When it comes to consumer audio products, Sony is among the best of the best. We’ve written at length on this site about the brand’s audio products, which include some of the best soundbars and wireless headphones in the world. Now, the brand is launching a new suite of portable speakers — the XB13, the XP500, the XP700, and the XG500. And the best part is they’re tailor-made for those who are ready to live it up outdoors once more.
Sony SRS-XB13 Wireless Speaker
It all starts with the XB13. Small but mighty, the XB13 is roughly the size of a large coffee cup and is positioned by the brand to be your new go-to travel speaker. Everything around the creation of the 13 is meant for an on-the-go lifestyle; an easily removable strap makes it easy to clip to a backpack, a bike, or even around your wrist as you move from place to place. The IP67 waterproof rating means it can take a tumble into the water and be completely fine. The UV coating also helps to make it so it can stay out in the sun for hours at a time and not lose its color. Plus, with a 16-hour battery life, it can keep the party going pretty much all day long. If you’re looking for a speaker that doesn’t skimp on sound but can also take a licking and keep on ticking, this is it.
Sony SRS-XP500 Wireless Speaker
On the other side of the spectrum is the new and improved XP500 and XP700. The spiritual successors to the MHC-V13 we reviewed last fall, the 500 and 700, are meant to be used as high-end speakers for parties and events. The X portion of the name is derived from the x-like shape of the interior speakers, which provides a more extensive audio surface area that enhances the frequency of mid and low sounds while providing less distortion and greater vocal clarity. Both the 500 and the 700 feature ambient lighting in the speaker casing to add a bit of flavor to your party while averaging around 20 hours or so of battery life. Additionally, you can quickly charge the speakers (a 10-minute charge provides about 80 minutes of playback) or have them charge your phones thanks to the included USB ports in the rear of the speaker.
Sony SRS-XP700 Wireless Speaker
The main difference between the 500 and 700 is the included rear tweeter in the 700 that helps to expand the sound stage. In large and/or open spaces, this allows the 700 to provide a greater depth of sound.
Sony SRS-XG500 Wireless Speaker
Sitting somewhere between the 13 and the 500 and 700 is the XG500. The first thing we noticed about the speaker is that it’s essentially a modern-day rework of the classic Sony boombox, thanks to its wide handle that makes it easy to grab and go. The same x-shaped speaker units from the XP500 and XP700 are present here, which means you’re getting a high-fidelity sound experience that’s meant to be taken on the go. This is a speaker that’s great to carry along to a day at the beach, on a camping trip, a park picnic, or any other situation in which you want great sound and something that’s still portable. Other little features that stand out include ambient light on the sides, a 30-hour battery life, water resistance, and quick charging capabilities.
As we all gear up to get back outdoors, back to socializing, and back to living, Sony is there to ensure you have a fleet of new products to accompany your gatherings accordingly. And, from what we’ve seen so far, these four speakers will undoubtedly help to set the mood right.
Each speaker will ship in June and can be pre-ordered now via the Sony online store.
These Durable Waterproof Speakers Are Made to Weather the Outdoors