The front of the box for the speaker.

Measuring 8.5 inches (~21.6cm) long by 2 inches (~5.1cm) high, the WAVEsteam is about average for mid-sized units. Available colors are Midnight Black (reviewed here) and variations accented with Ocean Blue, Neon Red, or Hot Pink.

The back of the box for the speaker.

Naturally, the WAVEsteam uses the latest Bluetooth 3.0 technology, and should work with most Bluetooth-compatible devices. In my case it paired just fine with my Apple iPhone 6 Plus. It also has a Line In for those devices either without Bluetooth or where you don’t want to bother with a Bluetooth connection. In fact, at least for the time being, this is exactly how I’m using it with my computer.

Speaking of my computer, in my Sound Blaster Recon3D Control Panel tests, it passes the bass response feature trial without issue, which is not true of several other speakers I’ve tested. Thanks to its two 40MM drivers, overall sound gets quite loud while still remaining clear of noticeable distortion. However, if you want serious clarity when watching movies and TV shows, another thing we recommend is getting soundbars for clear dialogues. These gadgets really make voices pop so you never miss a line of conversation.

The contents of the box.

One thing I noticed when using the line out on my computer is that the speaker does not automatically power itself off, so that’s something you’ll have to keep an eye on (it does make a sound when the battery gets low to let you know, but by then it’s already too late). The tiny on/off switch in the back of unit is also harder to use than I’d like, although that’s probably not a deal breaker for most.

The speaker.

The package includes the unit itself, a standard Micro Mini USB charging cable, auxiliary cable cord (3.5mm audio cable), lithium ION rechargeable battery (easy to install and replace as needed and supporting up to 8 hours or so of playback), and a manual.

Here’s a quick look video at the speaker:

When using it over Bluetooth with your smartphone, it works like a speakerphone, accepting calls via the dedicated button on the top of the unit. Other buttons control volume levels and audio playback, the latter of which is also obviously only when connected via Bluetooth.

Although it won’t win any awards for it modest styling, the WAVEsteam sounds great for a great price. Backed by a full one year warranty, this is definitely something to consider when in the market for a good Bluetooth speaker.

Thanks to Bluebiz Web Solutions for the review unit.

The post Review: WAVEstream Wireless Bluetooth Speaker appeared first on Armchair Arcade.

The B-Trek S2 fits in the palm of your hand, presently retails for only$10.99 on Amazon, comes in a choice of six different colors (I’m reviewing the black), and features:

• Rechargable and removable lithium ion battery
• Built-in microphone for handsfree functionality (speakerphone) with a mobile phone
• Audio line in with 3.5mm connector (cable included) for when Bluetooth connectivity is not possible
• FM radio functionality
• Four control buttons right on the unit, including for volume and next/previous audio track
• MicroSD card slot, which means it can also work as a stand-alone media player

The contents of the Sentey B-Trek S2 Bluetooth speaker package.

As is usual with Sentey products, the overall quality of the B-Trek S2, from its packaging to the unit itself, is top notch. When paired with that Amazon price of $10.99, it’s an unquestionable steal of a deal.

A view of the Sentey B-Trek S2 Bluetooth speaker’s control buttons.

A view of the Sentey B-Trek S2 Bluetooth speaker’s various ports.

The package contents include the Bluetooth speaker itself, a 3.5mm audio cable, a MicroUSB cable (both for charging and improving the internal antenna’s FM radio reception), a wrist strap, and a user manual. Despite fitting comfortably in the palm of your hand, the speaker’s removable, rechargeable battery lasts for up to six hours on a full charge.

The Sentey B-Trek S2 Bluetooth speaker’s removable battery.

The only area where the B-Trek S2 stumbles a bit is no surprise: it’s sound quality. There’s really no way for a palm-sized speaker to fill a room with bass shaking audio and this one is no exception. While music sounds a bit “hollow,” the audio quality, and in particular the “loudness,” still far exceed what you’d get out of most built-in phone speakers and the small size does make it easy to carry places where something larger simply wouldn’t be practical.

Special thanks to Sentey for the review unit.

The post Sentey B-Trek S2 Bluetooth speaker review appeared first on Armchair Arcade.