NEED TO KNOW

What are active speakers? Essentially, they are speakers you may stream music directly to, thanks to their built-in powered amplifiers and wireless capabilities. In short, they offer high-resolution streaming and audiophile sound quality in a space-saving package.

Aren’t they just stereo Bluetooth speakers? Most include Bluetooth streaming, but quality active speakers also offer inputs such as 3.5mm, RCA and optical – found either on the back of one ‘master’ speaker, or in a separate ‘hub’ which streams to the speakers – so you can connect a CD player, turntable etc.

Do they sound good? With designs that include multiple amplifiers tuned specifically for each speaker driver, active speakers from leading brands such as KEF, Bowers & Wilkins plus brands you’ll find mentioned in the reviews above, can revolutionise your enjoyment of wireless streaming.