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Jamie Carter


BRAVEN BRV-1 BURTON 
One of the few Bluetooth speakers that are safe around swimming pools and on beaches, the BRV-1 Burton outdoor speaker (HK$1,490, hmv.com.hk) is completely waterproof and toughly constructed. Measuring 105 x 106 x 162mm and weighing 346 grams, the diminutive BRV-1 Burton's subwoofers nevertheless give surprisingly convincing bass levels, and its built-in battery keeps running for an impressive 12 hours. As well as topping up a phone and a speakerphone feature, it can attach simultaneously to two phones. Has versatility and value, but its styling isn't for everyone.
 

B&O BEOPLAY A2
A luxe choice with unbeatable audio, the green, grey or black BeoPLay A2 (HK$3,398, store.apple.com/hk) comes with a useful carry handle, but also a lot more bulk. At 142 x 256 x 44mm and 1.1kg, this is a solid speaker, but its dual drivers give a uniquely powerful stereo sound. Its larger size helps, but also makes room for a much bigger battery. Music plays for 24 hours, so stealing a few hours to charge a smartphone is less of a bother. Great for home or long trips.
 

SONY SRS-X5
Available in red, white or black, the SRS-X5 (HK$1,680, sony.com.hk) works well with Xperia phones and other Android devices, which link to it via a quick tap. Music streaming is then automatic, and it will re-route calls through the speaker, too. A special SongPal app is also available that optimises music for the SRS-X5 and adds Spotify. Measuring 221x118x51mm and weighing 1.2kg, the SRS-X5 has control buttons along the top and a USB slot on the back for topping up a smartphone. It plays music for eight hours, but bass is lacking for such a large unit.
 


Sound check: three portable Bluetooth speaker-chargers

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Great for the beach, pool-side or a picnic, these portable Bluetooth speakers let you play tunes wirelessly and charge your phone while you're at it


Great for the beach, pool-side or a picnic, these portable Bluetooth speakers let you play tunes wirelessly and charge your phone while you're at it.


Sound check: three portable Bluetooth speaker-chargers

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Great for the beach, pool-side or a picnic, these portable Bluetooth speakers let you play tunes wirelessly and charge your phone while you're at it

Great for the beach, pool-side or a picnic, these portable Bluetooth speakers let you play tunes wirelessly and charge your phone while you're at it