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Abstract
Pairing the Mini Boombox to a Bluetooth-enabled device is swift and easy. Turn it on (a slide switch on the back), and tap the black top, then tap the pair/speakerphone control and put your device in discovery mode. Once the pairing is complete, your device will communicate wirelessly with the Mini Boombox, forever - or at least until the rechargeable batteries run out after 10 hours or so. (The micro USB connection is for charging only.)
The gap between the Mini Boombox's top and back serves a purpose. A passive radiator just below the top absorbs energy from the speakers, sending it outward. With the Mini Boombox backed up against a hard surface, that energy supplements the lower frequencies, resulting in a richer, fuller sound.
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A circa-1980 boombox coughed up hairballs the size of Logitech's Mini Boombox.
This portable Bluetooth speaker - maybe 2.5 inches tall and deep, 4.5 inches wide - makes fast friends, wirelessly, with two staples of modern miniaturization, the smartphone and iPad.
Do not underestimate this cute little mound of plastic and its two tiny speaker drivers sitting behind a black mesh grille. The Mini Boombox, during my trials, showed some surprising kick when not pushed unreasonably.
Unlike a circa-1980 suitcase-size boombox, it will not sound like a Harley-Davidson on hot summer asphalt. It does, however, rival some of the better present-day Bluetooth portable mini-speakers like the twice-the-price Soundmatters foxL, but only when positioned ideally: indoors, at moderate volume, with a wall or other hard surface close behind to enhance the lower frequencies.
The Mini Boombox's plastic-y cuteness only goes so far. For a touch of Apple-style elegance, note the touch-control panel on the shiny black top. Touch or tap the panel, and the controls suddenly illuminate in red, ready to serve. Using the touch controls, you can answer a phone call - a microphone is mounted between the speakers - adjust the volume and pause, play or advance a track.
Pairing the Mini Boombox to a Bluetooth-enabled device is swift and easy. Turn it on (a slide switch on the back), and tap the black top, then tap the pair/speakerphone control and put your device in discovery mode. Once the pairing is complete, your device will communicate wirelessly with the Mini Boombox, forever - or at least until the rechargeable batteries run out after 10 hours or so. (The micro USB connection is for charging only.)
The gap between the Mini Boombox's top and back serves a purpose. A passive radiator just below the top absorbs energy from the speakers, sending it outward. With the Mini Boombox backed up against a hard surface, that energy supplements the lower frequencies, resulting in a richer, fuller sound.
That's the Mini Boombox at its best. But I also used it outdoors while stacking wood, in the garage while cleaning the car and even in the bathroom while showering.
For its size and price ($100, often discounted to less than $80), the Mini Boombox adds a little boom to any Bluetooth device.
What: Logitech Mini Boombox portable Bluetooth speaker
Price: $100, logitech.com.
Hot: Good-for-its-size sound at moderate volume, touch-panel controls, good battery life.
Not: Distorts at higher volume, batteries not replaceable.
Photo (color); Caption: Logitech Mini Boombox portable Bluetooth speaker
(Copyright 2012 by The Daily Press)