Ignoring the semi-professional but ultimately pedestrian looks, here is a pair of punchy loudspeakers which actually seem to enjoy the act of playing music. Lengthy listening sessions never tire and the wide open soundfield and detailed imaging are a pleasure to behold.

JBL has a reputation as a loud brash rock n roll brand. If my main source of music was classical and easy listening, the tonality and get-go attitude of the 4305P may not be exactly what you are looking for. But if the Stones, Led Zep, The Dead, Bowie and the Black Keys are on your usual playback rotation and you love the look of vintage gear that plays homage to a day when your music idols were at their most creative, the JBL 4305P is a great option with a ton of rock ‘n’ roll cred!

The small and wireless JBL 4308P is definitely worth considering for anyone who wants better and more catchy sound from compact speakers that take up limited space and are easy to use. The fact that they combine Bluetooth with high-resolution streaming and physical inputs makes them useful for a lot of people, who will be able to use the small JBL speakers for everything from streaming series on the TV to party music and concentrated listening. Quite simply, an excellent all-round speaker that will give the owner years of music enjoyment.

Small in footprint but big everywhere else, the 4305P Studio Monitor are attractive streaming speakers if space efficiency and entertainment are priorities

Impressive digital integration for a full set of streaming formats. A heartily robust bass and low mid response for a bookshelf speaker. Remote control for navigating the array of analogue and digital inputs. No room correction EQ beyond a -3dB bass shelf. The high frequency response is a little shy, lacking a true studio grade transient detail