Last month, Los Angeles-based Soen launched a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter to raise $20,000 for its Bluetooth speaker, Transit XS. The multi-colored speaker easily passed their goal and closed at just shy of $60,000 as 544 supporters signed up to back the project. The device was described as offering high quality sound, highly portable, and is easily mountable to any standard camera or tripod mount to blast your on-the-go soundtrack. There are a ton of wireless speakers on the market today and more than a few have been crowdfunded. Soen describes their company as a leader in high performance miniature audio solutions. Recently Soen sent over a demo of the wireless speaker and I had the chance to try it out and see if the TransitXS lived up to the description.
Description
The Transit XS is one inch thin, 2.5 inches tall, 6.25 inches wide and weighing in at just 0.6 lbs. It is not only portable and mountable, but also connects to all Bluetooth enabled phones, tablets and PCs, and doubles as a speakerphone through Soen’s Precise Talk technology that suppresses ambient noise and enhances vocals.
While the Transit XS packs rich features into a miniature space, its compact design also features built-in protection with over-molded Rubber Grips that withstand drops and scratches, making the speaker your ultimate travel companion no matter what kind of journey you’re on.
In Use
While testing it next to a Bose SoundLink Bluetooth speaker, the Transit XS held up to its claim of having one heck of a sound. The music from the device carried through numerous rooms of a house and remained connected.
For the best sound, I recommend putting it on its side, rather than just laying it down flat. That way, the sound is not muffled and you can easily turn up or down the volume.
The battery life was also impressive. It lasted for a grand total of 8 hours, but this would depend on the volume level and content.
One of the things that I struggled with in regard to the device was its shape. Although it’s easy to take on the go, the device is a rectangular-shaped and a little on the bulky side. Despite this, the device has been able to fit in most places and is nearly weightless.
Another thing that I had an issue with was the fact that the Transit XS didn’t show which Bluetooth enabled device was connected to it. Few wireless speakers have this feature today though.
Pros:
Amazing sound- Connects with Bluetooth enabled phones, tablets and PCs
- Sleek design available in multiple colors
- Solid, high quality build
- Mounts to a wide array of available GorillaPod and a Suction Mount
- Equipped with a long-life Lithium-Ion Battery
- Can use as a speaker phone
- Inexpensive (for Kickstarter backers)
- Available now for purchase (no crowdfunding delay)
- No skipping; remains connected at all times
Cons:
- A little too bulky to be mounted on some things
- Have to turn it to its side for the best sound
- On the expensive side, with the retail price at$199
- Does not show what Bluetooth device is connected
Where to Purchase:
The pros definitely outweigh the cons on this one. Hot design and great sound make the TransitXS a wireless speaker to consider. Those interested in the Soen Transit XS can now purchase it through the company’s website. The first speakers are said to be shipping this November, which will ultimately be a perfect gift for this holiday season.
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