The newly launched SoundLink Revolve portable wireless speakers by Bose mark a leap forward in design and functionality from the audio giant's already impressive previous offerings. Priced at $200 and $300 respectively, the SoundLink Revolve and SoundLink Revolve+ share the same sleek design, but differ in size and acoustic capabilities.
Beautiful Design and Craftsmanship
Bose's SoundLink Revolve speakers look amazing in the metal, each having a machined aluminum body with impeccable finish and attention to detail. Both models are available in two colors with a cool matte finish — silver and a rather iPhone-esque black.
Other than their size, the only visual difference between the two speakers is the flexible fabric handle that the SoundLink Revolve+ has. The smaller SoundLink Revolve lacks the feature, so it looks a tad more uniform.
In a typical Bose fashion, both speakers have excellent ergonomics. They include a top and bottom with soft bumper-like covers to better handle drops, slightly recessed control buttons for easy access without looking, and a built-in standard tripod mount. The latter sounds like an odd addition, but it's surprisingly useful given the speakers' 360-degree sound capabilities.
Top-Notch Sound Quality and Battery Life
Hardware-wise, each SoundLink Revolve speaker variant features two passive radiators, a downward-facing transducer with 360-degree deflector, and another omnidirectional acoustic deflector for even sound distribution.
In addition to Bluetooth connectivity, each speaker has a standard audio jack for connecting audio sources the old-fashioned way. A built-in microphone is also on board for making calls from a connected device, as well as for using voice assistants.
The sound quality of both the SoundLink Revolve and the SoundLink Revolve+ is excellent. Both speakers are capable of delivering rich, well-balanced sound experience that's superbly balanced, even at high volume.
Naturally, the audio output of the larger SoundLink Revolve+ is noticeably more powerful — we tested it in a large room, which it managed to expertly fill with rich sound. The more portable SoundLink Revolve, on the other hand, while not as powerful as its larger sibling, is still capable of filling a regular apartment living room with sonic goodness. In case you need even more oomph, there's also the option to pair two SoundLink Revolve speakers in stereo mode via the Bose Connect app with impressive results.
Battery life is another area where both SoundLink Revolve models impress. Bose claims up to 16 hours of wireless tunes on a single charge for the Revolve+, and up to 12 hours for the smaller model. In real life, both speakers can achieve those estimates at moderate volume. Cranking the latter all the way up will result in reduced battery life.
Charging the speakers takes place via a bundled microUSB cable. Bose offers a cool optional docking station for extra $30. Considering the already hefty price tag of both models, we truly wish it was included in the retail package.
Handy Smartphone App
The Bose Connect app has sleek-looking, easy-to-navigate interface. It allows you to tweak the settings of each speaker, pair it with another SoundLink Revolve model, as well as keep tabs on its battery life.
The app is also necessary for installing firmware updates, which are bound to add even more functionality to the speakers. Last, but not least, Bose Connect can also generate a cool Bluetooth name — The Genius is one of many available — for the connected SoundLink Revolve via a push of an on-screen button.
The Best Offerings in Their Class?
In a market where the $200-$300 price point for water-resistant speakers is dominated by Ultimate Ears products, Bose's new SoundLink Revolve offerings stand out with a sleeker and more restrained design, better craftsmanship, and an arguably superior sonic experience. If you are looking for a high-quality wireless speaker for your summer adventures, these two should be on top of your list.
Photos by Stefan Vazharov
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