Portable speaker Sony SRS-XB40. Sony portable speakers: review of the top five models Speaker specifications
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Various information and excerpts from foreign micro-reviews. I myself have not listened to it yet, but I asked the Sony representative for a copy for the test. If you manage to get the device, then there will be a detailed review. In the meantime, there is, that is, especially since I have left-sided otitis media, and in the next few days I won’t be able to listen normally to anything.
The portable speaker Sony SRS-XB3 is the latest development of the Japanese company, which took into account all the previous mistakes, made new ones and provided us with unprecedented autonomy. Unprecedented is exactly a day of non-stop operation from the built-in battery.
A few photos cut from the official site.
Evaluating design is a thankless idea, but I like this kind of design. I hope it will be at least as good live.
Minus speakers Sony SRS-XB3
Now we cannot charge the speaker, like Sony srs-x33 - from charging our favorite smartphone. micro usb no more. It is difficult for me to overestimate the idea with such a charge on the previous column. It was really cool, because the weight of the charger did not interfere with the trip. Now the column is no different in this regard from all the others, such as Bose.Here is the proof:
However, 24 hours battery life Might be enough for short trips. Charger may not be taken at all.
Now about the good and interesting. Sizes have increased slightly compared to. However, it was enough to fit 48mm speakers. The previous speaker had a speaker size of only 34mm. Of course, this is the most important factor for boosting bass, so that marketers do not write there.
And they write this:
EXTRA BASS is powered by a unique processor digital processing signal that amplifies low frequencies
Then, as if remembering that there are more dynamics here, they correct themselves and write the following:
Full-range driver features a large 48mm diaphragm, powerful magnet and long-throw cone for deep bass sound.
I note that the previous model was quite bass for itself, and the last field trips proved this perfectly. Thus, in theory, it turns out that since the Sony SRS-XB3 has more dynamics, then it should bass by 20 percent stronger. I don't know how much better, but definitely stronger. For a portable speaker, this is a definite plus.
Column Specifications
For the first time people from Sony hesitated to lay out characteristics. Today the fashion is likened to Rolls-Royce. It was only necessary to add that the power of the column is “sufficient”. But no, they only modestly mentioned that the electricity consumption is 30 watts. We will assume that this is power, especially since the srs-x33 had 20 watts of testosterone, and now we have a larger size.There is NFC, there is pairing with the same column, exactly like that, there is USB output for recharging devices (of course, these weak iPhones of yours).
Supported codecs are: SBC, AAC, LDAC. I think that's enough for such a little guy.
BLUETOOTH version 3.0. Nothing has changed here.
Now, my dear readers, I will tell you what I have unearthed in the depths of foreign blogs. You will be surprised, but nothing new - again compared with Bose soundlink bluetooth 3. Well, as much as possible, because American acoustics cannot boast of anything special, except for the size. Apparently, I stumbled upon American blogs or fans.
People write that "a couple of Sony speakers do bass and Bose sound pressure, but nevertheless, they will not change their Bose for Sony." Paradox. Let my speaker sound worse, but it's from Bose.
As evidence of the soundlink 3's steepness, they cite cleaner and more open mids! And I even believe them. Yes, the mids are very good there. But my God, the column is for a party, to voice kebabs, and not to listen to opera at home. Well, you understand, yes, what I mean?
Although I will say more, Sony is preferable at home, since the American does not reproduce very low bass at all, and Sony somehow does it, which gives a completely different impression of music. And this is about the 33rd model. I hope the SRS-XB3 sounds much better. Otherwise, why bother with all this upgrade? For battery and splash protection?
People write that the column will endure splashing, but no more swimming. Battery per day is great for weekends, but I want improvements from all sides.
Conclusion.
While thoughts are like this - any improvement in the parameters of the SRS-XB3 compared to the X33 is wonderful. But I would have preferred improvements in sound. This is the most important thing.
The official price of 11,990 rubles hints that either the exchange rates are sad now, or the column is a miracle, how good. What will you bet on?
Written on May 31, 2016.
PS, summer is coming tomorrow, the season portable speakers. Do right choice, friends, go shopping and listen!
By connecting two SRS-X11 units with via Bluetooth, you can in...
Powerful sound in a compact cube.
Listen to music in wireless mode up to 12 hours and rate powerful sound low notes. Cube-shaped portable speaker SRS-X11 with Bluetooth enabled delivers powerful sound despite its modest size. Place it next to your computer or smartphone, or place a pair of these speakers in your room...
Powerful sound in a compact cube.
Listen to music wirelessly for up to 12 hours and enjoy the powerful sound of low notes. The SRS-X11 cube-shaped portable Bluetooth speaker delivers powerful sound despite its modest size. Place it next to your computer or smartphone, or place a pair of these speakers in your room before the party starts for powerful stereo sound.
Designed for amazing sound.
Enjoy music anywhere anytime. The cube-shaped speaker design is the epitome of powerful sound, deep bass from dual passive radiators, and a total output power of 10W.
More bass in a compact package.
Two passive radiators deliver deep, resonant bass despite the speaker's surprisingly small size.
Create your own audio system with two speakers.
By connecting two SRS-X11 units via Bluetooth, you can choose to play in "Stereo" mode to create stereo sound, or in "Sound mode" to play one audio output at the same time.
Taking it with you is easy.
Life in motion is no reason to give up music. With 12 hours of battery life, you can enjoy listening to your favorite songs indoors or outdoors.
Up to 12 hours of music.
Listen to your favorite music all day long. A fully charged battery provides up to 12 hours of listening time. Add a soundtrack to the adventures of your life - take the speaker with you on a trip or to a party.
Touch, connect and listen.
To play music via Bluetooth, simply touch an NFC-enabled smartphone or tablet to the SRS-X11 audio system.
Sound in a stylish shell.
Add music to your kitchen, living room or bedroom - The SRS-X11 is an elegant addition to any room.
Design that speaks for itself.
The design of the SRS-X11 audio system impresses and combines style and essence. Strict outlines emphasize a sophisticated minimalistic design that will harmoniously fit into any interior.
I used to be terribly annoyed by people walking down the street with portable speakers and imposing their “amazing” musical taste on all passers-by. By the way, after the test, such people did not stop annoying me, but I discovered the meaning of having such an accessory for myself.
Thirdly, the speakers are very compact and convenient to take with you.
For testing, I got 2 speakers from Sony SRS-XB10 (orange) and SRS-XB20 (green), looking ahead, I’ll say right away that I liked the latter more, but first things first.
Appearance and design
The portable speakers have a rounded case, the SRS-XB10 has a rubberized and pleasant to the touch, the buttons are located under this coating on the side of the case.
The SRS-XB20 Soft Touch has plastic, the buttons are clearly visible and located on the top of the panel. It is also worth noting the special backlight, which can be controlled through special application. You can safely throw the speaker into a bag - I would call such a case anti-vandal, I can’t imagine how you can pull out a button or break something here.
Sony did not limit the number of speaker colors: SRS-XB10 is presented in 6 (red, orange, green, blue, white and black), SRS-XB20 - in 5, no orange. In the hand, both speakers lie well, do not slip and do not cause discomfort when worn.
Connection
Music can be transferred to both speakers in the same ways: AUX and Bluetooth, there is also the possibility of connecting via NFC. To connect via Bluetooth, you must hold the speaker power button until the light next to the button begins to actively blink. Next, in the phone menu (on which Bluetooth must also be enabled), select desired device. It is easier, of course, to simply connect the music source to the speaker using an AUX cable.
Working hours
The SRS-XB10 is claimed to run 4 hours more (up to 16 hours), while the SRS-XB20 runs up to 12 hours. In this case, it should be understood that the speaker's operating time is affected by the method of music transmission (wireless or using AUX), the volume of work and the enabled Extra Bass function.
Moisture protection
Both speakers are positioned as waterproof according to the IPX5 standard. I did not dip them into the water, but I am sure that they will survive a little rain without any problems. I will decipher, IPX5 - protection against the effects of water jets, but I still would not recommend checking.
Sound and Extra Bass
My test started with a small SRS-XB10 (5W) speaker. To be honest, I was surprised by the ratio of size, sound quality and sound volume. The bass really was: I was very impressed with what this "baby" is capable of with the use of Extra Bass technology, which makes the sound richer and deeper. I was even more shocked when I plugged in the SRS-XB20 (25W) - the sound it can deliver doesn't match its relatively small size. Moreover, the sound quality remains excellent both with Extra Bass on and off. Forced shutdown This feature is only available on the SRS-XB20, the button is on the case, but I bet once you turn Extra Bass on you won't want to turn it off.
An interesting bonus: Sony made it possible to use two speakers at once to create an even more amazing musical atmosphere, thanks to stereo sound. If you and your friends have speakers from the same SRS-XB20 series and above, you can create a single musical organism by connecting up to 10 speakers via Bluetooth.
It is worth noting the possibility simultaneous connection up to 3 music sources to 1 column. You can adjust the volume of the sound both on the speaker body and on the device itself that delivers the sound.
Portability
The SRS-XB20 is certainly bigger and heavier than the SRS-XB10, but the question is how and where you want to use your portable speaker. SRS-XB10 is 2 times smaller and lighter than its sister, however, I would not say that it transmits sound 2 times worse or quieter: despite the difference of 20 W, my hearing did not feel the difference. A bonus of the SRS-XB10 is a portable ring that you can use to attach the speaker to your bag, backpack while hiking, or, for example, to the steering wheel while cycling.
Outcome
During the use of both speakers, I found only one drawback - the lack of a charge indicator, a smaller drawback is the lack of an AUX cable in the kit.
But everything is forgiven for the sound! These devices are ideal for use at home: for example, if you are not satisfied with the standard "acoustics" of your laptop, you want a richer sound while watching a movie in the evening, or you like to dance in the kitchen while cooking.
The use of speakers is not limited to four walls: relaxing in the forest, having a picnic in the park, going to the lake, walking on the street (although I do not support this point), working in the country and much more - all this can be “colored” by your track list. The speaker batteries have withstood all my trips to the countryside, and the companies with which I rested were satisfied with the quality and volume of the sound.
If you still have little sound, then the following information is for you: Sony has not limited itself to 2 speakers, there are 4 of them in the line. With a maximum power of about 65 watts.
Portable acoustics Sony SRS-XB 20 black color will allow you to enjoy your favorite music everywhere - at home, on a walk, on a trip and on vacation. With such a device, you can have a party when you want it!
Sound and rhythm
The system provides high-quality sound musical compositions of any genre, meets the requirements of the most demanding music lovers:
- the Extra Bass key will enhance the bass;
- linear illumination makes the speaker more attractive in the dark;
- a capacious battery is designed for a long period of battery life;
- the model is not afraid of moisture - you can take it to the beach.
The minimum weight allows you to carry acoustics with you everywhere, the compact device can easily fit in a backpack or bag.
Indoors and outdoors
The functionality of portable speakers attracts many users, if desired, you can combine up to 10 devices in a single system for a real holiday. Management is simple and convenient, thanks to the application Music Center. Bluetooth connectivity provides reliable connection at a considerable distance from the source, and compatibility with most modern carriers does connecting easy.
Unfortunately, the product is currently not available for purchase. You will be able to buy wireless acoustics Sony SRS-XB 20 Black
A few months ago, Sony introduced a whole line of portable speakers with an eye on the youth audience. In today's review, I will consider two older models: Sony SRS-XB30 and SRS-XB40. Is there a wow effect from these devices? Definitely.
Equipment
Seeing the size of the boxes, I immediately dreamed about the gigantic configuration Sony speakers SRS-XB30 and SRS-XB40. After all, these devices are not the cheapest class, so the manufacturer must justify the cost with the maximum satisfaction of its customers. But no. The delivery set is extremely minimalistic and the same.
- the column itself
- charger (SRS-XB30 power supply has 5V<–>3A, and SRS-XB40 - 9.5V<–>2.2A)
- instructions (which I had to use for the first time in a long time)
In general, in terms of equipment, Sony could not surprise me. It's just that everything is very high quality and tightly packed, nothing more. 
Design
Frankly, when I was waiting for these speakers, I was more concerned about the design than the sound quality. As for the latter, I did not worry at all, knowing who the manufacturer was. Sony is one of the few companies that still continues to produce their proprietary audio players under the Walkman brand. So, thanks to many years of experience and the availability of technology, they have every opportunity to create best devices in the speaker market.
A characteristic feature of the design of the entire line is a rectangle with rounded edges. And the older the model, the more similarity with a brick. Surely this is due to the fact that each subsequent model increases in size and weight. Here's a size comparison with the Creative D100.
If Sony SRS-XB30 can still be called portable and portable acoustic system, then his older brother - Sony SRS-XB40 is already a stretch. This is due to the weight of the device (1.5 kg), and not to its dimensions. But I believe that both devices are designed for stationary use at home or at a party.
Depending on the Sony models offers several color options. Of course, these are the most popular colors: black, red and blue (the Sony SRS-XB30 also has green and white versions). But the black version seems to me the coolest and most brutal. 
By the way, I’ll say right away about the corps. The material of both speakers is very easily soiled and literally gets dirty from everything! Even for photographs, I could not bring them into perfect condition. 
Initially, I thought that the case was made of metal, the devices are so confident and heavy in the hands, but in fact it is plastic, which is very reminiscent of rubber in tactile sensations. This also provides moisture protection, because both models have the IPx5 standard. 
Otherwise Sony SRS-XB30 and SRS-XB40 design excellent! I will tell you separately about each side.
The front side is covered with a metal mesh that protects the two speakers and the passive radiator. Along the perimeter of this grid, from the outside, there is one of the lighting elements. 
On the top side are all the buttons and the NFC tag (I wonder if it is possible to pay for purchases in the store?):
- Extra Bass - a normal press activates an additional bass effect, and a long press turns on the backlight.
- A set of standard buttons: volume, start / pause, call acceptance (holding this button will let you know the percentage of battery charge), single operation mode / creating a pair from another speaker.
- The main button with a normal press turns the column on or off. A long press turns on Bluetooth to connect to your mobile device.
The rear passive radiator is also covered with a metal mesh. Next to it is a cover with rubberized seals, under which there are the following ports: 3.5 mm audio input, charging input and USB port.
Now the speakers can not only play music, but also charge mobile devices. Quite a handy feature if you often go on a picnic.
Here, by the way, is an example of the backlight: the Sony SRS-XB40 is shown on the left, the Sony SRS-XB30 on the right.
Surely everyone immediately noticed the difference. Unfortunately, the Sony SRS-XB30 lacks backlighting for the speakers themselves. Although this element is largest area in the older model and looks more spectacular than the strobe and neon strip around the perimeter.
It also features the fact that the light passes through the metal mesh. The walls of a dark room are immediately painted with characteristic patterns.
Specifications
Differences between the two speakers are minimal: mostly dimensions, weight, and amount of backlighting. Although Sony has claimed a smaller battery for the SRS-XB30, the official documentation says up to 24 hours of continuous operation for both models.
I think that, due to the lack of backlighting of the speakers, the operating time of the younger model is on par with the older one.
Sony SRS-XB30
- rated power 64 W (but this is not accurate, later, I will explain why this is so)
- Bluetooth 4.2 and NFC support
- water protection at IPx5 level
- hands-free support
- 2 backlight elements: along the perimeter of the metal mesh and strobe function
- dimensions: 228 x 82 x 86 mm
- weight 980 grams
Sony SRS-XB40
- frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz (sampled at 44.1 kHz)
- rated power 64 W (that's for sure)
- Bluetooth 4.2 and NFC support
- there is a 3.5 mm audio port and 1 USB input
- battery up to 24 hours of continuous operation
- water protection at IPx5 level
- hands-free support
- 3 lighting elements: perimeter, strobe function and speaker illumination
- dimensions: 279 x 100 x 105 mm
- weight 1500 grams
Sound quality
For the past few years I have been using the Creative D100 portable speaker system. It must be admitted that the device is morally and technically obsolete. Admittedly, I didn't think about it that often before.
After listening to just a couple of tracks on Sony speakers, I realized that it was time to change my device. In just a few years of technology wireless sound jumped very far. The difference in sound is felt instantly.
But we must remember that in the first place sound Sony SRS-XB30 and SRS-XB 40 created for electronic music. After all, the manufacturer itself positions its own line as a replacement for nightclubs. Therefore, I did not get almost any pleasure from listening to rock music. Only if there is a powerful bass guitar in the composition. 
In terms of sound quality or volume, I did not notice any difference at all between the two models.
Firstly, I never turned the sound up to the maximum volume, because there was a risk of simply going deaf, and the neighbors would immediately run to the door of my apartment. However, I never once got speaker wheezing.
Secondly, Sony officially revealed the power of only the older model SRS-XB40. She also added that the SRS-XB30 differs only in dimensions and a smaller battery. Therefore, by the usual logical chain, I came to the conclusion that the power of the speakers of the two models is at the same level. 
Acoustic systems have a really large margin of volume. A little less than half the full scale on the smartphone was enough to hear the music clearly in the most remote parts of the apartment.
So speakers Sony SRS-XB30 and SRS-XB40 they will definitely not let even the most passive party participants fall asleep and they can be safely used in large rooms or in nature.
Sony has its own application for operating iOS systems and Android. The application performs the functions of a kind of "hub" responsible for synchronizing, configuring and managing all multimedia devices of its own production.
In general, there is nothing innovative in the application. But there were enough problems:
- I still consider myself a geek and usually figure it out without the help of instructions. But, I never managed to connect the two speakers into a single synchronous audio system. It seems that according to the instructions there is nothing complicated, but the application itself loves to freeze and show the usual black screen when something goes wrong. Only restarting the application helps.
- I also failed to connect via NFC. Not on iPhone 7 Plus, not on . If in the first case the limitation of iOS itself, then on Android there is some kind of flaw or a too intricate connection, where few people will figure it out. But the Bluetooth connection works just great! The speaker quietly plays music even at a distance of 15-20 meters from the smartphone.
I really want the manufacturer to be able to refine their application and simplify all processes. Still, this is not a device from a third-tier company, so that you have to “shamanize” the whole evening to get the result.
The speaker system is from a great Japanese company with a price of an average smartphone from , and Plug & Play is not implemented at the proper level. How did it happen?
There is also a separate Fiestable app. It is somewhat reminiscent of the stock program for controlling the backlight. Only there are a little more possibilities - there is a huge number of built-in templates. The backlight is already trying to get in time with the music, but Sony additionally offers us other settings with the priority of any color. Or set up everything with my own hands. The last option is much tougher.
Outcome
Has Sony managed to make a quality product? Definitely. With the Sony SRS-XB30 and SRS-XB40 speakers, anyone can become the center of attention at a noisy party, thanks to great sound and the original lighting system.
At the same time, these devices are perfect for arranging your own room with stationary acoustic systems. 
It is better to overpay a couple of thousand at once, but enjoy a full-fledged light show throughout life cycle devices. I can assure all readers that the backlight feature is not on once or twice. Everyone can find a use for it.