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The Gear4 StreetParty 5 portable speaker dock is an attractive and easy-to-use audio system which has high-quality feel to it.
Gear4 has done a great job in giving the system an attractive appearance which will blend in with Apple's modern portable devices, especially those coloured in black. The speaker mesh covering that spans the front side's entirety, helping to create a uniform style. The rear side's high-gloss finish is eye-catching and stylish, but due to its poor scratch resistance it isn't a particularly smart choice for a portable speaker dock that is likely to experience rough handling conditions when owners are on the move.
Although it is marketed as a portable speaker dock, the dimensions of Gear4's StreetParty 5 are approaching the upper limit of what we would consider to be ‘portable'. One could easily slip the dock into a medium-sized handbag without hassle. For a reference to size, the StreetParty 5 can be treated as a thick internet tablet for carrying purposes; it'll easily fit into a plastic bag or rucksack, but not a pocket or large purse.
Priced at £49.99 directly from Gear4 or from Currys/PC World, it is clear that Gear4 is charging extra due to the dock's use of Apple's Lightning connector, but so is every other company. At just under £50, the StreetParty 5 is sat towards the lower-priced segment of the market and has the potential to compete against similarly-priced products.
The Gear4 StreetParty 5 portable speaker dock with Lightning connector is a solid, low cost unit that offers good audio performance and an attractive style.
Pros:
- Uses Apple's Lightning connector.
- Portable enough to be carried in a bag.
- Flip-out stand and dock enhances portability.
- Sleek and modern design.
Cons:
- Rear side scratches easily.
- Volume levels not great for outdoor usage.
KitGuru says: A solid product which is worth a shot to users wanting a Lightning-compatible portable speaker dock.
