadar, and I'm responsible for writing and maintaining buyer's guides on the site - but that's not all I do. As part of my role, I also scour the internet for the best deals I can find on gear and get hands-on with the products for reviews. My gear reviews have also been published in prominent publications, including Total Guitar and Future Music magazines, as well as Guitar World .

I have a massive passion for anything that makes a sound, particularly guitars, pianos, and recording equipment. In a previous life, I worked in music retail, giving advice on all aspects of music creation and selling everything from digital pianos to electric guitars, entire PA systems, and ukuleles. I'm also a fully qualified sound engineer who holds a first-class Bachelor's degree in Creative Sound Production from the University of Abertay and I have plenty of experience working in various venues around Scotland.

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Most Popular

traveller music system

Music Critic

8 Best Home Stereo Systems in 2023

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Home stereo systems come in many different shapes and sizes. Whether you're looking for a music system to stream your favorite bands or you want a theater-grade sound quality for your movies and shows, there are plenty of options for you to choose from. The best system for you may not be the best for someone else, and that's okay.

All of the new brands on the market offer USB connectivity, as well as wireless Bluetooth connectivity, and everything in between. There are compact systems that work for small rooms and large elaborate designs meant for more intricate listening experiences.

Table of Contents

At a glance: Our top 3 picks

1. logitech home speaker system, 2. bose wave soundtouch music system, 3. lg cm4590 xboom xboom bluetooth audio system, 4. yamaha yht-4930ubl 5.1-channel home theater, 5. sony all in one stylish micro music stereo system, 6. rockville hts56 home theater system, 7. sharp xl-bh250 speaker system, 8. polk t50 150-watt audio home theater standing tower, important features to consider.

  • If you've enjoyed this review by Music Critic, please leave a positive rating:

We know it can be tough to narrow down your search to a single home stereo system, so we picked out eight of our favorites based on various criteria and highlighted some of the standout features of each brand. Read on to find the perfect new home stereo system for you.

traveller music system

  • Satellite speakers
  • 400-watt peak power
  • Multi-device capable
  • THX Certified sound quality

traveller music system

View The Best Home Stereo System Below

Logitech Home Speaker System

Find Lowest Price

Logitech is a trusted brand name, and it's not hard to see why. The Logitech Z623 2.1 speaker system is a finely tuned audio pumping machine that's suitable for any size of the entertainment room, thanks to its versatility. It's one of the most high powered and precise systems you may find. It's THX-certified, which means that it meets strict quality standards. The THX certification means that it fits in with some of the most powerful and well-balanced products on the market. It offers a full, gut-busting sound for small or large rooms.

It has 400 watts of peak power, which will be more than enough to suck you into your favorite movies or music. Using 3.5mm jacks, USB inputs, as well as RCA connections, the Z623 system is capable of connecting up to three devices to the receiver at once, and it's highly compatible with pretty much any operating system out there. Also, using the satellite speakers, you can move them anywhere and set up the sound to broadcast the way that you want.

Using the equalization controls, you can turn up the bass, mids, or the treble to manipulate the sound performance to your liking. The two small speakers and the large subwoofer create a fully immersive listening experience that will blow you and your friends away. You'll be happy with the price tag as well, considering the level of quality for the money spent on this hi fi system.

Pros: + Satellite speakers + 400-watt peak power + Multi-device capable + Tunable EQ + THX Certified sound quality

Why We Liked It - Logitech, being a highly reputable brand in the audio market, offers a good stereo system with the Z623. It's pretty affordable and compatible with virtually every device imaginable. It's excellent for listening to music, watching movies or sports at home. If you want finely tuned high-powered sound at home for a great price point, this may be the system for you.

Room Size - Have a massive front room? You'll need more speakers to fill it. Smaller room? You probably won't need so many speakers. Smaller 5.1 speaker systems are still great for smaller rooms but larger 5.1 systems like the Rockville HTS56 Home Theater System are probably best for bigger rooms with plenty of space.

traveller music system

Sam Jeans FOR MUSIC CRITIC

Bose Wave SoundTouch Music System

Bose sits at the top of the food chain in the home stereo system market. It is one of the brands that push the envelope in innovation and design while offering listeners impeccable sound quality. The Bose Wave SoundTouch Music System is not a budget purchase, and it delivers the level of impressive quality that luxury seekers will love.

The Wave SoundTouch system is a compact streaming hub for all of your favorite music. Whether you're on Spotify or Apple Music, it's compatible with both these Android and iOS systems. You can listen to thousands of radio stations and channels using the Tunein app. Also, for all the old schoolers who want to hear Big Shiny Tunes 5, there's also a CD player where you can listen to disks, and you can tune into the AM/FM stations. Rock out to your fave songs.

Using its unique design, the Bose Wave can provide room-filling sound within the compact system. With effortless installation, it connects easily to your home wi-fi and Bluetooth services, and you can log into the Bose app to use your phone as the remote control for the system.

This Bluetooth stereo is an elegant, intuitive, and widely capable choice, offering you everything you need in a convenient and fun home stereo system. If you're looking for some of the richest and most well-balanced sounds you can find, the Bose Wave SoundTouch might be your full-stop product. It's also Alexa-enabled, so you can control everything without lifting a finger.

Pros: + Receiver and speakers in one unit + Full sound + Use your phone as the remote + Compatible with all streaming services, plus radio stations + Alexa-enabled

Why We Liked It - The Wave SoundTouch system from Bose is one of the most impressive-sounding systems available. It features Bose's award-winning quality that is rich and well-balanced to give you one of the best listening experiences possible. If you're in the market for a luxury sound system that still comes in well under $1000, the Wave Soundtouch is the way to go. It may not have a subwoofer, but it still packs plenty of bass.

LG CM4590 XBOOM XBOOM Bluetooth Audio System

If you're looking for pure, unhindered power, then the CM4590 XBOOM XBOOM Bluetooth Audio System may be right up your alley. It has a whopping 700-watts of power to pump the beats through at your next gathering with full sound.

If you're trying to power a dance party, it has all the features necessary to help you achieve your dreams. An Auto-DJ element automatically moves smoothly from track to track without you needing to touch a thing. People will think there's someone always at the helm making sure the playlist never stops.

It has sound-sync wireless technology, so you can connect your device to the receiver via Wifi and Bluetooth. It also comes with two USB ports, allowing you to connect multiple devices at the same time. An included CD player will allow you to listen to some of your favorite high-school burnt CDs as well. If you're looking for some radio listening, it has a tuner that will allow you to leave the radio on all day as you relax or get some work done.

In addition, this loudspeaker is respectably affordable and comparable to the Logitech Z623 system (and many other models). Although, a stereo such as this should pump out a little more volume than some of its competitors. The black color of this model is sleek and stylish, meaning it'll fit nicely in anyone's home.

Pros: + 700-watts + Dual USB input + Auto-DJ + Wifi and Bluetooth enabled + Reasonably priced

Why We Liked It - The CM4590 XBOOM XBOOM Bluetooth Audio System won't leave anything to be desired in a dance party system. If you're regularly entertaining, then this may be the system for you. It's easy to set up and will offer the level of volume and bass that you want. Auto-DJ is cool as well since it makes it seem like you've put in hours of work to curate an amazingly seamless playlist for yourself.

Sub Placement - Placing your speakers properly is very important for overall audio quality. Space speakers out evenly if you can. Subwoofers shouldn't be placed in the corners of rooms as this will trap the bass. Also, you'll need to be aware of placing them directly on a neighbor's wall as the bass will likely travel straight through the wall!

traveller music system

The YHT-493OUBL 5.1 system from Yamaha is a home theatre system in a box. It comes with everything you need to start streaming your favorite music or watching ultra-high-definition videos right in your living room.

This stereo setup meets all the latest HDMI standards and has 60 frames per second passthrough 4K transmission so that you can watch shows and movies with the highest level of video quality integrated. It supports HDR and Dolby Vision, adding even more firepower to your visual experience.

The speakers, receiver, and subwoofer are all connected via Bluetooth, so everything in your theatre room will be discreet and tidy. An AV setup guide will provide all the information you need, helping you get everything up and running efficiently without frustration.

Using YPAO technology, your system will calibrate itself correctly to the room you set it in. Every room is different, and having the proper acoustic configuration is vital for high-quality audio features. 5.1 surround sound will immerse you in the music or the movies that you're watching, and it will come through with great amplification and pleasing clarity. Get crisp sound without distortion.

It also has an AM/FM antenna to enjoy the radio, too!

It's intelligently designed to offer the most optimal level of sound quality and image clarity for your home system. It's relatively affordable for users looking to enjoy movies and music at the highest level in absolute comfort.

Pros: + Bluetooth and Wifi Connection + 4K video and Dolby Vision + 5.1 surround-sound + Wireless connectivity + Full bass presence

Why We Liked It - For a home theater, the Yamaha YHT-4930UBL 5.1 is an excellent way to go. It has all the features that will cater to fantastic video and clear audio. It supports complete wireless connectivity and seamless setup. For home-audio, it will give you that luxurious surround sound that you want. Whether you're watching Netflix, Disney, or a DVD, it will suck you right into your favorite movies and music like a vacuum.

Sony All in One Stylish Micro Music Stereo System

This all-in-one system from Sony provides a classic contemporary design for home music listeners in a compact casing. It's a simple setup that is as visually appealing as it is sonically affluent. It's the perfect system for a kitchen, office space, or bedroom that's calling for high-quality audio sound.

With no wires to speak of and complete Bluetooth connectivity, you can keep your space neat and tidy while experiencing uninterrupted signals. You can stream any of your favorite music through Bluetooth from any device you want to, or you can flip through your CD collection, so you never forget some of the classics. You can also browse through the local radio stations using the receiver to keep up with the latest gossip. You get one-touch listening with NFC (near field communications.)

This hi-fi system is a little less potent than some of the other products on our list, but that's perfectly fine. As long as you're not trying to power a rave or shake the walls, the 50-watts of power will be enough to fill a living room. It's pretty affordable and would be a suitable option for anyone who wants to add excellent sound to any room in your house. The classic design is also quite pleasing and doesn't beg for attention.

Pros: + Great sound quality + Classic appearance + Wireless features + AM/FM Tuner and CD-RW compatible + Affordable

Why We Liked It - Although the Micro Music Stereo System may not qualify for a budget list, it's pretty affordable for a unit of this caliber. It offers excellent sound without overbearing volume, and lots of different functions. It's the perfect system for spaces like a single room at home where you want to listen to your favorite music or watch some movies conveniently. No wires are always a plus, and it keeps your room neat and clean looking.

Rockville HTS56 Home Theater System

The Rockville HTS56 Home Theater System might be your option for a budget-friendly home stereo system with great sound and an intelligent design. It's the most value-focused system on our list but does not waver in terms of quality and reliability. It has many of the features that some of our most high-octane products have.

It offers bright, deep, rich sound through the woofer and all five speakers. It also features a 5-band EQ so you can tune the sound specifically to your needs and enjoy your music and movies to the fullest. The bass is fantastic, and you can connect everything to the receiver wirelessly.

It's built for surround sound with 5.1 audio, where you can listen to your music or movies right in the middle of the action. Like any good home stereo system, you can connect everything via Bluetooth. Also, it's made strong using an MDF board instead of a particle board like many other brands.

When you're listening to music wirelessly, the sound broadcasts through all five speakers instead of only through the front two. 1000-watts of peak power will surely give you the volume you want to make your hair stand up on end when you're listening.

It comes with a ton of connectivity options for RCA, AUX, Headphones, Bluetooth, and more. Instead of using your phone as the remote, it has a remote control, which is a little outdated, considering the app level integration used by many current audio suppliers. It's a great stereo system if you're looking for a model that will stand out, as the colors are cool and stylish.

Pros: + High 1000-watts + Bluetooth connectivity + Deep bass, clear treble + Budget-friendly + 5.1 surround-sound

Why We Liked It - As a budget-conscious option, the HTS56 home stereo receiver is a powerful system that will offer you an immersive audio experience. Setup is a breeze. It's easy to use and connects wirelessly to your devices so you can chill out and listen to music in surround sound. It's one of the more powerful products on this list and will let you get in the middle of the action when watching movies.

Sharp XL-BH250 Speaker System

Sharp might be one of the lesser-known brands on this list. However, they produce reputable sound-quality in affordable products. The XL-BH250 is not best suited for watching movies in a home theater, but it could be used that way. It's designed and built to offer listeners a good avenue for listening to music.

Whether you're connected using USB, Bluetooth, the CD player, or using the AM/FM radio, it offers all of the necessary connectivity options. With a 5-disc micro shelf, you can put your favorite CDs in and let them play automatically, so you don't have to touch anything. 40 EQ presets allow you to cycle back through some of your favorite sounds, depending on the type of music you're listening to.

It doesn't take up a lot of space, with the pair of speakers and tower to go along with it. The remote control allows you to toggle through all your settings and CDs quickly. It offers seamless streaming options with stable signal connectivity, so you won't lose your connection in the middle of your favorite song. Stream, skip, pause and play. It has a simple setup, and you'll be able to get going in moments.

Pros: + Multiple connectivity options to the receiver + 5-disc CD player + AM/FM Radio + Affordable price-tag + Simple setup and design

Why We Liked It - The XL-BH250 home stereo system is an excellent small unit for the home and is probably best for music and radio listening. It would work for movies but doesn't have surround sound. It features secure Bluetooth connectivity, or you can use the CD player or the AM/FM radio. Also, it features USB connectivity for signal strength. It's well-priced and perfect for any home music system.

Polk T50 150-Watt Audio Home Theater Standing Tower

Polk Audio is one of those niche brands that doesn't stick out immediately, but when you listen to their products, they become an instant favorite. Polk offers multiple versions of the 150-watt stereo speakers, ranging from a three-channel home theatre system to a 5.1 surround system with a receiver and subwoofer bundle.

The sound comes out of a high-powered speaker tower that offers enriched, satisfying bass that will fill the room and blow you away. The level of bass will exhibit battle drums from the Lord Of The Rings and make you feel like they're marching right into your living room. The Silk Dome tweeter will ensure those highs remain crystal clear.

Polk's dynamic balance technology ensures that sound dispersion is even and clear along the entire sound field. This means that no matter where people are sitting in the room, they will be able to experience the pure quality intended by the audio experts.

The components of the Polk T50 are highly compatible with pretty much any home theatre system. One of the most extraordinary things about this product is that you can choose how many speakers and what configuration you want.

They offer a wide range of options from a two-tower setup to 9.1 surround sound. And, you can buy each component separately, so you don't have to buy it all in a single bundle. The main selling point of this system is the superior sound quality. It may be one of the best products on our list in terms of quality and durability as well.

Pros: + High-powered, rich bass + Various speaker configuration options + Bluetooth connectivity + 150-watts + Up to 9.1 surround sound

Why We Liked It - In terms of quality for the price, this may be one of the best options for those looking for incredible bass and captivating sound for a home theatre. It offers so many configuration options for you to choose from and will deliver the type of sound you want and need, depending on your home. This is not a small system, and it will provide full sound no matter what size your theatre is.

Home Stereo System Buyers Guide

There are a ton of factors that will determine what will be a good home stereo system for you. Based on price, power, sound quality, connectivity, intended use, functionality, compatibility, and many other things, you will want to find the exact system that is right for your home audio needs. Remember that even the greatest stereo system in the world might not be right for you - it all depends on your preferences.

Because of the complexity of this subject, we have put together a guide on some of the most important factors to keep in mind when picking out your home audio system.

Intended Use

The first thing you should ask yourself is what you're planning on using your home stereo system for. There are lots of scenarios in which you may be using your speakers. From simply listening to music and gaming to watching movies and hosting parties, what are you looking to get out of your home audio system? All speakers feature differences for various uses.

If you're going to be listening to music but won't be watching any movies, you can look at more stereo equipment that doesn't require surround sound. Whether you want to plug in your phone or turntable, you can find a system to suit you.

If you like to be able to take your system into different rooms, you'll want a small system that's good for moving around. Conversely, if you want a stay-at-home setup that never moves, then a full-on surround sound system may be the best way to go for you.

Of course, a smaller system with a compact and simple design is still usable with movies, but it won't produce the surround sound that some listeners may want. Also, surround sound can be fantastic for listening to music if you're going to put on a new album and zone out. With new music recording technology, there are tons of immersive records that are designed to be listened to in surround sound.

So, start by figuring out precisely what type of listening experience you're after, and go from there.

Consider additional features, too. Some speakers will play alarms to wake you up, whereas others will connect to Alexa or Siri. Are these features important to you?

Sound Quality

You can't sacrifice sound quality. Whether you're putting together a home theater or just want to listen to AM/FM radio, the sound quality is where the money's at. You'll want a system that can provide full, rich bass with clear high frequencies and crunchy mids. Various EQ options don't hurt either. The more you can tweak the sound to your specific needs, the more satisfied you will be.

Sound quality is affected by several factors — the quality of the speaker, connectivity capabilities, acoustic calibration technology, the frequency response, and the number of speakers. A good system is equipped to handle a wide range of uses, blasting high-end quality audio for any space. If bass is the main thing on your mind, consider a bass reflex system.

The amount of wattage will play a factor because whether you're trying to power a small or a large room, you may need more or less power. For example, 1000-watts with thumping bass may not be necessary for your home theater, but it will be if you plan to crank up the volume for a party or dig into whatever movie you're watching.

No matter which way you slice it, sound quality is endlessly crucial for a home stereo system. Read reviews from buying customers of whichever system you're looking at and determine if the sound quality will be useful for you. In terms of specifications, look at the tweeters and woofers.

Connectivity

You may want a wide range of connectivity specs. When you do, it merely gives you more options for devices and items you want to hook up. All good home stereos these days will have a wireless connection but should also be able to support USB connections.

Wireless signals are a little less reliable than USB and RCA connections, but new systems will generally still be pretty reliable. You don't need to worry about losing connection on a wireless hook up, but it is always good to be able to fall back onto a wired power input. Some models also have SD slots for you to insert an SD card.

Do you want speakers that connect using wires, or would you like to have a completely wireless system? Thanks to the lack of cables everywhere, wireless systems offer a neat and tidy look, which is nice. Also, it allows you to place your speakers anywhere you want in the space so you can change the listening experience as you desire.

If your hifi speakers and your stereo systems come with compatible apps, it will add to your level of convenience during setup and navigation. Most of the best products will allow seamless streaming services, which is a nice detail. This means you can listen to your favorite provider or the radio when necessary.

The level of the volume necessary for your stereo will be mostly dependent on what you're using it for. If you've got a small room where you're doing most of your listening, then you can go with a lower volume model, which may save you a little bit of money on the front end.

There won't be much need for a subwoofer or a ton of bass boosting components. Systems like the Bose Wave SoundTouch are perfect for creating great sound reception in smaller rooms, especially if you want to be able to take it from space to space.

On the contrary, if you need a little more bass and the capability to ring in people's ears, you may want to go with a system with more wattage. A higher wattage results in higher sound levels. Aim for something above the 200-watt level and go from there. You'll want a good subwoofer, especially if you're hosting people and if you have a massive craving for some extra bass in your music.

The loudest stereo isn't necessarily the best. There are plenty of good small systems that are loud enough to satisfy a wide range of needs without creating too much noise. However, if the volume and power are at the top of your priority list, then make sure you've got a subwoofer and the power necessary to fill the room.

On the other hand, you may also be able to get a model with a headphone jack for private listening with earbuds or headphones.

Another factor to consider is the size of the home stereo system you want. If you want a system that you can take from room to room, then keep in mind that larger systems also tend to be a lot heavier. Likewise, if you have a space that doesn't have a ton of room for an extra couple of speakers and a subwoofer, then you'll want to downsize just a little bit. You can pick up a mini stereo that still packs a punch, no problem.

A smaller stereo can be suitable for a wide variety of spaces, whereas larger ones have to stay put and take up a good deal of real estate in your area.

The style of your stereo will be only important if you want to make sure that your stereo fits in with the rest of your decor. If you're a classic nester, you should be able to find a system that fits your needs.

Luckily, brands and manufacturers are making systems in very modern and aesthetically pleasing ways that work for basically any home theater. Some may come in different colors to suit your living space. You should be able to impress your family and friends with the sound quality of your system, as well as your home decorating abilities.

If you'd rather listen to records on turntables over your Spotify playlist, bookshelf speakers will look stylish and won't take up too much space.

Channel Capability

These days, we are mostly streaming music wirelessly via Bluetooth and playing using Spotify or Apple Music. Or, we are connected using a USB cable. Every good stereo will have the ability to handle wireless connections in 2023, so you can play from your smartphone or tablet with ease.

However, if you're interested in having a CD player or an AM/FM radio, make sure you're getting a stereo that supports CD-R or can tune to your favorite stations. That way, if you're a talk radio fan, or you simply like to keep up with the latest radio hits and gossip, you can do so.

Having the radio capability is nice because you can just tune it and leave it on all day. Even some of the best playlists need to be attended to every once in a while. The more your stereo can do, the more options you will have for your listening pleasure. Just ensure that the radio you get has a wireless receiver, a USB hookup, and any other add-ons you may need. (You may even be able to plug in your MP3 player!)

Innovative Technology

Some of the newest and best stereo music players available have some exciting technology that may change the way you enjoy your music or movies. For instance, many home theater stereos can calibrate to the acoustic environment in which they are placed. That means that they can manipulate the sound to ensure that all listeners in the room experience the best possible version of the audio being played.

Another of the best stereo systems has a coveted Auto-DJ application, which is super handy. When people are on the dancefloor and feeling the bass pumping out of the subwoofer, the last thing you want is a break in the music. With the Auto-DJ setup, you can press play, and you don't have to worry about touching it again. The sound output will continue to flow. It's a neat little party trick.

Of course, fancy technology won't be 100% necessary. There are tons of good home audio players that don't have these types of bells and whistles and still compete with many of the other options on our list.

No matter what type of stereo you're buying, you'll need to make sure it has a rock-solid warranty. A warranty will protect you from any manufacturer defects that may be present, and it will save you a lot of headaches in the future. You want your headaches to be because of the bass coming out of the subwoofer, not from the stereo no longer working and having you buy another one.

Read through the company warranty thoroughly before buying. The best guarantee will protect you against pretty much everything outside of your control. Then, if a problem does arise, you'll be covered, and you will be able to get what you need without the inconvenience of having to buy two home audio systems. Famous brands that are bound to offer a warranty include Philips, Denon, Boss, and more.

Coincidentally, most home audio systems with high durability also have good warranties. That's because good companies are good all around. You want to ensure that any of the stereo products you're buying will be able to handle a little bit of abuse.

Luckily, stereo players are generally not in the crash zone of most parties, but in the odd case of a drink spilling or something smashing on top of it, you'll have to make sure that your player has a good amount of strength and durability to handle anything that may happen unexpectedly. Flimsy plastic players may break if knocked to the ground.

Lastly, your budget is something that we would put at the top of the priority list. There are a ton of top-performing audio players for the home out there with excellent speakers and high-end receivers that you can get without overpaying. Would you want the best stereo on the block with an impressive home setup that puts you into debt?

Probably not. A subwoofer, receiver, full-sized speakers, and a ton of bass may not be 100% necessary for you. You can easily get a great value model for under $200. So just keep the absolute essentials in mind when you're shopping and you're on a budget.

Of course, the more features you get, the more the price goes up. Some may come with a fancy digital display or a high resolution screen, others may have thousands of buttons to control your sound, and some may even feature an alarm clock. You can get Google, Amazon, or Siri capabilities and so much more. Just ask yourself what kind of features you need. And also, keep in mind that there is a lot of deals out there to bring the price down - you just have to keep looking.

We are confident that within our list of the top eight home stereo systems is one that would be good for you. Of course, for many people, various systems would work better than others. One system won't suit everyone. Try to keep the buying factors listed in our buyer's guide in mind as you're looking, and you should be able to pick out the best home stereo system for you.

If you've enjoyed this review by Music Critic , please leave a positive rating:

Multi-Purpose Speakers - Some home entertainment systems specifically designed for use with TVs, but others are multi-purpose and can be used for either music playback or in conjunction with a TV. Bluetooth is excellent here as you can easily connect and switch between different devices (including your TV if it's Bluetooth compatible).

Best outdoor speakers 2024: portable, wireless, waterproof models tried and tested

Great sound for the Great Outdoors

  • Best overall
  • Best portable
  • Best budget
  • Best premium
  • Best for durability
  • Best multi-room

Also consider

  • How to choose
  • How we test

Recent updates

JBL Charge 5

1. The list in brief 2. Best overall 3. Best portable 4. Best budget 5. Best premium 6. Best for durability 7. Best multi-room 8. Also consider 9. How to choose 10. How we test 11. FAQ 12. Recent updates

There was a time when the thought of combining electrical speakers and the outdoors – especially in soggy old Britain – would have been as laughable as pairing your morning bacon sandwich with a healthy dollop of homemade custard.    

Happily, the standard of portable models available has improved dramatically thanks to brands such as JBL and Ultimate Ears. The go-anywhere speaker market has grown hugely over the past 15 or so years, as everyone wants the convenience of loud, portable sound without the need for trailing wires or tricky, expensive setups.   

It can be hard, though, to know where to start in this crowded corner of the market. Thanks to the hands-on testing in our dedicated listening facilities (and the occasional trip to our local park or gardens), you can bet we'll have sniffed out the ideal model for your needs. Find out more about  our testing process or keep scrolling to see our pick of the best outdoor speakers currently available.

The quick list

JBL Charge 5

Best outdoor speaker overall

The Charge 5 is currently as good a sound as you can get in a portable Bluetooth speaker for under £200/$200.

Read more below

Wireless speaker: JBL Flip 6

Best portable outdoor speaker

With its diminutive dimensions, 12-hour battery life and punchy bass, the Flip 6 is the ideal travel companion. 

Tribit Stormbox Micro 2

Best budget outdoor speaker

A tiny budget speaker that makes a big impact – if you’re watching the pennies there’s no better option right now than Tribit's Stormbox Micro 2.

JBL Xtreme 3 square image

Best premium outdoor speaker

The Xtreme is big, bulky and exceedingly robust. Take it anywhere and enjoy that bold, confident sonic profile.

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3

Best outdoor speaker for durability

The UE Wonderboom 3 has the rather impressive distinction of being able to float in water. Plus, it looks funky and sounds rather decent. 

Sonos Roam

Best multi-room outdoor speaker

The biggest selling point as far as the Roam is concerned lies in its compatibility with the excellent Sonos ecosystem. Plus, it's IP67-rated, very portable a solid listen. 

Harry McKerrell headshot

I'm a staff writer who has listened to and reviewed dozens of products - from Bluetooth speakers to truckloads of wireless headphones - during my time at What Hi-Fi?. I have first-hand experience with all of the models below, all of which I can recommend given their respective sound profiles, spec sheets and durable builds. Bluetooth speakers, especially outdoorsy ones, are big business right now, so I'm here to help you navigate this endlessly rewarding corner of the market, assessing how they sound, how they'll cope with the pressures and strains of outdoor use and the sorts of features you'll receive with your potential new purchase. 

JBL Charge 5 being held in front of flowers

1. JBL Charge 5

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

In the arena of outdoor speakers, few models come close to the might of the JBL Charge 5.

The Award-winning Charge 5 is even more durable and hardwearing than the four Charges that came before it, and while its predecessor carried an IPX7 rating for handling water submergence to a depth of 1.5m, the IP67-rated Charge 5 builds on that durability by also being fully dustproof.

Thanks in part to its 10W tweeter and racetrack-shaped driver, the Charge 5 is pretty much as good a sound as you can get in an outdoor speaker design for under £200 ($200 / AU$300), although the arrival of the slightly more expensive  Charge 5 Wi-Fi  (£230 / $230 / AU$330) has made things a tad more complex. Still, the inherent qualities of the classic Charge 5, specifically its invigorating, cohesive listen with lots of punch, body and rhythmic drive, make it a winner. 

Yes, the new Charge 5 Wi-Fi offers a slightly more refined sound and more flexible wi-fi-enabled capabilities such as AirPlay 2 and Alexa Multiroom, but the Charge 5 remains a superb portable speaker that offers enjoyable audio in a handsome, durable package. JBL has plenty more Bluetooth speaker options in the Charge 5 Wi-Fi and Flip 6 (below), but the standard Charge 5 remains a surefire winner. 

Read our full JBL Charge 5 review

JBL Flip 6 on a table outside

2. JBL Flip 6

Admittedly, it's another JBL, but at this rate, what were you expecting? The American audio brand remains king of the pile in the outdoor speaker realm, and with the company's proclivity for producing such great portable speakers , it's little wonder so many of its products are so well suited to outdoor use. 

The Flip 5 was a past What Hi-Fi? Award winner, a trick that JBL has more or less repeated with the five-star sequel (if only losing out on the top trophy to its Charge 5 bigger brother). We might have thought we’d be advising JBL to re-design the Flip by now, but it works so well that there really doesn't seem to be much point. The upcoming Flip 7 has room to improve on the current model, even if it has its work cut out to be even better than our beloved, burrito-shaped fave.

Waterproofed to an IP67 rating (dust won't get in either), the Flip 6 truly sounds the part courtesy of its punchy, rhythmically adept delivery that brings plenty of flavour and musicality to your favourite songs. If you want to boost the sound presentation to your liking, you can now tweak things thanks to a new EQ feature in the app.

All in all, by far the best small-form, outdoor Bluetooth speaker you'll find at this price.

Read our full JBL Flip 6 review

Tribit Stormbox Micro 2 speaker on an orange surface

3. Tribit Stormbox Micro 2

A small, bag-friendly waterproof speaker that's one of the cheapest options on this list, the Tribit Stormbox Micro 2 gets a strong recommendation from us thanks to its hardy construction and surprisingly robust sound. 

The small-form-factor speaker doesn’t have the 360-degree sound design of many of its rivals like the dinky UE Wonderboom 3, but during our tests we found it is one of the best value options if you’re really on a tight budget.

Sporting a handsome woven finish, the Micro 2 fires out enjoyably forceful audio alongside some solid battery life numbers. We easily managed to get 12 hours of listening from a single charge, while an IP67 rating let one of our reviewers use it in the bathroom/shower without any issue or damage. Again, the Stormbox Micro 2's diminutive size and durable design make it well-suited for travelling far beyond the confines of a bathroom or kitchen.

Audio is really strong, too, bigger, punchier and louder than you’d expect from such a small box. Midrange in particular is dealt with in a much more appealing manner than anything else we’ve seen at this price. The only issue is that it can start to suffer from distortion at louder volumes, but based on our head-to-head tests, you’ll have to pay more for either a JBL Flip 6 or UE Wonderboom 3 to get a better performer.

Read our full Tribit Audio Stormbox Micro 2 review

JBL Xtreme 3 outside on a paved surface

4. JBL Xtreme 3

If you're going all-in on sound and are happy to spend more without reaching into the realm of the Dali Katch G2 , say, JBL has you covered. The JBL Xtreme 3 is as rugged and hardwearing as its Charge 5 and Flip 6 siblings, earning its reputation as a versatile, talented five-star wireless speaker that’s as happy chilling at home as it is being the life and soul of a sweaty student party. It's bigger than its brothers, with an IP67 dust and waterproof certification that makes it perfect for getting its (metaphorical) hands dirty in the great outdoors. 

You might be forgiven for thinking that, given the bulkier construction, the Xtreme 3 might be more preoccupied with the amount of bass it’s producing rather than focusing on musical quality. Thankfully, the Xtreme 3 proves to be a careful and considerate performer from the lowest of lows to the highest highs, giving impressive detail, dynamics and a strong sense of timing.

Still, bassheads will be more than satisfied with the healthy low-end clout on offer, but there’s quality as well as quantity on display. The JBL Xtreme 3 gained five stars across the board during our rigorous in-house testing, never appearing out of its depth no matter how complicated the musical arrangement. 

If you want a burlier, more expensive upgrade from the Award-winning Charge 5 with just as much durability and waterproofness, the Xtreme 3 makes total sense. 

Read our full JBL Xtreme 3 review

Pink Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 on a shelf

5. Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3

If you think of waterproofing, you think of Ultimate Ears. Well, that seems to be the intention of UE's outlandish branding and marketing campaigns which delight in showcasing just how aquatically inclined most of its speakers are by floating them in pools, rivers and the ocean at any given opportunity. For outdoor use then, a UE speaker makes a great deal of sense, especially if you live somewhere with heavy rainfall. Or you own a swimming pool, of course.

The third entry in the Wonderboom trilogy sounds dynamic and detailed enough to be a pleasing, exciting listen, but it's the model's portability and ease of use that make it ideal for outdoor excursions. Battery life is up to a total of 14 hours, while the Bluetooth range will reach 10 meters, making the Wonderboom 3 even more suited to when you're not confined to the four walls of your home. Better still, the UE's IP67 rating should keep dust, dirt and water from ruining the speaker during your muddy bike ride or beach volleyball session.

Sonically, the Wonderboom 3 is an enjoyable, exciting listen. Bass is impressive given how small the speaker is, and the sense of dynamics on display is similarly remarkable. You also get a ‘boost’ button on the underside of the unit that restricts the bass frequencies when pressed, allowing the UE to play louder through the midrange. That certainly helps if you're out on a trip and need a speaker with a sound that will carry. 

Sadly, there's no built-in mic or app as is the case for the Wonderboom 2, but even so, the Wonderboom 3 is a very hardy, great-sounding Bluetooth speaker that won't break the bank.

Read our full Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 review

Harry McKerrell headshot

We've said it before and we'll say it again: don't immediately dismiss four-star products . Sonically, we'd like just a little more dynamism from the UE Wonderboom 3, but it does excel in a few unique areas. Firstly, it's visually appealing, with a 'look-at-me' aesthetic that will appeal to anyone who likes their speakers fresh and funky. more importantly, it floats, meaning that you can drop the UE Wonderboom 3 into water for half an hour and, thanks to said floatability and IP67 rating, it'll come out the other side unscathed. Worth considering if you're a pool party prince/princess and want something that'll survive endless trips to the proverbial drink.

Sonos Roam outdoors on a chair

6. Sonos Roam

The Sonos Roam is a fine option for those looking for an off-roading, hiking, beach-combing, deep-diving speaker with dimensions and a feature set to rival offerings from JBL and Ultimate Ears. The idea of a portable Sonos speaker is deeply appealing to many, with a lot of call for a more portable alternative to the battery-powered Move / Move 2 models.

Sonically, the Roam is a decent effort, but we can't help feeling that Sonos' diminutive portable can do even better when the sequel inevitably arrives. The US brand has placed a greater emphasis on usability, build quality and durability than truly refined sound, and while that's not an entirely bad thing for an outdoors speaker, the Roam's slight lack of crystal clear detail, coupled with some rather average timing and dynamics, means that we'd still favour the JBL Flip 6 above for true audio performance.

However, it's a nicely portable design with a pleasing, full-bodied sound, and unusually for this type of speaker, it can connect to your home wi-fi for integration within a wider Sonos multi-room ecosystem. Let's hope the upcoming Roam 2 sequel steps up its game in the sound department.

Read our full Sonos Roam review

  • Sonos Move 2:  If you love Sonos and want something larger than the Roam, try the Move 2. It's weightier than the Roam, but the Move 2 is made semi-portable courtesy of its Bluetooth connectivity, built-in handle at the back and solid build. That said, it's more the sort of speaker you'd take around the garden rather than much further afield.
  • JBL Go 3: If you're not sick of reading about JBL and you favour the smaller, cheaper speakers over their heftier cousins, we'd steer you towards the JBL Go 3. Über portable, über cute and über cheap (well, pretty cheap), it's the ideal speaker for boosting your sound on a budget.
  • JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi : A great spin-off from one of our favourite JBL speakers, the Charge 5 Wi-Fi adds wi-fi streaming and some added musicality to the Charge 5's Award-winning formula. It's a bit more expensive than the basic model at roughly  £200 / $200, so you'll have to spend more for AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect. Still, it's got the same ruggedness as the standard Charge 5, making it a winner.

How to choose the best outdoor speaker for you

Fully waterproof speakers are a great option and will survive a lengthy dip in your private pool (you lucky thing, you) while dust-proof options can also shrug off sand with the best of us. If you want a speaker for the beach, look for an IP67 rating rather than the waterproof-only IPX7. Check out our IP ratings explainer for the full reasoning behind each of those numbers and what it means for your rugged speaker.

Most portable speakers feature hooks or handles for carrying, plus Bluetooth wireless connectivity if you want something for a camping holiday or road trip. Some models even offer access to voice assistants , should you need to ask Alexa the current temperature in Florida or the chances of decent surf this weekend in Cornwall.

Some of these models are great for slinging in a bag, but don't be fooled: there are bigger high-fidelity options too if you want to level up the sound quality outside. Read on for our pick of the best outdoor speakers, each with a full, in-depth What Hi-Fi? review attached. We'll let you select the best fit for your needs.

How we test outdoor speakers

We have state-of-the-art testing facilities in London and Reading where our team of experienced, in-house reviewers test all of the outdoor, portable and Bluetooth speakers to pass through What Hi-Fi? towers. Of course, we also take outdoor speakers, well, outdoors. We test out the outdoor speakers' durability and ruggedness in our gardens, in the park and in drizzly conditions (or sometimes dunk them in the sink) to test their waterproof abilities.

What Hi-Fi?  is all about comparative testing, listening to one product up against its closest competition to figure out exactly how it differs and what each model does best. We keep class-leading outdoor speakers in our stockrooms so we can compare new products to ones we know and love.

Aside from the raw audio quality of an outdoor speaker (heard both inside and outside our test rooms), we also test and evaluate every aspect of its performance, including battery life, connection quality, ease of use, and versatility.

We are always impartial and do our level best to make sure we're hearing every product at its very best. Whatever your budget, we want you to have the best solution for the money, so we will test out all features, use any voice assistant integration and app support, try plenty of different types of music and give the speaker plenty of listening time (and time to run in).

All review verdicts are agreed upon by the team as a whole too, rather than an individual reviewer, thus eliminating any personal preference. Note that there's no input from PR companies or our sales team when it comes to our verdicts. We are proud to have been delivering honest, unbiased and thorough reviews since 1976 – and we're not about to change that.

What are IP ratings and why are they important for outdoor speakers?

Our " IP ratings explained " page is the best place to go if you want an in-depth rundown clarifying what said ratings are, how to use and them and why they matter to your new audio goodies. 

If you're merely seeking a quick potted guide, the IPXX system classifies audio products depending on their resistance to environmental factors, namely physical particles like dust and sand alongside liquid particles (i.e. water). The initials "IP" stand for “Ingress Protection” - how well a product prevents particles from entering its precious internal hardware.

The IPXX rating system is thus designed to inform consumers as to how waterproof and/or dustproof their chosen product is, with the first number showing resistance to physical particles and the second signifying liquids (an X means untested/unrated), with 0 coming in as the lowest level of protection and 9 denoting the highest. An IP67 rating, for instance, means a dust-tight speaker that can manage full immersion for 30 minutes in water up to one meter deep. 

How does a Bluetooth speaker work?

Bluetooth is a low-powered, short-range and low-bandwidth streaming protocol for connecting devices wirelessly. Like wi-fi, Bluetooth uses radio waves, albeit on a different scale.

A classic Bluetooth speaker uses short-range Bluetooth to connect to a Bluetooth-supporting source before accepting and unpacking the data sent. Both the speaker and source device require compatible Bluetooth codecs to send the information between them – SBC and AAC are the standard ones but there are more 'high-quality' names you might have heard, including LDAC and aptX Adaptive. A wireless speaker works in roughly the same way, except it relies on a wi-fi network connection instead to accept audio data transmitted from the audio source.

Pairing a Bluetooth speaker and Bluetooth device is straightforward: put the speaker in 'pairing mode' (usually by pressing or holding a button with the Bluetooth icon), go into your device's Bluetooth settings, 'scan' for available speakers and then pick out your device when it pops up.

  • April 2024:  Added FAQs and an "Also Consider" section to offer more alternative buying options for readers.  
  • November 2023:   What Hi-Fi?  Award winners labelled after the 2023 Awards Best Buys and Product of the Year announcements.

See our  best budget Bluetooth speakers  list 

Check out  28 of the best tracks for testing bass

IP ratings explained : how waterproof are your headphones?

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Harry McKerrell

Harry McKerrell is a staff writer at What Hi-Fi?. He studied law and history at university before working as a freelance journalist covering TV and gaming for numerous platforms both online and in print. When not at work he can be found playing hockey, practising the piano or forcing himself to go long-distance running.

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Anthem

Traveling While Audiophile: A Primer

traveller music system

That was my last year. This article reflects what I learned during that time about enjoying music on the road.

Fortunately, portable audio is stronger now than ever, with many wonderful products that can provide even the most jaded audiophile a satisfying musical escape.

However, reaching that escape requires delicate balancing and compromise. What fits or is permitted in your carry-on, and what audio equipment (if any) are you comfortable checking? How many different wires or adapters will you tolerate? What’s your budget? Since late January, some travelers feel the weight of additional considerations as well.

After a year of refinements, my travel audio setup evolved to the following:

travel gear unpacked

This setup packs up nicely for travel in four small cases: three from the gear they hold, and one repurposed airline toiletry case for the rest.

travel gear packed

My “traveling-while-audiophile” system includes four categories of gear: personal listening setup, casual listening headphones, portable speaker system, and convenience accessories. Below are my thoughts on each category, and some examples of specific gear that work for me.

The traveling audiophile’s primary source of music is a personal listening setup that pipes music directly onto or into her ears, not loudspeakers in a room. So a carefully-chosen personal listening setup is key. Sound quality, comfort, style, and price are important in all personal listening setups. The traveler’s personal listening setup adds two more criteria: packability and isolation.

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Just as the loudspeakers are the most important component in a home audio system, the earphones or headphones are the most important component in a personal listening setup. The first decision to make is, earphones or headphones? “Earphones” have transducers that physically plug into the ear canal. “Headphones” have transducers mounted in earcups connected by a headband.

earphone vs headphone

Earphones unquestionably pack better. A single headphone earcup may be larger than packed-up earphones. Earphones also isolate better: about 30dB isolation at 1kHz and 15-20dB isolation at 300Hz.

However, headphones are generally more comfortable than earphones for extended listening, because they rest on the head rather than inside the ear canal. Headphones sound more expansive than earphones.

Headphone bass is more realistic, because headphones act on the whole ear and surrounding tissue while earphones fire right at the eardrum. Headphones also have the practical advantage that you don’t need to yank something out of your ear to hear someone talk. So headphones are better for use both during long commutes and inside the “war room” environments business travelers know well.

Ultimately, the choice between earphones and headphones is a close call based on personal preference, and in truth many earphones are small enough to make the choice not “either or” but “both and.” Still, I prefer headphones despite earphones’ unquestionable packability advantage.

While the choice between earphones and headphones is a close call, the decision between closed back and open back headphones is not. “Closed back” headphones enclose the driver’s back-wave within the earcup. “Open back” headphones let the driver radiate into the surrounding environment.

open vs closed

While most high-end headphones are open back, closed back headphones clearly make better travel companions. Closed back headphones typically provide around 15dB of isolation at 1kHz, much less than earphones but still meaningful isolation. By contrast, open back headphones effectively provide 0dB isolation until very high frequencies, because the driver and baffle block a little sound. For obvious reasons, a closed back headphone also leaks less sound out than an open back headphone.

While great sound is necessary for a traveler’s headphones, sound quality alone is not sufficient. Form factor also looms large. Smaller is generally better, though I find a “pancake” easier to pack in a carry-on briefcase with a laptop and other business gear than a “brick.” That holds even when the brick takes up less volume. So I prefer headphones with solid headbands and earcups that swivel flat over headphones with folding headbands.

NAD Viso HP50

Lastly, accessories can make or break headphones in a traveling system. A case is useful. A durable case or a case with storage for accessories such as a longer cable or airplane adapter is better. A durable case with accessory storage engineered into the case’s dead space is best of all.

After trying several headphones, NAD’s Viso HP50 stuck with me.

First, the NAD Viso HP50 meets the necessary condition: they sound great. I refer you to Carlo lo Raso’s thorough SECRETS review for a detailed description of their design and sound, including Paul Barton’s “RoomFeel” tuning.

In addition to some of the finest sound I’ve heard from closed back headphones, NAD’s Viso HP50 hits all of the practicality points for traveling headphones. They fold flatter than many headphones, because the headband is thin and the cups swivel flat. The earcups are also relatively compact. Their case has proven durable, and its smartly-designed removable accessory-storage insert fills dead space while providing a measure of crush protection.

There are two further attributes of the NAD Viso HP50 worth highlighting.

First, NAD birthed an innovation that should be standard on every travel-focused headphone going forward: a stereo cable that plugs into either earcup!

NAD earcups

That sounds like a small thing, but often it’s the difference between a cable draped over your keyboard – or over your airplane meal! – and a cable tucked neatly out of harm’s way. Second, Carlo discussed some fit issues with the back of the earcups in his review. I also had this problem. I solved the fit problem by stuffing the back of each pad with half of a cotton disk from a hotel amenity kit. With that extra cushion, the pads sealed correctly at my jawline

NAD Pad Fix

This field hack resolved my only qualm with the NAD Viso HP50. They’re long-term travel buddies.

While NAD’s Viso HP50 headphones run very well directly from iDevices and MacBooks, I also carry a portable DAC-amp. A DAC-amp connects to your source via USB or Lightning cable. It takes over digital/analog conversion and headphone amplification from your source. Some potential advantages of a separate DAC-amp are a lower noise floor (especially with sensitive headphones), greater voltage swing for high impedance headphones, and more advanced digital/analog conversion. Do those technical improvements provide a sonic improvement, or even a sonic difference? Depends on the situation.

There are many advanced portable headphone DAC-amps on the market. See recent SECRETS reviews of Oppo’s HA-2SE and Sony’s PHA-3 , as well as a recent DAC-amp roundup . However, my current portable DAC-amp of choice is a long-discontinued HeadRoom Total Bithead.

headroom tbh

The Total BitHead includes “crossfeed” processing, which I find pulls the soundfield forward and reduces listening fatigue. Crossfeed is an attempt to simulate the sound of speakers by introducing a slightly delayed and frequency-shaped signal from each channel into the other channel. The idea is that you hear the sound each ear would actually hear when listening to speakers in a room. Here’s HeadRoom’s explanation of crossfeed, from the Total BitHead manual.

TBH manual crossfeed explanation

While I like crossfeed, it is deeply unfashionable today. If you don’t share my appreciation for crossfeed, Oppo’s HA-2SE is a superb DAC-amp. It looks great, works with iDevices, sounds fantastic, is well priced, and even serves as a power bank for your phone. My perfect travel headphone amp would be an HA-2SE fortified with DSP parametric equalization and crossfeed.

HA2SE

What about the source? I use my MacBook or iPhone as source. I do not consider that a handicap. I also use a Mac as “transport” for most 2-channel home listening, and have not heard a reason to change.

While a reference portable listening system is key, sometimes you just want some tunes for a workout, or you want to enjoy a podcast or audiobook in peace. While carrying multiple headphones may seem counterintuitive, dedicated-purpose headphones often make sense when traveling.

Dedicated workout headphones are a compact save wear and tear on your better setup and are lighter on the head. I have not looked at fitness headphones in over a decade. My pick at that time, Sennheiser’s PMX 100 neckband headphones, have proven durable even though I usually just rotate the earcups flat and toss them into a bag. NuForce’s BE Sport 3 earphones show how the fitness headphone market is evolving.

pmx100

I also believe separate noise cancellers add value. I resisted noise cancellers for a while. Good ones are expensive, and just don’t sound comparable to audiophile headphones. Because of that double whammy, SECRETS has not yet reviewed any noise cancelling headphones or earphones.

However, on one trans-Atlantic flight I tried a colleague’s Bose QC25’s and instantly heard the appeal. Did they sound as good as my NADs? No. They were comparatively hazy up top and thumpy down low. Their electronics hissed a little bit between songs. But…splendid relaxation! No more jet engine thrum. I was sold. They were exactly what I needed to fall asleep, and stay asleep, on an overnight eastbound trans-Atlantic flight.

After surveying the market, I chose Bose’s QC20i noise cancelling earphones. Bose’s noise cancelling technology is widely praised, and justly so.

qc20i

Why earphones? I cannot justify carrying two pairs of full-sized headphones! Bose’s QC20i have similar midrange and treble isolation to other earphones. Below 300Hz, where passive earphones start to lose isolation, these provide 20dB or greater isolation. They also have an “aware” button that allows you to hear someone without removing an earphone.

Bose’s QC20i’s are very comfortable for earphones. They don’t insert deeply, and the concha braces hold them securely in place. They also sound pleasant. The midrange is smooth and clear, though they have some hitting-a-wet-cereal-box effect on kick drums and some treble hardness. But dissecting noise cancellers as if they were JBL’s flagship speakers misses the point. Try them for your This American Life or Pod Save America fix on a long flight, and you’ll get it.

Some people are fine relying on headphones. However, if you crave music in the air around you, you need some sort of speaker. Like noise cancelling headphones, SECRETS hasn’t reviewed many travel-friendly speakers. Bluesound’s Pulse Mini sounds great, but is a little large for business travel. Eventually I discovered Riva’s Turbo X.

turbo x front

Riva makes “lifestyle” speakers, but they have serious audiophile bona fides. Riva’s president, Rikki Farr, is a live sound innovator. Chief Engineer Donald North designed no holds barred drive units for Aurasound. He also handcrafts exotic tube headphone amps for his Donald North Audio (DNA) brand. DNA used to sell an innovative speaker, the Sequence, with an open-baffle Aurasound woofer and a patented offset concentric midrange array.

DNA sequence

The Riva Turbo X’s sound shows this heritage. Its spectral balance is well-tuned. There’s a real perception of heft to music considering its size, without bloat. The Turbo X is capable of higher output than a respectful hotel-dweller will use, and can effortlessly provide background music for an after-hours poker game in a hotel conference room. Thanks to Riva’s “Trillium” signal processing, the Turbo X even throws a plausible soundstage with distinct image placement, if you position it carefully for the side-mounted drivers to reflect correctly and sit on axis with the front driver.

Riva also made the Turbo X a practical travel speaker.. It has a battery, so you can use it off the grid. The back panel has a USB port that can charge a phone, though unfortunately Riva did not include a USB DAC or AirPlay. The input options are Bluetooth or wired aux-in.

turbo x ports

Unlike a headphone system or portable speaker, accessories don’t make the sonic experience…until you need something and don’t have it on hand!

The single most useful accessory one can pack is a power strip. Hotel rooms rarely have many power outlets, so a strip provides useful capacity. This power strip was about $15 and worth the added bulk. I picked it because Amazon reviews confirmed the USB outlets work on 220V power.

power strip

I recommend a power strip with USB jacks that will work wherever you might travel, so you can charge devices directly the strip and leave their USB power bricks at home. Don’t plug a device into a non-transformer power strip unless the device is rated for use with the wall AC voltage at your destination. While laptops and travel electronics often have universal-voltage power supplies, double check your specific equipment rather than assuming.

A portable router is also potentially useful. Hotel WiFi is often awful, and a hotel’s wired internet connection may be much faster. I picked up this router based on a colleague’s recommendation. It’s tiny, cheap, and faster than the WiFi network in any hotel I’ve stayed in.

wifi gear

Carefully selecting cables for travel further helps avoid frustration. Obviously, you need at least one phone charging cable. I keep two: a longer one to keep in the hotel room, and a short one in my briefcase. A thin HDMI cable may also be useful. Many hotels have HDMI ports on a desk or bedside table so you can watch content from your laptop on the room’s TV.

desk ports

Some other potentially useful cables: network cable, 3.5mm auxiliary audio cable, and whatever other charging cables your other gear may require.

Wires are annoying to keep up with, but you can mitigate that annoyance by picking the brightest colored wires you can. Bright colors make wires harder to forget in a hotel room when packing up.

A final note about accessories: periodically purge unneeded ones. For example, I found I was almost always near a trusted, plugged-in laptop with a free USB port. So I stopped carrying a power bank for my phone. Under different circumstances a power bank may be useful, or even essential. Always consider data security implications before plugging your phone into a public USB charger, especially if your phone contains privileged, protected, or classified information.

Extended travel does not mean leaving music behind or coping with bad sound. True, the best way to enjoy music while traveling is live. If time permits, seek out the local orchestra or associated chamber ensembles. Find the jazz clubs. Explore other local music scenes. But business travel schedules may not mesh with performance schedules.

Fortunately, there are many great-sounding and useful products for the traveling audiophile. Four categories of products to consider when planning travel are a personal listening setup, casual listening headphones, portable speakers, and convenience accessories. The advice above comes from my experience. I think makes a useful starting point, but everybody travels a little differently. It is worth some effort and experimentation to find the travel audiophile setup that works for you.

Best MP3 player 2024: Portable hi-res music players from Astell & Kern, Sony and more

The best MP3 players for dedicated, uninterrupted music on the fly

  • Best overall
  • Best step up model

Best budget

Best money no object

Best premium

Best for design

  • Also consider
  • How to choose
  • How we test
  • Latest updates

FiiO M11S digital audio player

1. The list in brief 2. Best overall 3. Best step up model 4. Best budget 5. Best money-no-object 6. Best classic premium 7. Best for design 8. Also consider 9. How to choose 10. How we test 11. Latest updates

The best MP3 players, you say? Well, we're not talking the 2007 iPod classic I still love any more. No, modern-day versions can do so much more than store and play your lossy MP3 files. The little beauties in this guide are high-resolution audio players with superior digital-to-analog converters able to fully unlock the FLAC, DSD, WAV, MQA and ALAC files your phone can't (whether downloaded or streamed using a Tidal , Qobuz or Apple Music subscription, say) so that you get to hear the files of your choosing at their most detailed, fullest and lossless best. 

The digital audio players here (often referred to as DAPs) are meant to be paired with the best wired headphones , though many players support Bluetooth too (including higher-res aptX or LDAC versions) for those who want the convenience of the best wireless headphones . But wired is preferable, because even the newest Bluetooth audio codec compression algorithms cannot truly do justice to hi-res music.

Again, you won't find classics such as the iPod here ( Apple discontinued the last surviving iPod Touch in May 2022); instead you'll get brands such as FiiO, Sony , and – the leviathan of the DAP market – Astell & Kern. Many of these players are quite expensive, but that's because they can do things with your music that your smartphone simply can't do. That said, we've still chosen options at a range of prices. Looking to dip your toes into hi-res audio? You've come to the right place. Put one of these on your wish-list. 

Becky Scarrott

Becky is a senior TechRadar writer (which she has been assured refers to expertise rather than age) focusing on all things audio. Before joining the team in early 2022, she spent three years at What Hi-Fi? reviewing everything from wallet-friendly wireless earbuds to huge high-end sound systems. Long before all of this though, Becky freelanced as an arts critic alongside a 23-year career as a professional dancer and aerialist – most recently in March 2023, as a soloist in Rusalka at the Royal Opera House. Becky has previously contributed to Stuff, FourFourTwo and The Stage.

The quick list

Want to cut the lengthy explanations and just find out which digital audio players are the best? Below, you'll find a quick roundup of our top picks. You can also jump to a more detailed review of each product, and click through to see the latest deals on your favorite.

The FiiO M11S on a white background

Best for most people 

FiiO's M11S offers stellar hi-res sound quality and premium audio player features, all while undercutting the competition at the same price level.

Read more below

Astell & Kern A&norma SR35 on white background

Best step-up model Whether this stunning little A&K player can be considered 'entry-level' isn't up for debate – it's too expensive for that. But if you can afford it, the SR35 is so, so worth it. 

The Sony NW-A306 on a white background

Sony' latest hi-res streaming player has quickly become the best option when it comes to value for money, despite supporting seriously high-end formats.

Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000 on white background

Want (and are able to afford) the very best digital audio player there is? You've found it: the Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000. And you won't believe this – it verily justifies its asking price.

The Astell&Kern A&ultima SP2000T on a white background

Astell & Kern is known for delivering elite and beautifully made hi-res audio, and this is at the pinnacle. It's extremely well-specced, and sounds simply astounding.

The Astell & Kern A&norma SR25 MKII on a white background

The SR25 MKII's sound is as expressive, expansive and decisive as Astell & Kern's trademark brutalist aesthetic. The angular edges and skewed screen make it stand out from most rivals.        Read more below

Best digital audio players 2024: the list

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

The best MP3 player overall

Fiio M11s on table, showing the lock screen

1. Fiio M11S

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

You don’t have to listen long, hard, or through particularly talented headphones to realise the M11S is the genuine article. In every meaningful music-making respect, it's got skills – and in some areas, it’s a certified expert.

The M11S is intuitive enough to make trifling or often transient information apparent, and it can relay the most nuanced, delicate and dynamic variations in a solo instrument with ease. It has more than enough headroom to dispatch bigger shifts without issue and when called upon, it faithfully describes big, wide and properly defined soundstages. The treble is perhaps a little on the bright side, but not so much that we'd consider it a fault – moreover that it's our job nitpick and here, we have noted it. 

There's lots to love here including an Android 10 operating system , a touchscreen that's smooth and responsive, a punchy yet controlled and detailed sound and a resoundingly classy build.

The Fiio M11S does an excellent job of gently undercutting its closest rival, the Astell & Kern a&norma SR25 Mk II (also in this roundup). Not to nudge you either way, but it's easy to look at the saving you'll make here and decide it's worth putting into a nice high-capacity microSD card, instead of its pricier rival.

Read our full Fiio M11S review

  • ^ Back to the top

The best step up model

Astell & Kern A&norma SR35 held in a hand to show off the rotary volume dial, on colorful background

2. Astell & Kern A&norma SR35

Look, however much Astell & Kern wants to believe this is an 'entry level' player, it's not – it is really quite expensive in anyone's money. Astell & Kern doesn't do budget options.

But the good news is that the premium nature of the SR35 applies to the specification, the sound quality and the user interface as well as the high ticket-price. It's an exceptional player. It's about the size of a deck of cards and at 184g it isn't the lightest DAP on the market, but believe us when we tell you that the four onboard DAC filters and new amp circuitry are worth a few extra grams – and if you can afford it, the more-than-few-extra dollars you'll pay. 

Also, while the SR35 deserves the best standard of content of content you can afford to load up onto it, it’s less fussy than many rival players. So while you should really be giving it all of the 24bit/192kHz FLAC files, this particular Astell & Kern will readily tolerate and deliver 320kbps Spotify streams better than most. 

Whatever you're listening to, the sound this player is capable of is deft, detailed and fun like you wouldn’t believe. Even the shortest listening sessions will become lengthy deep-dives into much-loved tracks, to see what this beauty of a DAP can do with them. 

Read our full Astell & Kern A&norma SR35 review

The best budget MP3 player

The Sony NW-A306's now playing menu

3. Sony NW-A306

Not only is this plucky little player part of Sony’s new (but old… but new!) Walkman lineup, it’s built to handle incredibly high quality audio files for a price that is much more palatable than most of what’s currently out there. The Sony NW-A306 was released in 2023 and we’re so thankful that Sony decided to make a comeback with this admittedly nostalgic audio device – the tape cassette interface is a gloriously retro touch. 

Where the NW-A306 is let down is not in its music-playing skill, but in the slight niggles with its all round usability. The menu can be a little unresponsive at times, the battery longevity can vary and surprisingly, it occasionally struggles when playing a standard 128kbps audio file, which is why we we forced to adjust our star rating under intense review (by half a star to be exact). But there’s no denying that the positives vastly outweigh the negatives here – especially for the money. 

If you’re looking for a dedicated hi-res audio player, the Sony NW-A306 boasts an impressive spec sheet straight from the box. It supports audio files far above CD quality – and more than that, it really shines with them. It also has a slim design that can fit in your pocket, which is not true of many hi-res players in this list. 

Read our full Sony NW-A306 review  

The best money no object buy

Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000

4. Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000

The Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000 is the priciest DAP yet in A&K's arsenal of expensive DAPs. It’s uncompromisingly specified (six DACs and full independent balanced and unbalanced audio circuits are just two of its highlights) and you'd be forgiven for filing it under 'high-end jewelry' in its press shots. But if you think you're basically paying a premium for the casework here (it's available in Black, Silver, Copper or Gold) you really must think again. 

What are you paying for? Simply put, your money's going on the way it sounds. Oh, and its big, beautiful touch-screen. It supports every worthwhile digital format going and the ground-breaking independent audio circuitry (it is the only player to boast it yet) keeps the signal path for the balanced and unbalanced outputs entirely separated.

It is abundantly clear that Astell & Kern decided not to compromise where technical specification was concerned with the A&ultima SP3000. And that’s before we mention the bespoke A&K-designed 'Teraton X' processor that nixes power supply noise and any conceivable audio nasties derived from the numerous DACs. The result? The SP3000 delivers both amplification and sound quality that’s cleaner and more efficient than any digital audio player we've ever heard. 

Read our full Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000 review  

The best premium MP3 player

the astell & kern sp2000t portable music player

5. Astell & Kern A&ultima SP2000T

The Astell & Kern A&ultima SP2000T is one of the best portable music players you can buy right now if money is no object. Yes, it's expensive, but it has recently been superseded by the SP3000 (listed above), so if you want a premium digital audio experience that might now be available at a slight discount, know that the SP2000T is still in A&K's current lineup – and it sounds  superb.

Two amplifier stages offer seven distinct options, while no fewer than four DACs are deployed to handle two channels of audio information. The SP2000T is unconcerned by digital audio file size or type, and it will happily power any headphones you care to mention.

The control interface is clean and responsive. As for the player itself, it is not so much built as sculpted – hewn or forged, even! – though it is too large to slip into your jeans pocket. Astell & Kern has continued this design with the SP2000s successor, the SP3000 (above), which also comes in a limited edition 24k gold casing. 

Read our full Astell & Kern A&ultima SP2000T review

The best MP3 player for design

Astell & Kern A&norma SR25 MKII with Radiohead playing, on white background

6. Astell & Kern A&norma SR25 MKII

Give this A&K your music, sit back and relax – if it doesn't wow you, we don't know what will. (Well, maybe the SP2000T.) The A&norma SR25 MKII is a gifted digital audio player that will reignite your love of music. And unlike many of the A&K's more pricey players (one of which is listed directly above here), this one is small enough to put in a pocket and will keep you streaming, pinging or downloading once-treasured songs to it, just to see what it makes of them. 

As well as a new 4.4mm headphone jack, the MKII unit (an update on the A&norma SR25, listed below in this guide) also boasts a new Replay Gain function to uniformly adjust volume playback from sound sources up to 24-bit/192 kHz. You're also getting AK File Drop (first introduced in the pricier A&futura SE180 player) for easier wireless file transfers; BT Sink function for simpler connection of the SR25 MKII to an external Bluetooth device and extra internal silver-plated shielding to protect from electromagnetic interference. 

Although it hasn't been shouted about, four new and quite different-sounding DAC filters are also onboard, which will work if listening in 24-bit/192kHz or less PCM (although they won't work in MQA and DSD formats) and they certainly add value and scope for customization at the level. If your budget stretches to this player and not a penny more, you won't be disappointed.

And the final important touch is its unique design, with an off-angle screen and the looks of a deck of cards that's been twisted. Everyone will want to hold it and play with it.

Read our full Astell & Kern A&norma SR25 MKII review  

Other MP3 players to consider

Looking for something else? We haven't tested the MP3 players below ourselves, but they fill niches we haven't touched on above, and come with great customer reviews.

the sandisk clip plus mp3 player in blue

SanDisk Clip Sport Plus

The best option for working out, this MP3 player is small and light. It only offers 16GB of storage and although that’s not much in comparison to a phone, it still holds plenty of songs. Despite being built for sport, it supports a pretty wide range of audio formats – including MP3, AAC, FLAC, WAV, and WMA.

During testing, we found the battery life is impressive at 20 hours. You also get Bluetooth, which is important for exercise so cables don’t get in the way. 

The interface is dated, not as powerful as your smartphone and it’s not touch-sensitive. But it’s easy to navigate via hardware buttons that serve as playback controls. 

As long as you don’t expect full audiophile-level quality here, you'll find the sound very capable. We found it to be slightly muddy with a small dip in clarity, but for most people that won’t matter – especially when you're out on a run or hitting the gym.

The astell & kern ak jr mp3 player in silver

Astell & Kern AK Jr

The Astell & Kern AK Jr is a great mid-range MP3 player and a serious contender against the more expensive players on the list. You get 64GB of onboard storage and there’s a microSD card slot if you want to expand it. It also supports major audio formats, including FLAC, WAV, MP3, AAC, AIFF, and more – and it’s able to play at sample rates of up to 192kHz.

The interface is easy to control. Tap through options using the touchscreen, and select the music you want to listen to. It could be more responsive, but you get used to it. Battery life is around nine hours, which isn't amazing, but not terrible either. 

Music is dynamic and crisp, with a nice and powerful sound. The soundstage on these, when paired with a great pair of headphones, is huge – that’s to say the left and right are clearly defined, while instruments placed at the center of a mix are given plenty of room to breathe. We enjoyed the guitar solo on AC/DC’s Back in Black , while Eminem’s rap on Lose Yourself cut straight through the mix – exactly the way it’s supposed to.

sony nw 155l

4. Sony NW 155L

A high-res MP3 player from Sony that's affordable – especially in comparison to some of the higher-end devices from the likes of Astell & Kern. 

This MP3 player is short on storage with only 16GB internally. But with a microSD card you can bump that up significantly. It boasts an impressive 45 hours of battery life and supports a wide range of formats.

Sound is clear and powerful and although it might not be the best out there, it's a huge improvement over listening to music on your phone.

cowon plenue d3

5. Cowon Plenue D3

This is a small (it's about the size of a matchbox), light and stylish music player with a simple and chic design, plus a screen that covers the entirety of it's front panel. It's an upgrade on Cowon's previous D2 model, this time with a volume dial, Bluetooth and more features.

It also offers exceptional battery life. You'll get 45 hours of playback time with regular MP3 files and more than 30 hours with high-res files – which, again, beats most of the competitors on this list. 

It supports a huge range of formats, including DSD (DFF, DSF, ISO), FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC, APE, MP3, WMA, OGG and DCF. Music sounds brilliant and with Bluetooth, you can listen on a range of different devices – although note that there's no Wi-Fi streaming available, and if you've got hard-to-drive wired headphones you can't expect the world from this tiny player. 

How to choose the best MP3 player

Pair one of the devices in this buying guide with a set of the best wired headphones you’ve got the ultimate in premium, portable music: high-quality sound ready for your road-trip.

So how do you select one? Well, you're in luck. Because the market is increasingly geared towards the audiophile (the kind of people who won't touch Spotify's lossy streams), firms are constantly innovating. These days, ever improving sound quality in the wired and wireless realms, hi-res audio support and seriously impressive built-in DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) are making already impressive players even better. 

And there's style to match the substance, with manufacturers also vying to deliver players that look as good as they sound. Fan of brutalist architecture? Astell & Kern is the name for you. Something a bit more colorful? See SanDisk or Sony. Want something about the size of a matchbox? Cowon's Plenue D3 is the badger – see them all in our guide above.

Why do people still use MP3 players?

There are lots of very good reasons to use a dedicated digital audio player. The biggest one is arguably sound quality: depending on the device, you can listen to much higher quality versions of tracks than anything you'll be able to stream from your phone – especially if your device has a headphone jack, which most mobile devices lack. For serious music fans, this is a major consideration: Bluetooth audio quality is getting better, but for full hi-res audio you still need your headphones to be wired. Even Apple's most expensive headphones, the AirPods Max, can't deliver Apple Music's Lossless and Hi-Res Lossless file quality wirelessly.

Another reason to get a DAP is curation of music; not everything you want to listen to is available on the best music streaming services – and not everything that's there today might be there tomorrow, because songs and even artists come and go (or pull their work from your chosen streaming service overnight). By synchronising an MP3 player with your desktop music collection you can always be sure that you can hear what you want to hear. A big bonus for many people is that with your own music collection, you don't need to pay a monthly subscription to listen to it, or to listen to it without ads. 

Although it's less of an issue than it used to be, another reason many music fans preferred MP3 players is because they were designed to do one thing and one thing only: play music. Most smartphones weren't, and thus, the audio performance wasn't brilliant – the inexpensive DAC squirrelled away in the phone could only do so much. Battery life and storage space weren't always great either. 

It's also worth pointing out that MP3 players don't require you to have a mobile phone connection or wi-fi to get your music, so you can happily wander far and wide (or hop on a flight, subway or fast train) without losing your soundtracks.

Is an MP3 player worth buying?

Whether you should buy an MP3 player or not depends on what you want to use it for. If you're trying to avoid being glued to your phone, checking social media or taking work calls when you want to relax and immerse yourself in music, an MP3 player can be a great option to cut ties with the distractions of your phone – and the rest of the world.

Some people enjoy listening to MP3 players when they work out, so they don't have their phone with them. Is this to keep calls and messages at bay while they run, or is it keep their expensive smartphone safe at the gym? We can't say for sure, but they're both good perks. 

Depending on the mobile model and plan you've gone for, you might not have a great deal of space on your phone for downloaded music, so if you want to store music elsewhere a dedicated player is also a great shout. 

MP3 players won't suit everyone; many music-lovers cannot perceive (or are prepared to accept) the difference in audio quality and like the convenience of streaming on their phones, but there are plenty of reasons why an MP3 player is a game-changing buy for some people.

Is MP3 quality as good as CD?

The short answer is no. That's because MP3 is a "lossy" format: in order to make MP3 files as small as possible, some of the audio information is removed – frequencies most of us cannot hear, anything less noticeable to the human ear. This is often described as 'compressed' audio. With a CD, music is stored with a resolution of 1,411 kilobits per second. For clarity, the best possible quality MP3 has a resolution of 320 kilobits per second. So clearly there's a lot less data in even the highest quality MP3 file.

What's clever about MP3 is that it tries to get rid of the audio information you'll miss the least. For example, one of the most obvious signs that you're listening to an MP3 instead of a CD isn't because one of the instruments has gone AWOL. MP3 doesn't do that. But you'll probably notice a lack of really deep bass, and a more "splashy" sound on higher frequencies such as the drummer's cymbals and hi-hats. The lower the quality, the more obvious these things become – and at the very lowest quality, MP3s sound like someone's playing them on a really bad radio.

For many people the convenience of MP3s – you can fit more on your device, streaming uses less mobile data and you don't need a really good internet connection – outweighs the loss of sound quality, especially if you're listening on the move. But MP3 is a fairly old standard now, and there are better options.

As the name suggests, lossless audio is any music file that has been recorded, packaged, stored, unlocked and played in a way that doesn't incur any 'loss' to the musical information, and 'hi-res' files are those boasting greater than 44.1kHz sample rate or higher than 16-bit audio bit depth – ie. better-than-CD quality.

How we test the best MP3 players

We test dozens of hi-res portable music players every year at TechRadar, and that means we know exactly which features, specs, file support and wireless audio codecs to look for. It's important for us to compare the performance of these players against the claims made by their manufacturers, which is why we take the time to make sure the stamina, durability, connectivity and sound quality claims are legit.

We make sure to test each product against its chief competitors too, so you can be sure that if we say so, the product is the best bet for the money. We live with these players for weeks and we run them in religiously so that the components have 'bedded in' before we commence our tests, and we don't finish testing until we are certain of the sound quality.

On this, we test the audio performance using a range of musical genres and with both wired and wireless headphones – and streamed and downloaded music from various sources, to ensure that these products can handle everything from thumping dance tracks to softly-spoken podcasts in whatever format we throw at them. 

After more collective years in this game than we'd care to divulge, we are truly confident that our star-rated reviews are the best indication of the quality. There are no sales teams involved in our verdicts and we're not getting paid bonuses to hand out extra stars, which gives us complete impartiality. It also means if we don't like it for sound, design, usability and features, we simply won't recommend it here. 

The latest updates to this best MP3 players guide

April 2, 2024 Removed the Onkyo DP-X1A from this list as the best mid-range digital audio player due to it no longer being available. There's also no stock currently available in the UK for the A&norma SR25 MKII. This could be down to it being succeeded by the Astell & Kern A&norma SR35 in May 2023. 

January 30, 2024 Added the Astell & Kern A&norma SR35 and the Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000. Re-ordered to reflect the newer products and updated copy throughout. The SR25 MkII and SP2000T remain in this list because although older, they're still in the current lineup at A&K and they may well receive certain discounts in upcoming sales events. 

December 6, 2023 We still haven't yet reviewed Astell & Kern's SP3000 but with a new limited edition gold casing being released, that may very well soon change. For now, though, our list has remained unchanged. 

September 25, 2023 Added new navigation features to make it easier to find particular models. Updated the list based on our latest reviews, and removed models no longer available to buy.

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Becky is a senior staff writer at TechRadar (which she has been assured refers to expertise rather than age) focusing on all things audio. Before joining the team, she spent three years at What Hi-Fi? testing and reviewing everything from wallet-friendly wireless earbuds to huge high-end sound systems. Prior to gaining her MA in Journalism in 2018, Becky freelanced as an arts critic alongside a 22-year career as a professional dancer and aerialist – any love of dance starts with a love of music. Becky has previously contributed to Stuff, FourFourTwo and The Stage. When not writing, she can still be found throwing shapes in a dance studio, these days with varying degrees of success.  

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traveller music system

Dynebolic is a portable Linux distribution that can be used without installation

jack-wallen

ZDNET's key takeaways

  • After a 10-year hiatus, Dynebolic is back and can be downloaded and used for free.
  • Dynebolic has everything you need for multimedia creation and runs as a live instance, so it's portable and doesn't make any changes to your default operating system.
  • With Dynebolic, it's WYSIWYG, so you don't need to install any other applications.

There are plenty of Linux distributions that are geared toward specific tasks. There are distributions for desktops, servers, firewalls, routers, gaming, containers, file servers, forensics, penetration testing, and more. There are also distributions created specifically to help creatives do their thing. 

One of those distributions is Dynebolic , which rose in popularity a decade ago just as it ceased development. The great news for those who used to like Dynebolic is that the distribution is back.

Also: Thinking about switching to Linux? 10 things you need to know

From the official announcement: "Ten years have passed and today we are back with a brand new Dynebolic 4.0 based on Devuan 5 "Daedalus", live-boot and the Linux kernel 6.8 series."

Ten years is a long time in IT, but Rastasoft is confident it's a return to form for its distribution. With the help of the KDE Plasma desktop, Dyenbolic has become a portable, creative operating system geared specifically for multimedia production, with plenty of audio and video tools to get the job done.

But what does it mean when I say "portable"? You've probably heard of the "live" distribution if you've used Linux. A live distribution allows you to run the operating system and its apps from the system's RAM. You don't have to install the operating system, so it doesn't make a single change to your hard drive. With a live distribution, you can take Linux out for a test drive and, when you're finished, reboot your machine, remove the USB drive, and boot back into your original operating system.

Live distributions are commonplace in Linux and have been around for some time. With Dynebolic opting to take the live route, anyone can boot into the operating system, create multimedia projects, save them to an external drive, and -- when they're finished -- reboot the machine back to the installed operating system.

Consider Dynebolic your on-the-go creative workstation. You could visit a friend's house, boot Dynebolic on their PC, do whatever you need, save your work, reboot, and your friend's computer returns to its original state. 

Also:  The best Linux distros for beginners: You can do this!

Even better, Dynebolic is 100% free software, and free of charge. 

Dynebolic is a self-contained operating system, so the software must have everything you need because you can't install anything extra. Fortunately, you'll find tools for streaming, audio, video, graphics, and publishing, including:

  • Ardour7 - Digital audio workstation
  • Audacity - Sound editor
  • Butt - Streaming tool
  • FFADO Mixer - FireWire audio mixer
  • HDSPConf - Hammerfall DSP control application
  • JAMin - JACK Audio Mastering interface
  • Kdenlive - Video editor
  • Mixxx - Digital DJ interface
  • OBS Studio - Streaming/recording
  • QJackCtl - JACK control
  • soundKonverter - Audio file converter, CD ripper, and Replay Gain tool
  • TiMidity++ - MIDI sequencer
  • VLC - Media player
  • Darktable - Virtual light table and darkroom
  • GIMP - Image editor
  • Inkscape - Vector graphics editor
  • Scribus - Page layout
  • Konqueror - Web browser
  • Thunderbird - Email

The one application that is missing is an office suite. That's fine as you can also use the cloud to access productivity applications.

I enjoyed creating content in Dynebolic. You can jump in right away with Audacity, creating audio with ease. For more advanced audio needs, there's JACK and Ardour7, both powerful tools.

Also:  Sparky Linux is a blazing-fast distro that can keep your older machines running for years  

The one thing to keep in mind, however, is that you'll need an external drive to save your work. As Dynebolic is a live distribution, saved work is lost when you reboot. You can always temporarily save your work to the Dynebolic file system and then upload any or all files to a cloud storage account, which would be a great option. Just remember, multimedia files -- especially video -- can be large, so you'll want a cloud account with plenty of storage space.

Dynebolic is a brilliant take on the multimedia workstation. By making it 100% portable, without the ability to install it on a system's hard drive, you can be certain the operating system will function as expected and you'll have a creative tool that travels well. 

You can download the latest ISO of Dynebolic , create a bootable USB drive, and start using this creative workstation wherever you need. 

How I created my own music streaming server with Linux (and why you should too)

This free microsoft office alternative has just as many productivity tools (including chatgpt), get microsoft office for windows or mac for $32 right now.

[ Freelance Traveller Home Page | Search Freelance Traveller | Site Index ]

Freelance Traveller

by Chris Seamans

This article was originally posted to the pre-magazine Freelance Traveller website in 1997 and reprinted in the November/December 2015 issue .

The InterAct System is based on a design initially created by Makhidkarun, but released throughout the Imperium as a standard. Many entertainment systems are fleshed out with this option, and Makhidkarun’s software and hardware is of the absolute highest quality. Systems of varying quality can be purchased from other corporations, but true fans of “ kaadmukim ” (a Vilani word roughly translated as “interactive music”) swear by Makhidkarun’s extremely high quality InterAct units.

Kaadmukim becomes possible around the time that houses, businesses and spacecraft become “wired”, with either one central computer, or several dedicated control systems. In a wired household, room temperatures are adjusted to a (usually pre-set) comfortable level when the room is inhabited, lights go on when someone is about to enter a darkened room, and go off a few moments after a room is left unoccupied. Many household items are wired, so that they can be found easily should they become lost or misplaced. Doors can be automatically closed or locked, depending on the pre-sets, outside lights can be turned on when it is dark, an outside pool can be heated from the living room couch, if such a thing is desired. Basically, the house is ‘smart’ and does a number of minor chores as needed, and can be interfaced with any number of specially made devices and robots. The above examples only scratch the surface of what is possible in ‘smart’ or ‘wired’ homes.

The InterAct Music System takes this concept to another level. Speakers are placed around the house for optimum listening enjoyment in much the same way as they are placed for more traditional entertainment systems, and all of the signals that go to and from the house’s computer are turned into ‘music’. Pre-recorded sound and music tracks are recorded onto a kaadmukim cube, and are played according to the digital signals that pump through the household. Depending on the kaadmukim band’s (or performer’s) skill, the effects can be amazing. The cube is never heard the same way twice. The tracks are played in fashion that is apparently random, although is based on events that the house computer is processing at the time. As wired items are moved through the house, seats are sat in, and appliances are used, the music will shift and change according to the original band or performer’s desires. Kaadmukim writing is an intense discipline in and of itself, because the performer has to surrender much of the control and order to the ‘chaotic’ demeanor of a modern household. The basic effect of many kaadmukim cubes is that of a movie soundtrack, or piece of classical music. Themes are repeated in variations, all aspects of the music are changed by the literally countless tasks the house computer is performing, while underlying elements stay the same. Some fans of the medium prefer performers who forego any attempt of masking the randomness with order, and enjoy the chaotic sound of what has come to be known as “ gushiimukim ” (roughly translated as “music from chaos”), the random patterns of a household are transformed into sounds and snippets that are, in and of themselves, random. The effect can be very fascinating, but can also be very disconcerting and sometimes frightening as well.

Kaadmukim of all forms is a very popular medium, especially at parties and get togethers. An “ asha kaadmukim ” (roughly translated as DJ, or disc jockey in crude 20th century English) will usually have a special deck with the ability to hold more then one kaadmukim cube at a time and with the ability to mix them and change them as desired. A highly skilled “ asha kaadmukim ” will be able to “smack the cubes” (manipulate a deck) with an ability and efficiency that can be downright awe-inspiring. A popular dance scene, with a huge number of off-shoots and mutations, has sprung up. One such offshoot, similar to 20th century rap, has performers improvising rhymes over top of the ever changing music. No matter what, the way that a master “ asha kaadmukim ” can move a crowd should not be underestimated.

In the first century of the Third Imperium trade normalized to the point that a high-tech standard of living was possible more or less everywhere. Kaadmukim systems became available nearly everywhere. As now, these units were very popular in dance clubs, as they created a unique experience for a crowd, and experience of oneness that cannot be recreated any other way. It was common for an asha kaadmukim to pick cubes in which the beat would speed up based on the heat of the room or venue that the system was installed in. This is where, at least according to popular legend, the term ‘heat up the beat’ came from. This practice, however, turned out to be somewhat dangerous to the dancers, and heat exhaustion became very common. Some world, subsector, and sector governments made this practice illegal. In most areas of the Imperium, ‘heat up the beat’ has a meaning similar to ‘get down’, ‘rock on’, or ‘let’s boogie!’. However, in some areas it has a shadier connotation: to ‘heat up the beat’ suggests undertaking a deal or action that is either somehow illegal or not completely on the up-and-up.

Tech Notes: InterAct/ Kaadmukim systems vary in quality and can be purchased for between Cr500 and Cr5000. This is for the system alone, and supporting hardware, such as speakers, must be purchased separately. Tech levels for availability also vary, and due to standardized ‘smart home’ hardware can be manufactured on worlds with a technology level of 9 or better. Systems for asha kaadmukim use will be on the upper end of the scale, generally sold for for Cr3000 to Cr6000. They are large and bulky, and are made to be installed in various locations. They are in no way comfortably portable, although asha kaadmukim units can be easily transported. A number of attempts to create lower-quality portable units have been tried, relying on digital information gathered from a world’s commnet and through sensor equipment built into the system. Most such attempts have failed for the marketers, as it seems enough data for a truly engrossing experience can’t be gathered easily. These devices are available and supported in some areas of the Imperium though. InterAct datacubes can be purchased for between Cr20 and Cr100 new, or Cr5 and Cr30 used. The cubes are extremely durable, and due to the great length of time these units have been in existence, there is a vast collectors’ market.

comscore

The new faces of Traveller music bringing a fresh take on folk, hip-hop and rap

As a country that champions its artists, focus must be shifted to creativity in the margins.

traveller music system

Steo Wall: ‘Maybe there is something in the fact that music can often transcend our differences.’

With all the socio-political discussions surrounding Irish Travellers in the media, we can be forgiven for forgetting that there are positive things happening in the background, including a fresh new approach to expression through the medium of music and song. Ireland has a long history of advocating for our artists and creatives, and we are known for the high quality of music we produce, from trad sessions to contemporary pop and rock. But we rarely hear about music from the margins, and specifically, music from the Traveller community. I took some time to talk to five new and emerging singers and musicians from that community.

Steo Wall: ‘At the end of the day, we all enjoy music in the same way’

Steo Wall is from Dún Laoghaire but now lives in Ennistymon, Co Clare. His genre of music is normally contemporary urban folk. “I write all my own songs,” he tells me. “I learned to play the guitar when I was 12, it was an uncle that taught me how to play. I grew up with my grandmother, I was exposed to her favourite music. Since my grandmother’s uncles were Felix and Johnny Doran, we would listen to a lot of Irish trad music, and this influenced me greatly.”

For Steo, the highest point of his career was “writing a song for my grandmother, called Sarah Doran. At the RTÉ Radio 1 inaugural Folk Awards, when inducting John Reilly, Christy Moore introduced him on stage to sing Sarah Doran, “which for me was a magical moment in my career”.

On his experience as a Traveller musician, Steo says, “I have found most people to be extremely supportive of me and my music. Maybe there is something in the fact that music can often transcend our differences, because at the end of the day, we all enjoy music in the same way.”

Anne-Marie: ‘I had to turn to therapy to talk through what my brain was saying to me’

Anne-Marie: ‘I had to turn to therapy to talk through what my brain was saying to me’

Music quiz: Which 1960s sci-fi movie inspired the name of Duran Duran?

Music quiz: Which 1960s sci-fi movie inspired the name of Duran Duran?

Britney Spears’s manager quits and says singer may retire

Britney Spears’s manager quits and says singer may retire

Steo is working on a project with musician Thomas McCarthy and actor Michael Collins, which has been funded by the Arts Council. They will be exploring the National Folklore Collection in Dublin and old footage and photographs of Travellers stored in the Irish Film Institute. Steo is also performing in Marlay Park for the Féile Nasc on August 27th. "My new album, Street Wisdom for Lost Souls, is out at the end of 2021 and my previous album, Where I'm From, is available on steowall.ie ."

Sharyn Ward: ‘The older I get, the more I am becoming aware of how beautiful our community’s singing, poetry and art is’

Sharyn Ward is originally from Longford but now based in Dublin. Her style of singing would mainly be sean nós.

“My influences were always family members, especially Big Daddy – my grandfather. There was someone always singing in our home. The highest point in my career was getting to perform on Ireland’s Got Talent, because it was a great opportunity to perform to the nation and to show a positive side to Travellers.”

Sharyn also recalls that “the lows, unfortunately, were the hundreds of negative and discriminatory comments that followed it. The comments attacked me, my family, and my community.”

“The older I get, the more I am becoming aware of how beautiful our community’s singing, poetry and art is,” she says. “It is unfortunate that the reality behind it would tell you that 90 per cent of it will never be recognised. I would not have bothered with singing if it were not for Lucy Kennedy and Ireland’s Got Talent encouraging me to take part.”

Making it in the music industry is difficult for everyone, says Sharyn. “But it is even more so when you are a Traveller trying to book a venue. There is a fear amongst venues that a Traveller artist will attract a crowd of Travellers.”

Her advice to next generation musicians? “Stay proud of who you are and never change or stop what you are doing for anyone. You are perfect and beautiful the way you are.”

Sharyn will complete and release her own album this year. She is also performing in a few shows across Ireland. "I have a special concert that highlights mental health, planned for the Axis in Ballymun this year. We are just seeking supports at the moment." When not on stage, Sharyn can always be found singing on live feed sessions on her Facebook page @sharynwardsinger .

William Casey: ‘I’m the type to figure out why I can’t do something and educate myself to the point where I can at least put up a good debate’

“I’m from the rap capital of Ireland, Limerick city,” says William Casey, aka Willzee. “My genre of music would be rap/hip-hop and spoken word. I started a few years back as a source of self-therapy, I guess. I have been influenced by many people, but the ones that stand out are Dyrt Davis, Mynameisj0hn and Mic Righteous. Over the past while, Enda Gallery has been the producer behind my tracks. He inspires me to return the greatness.”

Speaking on the highs and lows of his career, Willzee says: “The lows of the industry would be that it is sometimes lonely... The highs to me have to be winning Virgin Media’s Dublin International Film Festival short film competition in 2019 for a short I wrote called Innocent Boy, while finally releasing my debut album this year will also be a massive high.”

And what does Willzee believe sets him apart from everyone else? “I’m not afraid to speak the truth on a level most say they are but never do, love me or hate me, my honesty can’t be denied.”

What is it like to be a Traveller rap artist? “If I am honest, I haven’t had many setbacks from being a Traveller when it comes to performing, only if some pub owners find out I am a Traveller they become cagey, which in some cases I can’t blame them, but most give you the trust and if you don’t mess about all is good for another one if you need it.”

Asked if he has faced any of the barriers other Traveller performers encounter, he says: “I’d say none, I don’t let anything hold me back, I’m the type to figure out why I can’t do something and educate myself to the point where I can at least put up a good debate.”

Willzee's debut album Kuti Gris, which means "a piece of heart" in Shelta, will be released this year. His most recent song released this month, called A Dream of Peace is, available now on YouTube . Willzee is on Twitter @WillzeeTWOW .

Kathleen Marie Keenan: ‘I also now spend time working on ways to highlight mental health issues and suicide amongst Travellers’

Kathleen Marie Keenan is from Ennis, Co Clare, but now lives in Co Galway. Her music genre is Irish folk and country. Fifteen years ago, Tommy Tiernan and Hector Ó hEochagáin were doing a live show at the Iveagh Gardens. Hector had asked me to do them a favour, they wanted some talented Traveller singers to join them on stage. Until then I had only heard the Keenan sisters and brother Davie, busking on the streets of Galway. When they took to the stage, they were outstanding, even putting Tommy in his place when he brought out one or two of his banked Traveller jokes. Kathleen was, and is, a natural performer and a lovely soul.

“I have been singing since I was about four or five years of age,” she says. “Most people would say that their inspirations are singers they listened to. For me, it was my parents. Sadly, we lost our mother in 2019 after a battle with ovarian cancer and with that one of my main inspirations in life.”

“Some of the high points in my life were performing in Dublin with Paddy Keenan and with the Hothouse Flowers, and in 2015 I performed with Daniel O’Donnell. I also appeared on the Saturday Night Show with Brendan O’Connor. Unfortunately, the lows in my career came from not getting opportunities beyond that or being able to book venues to perform shows, which has been down to who I am, and not what I sing.”

“I am using this time to write my songs, but I also now spend time working on ways to highlight mental health issues and suicide amongst Travellers. Since we lost our brother to it recently, it has been something I feel strongly about. I hope to raise awareness of this issue through my music because suicide is such a big issue for Travellers, and something we don’t speak about enough.”

Kathleen's music can be found on her Facebook page, @illerstate for more on Twitter.

Shelley Ward: ‘The highs of my career will always be the appreciation for my music I get from live audiences, while the lows would have to be the recent pandemic, which stole that away from all performers’

Shelley Ward, born to a Traveller mother and a Jamaican father, grew up in Moss side, Manchester, and his genre of music is hip-hop.

“My main influence would be Tupac, listening to his lyrics and the quality of his music inspired me to just go for it, to at least try. I started about 13 years ago with some rapping, but both my parents would have played a lot of music around me. I grew up listening to old Irish ballads and reggae.

“What is interesting about the music myself and my band (Illerstate) make is that it is a blend of hip-hop with rock, as in, you can hear the guitar in it, it is an authentic sound, there’s no one that sounds like us.”

On discrimination he has faced: “There was one time I booked a venue for a show and when they found out I was a Traveller, they came up with some excuse about overbooking the room. There is a lot of anti-Traveller stuff like that happening in the UK. We even have politicians trying to stop our way of life. It’s a crazy time. As a black man, I know what it is like to get  hated because of who you are, but it is my surname and the fact I often speak proudly about my Traveller heritage that prevents me from gigging. I am a proud black Jamaican and Irish Traveller; no amount of racism or hatred will change that. In fact, it will only make me more determined to succeed. I want both Travellers and Black people to realise we fight the same fight, just in different colour skin.”

Shelley has a few solo tracks coming out soon, and he and his band are planning another music video in the coming weeks. "We are cooking a storm," he says. "And  I cannot wait for everyone to enjoy it, Illerstate need to make a trip to Ireland, someone book us," he says with a hopeful laugh. Follow @illerstate for more on Twitter.

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traveller music system

Installing the sound system

Mike

  • December 21, 2013
  • Converting my van

i-must-have-sound

Wherever I live I need to be able to reproduce sound to an OK standard. For the last 8 years I’ve used my Alesis speakers. I’ve discovered and shared nearly all of my mammoth music collection on these speakers. All those last minute bedroom parties that would never have happened without these speakers. All that fun we had making weird music in my pit of a bedroom on hot summer days. These speakers provided the sound track to my university life, blasting Sonic Youth and The Smiths down the corridors of my first year accommodation at whatever hour.  Another year goes by and I’d be pushing my possessions up the Sheffield hills in a Tesco trolley to move to my next house, and these are the only items that deserved the luxury of extra cardboard.

alesis-mk2-monitor-ones

OK enough reminiscing but what I’m saying is that I really love my Alesis monitors and if I am away for a  while, being able to come back and plug my computer into these speakers is a real treat–more than  having a hot shower.

The problem is, I have to find some smaller speakers to put in the van!  Apart from not sounding very good in such a small space, the Alesis monitors are just too large and heavy to mount on the walls of the van.

A pair of speakers to suit my new home

Its time to do some research. Here is what I think I need:

  • a nearfield (short throw) speaker designed for a small space
  • light enough to be wall mounted
  • not too decent for people to bother breaking windows to get to
  • doesn’t need too big of an amplifier–I’m only running a 12V system
  • passive. I shall provide my own 12V amp

Each speaker is 225 x 150 x 142mm and weigh in at a measly 1.8kg - great for wall mounting i guess but i probably cannot expect anything like the punchy (and rather weighty) low end response of my Alesis monitors

The amplifier

alpine-vpower-amp

Testing  and eliminating noise

The speakers sound great but there was a problem with noise! Most of the time I’d be playing music from my computer straight into the amp. The noise problem was when the computer plugged into the mains power supply via the on-board inverter (seen on the  12V electrics wiring page). I think the problem was due to a combination of a poor quality (quasi-sine inverter) and a bad ground due to being in a vehicle.

I really cannot live with hums and buzzes through my speakers so I decided to buy a pure sine inverter and this amazing device; a ground loop isolator

ground-loop-isolator

I hope you also have fun installing the sound system into your campervan. It certainly was a highlight for me

Comment below

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Floods swamp New Orleans streets as powerful storm system rolls through Gulf Coast

A powerful and deadly storm system swept over the Gulf Coast on Wednesday, slamming the region with intense rain and flash flooding while spawning tornadoes over southern Louisiana, where at least three tornadoes were confirmed.

The torrential rains were part of a system that unleashed severe weather across the Gulf Coast throughout the day, knocking out power, disrupting travel, damaging buildings and shuttering schools. More than 118,000 homes and businesses were without power Wednesday night from east Texas to Georgia, according to a USA TODAY database .

Between five and eight inches of rainfall were recorded in some New Orleans rain gauges, Nola.com reported , noting that the amount neared that during some of the city's recent serious flood events.

At least one person in Mississippi died as a result of the storms, the state's emergency management agency said. Weather.com reported she was a 64-year-old woman in Scott County whose oxygen machine stopped working when the power went out.

Throughout the morning and into the afternoon, the National Weather Service reported multiple possible tornadoes across southern Louisiana, where a powerful squall line with 80-mph winds moved east over the state.

Two confirmed tornadoes were in Slidell , a town 30 miles northeast of New Orleans, and in the southwestern city of Lake Charles. That twister had top wind speeds of 115 mph but hit the ground for only a mile, the NWS said .

Another tornado was confirmed in Saint Francisville, a town about 31 miles northwest of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, according to weather service survey crews . The weather service in New Orleans said damage in Saint Francisville and Slidell were consistent with at least an EF-1 tornado.

'Worst-case scenario': Tornado in Slidell

A tornado hit the town of Slidell on Wednesday afternoon, injuring several people and damaging homes and property.

Slidell police officer Rodney West, a military veteran, said the aftermath of the apparent tornado reminded him of what he saw in Iraq, Weather.com reported. “ Looks like Baghdad in ‘04,” West said in a social media post.

“Buildings with the windows busted out, cars on their side, other vehicles wrecked, power lines down. Worst-case scenario that you could imagine,” he said.

A tornado warning, then 'everything was shaking'

Monica Hernandez Melancon and her husband got a tornado warning on their phones around 6:30 a.m., just as the rain and wind picked up in Sunset, Louisiana, about 70 miles west of Baton Rouge. Melancon, 60, gathered their two Yorkies – Ceci and Lily – as their trailer began to tremble. Curled up in a corner, she began to pray.

"It was so scary," she told USA TODAY. "You can hardly see anything because the rain was so dense and everything was shaking."

After about 20 minutes, she and her husband emerged from the trailer to find several trees knocked down across their 40-acre property, where they have hundreds of chickens, pigs, hens and lambs. Their farm was not damaged and none of the animals were hurt. Melancon said in her decades living in different parts of Louisiana, she's never experienced such a ferocious storm.

Several school districts in Louisiana and Mississippi held classes virtually or canceled sessions altogether. The Louisiana Division of Administration shuttered state office buildings on Wednesday, and officials asked "all drivers to limit driving on the roads between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m.," according to a statement from Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry .

Airline delays and cancellations were reported Wednesday afternoon across the region, including at Dallas-Fort Worth and New Orleans airports.

Meteorologists anticipated that as the day continued, damaging hail, wind and possible tornadoes would slam Mississippi, Alabama and the Florida Panhandle, according to the National Weather Service . Thunderstorms could dump around 2 to 4 inches of rain over much of the same area and up through southwestern Georgia.

"Ensure you know where you would take shelter no matter where your day takes you," the weather service warned.

Louisiana weather map

Storm heads to midwest, east coast.

The low-pressure system battering the South is forecast to intensify, expand and track toward the Northeast throughout the rest of the week, and moderate to heavy rainfall will engulf much of the eastern U.S., including the mid-Atlantic, Great Lakes, Midwest and Ohio Valley regions by Thursday.

The Carolinas, northern Florida and the mid-Atlantic region will see the greatest threat of damaging wind gusts, the weather service said. Heavy rain and potential scattered flash flooding may occur from the southern Appalachians to the northern mid-Atlantic.

Meteorologists say thunderstorms should exit the Southeast by Friday morning as a potent cold front is forecast to sweep across the country from the West Coast.

Storm damages homes in Texas, Arkansas

The severe weather began on Monday and led Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to deploy emergency response resources to badly impacted areas of the state. On Tuesday, the governor said he had deployed additional resources throughout the state.

Hail the size of quarters and ping pong balls was reported in eastern Texas, Tennessee and Arkansas on Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service . Powerful wind gusts reportedly toppled power lines and uprooted trees. In Pulaski County, Arkansas, 80-90 mph wind gusts damaged several homes. In Houston, a house and a barn had their roofs blown off by strong winds.

US weather watches and warnings

National weather radar.

Tempo Traveller

Rent tempo travellers at your convenience, vehicle images.

Tempo Traveller rental service

Tempo Traveler Rentals

Group travelling in a big city on your own is quite challenging. There is a lot of traffic on the road and hardly any room for you to stretch yourself if you are travelling in a car or public transport. In such situations, travelling seems nothing less than a bothersome activity. What can be a great expedition turns into a headache! But what if we told you that there is a way you can ease your city group travel and in fact, enjoy it with utmost comfort and luxury? 

Wondering how is that possible? 

It’s simple. Switch to tempo traveller rentals. 

Bus Hire is now Ryde! 

To help our customers connect better with our products and services, Bus Hire is now Ryde! Offering tempo traveller rentals, buses for rent, car rentals and more, join us on this journey as you explore the plethora of rental options available that best suit your travel needs!

Unlock Guidelines for a Tempo Traveller for Rent

The measures imposed to control the spread of the covid virus are beginning to be relaxed. It is now possible to travel locally and to other states. In this new unlock phase, you can travel safely in a tempo traveller for rent. However, you should be aware of the following guidelines -

The safest way to travel with your family or friends is by hiring a tempo traveller from redBus. The vehicles are deep cleaned and disinfected regularly. 

All passengers must wear a face mask during the entire journey. Onboard the tempo travellers for rent, you will find a sanitiser. Your temperature will be checked before boarding.

The tempo traveller for rent will operate at 70% of its capacity for interstate journeys. You must also present a negative RT-PCR test report. There are tempo travellers for rent with different capacities, so you can select the one that suits your needs.

For inter-district travel, it is not mandatory to present an RT-PCR test, and the tempo traveller can run at its maximum capacity. To maintain safety, report any symptoms related to the virus immediately.

A tempo traveller for rent will allow you to attend any event, be it family, social or cultural. If you are still worried about using public transport, this is your best option.

What is a Tempo Traveler?

A tempo traveller is a luxury minibus with a seating capacity ranging between 12 to 30 people. Tempo travellers come with various features for a comfortable journey of passengers. They are spacious with ample room to stretch your legs and store your luggage. 

Why Should I Rent a Tempo Traveler?

Tempo travellers offer a variety of benefits that makes them suitable for renting. Some of the top reasons to book tempo travelers on rent are:

  • Tempo travelers are good for both short and long-distance journeys.
  • They are perfect for group travel ranging between 10 to 20 people.
  • You do not feel tired even in long hours of journey in a tempo traveler.
  • Tempo travelers are luxurious and offer a quality travel experience to passengers.
  • Unlike in public transport, you can enjoy the privacy of your group by traveling in a tempo traveler.
  • You have the luxury to not drive and sit back and relax with your peers. 

Occasions to Book a Tempo Traveler

Honestly, you can book a tempo traveler rental for anything you want. There is no fixed set of occasions on which you should consider this service. Some popular events to hire a tempo traveler for includes:

  • Corporate Events
  • Family Functions
  • Picnic 

Types of Tempo Traveler Rentals

redBus offers both AC and Non AC tempo travelers on rent throughout multiple cities of India. redBus partners with the best tempo traveler operators in your city to provide a convenient online rental service. The three types of tempo travelers brands that redBus offers are:

  • Force Traveler
  • Bajaj Traveler
  • Tata Winger Traveler

Seating Capacity of Tempo Travelers

The tempo travelers rentals by redBus have varying seating capacities. These includes:

  • 9 Seats+Driver
  • 12 Seats+Driver
  • 13 Seats+Driver
  • 14 Seats+Driver
  • 15 Seats+Driver
  • 17 Seats+Driver
  • 19 Seats+Driver
  • 20 Seats+Driver

Passengers can opt for any of these tempo travelers as per their requirements. They can mention the number of passengers at the time of booking the tempo traveler, so that redBus will show only the suitable seating capacity vehicles for their convenience.

Force Tempo Travellers

redBus offers the Force traveller to ease the challenge of travelling as a group. The tempo travellers for hire with redBus is ideal for a group of 9-20 people. These tempo travellers are available in different types and for both short and long trips for any occasion. 

Here is a bit more information about the force traveller for rent, the booking process, and what you can expect. 

  • There are mainly three models of tempo travellers available with redBus- Force traveller, Bajaj traveller, and Tata Winger traveller with a seating capacity of 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 19, and 20 seats. 
  • Force traveller or other models are available in Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Ahmedabad, etc. 
  • The rent rate differs with the city and is usually in the range of INR 17-32 per km or INR 200, 300, or 500 per hour. The driver allowance is INR 400 per day. 
  • There are local packages available in each city which is calculated from 4 hrs or 40 km at a cost of INR. 2300-5500, depending upon the city.  
  • The facilities or amenities inside the force traveller for rent differ with the model and seating capacity. They usually have reclining seats with comfortable cushioning, seat covers, LED TV, music system, charging port, overhead storage, back compartment storage etc.
  • You can hire a force traveller for rent by providing the details about your trip such as the type of trip- local, outstation, airport, etc., date of travel, boarding and destination details, and the number of passengers to get the best quote for the vehicles with options. 
  • The quote and the vehicle number, registration date and different photographs of the interior and exterior of the vehicles will be shared with you via email.
  • You can also see the number of times each vehicle was hired in the last month on the tempo traveller home page at the redBus portal. 
  • You can go through the details and photographs and then decide which of the Force traveller or the other ones that you want to choose. 
  • Once you choose a vehicle, we assure you that you will be getting the same vehicle. Otherwise, you will get 25% off. 
  • The Safety+ feature of redBus is applicable to the force traveller for rent as well. Safety+ means that the vehicles are cleaned and sanitized at the end of each trip, providing hand sanitisers for the passengers, all the staff and any other employees will be wearing face masks all the time while travelling, there will be regular temperature check-ups for the staff, and avoiding the provision of blankets and pillows. 

A few reasons to book with Ryde

With Ryde, customers have a plethora of vehicles to choose from such as tempo travellers, luxury cars such as Audis, luxury sedans, hatchbacks, minibuses and much more.

Prices match quality where Ryde vehicles that are clean and safe are provided at affordable rates.

Prices are kept transparent which means that the price that a customer sees on the platform would be the price that they have to pay. There are no hidden charges that the customer would have to pay. 

Vehicles come with well-trained drivers and staff who can help make your journey a lot more comfortable.

Customer support with Ryde is unmatched with their 24/7 customer service along with the availability of a chat and call-back facility. In-trip feedback support is also provided with Ryde.

Live tracking is available which can help you and your loved ones know where exactly the vehicle is located during the journey.

Along with these key advantages, customers can find vehicles offered by Ryde certified partners as well. Customers can easily distinguish between Ryde vehicles and regular vehicles by looking for the “ Ryde Certified Partner ” icon that would be available against the vehicle option. Some of the unique distinctions between Ryde vehicles from the regular vehicles that are offered are that Ryde vehicles come with drivers in uniform, good music, and amazing goodies that would come in handy on your journey.

Facilities Offered in Tempo Travelers

Tempo Traveler operators offer a variety of amenities and other services to make your travel journey comfortable. Though these services differ from operator to operator and the type of tempo traveler booked, some of the most popular ones include:

  • Recliner Seats
  • Music Player
  • Seat Covers
  • First Aid Box
  • Customer Support

Things to know before booking a tempo traveller on rent with redBus Hire

Under the current circumstances, a tempo traveller on rent makes the safest option for a group of 9-20 people to travel together. Such group travelling needs comfort and space, which these tempo travellers can assure you. Keeping in mind the safety and comfort of all, redBus Hire offers you the best vehicles from reliable operators. 

There are a few things to keep in mind before you hire the vehicle. These are -

A tempo traveller on rent is available in various cities of India.

 You can choose an AC or a non-AC variant having a seating capacity of 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, etc. 

A tempo traveller on rent is ideal for any occasion such as a wedding, pilgrimage, picnic, vacation, airport pickup, outstation drop-off, etc. 

The tempo traveller comes with a professional driver, and the tank is filled with fuel as well.

There are no additional payments or hidden charges, and the rental fare is calculated per km on a round trip basis for the outstation trips and as local packages for the short trips within the respective city for 24 hours duration.  

The rental charges for a tempo traveller on rent from Chennai to Kanchipuram could cost approximately INR 6000 for a distance of 75 km.

Tempo travellers on rent can be used for intercity and interstate trips by following all the necessary Covid protocols by the staff and passengers. redBus Hire also insists on wearing face masks and using hand sanitisers that are available on all vehicles. 

You can hire a bus from redBus online following these steps:

  •  Go to the redBus portal and enter 'City of Hire,''Starting Point' & 'Destination'
  •  Click search
  •  redBus will bring the best operators at affordable prices
  •  Select the bus operator and confirm the booking

Benefits of Booking A Bus Online

When you book online, the following benefits are offered:

  • Inventory - Access to leading vehicle providers in the city
  • Zero booking fee - Transparent booking. No hidden fee
  • Choose vehicle - Check vehicle images before making any choice

Operational City for redBus Tempo Traveler

The tempo traveler on rent service by redBus is available only in selected cities that include:

Tips for Booking and Traveling in Tempo Travelers

Here are a few tips that will come in handy while booking and travelling in tempo traveler:

  • Check the weather conditions of your destination city before booking the journey dates. It will not only help with travelling but packing as well. 
  • Compare the rates of different operators for the journey to get the best deal possible. 
  • Carry some snacks and a water bottle with you to avoid frequent stops on the road for buying them. 
  • Take care of your luggage and keep all the valuable items in your handbag. 

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Customer Reviews

Pricing table.

redBus hire helps you hire a bus from the best bus operators in your city.

We ask you a few simple questions regarding your trip. We work with the best operators in your city to get you detailed quotations, so that you get the best deal.

We are currently operational in Bangalore, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Hyderabad, Delhi and Ahmedabad.

Payment terms vary from operator to operator. Usually, operators ask for a 50% advance to confirm the booking and balance 50% at the start of the journey

Since we work with the best operators, the buses are usually reliable. In case of a breakdown, it is the bus operators responsibility to replace the vehicle during the journey

In case of outstation trips, Kilometers are calculated basis the return trip distance between the source and destination.Any extra kilometers which are used within the city and the distance from the Garage are not calculated.

Please email us at [email protected]

You can choose between AC & Non-AC tempo travellers on rent via redBus. redBus provides you with a variety of tempo travellers ranging from 9-seater to 20-seater. You can choose tempo travellers based on amenities via redBus. One can also feed additional requests in terms of vehicle type required on redBus at the time of booking tempo traveller rental.

redBus will provide you with operator quotes based on your trip details free of cost. You can compare the fare, amenities of different operators and can choose the best tempo traveller rental service. You will find vehicle images and the operator contact information in the quotes received from redBus.

redBus will collect your feedback after the completion of your trip. You can rate the operator and can also leave a review for their offered services. One should try to book tempo travellers from high rated operators on redBus. One can find affordable tempo traveller rental services on redBus.

No, you do not need to pay extra for the fuel. The fuel charges are included with the rent.

Yes, you can rent for the short drop-off trip as well. In such cases, go for the local packages which are most suitable.

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‘The Greatest Hits’ Review: Yes, She Could Turn Back Time.

A high-concept movie about music and grief lacks follow through.

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In an outdoor space bathed in magenta light, a woman and a man stand close to one another, heads touching, smiling. They both are wearing headphones around their necks.

By Alissa Wilkinson

“The Greatest Hits” literalizes the familiar heartache: You’re driving down the road, radio blaring at full tilt. Suddenly that song comes on, the one that reminds you of your ex, or of a time that was joyous but now is a sadness-tinged memory. Plunged back into that head space, you feel as though you’ve traveled through time. And the longing it prompts can be unbearable.

This is where Harriet (Lucy Boynton) finds herself, except instead of feeling as if she’s moving through time, she is truly hurtling through the fourth dimension. Since having lost her boyfriend, Max (David Corenswet), in a tragic accident, any song Harriet hears attached to memories of him catapults her, quite literally, back to the moment in their relationship when that song was playing. When she leaves the house, she wears noise-canceling headphones to protect against unexpected time travel provoked by radios and errant Spotify shuffles.

At home, though, she spends her nights trying to slip backward. Harriet has become obsessed with trying to return to a moment where she can set the world straight and ensure that Max won’t die, which means, even two years after his death, that she is still “hiding out in her grief,” as another character puts it. In the midst of this, at her grief support group, Harriet meets a nice guy named David (Justin H. Min), who’s dealing with loss of his own.

Ned Benson, who wrote and directed “The Greatest Hits,” has explored this territory before. His previous work, “The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby,” was a trilogy, made up of two films that explored a couple’s grief-stricken, tumultuous relationship from each of their individual perspectives, and a third that combined them. (As the title suggests, music was part of the story, too.) That film felt personal, and so does this one. It earnestly evokes the way grief mires us in memory, making us feel as if our personal timelines are slip-sliding and looping, eternally arrested in the past. Moving forward seems impossible.

But “The Greatest Hits” lacks the imagination of “Eleanor Rigby” and, at times, seems like it might be in the wrong genre. It’s easy to imagine a rom-com version of this movie, since the elements are all there — the hip location (mostly the Silver Lake and Los Feliz neighborhoods of Los Angeles), the meet-cute, the queer best friend (a mainstay of the genre , for better or worse), the crates of vinyl records, the pining, the hot guys, even the chemistry. But this movie lacks the lightness and humor of a rom-com, which might balance out all the dreary moments and make it feel more watchable. The version that exists feels more suited for lovelorn teens just off their first breakup than adults moving through profound loss and sorrow, more acquainted with the ways life can’t just stop when tragedy strikes.

“The Greatest Hits” proceeds slowly and repetitively, which doesn’t have to be a problem: The gentleness of the pace and storytelling gives the cast space to breathe and react to each other, to build relationships that feel reasonably authentic. Similarly, the music choices (which are all over the map both in genre and era) are fun and fresh, lacking the on-the-nose quality that a film with more bang-on choices might have provoked. But as it goes on, the movie begins to feel mired in its own high-concept conceit without space to develop it further. Is there a reason the only music that triggers time travel for Harriet is connected to Max? Are there tunes that throw her back to times she prefers not to remember? Why is it important to recall that she used to be a music producer?

There’s an interesting film dancing around the edges of “The Greatest Hits,” but there’s both too much sentimentality and not enough thought, and that’s too bad. For audiences in search of a good cry, it may still do the job. But for those of us for whom the music-driven time travel experience is still metaphorical, it’s cold comfort, a fantasy with no hope of fulfillment.

The Greatest Hits Rated PG-13 for some language and innuendo, plus conversations about death and grief. Running time: 1 hour 34 minutes. Watch on Hulu.

Alissa Wilkinson is a Times movie critic. She’s been writing about movies since 2005. More about Alissa Wilkinson

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  • What is Tempo Traveler and how it is better than Car Travel
  • Outstation Tempo Traveller

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Posted on June 25th, 2023

For any regular and avid Traveler. It is of utmost importance to Travel in comfortable and luxurious vehicles. They always make sure that they travel in a comfortable way to avoid fatigue. The vehicle nowadays comes with the best of Comfort and Luxuries. Tempo Travellers is one of the comfortable and Luxurious vehicles to ensure perfect Drive. Tempo Travellers comes with Many features better than Car Such as: –

Number of Seats or the Sitting Capacity In Tempo Vehicle

Tempo Travellers come with a sitting capacity of 9,12,15,16 Seats. It makes it one of the best options for travelling with mid-sized groups. Moreover, they come with the option of customizing seats for making them more comfortable. The seats are spacious enough like a sofa or maharaja seats along with reclining features. The pushback seats ensure a comfortable and fatigue-less journey for long-distance travel. Tempo Vehicle come with ample leg space or room. The seats also come equipped with bottle and glasses holders. The spilling drinks or falling of food is quite unlikely.

State of the Art Digital Entertainment

One can indulge in using all your gadgets like phone and Tabs on board as well without any trouble. Tempo Vehicle have the options of the led screen and DVD Entertainment players. LED Screen is installed in the vehicle and the entire coach is installed with the best-in-class speakers. The speakers are installed in such a way they give surround sound effects and theatre-like feelings.

Boot Luggage Space

it is important to have bigger or sufficient boot space while travelling in groups. It is usually seen when people travel with more luggage. Personal bags or common luggage like food, water etc. it is important to carry everything and properly keep them. The problems of luggage get resolved with Tempo Travelers’ bigger boot space for luggage.

World Class Interiors

People prefer to travel in their luxury cars or hired vehicle. The vehicles are quite comfortable and look classy with world-class interiors. Tempo travellers look good from the outside and come with state classy of the interiors like aeroplanes. Tempo travellers are famous for their comfort and luxury in every way. The seats and windows come with leather upholstery and curtains. The floor is carpeted with beautiful carpets.

The interior lights and music system add to the entertainment and elegance. The seats are well covered with leather upholstery. Beautiful Curtains on the windows adds to the ambience with splendid looks. The flooring and carpet on the floor along with LED Lights on the floor. The beats of the Music system define luxury in travel.

Great Technical Features

A Traveler does not pay much attention to the technical specifications unless the road is damaged or feel the bumpy ride. The traveller starts wondering about choosing the right vehicle with technical specifications. The travellers do not have to be bothered about them with Tempo Travelers because of their best suspension. They are designed considering the worst road conditions or off roads experience.

They don’t let you even feel the jerks or jumping due to bad or damaged roads. The vehicles are fortified with parking sensors and front and rear cameras. The tracking of the vehicle is done by a sophisticated GPS tracker. The Music System adds to the melody of your journey. The air-conditioning system is so powerful to make you comfortable in the high-temperature situation as well. Overall features come with a package commonly called Tempo Travellers. All these features add to the comfort and luxury of your ride.

In case you are looking for going to places with teams. The family trips to religious places. The friends and family travel together for attending events like weddings picnics or sightseeing. The teams travelling for the sports events or the long road trips for team building etc. Tempo Travellers suit all your needs and it is an ultimate choice. You can check out diverse options of the Tempo Travellers available for hire. The bookings can be made as per your choice to make the best and most memorable trip of your life.

The Tempo Travellers is the substitute for a minibus whereas the Cars are not. Cars are not as comfortable as smooth as Tempo Travellers. Tempo Travellers provide better legroom and boot space than any car available for travelling. Cars are just carriers of people with lesser space. If it is a small group of 3-6 people with small luggage, then no doubt the cars are good. But for any group of 7 or more Tempo Travelers are best of the option. Long journeys or travelling in winters especially where the luggage is more. It is advisable to travel by Tempo Travelers and avoid cars.

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University of Hawaiʻi System News

Record $517K raised to empower future leaders in travel industry management

  • April 11, 2024

people sitting on tables in a large ballroom

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Shidler College of Business ’ School of Travel Industry Management ( TIM school) held its 22nd annual Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism gala on April 10, at the Sheraton Waikīkī. Also marking the college’s 75th anniversary, this year’s fundraiser raised a record-breaking $517,000 thanks to the generous support of the hospitality and Hawaiʻi business community.

people with lei standing and smiling

“We’re proud to recognize Mufi Hannemann, Holden Lim and Kyo-ya as trailblazers in their industry, who continue to inspire current and future graduates,” said Shidler College Dean and First Hawaiian Bank Chair of Leadership Management Vance Roley. “Further, it’s incredible that over half a million dollars has been raised to support student scholarships. We applaud the efforts of our volunteer table sales committee and the 2024 honorees to greatly amplify our impact.”

2024 honorees

Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism honors individuals who have made significant and long-term contributions to Hawaiʻi ’s tourism industry. This year, the Legacy in Tourism Award was presented to Muliufi “Mufi” Hannemann; Holden Lim, BBA ’89 was inducted into the TIM Alumni Hall of Honor; and Kyo-ya Hotels & Resorts, LP received the Distinguished Service Award.

Hannemann was honored with the Legacy in Tourism Award for his vast contributions to the tourism industry and dedication to fostering the development of students. As president and CEO of the Hawaiʻi Lodging & Tourism Association, chair of the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority board, and board member of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board, Hannemann has played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s tourism landscape. His founding of the Pacific Century Fellows and service to the TIM school as an advisory council member further showcases his commitment to nurturing future leaders.

people sitting on tables in a large ballroom

Lim, president of Hospitality Link International, Inc. , was presented with the TIM Alumni Hall of Honor award, recognizing his professional achievements and continued support of the TIM school. Lim’s career in the hospitality industry began in 1989 at the Westin St. Francis in San Francisco and over the years, he contributed significantly to firms like HVS International and Sonnenblick-Goldman Company, orchestrating over $4.5 billion in real estate transactions. Lim remains engaged with the TIM school, currently serving on the TIM Alumni Association as secretary.

Kyo-ya Hotels & Resorts, LP , was recognized with the Distinguished Service Award for their contributions to Hawaiʻi ’s tourism industry and the community, providing many hours of service and volunteer hours to various local causes. Kyo-ya expanded its footprint across Hawaiʻi and California, including iconic properties like The Royal Hawaiian and Sheraton Maui. Additionally, Kyo-ya serves as a pipeline for hospitality careers, hiring numerous graduates from UH and mentoring high school and college students, ensuring the continuity of generations in the islands.

This year’s presenting sponsor was Marriott International; contributing sponsors were Bank of Hawaii; Central Pacific Bank; First Hawaiian Bank; Hawaiʻi Lodging & Tourism Association, Iron Workers Stabilization Fund & Iron Workers Local 625; KV & Associates and Stanford Carr Development; Kyo-ya Hotel & Resorts, LP ; “Sheraton Old Timers” group; and The Westin Maui and Trinity Investments. Hawaii Business magazine once again served as the 2024 media partner.

To support the TIM school or Shidler college, contact Jennifer Lieu, director of development at [email protected] . For a full list of past honorees click here .

Related Posts:

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Music | Outside Lands promoters to hold another huge…

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Music | iran fires drones and ballistic missiles at israel in unprecedented revenge attack, music | outside lands promoters to hold another huge concert in golden gate park, system of a down, deftones headline event.

Chino Moreno and the Sacramento band Deftones will perform at Golden Gate Park the weekend after Outside Lands.

The producers of Outside Lands are giving music fans a really good reason to spend another full day in August in Golden Gate Park.

Actually, they are giving them two good reasons:

System of a Down and Deftones.

Those two popular hard rock acts are set to headline a one-night-only concert at the historic park in San Francisco on Aug. 17.

The show — which runs 3 to 10 p.m. that day — also features a solid list of opening acts including The Mars Volta, Viagra Boys and VOWWS.

Tickets cost $169-$399 and go on sale to the general public at 10 a.m. April 12 via GoldenGateParkConcerts.com and Ticketmaster.com . Artist presales begin at 10 a.m. April 10, while there is a presale from Outside Lands promotor Another Planet Presents ( apeconcerts.com ) kicking off at 10 a.m. April 11.

“We are excited to be bringing such an iconic lineup to the city and what better venue than Golden Gate Park,” says Allen Scott, president of concerts and festivals at Another Planet Entertainment, which also books shows at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley, Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco and many other venues.

The concert takes place the weekend following the three-day Outside Lands music festival, which will host dozens of acts on multiple stages Aug. 9-11. System of a Down, Deftones and the other acts will perform in Golden Gate Park’s Polo Field, which is where the biggest of Outside Lands’ stages — the Lands End Stage — is located. (The Outside Lands lineup will be announced April 23.)

The Aug. 17 show will use much of the infrastructure erected for Outside Lands — such as the staging, production elements, bathrooms, etc. Yet, it will be a one-stage event and be contained to a smaller area than what one gets with the overall Outside Lands footprint.

This is the first year that Another Planet will be hosting a post-OSL concert in the park. The intention is for this to be an annual event, with the Berkeley-based promoters having gained approval to host one-to-three concerts in Golden Gate Park on the weekend following Outside Lands each year for the next three years.

Tacking on a second music event to a pre-existing festival is a cost-saving/synergy strategy that is employed by a number of music promoters. The best-known and most-successful example would be Southern California’s massive Coachella, which went from one to two weekends in 2012. Prior to that, it added the country music festival Stagecoach in 2007, taking advantage of the infrastructure that was already in place for Coachella at the festival site at the Empire Polo Club in Indio.

More recently, BottleRock Napa Valley announced that it would follow up its regular Memorial Day weekend festival with a two-day Latin music offering June 1-2 at the same site in 2024.

For this inaugural post-OSL Golden Gate Park concert, Another Planet is offering fans the rare chance to see System of a Down. The Grammy-winning SoCal rock band fronted by Serj Tankian has sold more than 40 million albums during a career that stretches back to the ’90s. The band is currently to make only one other performance in 2024, during their own sold-out Sick New World Festival in Las Vegas.

Deftones are also a sizable draw — and a local one at that. Formed in Sacramento in 1988, the Grammy-winning alt-rock act has released nine studio albums, the most recent of which is “Ohms” in 2020.

“We are expecting fans from not just the Bay Area but from across the US and internationally to travel to the city injecting money into the local economy,” Scott says. “From hotels to local restaurants and everything in between, this will be a great night of music and a great economic boost for the city.”

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TSA at JFK International Airport now using credential authentication technology to improve checkpoint screening capabilities

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NEW YORK —  New technology that confirms the validity of a traveler’s identification (ID) and confirms their flight information in real time is now in use at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoints at JFK International Airport.

This deployment is the latest generation of Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) to verify the identity of travelers. First generation CAT units are designed to scan a traveler’s photo identification, confirm the traveler’s identity as well as their flight details. The new CAT units, referred to as CAT-2, have the same capabilities, but are also equipped with a camera that captures a real-time photo of the traveler.

CAT-2 compares the traveler’s photo on the ID against the in-person, real-time photo. Once the CAT-2 confirms the match, a TSA officer verifies and the traveler can proceed through the checkpoint, without ever exchanging a boarding pass. The photo is then deleted.

The CAT-2 units are equipped with cameras on tablets and are used to match the face of the person standing at the checkpoint with the face that appears on the traveler’s ID such as the person’s driver’s license or passport. The technology enhances detection capabilities for identifying fraudulent documents at the security checkpoint. The photos are not saved and are only used to match the person standing at the travel document checking podium with the photo on the ID that is being presented.

“Identity verification of every traveler prior to flying is a key step in the security screening process,” said John Essig, TSA’s Federal Security Director for the airport. “This technology enhances detection capabilities for identifying fraudulent IDs such as driver’s licenses and passports at a checkpoint and it increases efficiency by automatically verifying a passenger’s identification. We just want to ensure that you are who you say you are.”  

As an additional feature, the unit is touchless meaning that the passengers insert their ID and do not have to hand it to a TSA officer. Thus the units reduce touchpoints and speed the process. Travelers insert their ID, look at the camera and if the ID is validated, the traveler then proceeds into the checkpoint. Even with TSA’s use of these units, travelers still need to check-in with their airline in advance and bring their boarding pass to their gate to show the airline representative before boarding their flight.

“This latest technology helps ensure that we know who is boarding flights,” Essig said. “Credential authentication plays an important role in passenger identity verification. It improves a TSA officer’s ability to validate a traveler’s photo identification while also identifying any inconsistencies associated with fraudulent travel documents.”

The system also confirms the passenger’s flight status by verifying that the individual is ticketed to fly out of an airport on that same day.

CAT-2 units have what is referred to as a “library” of IDs programed into them that allow the technology to authenticate more than 2,500 different types of IDs including passports, military common access cards, Department of Homeland Security Trusted Traveler ID cards, uniformed services ID cards, permanent resident cards, U.S. visas and driver’s licenses and photo IDs issued by state motor vehicle departments.

Photos captured by CAT-2 units are never stored or used for any other purpose than immediate identity verification. Travelers who do not wish to participate in the facial matching process can opt out in favor of an alternative identity verification process.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Lanette Mayes

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

40-facts-about-elektrostal

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

  • Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
  • With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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