This Sony Bluetooth Speaker Suitable for Outdoor Use Is Now on Sale at Its Lowest Price Ever
The Sony SRS-XE300 is now just $88 down from its original $199.99 on Amazon (the lowest price ever, according to online price tracking tools ), so now’s a good time to take a closer look if you’re considering a portable speaker that can handle the occasional splash and still play music.
Sony has given the XE300, which is designed for outdoor use, a different approach to design than most speakers: it’s shaped to stand upright, but also works well laid on its side. Inside are two drivers, with passive radiators at each end, designed to deliver deeper bass and less distortion. The sound is more directional than Sony probably intended, though – it’s better at aiming at you than trying to fill a large space.
It’s set to mono by default, but you can switch to stereo via the app if you prefer. It also supports LDAC for high-res Bluetooth streaming if you have an Android device, though it misses out on the AptX codec . The companion app isn’t much to look at, but it does give you access to an adjustable EQ and other audio settings, as noted in this PCMag review . Where the XE300 really holds its own is in how rugged it is. It’s IP67 rated , so dust, rain, or a quick dip in the pool won’t faze it. As for battery life, Sony claims up to 24 hours of use, but your time will vary depending on volume and settings.
In terms of sound, it delivers decent bass and clear highs, although the directional tuning means you’ll get the best experience when it’s pointed directly at you. Also, the stereo mode doesn’t do much to widen the soundstage, but it holds up well in a multi-speaker setup. At moderate volumes, it packs a nice punch and keeps the highs clear without much distortion. It won’t give you a wall-shaking, subwoofer-like experience, but for a speaker you can throw in your bag and forget about until you need it, the XE300 does a good job, especially at this price. For more options, check out our roundup of the best Bluetooth speakers .