X-mini Max: Capsule speaker goes stereo

Generation two of the popular X-mini Capsule Speaker has an official name. Singapore-based company XMI informed us that it will be branded the X-mini Max when it rolls out this month. "Minimum size, maximum sound," is how its international business development manager Jerry Lam explains this latest iteration.

For those who've been anticipating the stereo edition for close to a year, the X-mini Max will be retailing for S$69 (US$48); not a princely sum when one considers the overall package--portability, stereo, and a bombastic bass for its size. But considering that the 1GB iPod shuffle now retails for just S$78, the X-mini Max may just be a mite above most people's price threshold. Alternatively, you can wait out a price drop if you have your eye on this device.

Sound check

The original blew us away with what we reckoned was the best sound we ever heard coming out of such a tiny device. XMI's patented technology which utilizes an expandable vacuum to mimic the resonance of a sub-woofer, delivered full bass sounds that were clear and warm-sounding, unlike the tinsy tones one usually expects of such tiny speakers.

So how did the X-mini Max do? We're told its onboard rechargeable batteries (total of 300mAh) have been given a boost. As a result, the X-mini Max most definitely outplayed its monoaural sibling. In actual numbers, audio output for the Max is under 3.5W and 85dB compared with the original X-mini's 2.4W.

Here's where the X-mini Max faltered. When tested with a notebook and a DVD movie, the X-mini Max retained those full bass sounds, but the top range was unfortunately a little strident, submerging the mid tones. In side-by-side with the X-mini, the Max was never quite as warm-sounding or full-bodied, even in stereo.

Design and build

Someone described this latest iteration as looking like a grenade. That aptly pins down the size of the 100g X-mini Max. Overall, it's lost its original palm-sized cuteness and won't sit as snugly in the pocket. Having said that, it is still one of the smallest pairs of portable stereo speakers in the market today. Check out the images we've taken and judge for yourself. The matt rubberized feel is still there, in a choice of black or red finish.

To use, you split the speaker into two halves. These are held together by magnetic bases that we were assured won't interfere with the tweeter. The magnets, however, are strong enough to bind the two halves together and held even after we threw the speaker into a roomy bag to test. To complete the process, you twist and extend each half to expose the accordian vacuum bass to give the X-mini Max its boom.

The good thing about the Max is that you can use both speakers together for stereo output or each on its own for the same monoaural effect you get with the first-generation X-mini. After all, the X-mini Max is essentially made up of two X-mini speakers. You will, however, need to purchase an additional cable if you plan to use each speaker separately for two different audio sources.

Tangled wires

Here's what we didn't like about the Max. The retractable 2-in-1 USB and 3.5mm cable now comes with a stereo cord that you can't retract or tuck away. So even if you decide to use your Max singly, you'll still have a lot more cables than you'd like to contend with. However, we understand that XMI is revisiting the design and may streamline this in a future edition.

We were also told that the casing is designed to double as a docking base for the speakers. But since this wasn't finalized in time for our hands-on, we can't comment on its usability.

So there we have it, folks, the X-mini Max, a pair of little speakers with even bigger aspirations this second time round. Those who already have an X-mini probably won't see the need to upgrade. For those seeking a small yet powerful pair of stereo speakers to boost the output from their portable electronics and laptop, the X-mini Max is probably still, despite some sound niggles, one of the best options out there.



Click for bigger pictures

Photo credit: Damian Koh/CNET Asia

Crave is...

The name says it all. Crave is our blog about cool gadgets and other crushworthy stuff.

Drop us an email if you have tips or suggestions.

Crave for...

» Mobile Phones (1843)

» Digital Cameras (806)

» Notebooks (1006)

» PC & Peripherals (1116)

» Handhelds (569)

» Printers (61)

» Home AV (942)

» Music & Play (738)

» Gadgets (1413)

» Future Tech (324)

» Green Tech (135)

» Lifestyle (45)

» Luxury (5)

» Home Appliances (16)

» Cars (30)

» Games and Gear (55)

» Software (14)

» Web (26)

Previously...

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

2004

Subscribe to
Crave

Today on CNET |  Reviews |  Crave |  Blogs |  CNET TV |  Digital Living |  Downloads