Once a king consumer electronics Sony has lost ground over the last decade, especially when it comes to audio equipment. However, the company is now actively trying to rehabilitate itself and is releasing the Sony SRS-X9 speaker.

Speaker Sony SRS-X9 - Reviews

Currently no, perhaps best solution to deliver premium sound than Sony's SRS-X9 wireless speaker. This elegant and powerful audio device is packed with features. Also, the device is not without Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections. And although the price of this speaker is truly royal (almost $700), the X9 is convincing proof that Sony still remembers what high-end audio equipment should be.

Sony SRS-X9 speaker kit

The system is actually very solid. At first glance, it is clear that the X9 belongs to the SRS-X family: we see the same neutral design that distinguished the X7.

However, a couple of new elements have been added, such as, for example, “recessed” tweeters, decorated with a gold border, shiny aluminum side panels or magnetic screen. These elements emphasize, so to speak, the status of the system.

In the box we found a large collection of accessories, including a thin remote control remote control, two AAA batteries, a piece of cleaning cloth, and a couple of small tools with magnets on the ends needed to remove the front grille.

Features and Design

While we've grown tired of the boring design of Sony audio speakers, the X9 has a more interesting look. On the one hand, the “nothing extra” style is maintained, but interesting accents are added.

One of the aspects we liked most were the elegant touch-sensitive buttons arranged in a row on the top panel. The buttons that you will press most often (for example, power or volume control) are located right in front of your eyes.

On the back of the device there are Ethernet, USB-A and USB-B ports, 3.5 mm Aux and a WPS button. There is also a retractable Wi-Fi antenna on the back. Wireless connectivity includes NFC connectivity, Bluetooth 3.0 with aptX with compatible devices, and Wi-Fi with Airplay and DLNA support. The X9 plays files in a variety of formats, from MP3s to WAV, DSD and FLAC with a maximum frequency of 192kHz/24-bit.

If we talk about the dimensions of the device, the speaker is approximately 43x13x13 cm and weighs about 4.7 kg.

If you use tools and magnets to remove the grille, you'll see a panel that houses twin 0.75-inch super-drivers for the high frequencies and a 2.25-inch woofer for the low frequencies. Adding 2 external ones, the X9 has a total of 7 active speakers. The system is also equipped with 8 amplifiers.

Connection

Bluetooth connection is the easiest connection method, especially for MP3 playback, and the sound is excellent. Wi-Fi connection also does not cause any problems. Once you download the Sony Songpal app, you just need to follow the instructions.

For the best sound quality, users will still need to play music from their computer. To connect the Mac to the X9, we used an Ethernet cable and selected network settings. Then we waited a couple of minutes before the X9 started playing tracks from iTunes. Connecting Android devices is almost exactly the same, it is described step by step in the instructions.

The SRS-X9 is capable of producing amazing sound that is much better and bigger than any other wireless speaker available today. The X9 offers clear sound with every nuance heard.

In our opinion, the X9 conveys all aspects of the sound of the strings of an acoustic guitar, violin, etc. All instruments can be heard separately, without turning the composition into a “porridge” of different sounds. In addition, the sound is so powerful and spacious, making it seem as if the X9 is larger in size than it actually is.

The treatment of the vocal lines is also wonderful. We listened to the song “Trouble’s Lament” by Tori Amos in high definition (96kHz/24bit), and it felt like the performer was right next to us.

When it comes to bass, you need to understand that this audio system is not intended for, for example, large hip-hop parties where you want the walls to literally shake. Nevertheless, the bass sounds full and spacious, and the drums and bass guitar are clearly audible.

Of course, the system is not without its shortcomings: from time to time the sound becomes oversaturated. All the pros and cons of this audio system allowed us to evaluate playing one after another tracks from the album Resistance by Muse. The vocals on "Map of the Problematique" sounded too sharp in the harmonies and the percussion was too harsh for our liking. But when we got to the song “Soldier’s Poem”, the X9 was very pleased with its rich palette of clear sound. It seemed that the musicians themselves were literally pouring music into our ears.

Bottom line

Sony's SRS-X9 wireless speaker is a tour de force of sleek style and high-performance sound, but to get that brilliance, you'll need to shell out a pretty penny.

This audio system will undoubtedly delight you with brilliant audio detail and stunning sound.

Pros

  • Unparalleled Audio Clarity
  • Even and smooth bass
  • Sleek modern design
  • A large number of additional options

When mentioning Japanese electronics, the name of the Sony company, diversity, thoughtfulness, quality, wide range of its products, including speaker systems, Sony speakers.

What are they releasing?

Sony products are not aimed at producing professional and concert equipment; Sony speakers are designed for home use, for use by amateur music lovers. Among the most loved:

  • Portable. Audio system 1.0 is available in all sizes, colors, and equipped with LEDs. Suitable for cycling and partying by the pool. The EXTRA BASS series captivates with excellent sound, durable housing, waterproof. High-capacity batteries, some small battery-powered models. You can connect 2 speakers together or connect up to 10 pcs, thanks to Party Chain technology. Support Bluetooth, NFC.
  • Stereo system 2.0, 2.1. It is not very widely represented, since it can be easily assembled from individual speakers using the Speaker Add function. But the MHC-GT4D is popular because of its compactness and easy transportation, surround sound, impeccable connectors, and ease of setup.
  • Multicomponent systems. 5.1 systems are best known for this company's home theaters. A special place is occupied by Sony sound panels and soundbars. The products are designed for owners of small apartments where there is not enough space to hang or arrange speakers throughout the room. Minimalist modern design is combined with surround sound equipment. Thanks to many different connectors, it can easily be connected to other equipment and will delight music lovers, movie lovers, and computer games.

Quick selection

Fans of Sony speakers will not have any difficulty in choosing a model with the desired characteristics. Use simple filters on the Aport website and you can easily find a device at the best price in online stores in Moscow.


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 is not a portable device due to 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 it there are low-frequency speakers (front 0.6 inches with high-frequency feed). 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 manage 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 You can hear it especially clearly from the device, as do the middle ones. 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.
The price of a portable speaker Sony SRS ZR5 in Russia is about 11,000–16,000 rubles.

Portable speaker Sony SRS X11


Sony SRS X11, according to Japanese manufacturers, is the most compact among similar products. This speaker is not only miniature, but also has a non-standard design.
  1. Equipment and design. Included with the speaker you can see: a blister box, a rubberized strap and a USB charging cord. Portable speaker Sony SRS X11 stands out as special appearance with dimensions 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 column), 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 the working time, according to manufacturers, is approximately 12 hours.
The price of a portable speaker Sony SRS X11 in Russia is from 3,000 to 5,000 rubles. See the video review of the model below:

Portable speaker Sony SRS XB2


The SRS XB2 speaker from the famous Sony company not only has affordable price, but also includes a speakerphone, comfortable adjustment, NFC, protection against water drops, as well as an unusual design. Of course, it also has its negative sides, which we will also discuss below.
  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 buy a column of acid yellow or green colors. 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; the right side is usually equipped with buttons. There are no sensors, all the keys are very ordinary: on/off button, bluetooth control, a key for answering a call and a 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 a large selection of colors and fashionable features, 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 clear.
The price of a portable speaker Sony SRS XB2 in Russia is from 4,000 to 6,000 rubles. Video review of the model below:

Portable speaker Sony SRS XB3


The first thing that attracts users is that the Sony SRS XB3 portable speaker has good sound at a fairly affordable price. In addition, it supports LDAC and can work for about a day after recharging.
  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. Upper part 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 making. 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.
The price of a portable speaker Sony SRS XB3 in Russia is from 5,500 to 8,000 rubles. Video review is presented below:

Speaker Sony SRS X1


The Sony SRS X1 portable device is one of the smallest speakers on the market of such equipment. It has splash protection, NFC, and most importantly, it is convenient for use on the road.
  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 assembly, 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). On the 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.
The price of the Sony SRS X1 portable speaker in Russia is about 6,000 rubles. See more information in the video review:


As you can see, there are many noteworthy portable speakers from Sony and plenty to choose from. The main property of any such device is its compactness, and as we saw from the review, these speakers work for a long time without recharging, and the price for them is quite reasonable. And the Sony SRS ZR5, although not portable in the usual sense of the word, reproduces sound perfectly when wireless connection, allowing you to create a powerful audio system at home.

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