Music for chair massage sessions: Best fun-meets-functional portable audio gadgets
Music is an important part of the massage experience ... even when it's just a 15-minute chair massage. When you're traveling and carrying heavy equipment, extra weight can be a burden. Hauling around a heavy boombox, small radio, or detachable speakers can make you feel clunky and off-balance. Fortunately, there are now so many ways to fit all the music you want in the palm of your hand. With the trend of portable music on MP3 players and mobile phones, people have started getting really creative with lightweight, even battery-free, speakers and sound amplifiers for your mobile devices.
We've rounded up a few to give you an idea of what's out there. Have fun!
iHorn for iPhone - $3 to $10
(pictured red iHorn for iPhone 3, 3G, 4, 4S) or (5)
- No external power needed
- Easily keep iPhone stands vertically and horizontally
- Functions well in hand free mode
- Washable, dirt and scratch resistant
This handy little device is not an amplifier in that there are not batteries, circuitry or true speakers. It's actually a cleverly designed megaphone and iPhone stand. Toss it in your bag without worrying about broken parts or other things to hold your phone. When you're traveling with heavy equipment like a portable massage chair or table, every ounce counts and not worrying about "one more thing" (you have your phone with you anyway) makes this device a really nice addition to your set up. At just $10 (for the iPhone 5) on Amazon, it's a great deal as well.
Jawbone Big Jambox - $249
- Wireless speaker and speakerphone
- Huge hi-fi sound that can fill any room or outdoor space
- Small and compact; easily move it from room to room or take with you
- Up to 15 hours of continuous play on a single charge
- Connects via Bluetooth or 3.5mm stereo cable
If you're looking for a speaker that can do double duty (for chair massage events and for your treatment room) and you don't mind investing a bit more for quality sake, then the Jawbone Big Jambox might be a good fit for you. It's incredibly portable but gives you a bigger, better sound than the iHorn, and it works with any device. Charge it up and get up to 15 hours of play. Connects with bluetooth or a stereo cable so you can use your MP3 player or mobile phone. It has a great rating on Amazon (4.5 out of 5 stars), with over 650 reviews!
Philips DC315/37 Speaker System for 30-Pin iPod/iPhone with LED Clock Radio - $30 (used) up to $180 new
- Supports most iPhone and iPod models with Universal Dock Connector
- Play and charge your iPod or iPhone
- Dual alarms with weekday and weekend settings let you wake to iPhone, iPod or radio
- Gentle wake up with increasing alarm volume
- Built-in FM digital tuner plus auxiliary input
The Philips brings a clock radio and charging function to the portable table, as well as a sound system for your iPhone or MP3 player. If you need to charge your phone and can plug in while you're out, then this is a handy choice.
Eco-Amp - $10
This lightweight, portable, eco-friendly horn will amplify the sound of your built-in phone speakers. Most of these sorts of devices are only made for iPhone. It can fold flat and assemble in a second. It's functional origami, which is pretty cool and a great conversation piece. Also, pretty affordable at just $10.
Or there's always this, for the very frugal, crafty, DIY-ers out there:
GOgroove Pal Bot Portable Rechargeable Android Speaker - $25
Are you sitting there thinking, hey enough with the iPhone gadgets already! We have something for you Android users out there. With over 255 rave reviews on Amazon, this little guy boasts a big sound and quality design, and lots of features. It's compatible with a myriad of devices, has a long-lasting rechargable battery, dual side-firing drivers & a passive subwoofer, and get this... His eyes glow blue when he's awake and purple when he's asleep and charging. If his purple eyes are flashing, it means he's tired and needs to recharge. Aww, Pal Bot, you're too cute.
You tell us: What are your favorite audio gadgets or DIY hacks you use for massage sessions on the go? Do you even bother with massage music when you're at events? Let us know in the comments!