THE OVERALL WINNER IS… B&O Beosound Explore

>$ 350 > bang-olufsen.com

WE’RE IMPRESSED

Excellent balance; attractive, tough design; great small size.

WE’D IMPROVE

Sound isn’t expansive; no 3.5mm audio jack input.

THE LAST WORD

Small and ultra-tough, the Explore excels in both looks and build quality. It also sounds seriously impressive, although it’s a bit lacking in oomph when compared to the JBL. However, once you factor in its much smaller and more portable package – not to mention that epic battery life – it rapidly becomes the obvious choice for your backpack, whether you’re heading to the park or the mountains.