The speaker's upper-mids emphasis helps if you're using this as a speaker for your TV (yes you can do that using the audio input). Unless indicated otherwise, all settings are cleared and reverted to their original out-of-box state. The system is compatible with the free SoundTouch app-this app controls music sources and presets the system.

For instance, we initially had difficulty adding music from a Twonky server on a networked laptop (it simply wouldn't find it), while the Sonos system had no problem. Dynamic expression is another relative strength, with the power to spotlight large-scale shifts and, while not exceptionally emotive, the subtlety to contour expression well enough so as not to become boring. Embedded into the top is a panel of large buttons, dominated by six numbered preset keys that let you access favourite tracks, albums or radio stations quickly – one of the SoundTouch 30’s most useful features. A silver panel below the OLED display adds a touch of glamour, while an illuminated Wi-Fi icon at the top tells you it’s online.The Bose is still essentially a rather bland yet sturdy box, which dwarfs the Sonos Play:5 and Bluesound Pulse 2 - it gets extra beauty pageant points for its glossy, patterned panels. It was fine for streaming processed pop or country music but when faced with a metal track such as Metallica's "Enter Sandman," the sound was on the verge of falling apart (although Bluetooth streaming has improved over the years, you're still dealing with compression issues). What began as two tabletop speakers and a portable has become an entire suite of wireless multiroom speakers. The Bose simultaneously aims for both bass punch and enhanced vocal clarity but falls down a little at high volumes, where it can sound aggressive with overly bassy or trebly tracks, and distorts.

Yes, SoundTouch speakers are compatible with select NAS drives, including Synology’s DiskStation, Passport + and Western Digital’s My Cloud™, so you can stream your personal music library even while your computer is off. The remote enables the same functionality as the system’s button pad (power, volume, set/play presets, auxiliary mode). trading as Vaughans are a credit broker and are Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Well, the Bose speaker comes with a few features the Play:5 doesn't have: Bluetooth connectivity (in addition to Wi-Fi), a remote, and a presets system that allows you to get your favorite playlists or Internet radio stations up and running instantly.

Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. When the SoundTouch range was first introduced you needed to connect each speaker to your PC via a USB cable, and this was light years behind Sonos' wireless system. The third-gen presses forward even more, so it’s out with Airplay and in with Bluetooth, which should please Android users.After listening to a variety of songs through the SoundTouch 30, its sound is best described as “meaty”. With Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, and Apple AirPlay 2 compatibility, you can wirelessly stream whatever you want, however you want. Using the system buttons / remote: Once presets have been set using the app, press a preset number on the button pad or on the remote control to play that preset. Hi Fi Excellence operate custom install services for all Bose premium products, our installation team generally cover an area of approximately 50 radius of Coventry but we can cover further if requested.