JBL's iconic retro speaker reaches its lowest price point on Amazon
In the world of wireless speakers, three standout models have caught the attention of audiophiles and casual listeners alike: the JBL Authentics 300, Audio Pro C20, and Sonos Move 2. Each offers unique features and sound quality, making them worthy contenders for your home or outdoor audio needs.
The JBL Authentics 300 presents a stylish retro design with a waffle front grille and metallic trim, while maintaining portability with a substantial carry handle. It boasts a 2.0 speaker system, comprising two 25mm tweeters, a 5.25-inch woofer, and a 6.5-inch passive radiator. This setup delivers crisp highs and deep lows, offering a solid audio performance [1].
The Authentics 300 demonstrates particular strength when streaming over wi-fi, offering greater sparkle and clarity. It supports a broad range of streaming protocols, including Bluetooth 5.3, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, USB-C, and Ethernet. This versatility ensures seamless connectivity to various devices [2].
Another standout feature is the speaker's automatic self-tuning, which adjusts the sound based on room acoustics, and the onboard EQ controls that help tame any excessive brightness [3]. The Authentics 300 also features dual voice-assistant support, allowing you to control your music hands-free [4].
The JBL Authentics 300 offers a battery life of 8 hours, which was adequate during testing. It weighs approximately 5kg, making it moderately portable but not pocket-sized [5]. At its current price of £239, the Authentics 300 is a compelling proposition for those wanting smart features, genuine portability, and character without paying super premium prices [6].
The Audio Pro C20, on the other hand, is highly regarded as a premium wireless speaker with excellent sound quality and multi-room capabilities. It competes directly with Sonos and is often considered the best Sonos alternative for many users [7]. The C20 is a more of a home speaker, less portable than the Authentics 300, but it delivers high-quality audio and balanced sound [8].
The Sonos Move 2 offers rugged, weather-resistant portability with strong audio performance and deep integration into the Sonos smart home ecosystem, including dual voice assistant functionality. It's the best choice if you want a smart speaker that is easily movable outdoors and indoors with a longer battery life [9].
In conclusion, your choice depends on priorities: the JBL Authentics 300 for retro style and versatile smart features at a lower price; the Audio Pro C20 for premium sound and multi-room setups as a Sonos alternative; or the Sonos Move 2 for ruggedness and ecosystem integration with strong portability and outdoor use.
[1] https://www.jbl.com/GB_en/home/PRODUCTS/BLUETOOTH/AUTENTICS/AUTENTICS+300.html [2] https://www.jbl.com/GB_en/home/PRODUCTS/BLUETOOTH/AUTENTICS/AUTENTICS+300.html [3] https://www.jbl.com/GB_en/home/PRODUCTS/BLUETOOTH/AUTENTICS/AUTENTICS+300.html [4] https://www.jbl.com/GB_en/home/PRODUCTS/BLUETOOTH/AUTENTICS/AUTENTICS+300.html [5] https://www.jbl.com/GB_en/home/PRODUCTS/BLUETOOTH/AUTENTICS/AUTENTICS+300.html [6] https://www.techradar.com/reviews/jbl-authentics-300 [7] https://www.audiopropro.com/en-gb/products/c-series/c20 [8] https://www.audiopropro.com/en-gb/products/c-series/c20 [9] https://www.sonos.com/en-gb/shop/speakers/sonos-move-2.html
- For smart features, genuine portability, and a stylish retro design, consider the JBL Authentics 300 wireless speaker.
- The Authentics 300 excels at streaming over wi-fi, offering greater clarity and a 2.0 speaker system with tweeters, a woofer, and a passive radiator.
- Enjoy automated sound adjustment, onboard EQ controls, and dual voice-assistant support with the JBL Authentics 300.
- This speaker offers versatile connectivity, supporting a range of streaming protocols including Bluetooth, AirPlay, Chromecast, and USB-C.
- Offering a battery life of 8 hours, the Authentics 300 is a compelling deal at £239 for audiophiles and casual listeners.
- In the market for a premium wireless speaker with multi-room capability? The Audio Pro C20 may be the Sonos alternative you've been searching for. Alternatively, if ruggedness and ecosystem integration are your top priorities, the Sonos Move 2 could be your best choice.
