STACK #217 November 2022

LIFE TECH FEATURE

visit stack.com.au

Bridging connections A Philips Hue Bridge is the brain of the Hue ecosystem. When connected, this little white box lets you remotely control up to 50 Hue lights via the app if you’re out, or with Alexa, Google and Homekit voice assistants if you’re in. Some types of Hue lighting will require the Bridge for full smart control.

IN US

Y ou’ve got the gang together for a big party speakers will get everyone moving and grooving – they’re portable, connect via Bluetooth, and pump out some seriously big sound (make sure the neighbours are invited). And if your outdoor area has sizeable real estate, you can link additional speakers to reach every corner. Most smart and party speakers are compatible with popular ecosystems like Alexa and Google for voice control, and getting the party started is as easy as streaming playlists from a phone – or plug in and play from a USB stick. Smart speakers offer great versatility and multiple connectivity options. They can double as an intercom and speakerphone for calls, control smart lights through a compatible ecosystem, give you news and weather on demand, and access the popular music streaming services. If you want more oomph, party speakers are powerful music machines that not only bring bass you can feel, but also include jacks for a guitar and microphone, and karaoke functions for the brave. Like all outdoor devices, always check for water resistance, especially if hosting a pool party. And big battery life is also a must to keep your shindig going all day/night long. Sonos Move Portable Smart Speaker BRING ON THE BEATS night, now all you need is a soundtrack to go with it. Smart speakers and dedicated

RS continued

ENTERTA OUTDOO

JBL Partybox 710 Bluetooth Speaker This tower of power doesn’t just pump out awesome sound, it also creates a clubbing atmosphere with a customisable, kaleidoscopic light show – all controllable from the Partybox app. Guitar and dual mic inputs let you play and sing along, and an IPX4 splashproof rating makes it ideal for pool parties. Simply wheel it to where you need the music to be. Sony SRS-XP500 X Series Portable Bluetooth Party Speaker This oblong party starter delivers punchy bass and clear vocals along with inbuilt mood lighting. Access music from a connected phone or USB stick; join in with a karaoke microphone, or plug in a guitar. Get up to 20 hours of party time from the big battery, and splash resistance when perched by the pool.

Garden gear When it’s time to entertain, you’ll want the garden looking its very best, but you don’t need to hold a hose. The Connect Smart Water Controller easily manages watering via the Connect SmartHome app, or voice control. Turn the water on and off remotely, schedule watering times and water volume, and check how much you’re using. The rechargeable battery features a solar panel for longer life.

Combining the portability of a Bluetooth speaker with the connectivity of a smart speaker, the versatile Move covers both bases. This fully weatherproof speaker delivers a wide soundscape and deep bass, plus the convenience of inbuilt Google

Movies by moonlight Enjoy a movie night under the stars or add music videos to enliven a party with a smart portable projector. Beam a 100’’ picture on a sheet or the side of the garage with the compact Samsung Freestyle Smart Full HD Projector , which brings smart TV functionality and streaming services outdoors, and also lets you cast from smart devices via the SmartThings app.

and Alexa for voice control. Simply stream your tunes via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and get moving!

46 NOVEMBER 2022

jbhifi.com.au