Smart speakers

When it comes to home audio and gadgets, you can't beat smart speakers for streaming all your favourite tunes directly from your smartphone, tablet or MP3 player. But you can do so much more than this; these voice-activated devices are the do-it-all home assistants that let you get connected search the web and manage your schedule too.

Decided it's time to invest in some smart speakers? Consider the Amazon Echo with its built-in Alexa voice service. Nothing's too much trouble, whether you need to make a call, ask a question or give some instructions for compatible devices. Multi-room music capabilities mean you can rock out to your favourite track wherever you are in the house. And for optimised sound and a built-in smart hub and temperature sensor, go for the Amazon Echo Plus.

Amazon's Alexa is also built into the Sonos One, giving you seamless voice control over your music, whether your listening via Apple or Amazon, Spotify or just the radio.

Die-hard music fans might also want to consider the Google Home Max for truly spectacular sound quality courtesy of a mica-reinforced cellular woofer. And if you're after something ultra-compact, consider the tiny but powerful Google Nest Mini in chalk or charcoal.

Internet-enabled smart speakers aren't the only answer to great quality audio in your home. Wireless speakers can connect to your devices via Bluetooth, so you can still play your music with cable-free convenience.