Portable speaker Sony SRS-X11 Black. Test drive Sony SRS-XB10 and SRS-XB20 portable speakers Anytime, anywhere

I used to be terribly annoyed by people walking down the street with portable speakers and imposing their “amazing” taste in music on everyone passing by. By the way, after the test, such people did not stop annoying me, but I discovered the meaning of having such an accessory.

Thirdly, the speakers are very compact and easy to take with you.

I received 2 speakers from the company for testing. 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

Portable speakers have a rounded body, the SRS-XB10 is rubberized and pleasant to the touch, the buttons are located under this coating on the side of the body.

The SRS-XB20 Soft Touch is made of plastic, the buttons are clearly visible and are located on the top of the panel. It is also worth noting the special lighting, which can be controlled through a special application. You can safely throw the speaker into your 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 has not limited the number of speaker colors: the SRS-XB10 comes in 6 (red, orange, green, blue, white and black), the SRS-XB20 comes in 5, no orange. Both speakers fit well in the hand, 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, and there is also the possibility of connecting via NFC. To connect via Bluetooth, you must hold the speaker's power button until the light next to the button begins to actively blink. Next, in the phone menu (on which Bluetooth must also be turned on), select required device. It’s easier, of course, to simply connect the music source to the speaker using an AUX cable.

Working hours

SRS-XB10, according to the stated characteristics, works 4 hours more (up to 16 hours), while SRS-XB20 up to 12 hours. It should be understood that the operating time of the speaker is affected by the method of transmitting music (wireless or using AUX), the operating volume and the enabled Extra Bass function.

Moisture protection

Both speakers are positioned as waterproof according to the IPX5 standard. I didn’t dip them in water, but I’m sure they’ll survive light rain without any problems. I’ll break it down, IPX5 – protection against the effects of jets of water, but I still wouldn’t recommend checking it.

Sound and Extra Bass

My test started with the small SRS-XB10 (5W) speaker. Frankly, I was surprised by the ratio of size, sound quality and sound volume. The bass was really there: I was very shocked by what this “baby” is capable of using Extra Bass technology, which makes the sound richer and deeper. I was even more shocked when I connected the SRS-XB20 (25W) - the sound it can deliver belies 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 body, but I bet once you turn Extra Bass on, you won't want to turn it off.

An interesting bonus: Sony has 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 higher, you can create a single musical organism by combining up to 10 speakers via Bluetooth.

It is worth noting the ability to simultaneously connect up to 3 music sources to 1 speaker. You can adjust the sound volume both on the speaker body and on the device itself that produces sound.

Portability

Of course, the SRS-XB20 is larger and heavier than the SRS-XB10, but the question is how and where you want to use the portable speaker. The SRS-XB10 is 2 times smaller and lighter than its sister, however, I would not say that it transmits sound 2 times worse or is quieter: despite the difference of 20 W, my ears did not perceive the difference. A bonus of the SRS-XB10 is a portable ring, which you can use to attach the speaker to a bag, backpack while hiking, or, for example, to the handlebars while cycling.

Bottom line

While using 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 package.

But all 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 richer sound during an evening movie or you like to dance in the kitchen while cooking.

The use of speakers is not limited to four walls: relaxing in the forest, 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 lasted all my trips to nature, and the companies with whom I vacationed were pleased with the quality and volume of the sound.

If the sound is still not enough for you, then the following information is for you: Sony company not limited to 2 columns, there are 4 of them in the line. With maximum power about 65 W.

In modern times, it is not so easy to choose the right portable speakers. New devices regularly go on sale, and old ones depreciate in value. In order not to make a mistake and not overpay for Bluetooth speakers, you need to know for sure the models that are especially popular now.

Mass production of Bluetooth speakers began several years ago, their production was carried out by well-known brands, among which the Sony brand stood out. As more and more people began to prefer active recreation, such as cycling and walking, such speakers have become a necessity for listening to their favorite songs on the road. Our review today presents the TOP 5 best portable speakers from Sony in 2017.

Speaker Sony SRS ZR5

The new Sony SRS ZR5 wireless speaker does not belong to portable devices because of its size. However, due to its ability to work remotely, it is included in our review.

1. Appearance. Let's say right away that the Sony SRS ZR5 wireless speaker is not entirely portable, as it has large dimensions (6.3 x 3.9 x 3.9 inches), weighs about 1.72 kg and runs on mains power. However, it attracted us with its wireless connectivity. The model is available in white or black. The front part with two sides is covered with a grille, under which there are speakers low frequencies(front 0.6 inches with high frequency delivery). There is a start button with its own light sensor on top, there are also three touch keys that control the volume, and there is also a button for switching modes (USB, Bluetooth, audio input, network and HDMI). There are many modes, so there are enough corresponding connectors on the rear panel. In addition to space for the power cable, there are inputs: HDMI, AUX 3.5 mm, LAN and USB. As mentioned above, the speaker can be used as a wireless audio player or connected to a computer, home theater via wire, etc. The software can be updated using the Update/WPS button on the back panel of the device, there is also a Set Up button (also settings) and Stereo Pair (the ability to connect several speakers to one sound source). On top there is an NFC zone for working with mobile devices, Wi-Fi is supported. Please note that there are no accessories included in the package.
2. Peculiarities. The Sony SRS ZR5 speaker can be easily mounted on the wall thanks to the threaded connection on the rear side. The SongPal program is included free of charge, which is suitable for almost any wireless music system from the Sony brand, although its role is not the main one. But it makes it easier to update software, connect another speaker, adjust the equalizer and control network parameters. The presence of LDAC promotes high audio transmission (better than Bluetooth). With one speaker only mono sound will be played.
3. At work. Tracks with intense mid-level bass are digitally processed in the Sony SRS ZR5 so that the sound does not become distorted when the volume is increased. Such a speaker is capable of producing sound at a fairly high volume; sometimes it seems that it has a built-in subwoofer, although this is not the case. Low frequencies are especially clearly audible from the device, as are mids. Overall, the impressions from the Sony SRS ZR5 are pleasant, its sound is balanced. If something doesn’t suit you, you can always make adjustments using the equalizer.

Portable speaker Sony SRS X11

1. Equipment and design. Included with the speaker you can see: a blister box, a rubberized strap and a cord USB charging. The Sony SRS X11 portable speaker has a special appearance with dimensions of 6.1x6.1x6.1 cm and weighs 215 grams. The shape of the device is a cube with cut corners, and the chassis consists of polycarbonate, so there is no doubt about the rigidity and reliability of the structure. Half of the sides of the cube body are equipped with steel grilles, under which the speakers are hidden. The remaining sides are made of plastic and have a “Soft Touch” coating that is pleasant to the touch. True, such a coating attracts dust and leaves fingerprints, but not so much. All controls are located at the top: volume key, call button (there is a microphone in the speaker), as well as on/off or reset. There is a built-in ADD key on the back (required for connecting additional speakers of the corresponding model), a Reset button and USB input-micro for charging with AUX. The bottom edge is equipped with light sensors that notify you about the charging level, bluetooth turned on, and the connection channel when connecting several speakers. The groove for the loop is also on the bottom edge. The Sony SRS X11 portable speaker is for sale in several color options: red, black, mint and white. Due to its size and weight, such a musical device is pleasant to use.
2. At work. By sound quality wireless bluetooth Many users rate Sony SRS X11 speakers as good. The volume here is quite normal for private use at home. 10 W is enough for a room of 20 meters. The detailing is well thought out and the sounds do not mix. The device charges within three hours via USB, and work time According to manufacturers, it is approximately 12 hours.

Portable speaker Sony SRS XB2

1. Equipment and appearance. If we talk about the packaging, the Sony SRS XB2 wireless speaker practically does not have it, since the delivery package is quite meager: charging, instructions and the speaker itself. Therefore, let's move straight to the design. The device is available in different colors, there are many of them, but most of all users purchase a column of acid yellow or green flowers. The dimensions of the portable media device are quite compact: 191x62x65 mm, and weighs only 480 grams. The body consists of metal and matte plastic that is resistant to fingerprints. NFC territory begins at the top, Right side is equipped with buttons as usual. There are no sensors here, all the keys are very ordinary: on/off button, Bluetooth control, call answering key and pairing function. There is a good quality speakerphone, so in a quiet environment it will not be difficult to communicate through the speaker. All buttons are rubberized and have light sensors. At the back there is a cover under which the AUX and USB-micro inputs are located. Note that the plug tightly covers the connectors and is not so easy to remove. Protection from water droplets reliably protects the device from rain and fog, but we do not recommend immersing it in water (especially salty water). The Sony SRS XB2 portable speaker we are considering will not move around the table, even on maximum volume, since there are 4 large legs here. Thanks to large selection colors and fashionable things, such as flashing sensors and convenient buttons, the speaker looks expensive, but is reasonably priced.
2. Work and sound. As the manufacturers themselves state, Sony SRS XB2 speakers can work for 12 hours and gain a full charge in 3 hours. Thanks to the Extra Bass function, it is possible to experiment with different tracks, although the quality is not very strong. There is support: DSEE (improves mp3) and Clear Audio+ (optimizes frequency). For high-quality sound, several speakers are built into the device, 42 mm each, and a radiator is installed in the center. There is no complaining about the sound, its volume is good and it is clean.

Portable speaker Sony SRS XB3

1. Equipment and appearance. What you can expect from an inexpensive speaker is a small package, with just the Sony SRS XB3, power supply and instructions in the box. The device can be available in six different colors, of which the most unsightly is black, and the most interesting is blue or light green. The speakers are reliably protected by a metal mesh, and most of the body is made of plastic with an attractive texture, with rubber inserts. The upper part was equipped with control buttons, such as: start and shutdown keys, volume adjustment, turning on Extra Bass, call button, activating pairing and connecting an additional speaker. From two SRS XB3 you can listen to stereo sound. At the top there is an NFC area, and at the back under a metal grille there is a passive radiator hidden, near which there is an audio connector, a reset key, a charging socket and a USB input (capable of charging different devices). All of the above elements are located under a protective plug. At the bottom there is a rubber pad with legs that provide good stability to the device. The dimensions of the speaker are 211x80x83 mm, and the weight is 930 grams. It's suitable for hiking, but don't forget about the extra space for the power supply. According to the manufacturers, the Sony SRS XB3 can easily cope with splashes, but complete immersion under water is dangerous for it.
2. Work and sound. First of all, we should note the support for the proprietary LDAC codec from the manufacturer Sony, which interacts with smartphones of its own manufacture. Due to this, the sound quality increases several times. The built-in microphone is quite good and in a quiet place you can communicate using it. There are plenty of buttons for setting up the device and it’s nice that there are no touch keys, and light sensors help you find the right button in the dark. From the documentation we learn that the column works for two days, but in real time no more than 20 hours, although this is also a normal indicator. The sound comes from two speakers with a frequency of up to 20,000 Hz, there is support for DSEE (improves sound) and Clear Audio+ (optimizes frequency) technologies. If you don't have enough bass, use Extra Bass. Using the Bluetooth key, you can quickly switch to another device at any time. In general, the sound is quite good.

Speaker Sony SRS X1

1. Equipment and appearance. Like all similar speakers, the SRS X1 does not come with a wide range of accessories; it just comes with a USB-micro cord and instructions. I must say that the entire SRS-X series is quite high quality and we are pleased with the design, sound and of course the price. Sony SRS X1 portable speakers can be seen on sale in three colors: purple, black and white, among which the purple color is clearly more impressive. The shape of the device is spherical, due to which the effect of “circular sound” is achieved. The principle of the speaker is not complicated, it has one speaker, on top of which there is a cone and, as a result, sound waves propagate in a circular system. Minimum dimensions - 78x80x78 mm and weight no more than 185 grams. Good build, and light sensors mounted in the grooves of the case give the device even more originality. At the top of the speaker there is an NFC area, and under a large plug there is an audio input and a USB-micro connector. The gadget can be connected either using a cable (it’s just not included in the kit) or via Bluetooth. The case of such a sphere does not allow moisture to pass inside; Sony promises that even if it falls into water, nothing will happen to the speaker, everything will function. To start the device, press and briefly hold the start button located on the case. A blue light sensor will indicate the start of work. There are volume control keys and a call acceptance button, since the speaker is equipped with its own microphone (it works fine). WITH reverse side There are playback settings keys, Play/Pause and a rewind button. Thanks to the matte structure of the case, it is difficult for fingerprints to remain on it. Stability can also be considered an asset, since even when listening to music at maximum speed, the device does not move.
2. Work and sound. It’s worth noting right away that the Sony SRS X1 speaker charges in three hours using a USB-micro cord. As Sony Corporation says, its operation will last for 12 hours. A big plus is the fact that the speaker can be used even while charging. There is only one speaker with a power rating of 5 W, so unfortunately the sound quality is not very impressive. But there are many positive aspects, such as the presence of NFC, a long time battery life, compactness, etc.

Portable speakers SONY SRS-XB10 Black allows you to enjoy your favorite music wherever you are. Thanks to a special design that combines a passive driver and a monaural speaker, it is possible to increase the expression of low frequencies. The sound becomes as realistic and voluminous as possible. Using a special rubberized handle, the device can be fixed to the handlebars of a bicycle or a tree branch, which is especially convenient if you are relaxing in nature.

Portable speakers SONY SRS-XB10 Black have a waterproof housing, protected from moisture drops and dust particles IPX5, so the music system is safe to use outdoors. Additional stereo units are connected to the model via a wireless connection. Playing a playlist from your smartphone is easy thanks to NFC technology.

Powerful bass is always with you

Thanks to convenient portable system With the SRS-XB10, you can enjoy the powerful sound of your favorite songs even on the go.

Have a wild dance with EXTRA BASS

Rock the party with EXTRA BASS. A passive radiator combined with a monaural speaker enhances the low frequencies, giving them unexpected depth for such a compact system.

Anytime, anywhere

The compact SRS-XB10 wireless system can be taken anywhere: it's easy to carry, waterproof, and won't run out of power until the party is over.

Waterproof design

Your favorite music will be with you anytime, anywhere, even by the pool or on the seashore: thanks to IPX5 protection, this wireless acoustic system not afraid of water.

Speaker + additional speaker = mind-blowing stereo sound

Just connect two wireless speakers and enjoy stereo sound.

Convenient Bluetooth connection with one-touch NFC technology

Easily connect your smartphone using NFC functions One-touch - and start the party.

Various information and excerpts from foreign micro-reviews. I haven’t listened to it myself yet, but I requested a copy from the Sony representative for testing. If you manage to get your hands on the device, 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 to anything normally.

The Sony SRS-XB3 portable speaker is the latest development of a Japanese company, which took into account all previous mistakes, made new ones and provided us with unprecedented autonomy. Unprecedented, this is exactly a day of non-stop operation from the built-in battery.

A few photos cut from the official website.

Evaluating a design is a thankless idea, but I like this design. I hope it will be at least as good live.

Cons of Sony SRS-XB3 speakers

Here's the proof:

However, 24 hours of battery life may be sufficient for short trips. Charger You may not take it at all.

Now about the good and interesting things. The sizes have increased slightly compared to. However, this was enough to accommodate 48mm speakers. The previous speaker had a speaker size of only 34 mm. Of course, this is the most important factor for enhancing bass, no matter what marketers write there.
And this is what they write:

EXTRA BASS function is powered by a unique processor digital processing signal that enhances low frequencies

Full-range driver features a large 48mm diameter diaphragm, powerful magnet and long-throw cone for deep bass performance

I would like to note that the previous model was quite powerful, and recent trips into nature have proven this perfectly. Thus, in theory, it turns out that since the Sony SRS-XB3 has more speakers, it should have 20 percent more bass. I don’t know how much better quality it is, but it’s definitely stronger. For a portable speaker this is a definite plus.

Column Specifications

There is NFC, there is pairing with the same speaker, exactly like the one, there is a USB output for charging devices (of course, these weak iPhones of yours).
Supported codecs are: SBC, AAC, LDAC. I think that's enough for such a little mouse.
BLUETOOTH version 3.0. Nothing has changed here.

Now, my dear readers, I’ll tell you what I dug up in the depths of foreign blogs. You will be surprised, but nothing new - again they are compared with Bose Soundlink bluetooth 3. Well, as much as possible, because American acoustics cannot boast of anything special, except for size. Apparently I came across American blogs or fans.
People write that “a pair of Sony speakers beat the Bose in terms of bass and sound pressure, but nevertheless, they will not exchange their Bose for a Sony.” Paradox. Even though my speaker sounds worse, it's from Bose.

They cite cleaner, more open mids as evidence of the awesomeness of Soundlink 3! And I even believe them. Yes, the mid frequencies are very good there. But my God, the speaker is for a party, to sound barbecue, and not to listen to opera at home. Well, you understand, yes, what I mean?
Although I will say more, Sony is preferable even at home, since the American does not reproduce very low bass at all, while Sony does it somehow, but does it, which gives a completely different impression of the music. And this is about the 33rd model. I hope the SRS-XB3 sounds significantly better. Otherwise, why bother with all this upgrade? For the sake of the battery and splash protection?
People write that the speaker can withstand splashes, but not swimming. A battery per day is great for weekends, but I want improvements on all sides.

Conclusion.
So far, these are the thoughts - any improvement in the parameters of the SRS-XB3 compared to the X33 is great. But I would prefer improvements in sound. This is the most important thing.
The official price of 11,990 rubles hints that either exchange rates are sad now, or the column is a miracle. What will you bet on?

Written on 05/31/2016.
PS, tomorrow comes summer, the season of portable speakers. Do right choice, friends, go shopping and listen!

I came, I saw, I listened, I touched and... She defeated... my greed. You immediately feel that behind this little girl there is someone very big. She's like that...you can't take your eyes off her (mine is green). From...

Advantages:

Sound, Design, Materials, Autonomy....

Flaws:

Not found yet

Period of use:

less than a month