Boombotix Bluetooth Street Speaker

Do you remember the singer Shaggy with his mega hit many years ago, Mr. Bombastic? Well, that certainly set off a trend in speak-nging (speaking/singing, you heard it here first!), and I guess that “better late than never” applies to the Boombotix Bluetooth Street Speaker. The Gunmetal Grey and Purplex Purple colors will retail for £49.99, while those who want something different can settle for the Camouflage and Carbon Fiber make up which will cost you 10 quid more, that is £59.99. So, what can the Boombotix Bluetooth Street Speaker deliver in terms of performance?

Touted to fuse urban style with quality audio, the Boombotix Street Speaker relies on Bluetooth connectivity to hook up to your media playback devices. You can clip it to your belt, slip it in a bag or hook it up to a bike, and voila – here you are, a veritable, walking library of tunes that you can share with the rest of the world. Of course, who are we to stop you from just leaving it perched on your desk? That’d be defeating the purpose of its existence though, as if you settle for the latter, you might as well purchase a more decent set of desktop speakers.

Offering up to 8 hours of non-stop audio playback, the battery requires approximately a full hour to recharge. It is also showerproof, and despite being wireless, an aux input is there just in case you have non-Bluetooth devices that want to share the music love.

[ Boombotix Bluetooth Street Speaker copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Creative’s D5XM self-calibrating modular wireless speaker gets previewed at IFA (video)

Creative's D5XM selfcalibrating modular wireless speaker and DSXM subwoofer make beautiful music together video

If you’ve been following our IFA coverage this morning (and shame on you if you haven’t), the Creative D5XM’s name ought to ring a bell or two. After all, it wasn’t so long ago that we were telling you all about the Creative D5 Air. The D5XM, however, while similar in name, is a decidedly more serious deal than the AirPlay speaker bar. Creative is hyping the product as “the world’s first self-calibrating modular wireless speaker” — it’s a mouthful, but its certainly a cool prospect. The rectangular speaker can be used alone or as part of a larger speaker system, communicating with other D5XM devices and the DSXM — coincidentally, “the subwoofer for the world’s first self-calibrating modular wireless speaker.” What are the odds?

You can string up to three D5XMs together and two of the subwoofers, if you’re really, really into low-end. No word on pricing for these guys yet, but we imagine that such a set up would get fairly costly, fairly fast. Creative’s referring to the three-at-a-time deal as “party mode,” in which all three devices are playing the same thing simultaneously — you can also split them up into discrete channels, using a mobile device (iOS or Android). That communication (which occurs via Bluetooth) happens thanks to the chip in the speaker — the same as the one we saw on the Sound BlasterAxx. Click on through for more info and a video.

Continue reading Creative’s D5XM self-calibrating modular wireless speaker gets previewed at IFA (video)

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Creative’s D5XM self-calibrating modular wireless speaker gets previewed at IFA (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 06:36:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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TDK introduces new wireless Boombox and two new weatherproof speakers

TDK introduces new wireless Boombox and two new weatherproof speakers

TDK‘s Boombox rocked minds and windows alike with its modern take on a retro classic. Buoyed by its success, the casette-maker of old is back with new audio hardware at IFA. Three devices, again on the speaker front. First up is the Boombox Wireless, which is a similar, but updated, design from the original and features not only streaming sans cables via Bluetooth, but inductive charging, too. If you don’t want to cut the cord completely, there’s a 3.5mm aux input, USB slot for charging plus an FM radio and headphone output. Next up is the Wireless Weatherproof Speaker, which despite being described as “rugged” and boasting an IP 64 weather compliant design, looks like any regular device. It, too, has Bluetooth streaming and inductive charging, along with 3.5mm input and built-in microphone. If these two were all looking a little bit oblong, then the curious Wireless Charging Cube might be for you. Yep, it’s Bluetooth streaming and the same wire-free charging, but this time that goes both ways. Plonk your Qi induction compatible device on top, and it’ll juice that while you jam (there’s a non wireless charging / charger version also.) How much do these slabs of sound cost? The Boombox is $399, the Wireless Weatherproof is $250 while the Wireless Charging Cube is $399. Not a peep on availability at this time, we’ll connect you up though, once we get it.

Continue reading TDK introduces new wireless Boombox and two new weatherproof speakers

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TDK introduces new wireless Boombox and two new weatherproof speakers originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 17:56:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nokia and JBL’s PlayUp NFC-equipped Bluetooth speaker wants to pair up with your Lumia

Nokia and JBL's PlayUp NFCequipped Bluetooth speaker wants to pair up with your Lumia

Nokia may have partnered with Monster for its last batch of Lumia-focused audio wares, but now JBL is also in on the deal. Say hello to first product from Nokia and JBL, the successor to the Play 360 portable speaker, dubbed PlayUp. The noiseybox is packed with Bluetooth and NFC, and as for the design, it’s made to complement “current and future Lumia smartphones.” Like the Play 360, the PlayUp is a cylindrical, top-shooting speaker with physical volume controls, a large power button near the bottom and a 3.5mm jack for plugging in PMPs. The PlayUp weighs 760g and it measures in at 118 x 118 x 128mm — a fair bit chunkier that the 360 (110 x 110 x 124mm and 514g). Despite the heft, the PlayUp’s battery is rated for 10 hours of use, which is disappointingly just under half of the 360’s replaceable cell. Charging gets handled via micro-USB and — thankfully — a wall adapter is included.

Naturally, the notable change is JBL’s baked-in audio expertise. The unit can pump out a healthy 89dB of volume (aided by a bass port), which isn’t shabby, but still shy of the ear-ringing 120dB the $99 UE Mobile BoomBox can produce. There’s no word on whether tow units can pair wireless stereo like its elder, or what version of Bluetooth is packed inside, but we’ll be sure to let you know once we find out. Nokia also plans to release an app for the device to allow for remote control.

Given that Nokia has knack for consistency across its products, it’s likely that the white, black, cyan and bright yellow color choices will match up with the WP 8-loaded Lumias at their September 5th unveiling. The PlayUp will be available for €149 (about $186) before the year is out, which includes a travel pouch and a 3.5mm audio cable. In the meantime, hit the source link for more details.

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Nokia and JBL’s PlayUp NFC-equipped Bluetooth speaker wants to pair up with your Lumia originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:26:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Logitech’s UE Smart Radio, Boombox, and Mobile Boombox give you wireless audio on the go (hands-on)

Logitech's UE Smart Radio, Boombox, and Mobile Boombox give you wireless audio on the go

In addition to producing a slew of new headphones, Logitech’s latest collaboration with Ultimate Ears has produced a pair of Bluetooth speakers and a Smart Radio. The UE Smart Radio comes equipped with 802.11b/g WiFi on board to pull audio from directly from the likes of Spotify and Pandora or from local sources like Mac, PC, iOS or Android devices. A 2.4-inch LCD is on the front, along with the usual audio controls, plus there are six preset buttons that can be programmed to easily access playlists from myriad locales. It’s also got a rechargeable battery, good for a claimed six hours of playback, and will set you back $180 when it goes on sale next month.

Logitech’s UE Mobile Boombox replaces the firm’s Mini Boombox, but keeps its $100 price. It comes in five colors (red, yellow, blue, white and black) and can both stream your tunes via Bluetooth and serve as a speakerphone using its omni-directional mic. You can pair up to eight devices with the Mobile Boombox, and its rechargeable battery promises up to ten hours of listening pleasure. In our brief ears-on, we found it offered clear sound, though unsurprisingly, it struggled to pump out much bass. That said, we really liked its solid rubber construction, and can see it holding up well to abuse. Its big brother, the $250 UE Boombox, has much better low-end response and a fuller sound generally thanks to its eight drivers. Like the Mini, it also can pair with eight devices and has a rechargeable battery, though it promises only six hours of audio. We really dig its cast aluminum chassis and clean lines, and the handle on top begs to be used in old-school fashion — with the Boombox propped up on your shoulder bumping some choice hip-hop. Both of these Bluetooth speakers start shipping this month, and our friends in grand Europa get them in September.

Continue reading Logitech’s UE Smart Radio, Boombox, and Mobile Boombox give you wireless audio on the go (hands-on)

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Logitech’s UE Smart Radio, Boombox, and Mobile Boombox give you wireless audio on the go (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 15:09:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony NFC Wireless Bluetooth speaker SRS-BTM8 makes debut

Those folks from Sony had a lot to say this afternoon at IFA. Their new smartphones and tablet won’t be their only devices packed with NFC capabilities either. They’ve just taken the wraps off of a few accessories we mentioned earlier today, including their new SRS-BTM8 NFC-capable wireless speaker system. Check it out below.

While this new accessory didn’t make it up on stage it is certainly worth taking a look at. Sony simply describes it as, “all it takes is a touch.” Using NFC capabilities in both their upcoming Xperia lineup, and the Xperia Tablet S announced today you’ll be able to simply tap the speaker for instant music playback. Whether that be on device music, or using Sony’s Music Unlimited.

They’ve also announced that everyone who purchases a new Xperia line device will get 60 days of Music Unlimited absolutely free to try — so that’s a thing. The new Sony SRS-BTM8 speakers have the usual Bluetooth option for easily streaming music or conference calls, but now the addition of NFC makes sharing and playing music a breeze. As I’m sure you all know, just tap your phone to the speaker and the music will start — similar to Android Beam only for music.

The new Sony NFC wireless speakers will come in both white and black, as shown above, and are built for portable use with 20 hours of battery life and a built-in handle. Obviously you’ll be able to power it via any outlet, but out by the pool the four AA batteries will keep the beats rolling. Just like most of Sony’s announcements today we don’t have pricing or release date details, but will keep you in the loop once we learn more. Check out the rest of Sony’s announcements below and be sure to follow our IFA 2012 Hub for all the important gadget news!

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[via Sony]


Sony NFC Wireless Bluetooth speaker SRS-BTM8 makes debut is written by Cory Gunther & originally posted on SlashGear.
© 2005 – 2012, SlashGear. All right reserved.


Sony debuts NFC and Bluetooth-enabled SRS-BTM8 wireless speaker

Sony debuts NFC and Bluetoothenabled SRSBTM8 wireless speaker

Smartphones, tablets and headphones aren’t the only NFC-enabled devices that Sony announced at IFA today. While it didn’t make it on stage during the keynote, the company’s also officially announced a new wireless speaker that boasts NFC connectivity in addition to the usual Bluetooth — an addition that lets you play music simply by tapping the speaker with your smartphone. As you can see, the speaker (known only as the SRS-BTM8) is also available in your choice of black or white, and it’s clearly designed with portability in mind, boasting an integrated handle along with space for 4AA batteries that promise 20 hours of playback time. Unfortunately, there’s no word on pricing or availability just yet, but we’ll keep you posted if we hear anything.

Continue reading Sony debuts NFC and Bluetooth-enabled SRS-BTM8 wireless speaker

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Sony debuts NFC and Bluetooth-enabled SRS-BTM8 wireless speaker originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 11:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Edifier Sound To Go PLUS portable all-in-one speaker system

Don’t you think that the boombox is so 1980s? Well, if you happen to think along that train of thought, and figured out that the new millennium obviously needs something far more powerful when you want to share your favorite rockin’ tunes (or if you want to carry out a flash mob somewhere with wicked dance moves), then you would obviously need some sort of highly portable and yet powerful audio system.

Now, with the Edifier Sound To Go PLUS portable all-in-one speaker system, I am quite sure that it will not be able to fill up the entire hall with sound, and neither is it any match for noise on the road, but at least in smaller, more intimate enclosed areas, it is able to pull its own weight and pack quite the aural punch as well. Why not take a look at the Edifier Sound To Go PLUS portable all-in-one speaker system in the extended post and let us know what you think about it after that?

The Edifier Sound To Go PLUS portable all-in-one speaker system was specially designed as an all-in-one micro speaker with a rechargeable Lithium Battery within. It will come encased in an elegant brushed aluminum chassis, boasting a 2 channel stereo with 2 full range 1.25” drivers on each channel which are, unsurprisingly, magnetically shielded. Not only that, it will also come with a built-in ‘Class D’ amplifier and a 3” x 1.25” oval passive radiator.

The presence of an auxiliary input will allow you to hook it up to multiple host devices including smartphones other MP3 enabled device. The Sound To Go PLUS itself is a self-contained portable mini speaker system which will deliver exceptional audio performance above and beyond any integrated laptop or tablet speaker, and is ideal for home, business and travel use.

Expect to enjoy up to 10 hours of non-stop audio playback with Sound To Go PLUS, where you can juice up the Lithium Ion battery thanks to the included USB cable. Each $49.99 purchase will be accompanied by a soft protective carrying pouch for safe transportation wherever you are.

Product Page

[ Edifier Sound To Go PLUS portable all-in-one speaker system copyright by Coolest Gadgets ]


Ontama Speaker Lets You Take Your iPhone into the Shower

Personally, I have no interest in bringing my gadgets in the tub or shower with me as it’s one of the few places on the planet where I can truly escape from technology and relax. But for those of you who always need to be connected, or at least need musical accompaniment when in the shower, you might want to check out this unusual looking gadget from Japan.

ontama speaker 1

The Ontama Speaker looks like something that might have been hanging in Willy Wonka’s edible candy garden, but it’s actually a water-resistant speaker you can use with your gadgets. Just snap open the bulbous plastic container, place you iPhone, iPod or other media player inside, plug in the 3.5mm audio jack and seal it up.

ontama speaker 3

The odd looking speaker can then be hung up in your shower, or placed on the edge of your bathtub without fear of your precious electronic gadget getting wet. I wouldn’t float the thing in the tub though, as I don’t think it’s truly waterproof. The Ontama is available in a variety of colors, and you can find them over at Rakuten for about $13 (USD). You’ll probably spend more on shipping from Japan or Korea than on the speaker itself.

ontama speaker 2


Logitech teases new Ultimate Ears lineup, says it’s bringing ‘power to the music’ on August 29th

Logitech teases new Ultimate Ears lineup, says it's bringing 'Power to the Music' on August 29th

Having most recently introduced products like its water-friendly K310 washable keyboard and that TV Cam HD, Logitech’s now apparently prepping a fresh Ultimate Ears portfolio for all sound lovers out there. Via its UE page on Zuck’s social network, the company’s teasing a plethora of products with some rather suppressive shots that don’t quite tell us what’s on the other end, though we can slightly see new headphones and speakers will be the focus of the main ‘Power to the Music’ event in a couple of days — or August 29th, to be exact. For now, it looks like we’ll have to keep wondering, but you can get a better hint for what to expect by tapping on the Facebook link below.

[Thanks, Khaled]

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Logitech teases new Ultimate Ears lineup, says it’s bringing ‘power to the music’ on August 29th originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Aug 2012 15:31:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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