Tag: Bluetooth Speaker

  • Marshall Stockwell III Returns After 7-Year Hiatus

    Marshall Stockwell III Returns After 7-Year Hiatus

    Key Takeaway

    – The Marshall Stockwell III is a long-awaited successor to the 2019 model, featuring True 360° omnidirectional sound for flexible placement.
    – Battery life has doubled to over 40 hours of playback.
    – It now includes IP55 dust and water resistance, making it suitable for outdoor use.
    – The speaker can charge a smartphone via USB-C using its own battery.
    – Audio is powered by dedicated Class D amplifiers (65W woofer, dual 31W full-range drivers).

    The Long-Awaited Arrival

    The Marshall Stockwell II dates back to 2019, making a refresh long overdue. With the Stockwell III, Marshall is introducing the successor to its 1.3 kg upright Bluetooth speaker in the iconic amp-style design just after a seven-year gap. Since the launch of its predecessor, a lot has really changed on the technical side, and the series is definately now being brought up to current standards.

    Flexible and Powerful Audio

    Similar to its larger Bromley lineup, the more compact Stockwell III can now be positioned more flexibly, enabled by true 360-degree omnidirectional sound. It also plays for twice as long, with battery life rated at over 40 hours of playback. On the audio side, the Stockwell pretty much features a 3-inch woofer and two 1.75-inch full-range drivers, each powered by dedicated Class D amplifiers. The woofer is driven by a 65 W amp, while the full-range drivers are powered by two 31 W amplifiers. Frequency response is rated at 54 Hz – 20 kHz, with a maximum sound pressure level of 86 dB at 1 meter.

    Weather Resistance and Charging

    One of the key upgrades is the IP55 certification, giving the Bluetooth speaker much stronger resistance against dust and water, making it far more suitable for outdoor use. And when your smartphone starts running low while streaming, it can be charged via USB-C using the speaker’s own battery. As expected from Marshall, tactile controls remain a major highlight no matter what. While competitors rely on flat push buttons, the new Stockwell features larger brass dials that can be rotated.

    • A likely configurable M button provides quick access to presets
    • A dedicated media control button allows users to skip tracks
    • Navigate playback with ease just using the dials

    Pricing and Availability

    Despite being announced on June 9, buyers will need to wait a bit longer to get there hands on it. The Stockwell III will be available starting August 18 for €229 on marshall.com, followed by availability at selected retailers from August 25. This speaker really brings the classic look with modern tech, making it a solid choice for audiophiles on the go.


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    • Ultimea Go Sports 300W Jerrycan-Style Speaker with Auracast for Jam Sessions

      Ultimea Go Sports 300W Jerrycan-Style Speaker with Auracast for Jam Sessions

      Key Takeaway

      1. Ultimea Go is a versatile wireless speaker with a gas can-inspired design, RGB lighting, and multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5.4, wired microphones, and guitar input.
      2. It features a powerful audio output with various speakers, true stereo pairing, and synchronization capabilities, suitable for both casual listening and performances.
      3. The device offers up to 16 hours of battery life, IPX4 water resistance, customizable RGB lighting, and EQ adjustments via the Ultimea app.

      Design and Build of Ultimea Go

      The Ultimea Go is innovative with its distinctive looks, being intentionally shaped like a gas can, which may either attract or repel depending on your preference. Its ribbed design continues that gas can appearance, giving it a rugged and industrial vibe. The color and aesthetics are not only for show; with integrated RGB lighting, it provides a dynamic visual experience that synchronizes with its sound. This speaker isn’t just for playing music wirelessly, it is versatile enough to connect two wired mics and a guitar, making it perfect for busking or small gatherings. It supports Bluetooth 5.4 for seamless wireless connect and has a handy USB port for wired options as well.

      Sound Quality and Technical Specs

      The powerhouse of the device is capable of delivering a peak output of 300W, according to Ultimea, with a setup that includes two 5-inch woofers, a 1-inch tweeter, and two 3-inch full-range drivers. This combination aims to produce a comprehensive sound spectrum, with a bass that can even be boosted for extra depth. Since the individual speakers do not strictly direct sound forward, the sound disperses in various directions creating an immersive experience. Two of the speakers can pair together to produce true stereo sound, and it supports Auracast, meaning it can sync audio playback across up to 100 devices simultaneously, ideal for large, spread-out gatherings or multi-room setups.

      Battery Life and Smart Features

      The Ultimea Go promises up to 16 hours of playtime, ensuring long-lasting use without frequent charging. With an IPX4 rating, it is resistant to splashes and light rain, making it suitable for outdoor use. Through the dedicated Ultimea application, users can fine-tune their sound settings with a customizable equalizer, and control the vibrant RGB LED lighting, which features 133 LEDs in total. This level of customization adds a fun and personal touch to your audio experience. Currently, the speaker is available at a price of $269 from various online retailers, making it a relatively affordable option for its features and design.


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    • Pre-order JBL Go 5 on Amazon Before Its Official Release

      Pre-order JBL Go 5 on Amazon Before Its Official Release

      Key Takeaway

      1. The JBL Go 5 is set to release on April 26 on Amazon, available in seven colors and priced around $50-$55.
      2. It features a rugged design with IP68 water and dust resistance, customizable ambient light bars, and Bluetooth 6.0 with Auracast support.
      3. The speaker supports true stereo pairing via AirTouch, lossless audio through USB-C, and has an improved battery life of up to 10 hours with Playtime Boost mode.

      Introduction to JBL Go 5

      The JBL Go 5 was just announced in China at the start of March, and it has been available for purchase there from that time. Surprisingly, JBL didn’t share any plans to release it all over the world yet, even tho it has been seen on Amazon’s US website with a release date. The listing states that it will be out soon, giving hope to fans worldwide.

      Availability and Pricing

      The Amazon listing announces that the JBL Go 5 will launch on April 26, making it about two weeks from now. It will come in seven different colors; Black, Blue, Purple, Red, Teal, White, and Squad which is a camouflage style. The speaker is being shipped and sold by Amazon itself, and you can pre-order it now for $54.95. There is also a third-party seller offering the Squad color for just $49.95.

      Design and Features

      The JBL Go 5 maintains the resilient and tough design JBL is known for, but with some new visual features. Now, it includes customizable ambient light bars along the top and bottom, which act as indicators for battery life, pairing process, and Auracast mode status. JBL also upgraded the dust and water resistance rating from IP67 on the Go 4 to IP68, making it more dustproof and waterproof.

      Enhanced Connectivity and Sound

      On the technical side, the Go 5 supports Bluetooth 6.0 and features Auracast mode, allowing you to connect multiple speakers together easily. A special feature called AirTouch is present, which enables users to pair two Go 5 speakers by simply bumping them against each other for genuine stereo sound. The speaker can also support lossless audio through its USB-C port, plus it works with AAC, LC3, and SBC codecs. Additionally, it will be compatible with the upcoming JBL EasySing Mic Mini, launching in May.

      Battery and App Control

      The battery life of the JBL Go 5 is slightly an upgrade from previous models, providing up to 10 hours of playback time with Playtime Boost mode activated. Without using this mode, it still offers a solid 8 hours of use. Users can also connect the speaker to the JBL Portable App, which allows them to tweak the 7-band equalizer, personalize the light bars, and perform firmware updates, making the experience more customizable and user-friendly.

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    • JBL Flip Essential 3 SE Launches in China 2023

      JBL Flip Essential 3 SE Launches in China 2023

      Key Takeaway

      1. The JBL Flip Essential 3 SE is a budget-friendly, portable speaker with a dual speaker design and IP67 water and dust resistance.
      2. It supports Bluetooth 5.4, Auracast, and stereo pairing, with up to 12 hours of battery life and a 3-hour charging time.
      3. Lacks some features of the main Flip series, such as voice assistant integration and JBL Portable app compatibility.
      4. Available now in China for approximately $132, with no international release announced.

      JBL Introduces New Flip Essential 3 SE Portable Speaker in China

      JBL has recently unveiled a new addition to its budget-friendly lineup, the Flip Essential 3 SE. Unlike the premium flip series, this model is more affordable and now available in China. It comes three years after the previous Flip Essential 2, showing JBL’s continuous efforts to keep their portable speakers current.

      Design and Build

      The Flip Essential 3 SE is a cylindrical speaker with a clean, modern look. It sports a signature JBL fabric finish, available in a stylish gray color, and measures 180 by 69.5 by 72 millimeters, weighing only 550 grams. Its rugged IP67 rating ensure it defends against dust and water, making it perfect for outdoor adventures like beach days or poolside lounging.

      Sound Quality and Connectivity

      This speaker packs a punch with a dual speaker setup, featuring a 10W tweeter and a 20W woofer, delivering a dynamic frequency response from 63Hz all the way up to 20kHz. It supports Bluetooth 5.4, and also offers support for Auracast wireless streaming. You can even connect two of these speakers to enjoy a true stereo soundstage, a feature that adds flexibility for music lovers.

      Battery Life & Additional Features

      Inside, there’s a 4,800mAh battery that promises up to 12 hours of playback on a full charge. JBL states that a complete recharge takes about 3 hours using a 15W charger. However, unlike its higher-end siblings, this model does not include voice assistant support or compatibility with JBL’s portable app, making it more straightforward and easy to use.

      Pricing and Availability

      The JBL Flip Essential 3 SE is presently on sale in China via JD.com, priced at CNY 899, which is roughly equivalent to $132 or €112. Compared to other JBL portable speakers, this is quite an affordable choice, although it’s significantly more expensive than the JBL Go 5, recently announced. As for international availability, JBL hasn’t yet announced plans to bring this model outside China.

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    • Marshall Bromley 450: 360° Sound, Stage Lighting, 40+ Hour Battery

      Marshall Bromley 450: 360° Sound, Stage Lighting, 40+ Hour Battery

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Bromley 450 is a new battery-operated Bluetooth speaker from Marshall, priced at €649 (about $746), launching on March 17, with general sales starting March 31.

      2. The speaker features a classic amplifier-style design with brass details, intuitive control knobs, and a metal grille with lighting effects inspired by 1970s concert stage lighting.

      3. It offers a “True Stereophonic” 360-degree sound system with two 6.5-inch woofers and four 2-inch full-range drivers, achieving a maximum sound pressure level of around 100 dB.

      4. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.3, AUX, RCA, and USB-C, with two combo XLR/6.3 mm inputs for microphones or instruments, making it suitable for karaoke or small performances.

      5. The Bromley 450 boasts over 40 hours of battery life on a single charge, with a quick 20-minute charge providing six hours, and features a removable battery that is interchangeable with the larger Bromley 750.

      Marshall has introduced a new addition to its expanding range of party speakers, called the Bromley 450. This is a battery-operated Bluetooth speaker that’s advertised as perfect for lengthy indoor get-togethers, backyard celebrations, and intimate occasions. The Bromley 450 is a smaller version of the larger Bromley 750, which is currently priced at $1,300 on Amazon. The new speaker starts at €649 (about $746) and will be available on March 17 through Marshall’s website, with general retail sales beginning on March 31.

      Design and Features

      The Bromley 450 showcases the brand’s classic amplifier-style aesthetics, featuring brass details, intuitive control knobs, and a metal grille that includes lighting effects. As noted in the promotional materials, the lights take inspiration from stage lighting of 1970s concerts and can function in three preset modes: ambient light, along with two options that react to music.

      Audio Performance

      For audio, the speaker employs Marshall’s “True Stereophonic” 360-degree sound system, which positions drivers around the cabinet to allow sound to radiate in every direction instead of just forward. The setup contains two 6.5-inch woofers, four 2-inch full-range drivers, and two passive radiators, all powered by six Class-D amplifiers. It has a frequency range from 42 Hz to 20 kHz and can achieve a maximum sound pressure level of around 100 dB at a distance of one meter.

      Connectivity and Usage

      In terms of connectivity, the device supports Bluetooth 5.3 with Auracast and multipoint pairing. Additionally, you can connect through AUX, RCA, or USB-C ports. It features two combo XLR/6.3 mm inputs, allowing microphones or instruments to be connected, which means the Bromley 450 could also serve as a karaoke or small performance speaker.

      Battery Life and Specifications

      One of the standout features is its battery life. Marshall claims that the speaker can deliver over 40 hours of playback on a single charge, and a quick 20-minute charge provides about six hours of usage. The removable lithium-iron-phosphate battery is interchangeable with the larger Bromley 750, enabling users to swap batteries during extended events. The speaker dimensions are 360 × 261 × 492 mm, weighing in at 12.2 kg, and it has an IP55 rating for dust and splash resistance.

      Competition in the Market

      The Bromley 450 faces competition from several similar-priced speakers, including the JBL PartyBox 710, JBL PartyBox 310, Sony SRS-XV800, and LG XBOOM XL7S, all of which promise party-centric audio and lighting effects in the €500-€700 price range. While the Bromley 450 excels in battery performance, its 100 dB output makes it more suitable for medium-sized gatherings than for larger events.

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    • Sonos Play: Affordable, Compact Move 2 with Replaceable Battery

      Sonos Play: Affordable, Compact Move 2 with Replaceable Battery

      Key Takeaways

      1. Sustainable Design: The Sonos Play is made from recycled plastics, features a halogen-free circuit board, and has recyclable packaging, making it the company’s most sustainable portable speaker yet.

      2. Advanced Features: It includes three Class-H digital amplifiers, two tweeters, one mid-woofer, Automatic TruePlay for optimizing sound, and voice control with far-field microphones.

      3. Connectivity Options: The speaker supports WiFi, Bluetooth, and can connect via a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter, with additional support for ethernet and reverse wired charging.

      4. Durability: Rated IP67 for dust and water resistance, the Sonos Play is designed for outdoor use and can sync with other Sonos speakers, but cannot stereo pair with the Move 2 due to different sound profiles.

      5. Battery Life and Pricing: It offers up to 24 hours of battery life, charges wirelessly, and is available for pre-order at $299, with a release date set for March 31.

      After an early listing and a leak revealing its price, Sonos has officially announced its new Bluetooth speaker, the Sonos Play. It has also begun accepting pre-orders ahead of its release later this month.

      Design and Sustainability

      Available in Black and White, both with a matte finish, the Sonos Play is shaped like an elliptical cylinder. Sonos says it is its most sustainable portable speaker yet, claiming it is made from recycled plastics, features a halogen-free printed circuit board, and comes in recyclable packaging. On top of that, the battery is user-replaceable.

      Features and Control

      The Sonos Play has three Class-H digital amplifiers, two tweeters, and one mid-woofer. It also includes Automatic TruePlay, a software feature that constantly optimizes the speaker’s output to fit the environment and the content playing. There are far-field microphones with beam-forming and echo cancellation on the speaker for voice control.

      If you don’t want to use voice control, you can flick the microphone mute button on the back, and use the button on the top of the speaker or the companion app to control it. The app can also be used to adjust the speaker’s EQ.

      Connectivity and Durability

      The Sonos Play supports WiFi and Bluetooth for wire-free connection, or you can use a Sonos Line-in adapter (USB-C to 3.5mm adapter) to connect it to an audio source such as a turntable. The USB-C port also supports ethernet and reverse wired charging.

      Rated IP67 for dust and water resistance, the Sonos Play is suitable for outdoor use and will survive immersion in water. Sonos says it can also be synced to two or more Sonos Play or Move 2 speakers (available on Amazon for $499) when you want to fill a very large space. However, you can’t stereo pair the Play and the Move 2 as they use different sound profiles.

      Battery Life and Pricing

      According to the spec sheet, the Sonos Play has a battery life of up to 24 hours, and it charges via a wireless charging base that is included in the box. However, owners will have to provide their own power adapter or purchase one from Sonos.

      The Sonos Play is available to pre-order now for $299 on Amazon. It is also available in the UK for £299, and for €349 in the rest of Europe. It is expected to be released on March 31. The battery replacement kit can also be purchased now for $69 on the Sonos US website. It is priced at £49 in the UK and €49 in Europe, however, it is not yet available to buy in these regions.

      Sonos: 1, 2

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    • 8BitDo Retro Cube 2 Speaker – N Edition Now Available Everywhere

      8BitDo Retro Cube 2 Speaker – N Edition Now Available Everywhere

      Key Takeaways

      1. The 8BitDo Retro Cube 2 Speaker – N Edition commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Nintendo Entertainment System and is a successor to the original Retro Cube Speaker from 2016.

      2. It became available for purchase on both the 8BitDo eShop and Amazon, expanding customer access.

      3. The speaker is priced at $49.99 and features a unique design, Bluetooth 5.3, and a built-in microphone, making it versatile for various uses.

      4. It includes two 5W speakers and supports stereo sound when paired with another Retro Cube 2 speaker, enhancing the audio experience.

      5. The device features a gaming mode for low-latency audio, a 2,000mAh battery with up to 30 hours of playback, and a wireless charging dock for convenience.

      In October 2025, 8BitDo introduced the Retro Cube 2 Speaker, which serves as the successor to their Retro Cube Speaker from 2016. This new speaker isn’t just a simple upgrade; it’s a special edition. It was launched as part of a select group of products designed to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Nintendo Entertainment System, resulting in its full title being the 8BitDo Retro Cube 2 – N Edition.

      New Availability Options

      After its launch in December 2025, the 8BitDo Retro Cube 2 – N Edition was initially only available on 8BitDo’s eShop. However, 8BitDo has recently revealed that it can now be found on Amazon, broadening its purchase options for customers.

      Pricing and Features

      The 8BitDo Retro Cube 2 Speaker – N Edition is priced at $49.99 on Amazon, matching its price on the 8BitDo eShop. For this amount, customers receive a uniquely designed portable Bluetooth speaker packed with impressive features.

      At the top of the cube-shaped speaker are controls that are designed to resemble a game controller’s D-Pad. Inside, it houses two 5W speakers, allowing users to connect a second Retro Cube 2 speaker for an authentic stereo sound experience. The device is equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, includes a 2.4G Wi-Fi dongle, offers USB-C audio, and even has a built-in microphone, making it suitable for speakerphone use.

      Gaming Ready

      Given that the 8BitDo Retro Cube 2 Speaker – N Edition comes from a company recognized for its gaming accessories, it’s no wonder it features a gaming mode that provides low-latency audio.

      The portable speaker boasts a 2,000mAh battery, which the company claims can deliver up to 30 hours of playback time. It also includes a wireless charging dock, allowing users to avoid the hassle of dealing with a charging cable when the battery runs low.

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    • Sonos Launches Compact Move 2 Speaker for 2026

      Sonos Launches Compact Move 2 Speaker for 2026

      Key Takeaways

      1. Sonos is launching a new speaker called the Sonos Play, expected on March 31, 2026.
      2. The Sonos Play is a waterproof Bluetooth speaker with an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance.
      3. It features Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, Apple AirPlay 2 compatibility, voice control, and up to 24 hours of battery life.
      4. The speaker will be available in black and white colors and includes a carry strap.
      5. The retail price for the Sonos Play is CA$399 (approximately $293/€250/£218).

      Sonos seems to be preparing for the debut of its new product for 2026, as a fresh speaker has appeared online with a planned release date set for the end of this month.

      New Speaker Details

      The upcoming device, named the Sonos Play, was discovered in a listing on Best Buy Canada by a Reddit user named youthdancing. Based on the screenshots shared on Reddit, the Sonos Play resembles a smaller variant of the Sonos Move 2, yet it is larger than the Roam 2. The listing indicates that the speaker will come in both black and white colors, and it features a carry strap, which is a difference from the Move 2 that has a carrying recess.

      Specifications and Features

      The listing describes the Sonos Play as a waterproof Bluetooth wireless speaker. While this isn’t the first time Sonos has created a waterproof speaker, the specifications reveal it has an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. In contrast, the Move 2, which is currently priced at $499 on Amazon, has an IP56 rating.

      Among the other capabilities of the forthcoming Sonos Play are Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, compatibility with Apple AirPlay 2, voice control functionality, support for Amazon Alexa, Spotify integration, and wireless charging. Reports also suggest that it boasts a battery life of up to 24 hours.

      Pricing and Release Date

      The Sonos Play is set to retail for CA$399 (approximately $293/€250/£218). It is expected to be available on March 31, with backorders being shipped as early as March 23, indicating that the launch of the Sonos Play is just around the corner.

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    • JLab Unveils Blue XL Bluetooth Speaker in Headphone Shape

      JLab Unveils Blue XL Bluetooth Speaker in Headphone Shape

      Key Takeaways

      1. JLab has launched the Blue XL speaker headphones, a Bluetooth speaker shaped like oversized headphones.
      2. The device features dual 2.5-inch drivers and passive radiators, providing 30W of sound output.
      3. It includes a stylish design with faux leather ear cushions and a foldable structure for convenience.
      4. The Blue XL offers Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, supports SBC and AAC codecs, and has a 20-hour playback time.
      5. Priced at $99.99, the JLab Blue XL is available online, but stock is limited.

      After unveiling the small JBuds Mini ANC earbuds at CES 2026, JLab has taken a bold step with their new offering. The latest creation from this American electronics company is the JLab Blue XL speaker headphones, which is essentially a Bluetooth speaker shaped like oversized headphones.

      Impressive Features

      The JLab Blue XL is equipped with dual 2.5-inch drivers and dual 2.5-inch passive radiators, delivering a powerful 30W of sound. The device comes with a stylish blue and black finish, faux leather ear cushions, and a design that can be folded for convenience.

      You can wear it around your neck if you’re okay with looking a bit silly, but it’s better suited for placing on a table to allow the sound to fill the area. One of the earcups has a knob that lets you control the speaker’s volume.

      Connectivity and Battery Life

      This speaker boasts Bluetooth 5.4 and is compatible with both SBC and AAC codecs. As per the specifications, it contains two 3,000mAh batteries that offer up to 20 hours of playback time. Charging the device takes around 3 hours with a 10W charger.

      The JLab Blue XL Speaker Headphones are available now at JLab’s online store for $99.99. However, you’ll need to act quickly since there are only a limited number in stock.

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    • Medicom Toy & Rinaro Launch Limited-Edition Be@rbrick Speaker

      Medicom Toy & Rinaro Launch Limited-Edition Be@rbrick Speaker

      Key Takeaways

      1. Limited-edition Be@rbrick Audio x Maneki Neko Bluetooth speaker launches on January 31, 2026, priced at $999.
      2. Inspired by Be@rbrick 400%, it features a shiny gold exterior with advanced Rinaro QUAD’360 sound technology for high-quality audio.
      3. Users can control playback and volume by twisting the speaker’s paws; it offers up to 6 hours of playback time and recharges in 1.5 hours.
      4. Subscribers to the newsletter can order the speaker a day before the general public, with deliveries starting in early February 2026.
      5. Speaker dimensions are 132 x 280 x 70 mm, and it weighs 0.87 kg.

      Medicom Toy and Rinaro Isodynamics have announced the limited-edition Be@rbrick Audio x Maneki Neko Bluetooth speaker (BB4L2), which is set to launch on January 31, 2026, priced at $999. Subscribers to the newsletter will get a chance to order the special speaker a whole day before everyone else, with deliveries anticipated to start in early February 2026.

      Design and Technology

      This unique Maneki Neko speaker is inspired by the Be@rbrick 400%, a collectible toy introduced by Medicom in Japan back in 2001. The shiny metallic gold exterior contains two tweeters and two woofers, utilizing Rinaro’s QUAD’360 sound technology to deliver omnidirectional audio across a frequency range stretching from 90 Hz to 20 kHz, boasting a total output of 20 watts. Additionally, two units can be paired together for a stereo sound experience.

      User Experience

      Users can easily manage music playback and adjust the volume by twisting the paws of the speaker. According to the manufacturer, this Bluetooth 5-enabled device offers up to 6 hours of playback time, recharging quickly in just 1.5 hours. It also features a replaceable 10.36 Wh battery.

      Dimensions and Weight

      The dimensions of the Maneki Neko speaker are 132 x 280 x 70 mm (5.2 x 11 x 2.7 in.), and it has a weight of 0.87 kg (1.91 lbs.).

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