Sony SRS-XP500 Review

Summary / TL;DR

Powerful sound and a durable design. With its 20-hour battery life, it is perfect for outdoor gatherings or parties. The speaker features a built-in handle and IPX4 water resistance, making it easy to carry and suitable for use in various environments. It also has a USB port for charging devices and a microphone input for karaoke or public speaking. The sound quality is impressive, with deep bass and clear vocals. However, the speaker is quite large and heavy, which may not be ideal for those looking for a compact option. Overall, the Sony SRS-XP500 is a reliable and versatile speaker that delivers excellent audio performance.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the SONY SRS-XB100 or Sony SRS-XG300 or Sony SRS-XB12.

Product Review: Sony SRS-XP500

The Sony SRS-XP500 is a portable wireless speaker designed to deliver powerful and immersive sound. With its sleek design and impressive features, this speaker aims to provide an enjoyable audio experience for music lovers and audio enthusiasts alike. In this review, we will delve into the key aspects of the Sony SRS-XP500, including sound quality, build quality, battery life, features, and styling.

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Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, the Sony SRS-XP500 does not disappoint. Equipped with a 3-way speaker system and dual passive radiators, this speaker offers a rich and dynamic audio experience. The sound is well-balanced, with clear highs, detailed mids, and punchy bass. Whether you're listening to your favorite tracks or watching movies, the SRS-XP500 delivers immersive sound that fills the room.

One impressive feature of this speaker is its X-Balanced Speaker Unit. This innovative design provides enhanced sound quality by maximizing the speaker cone area while maintaining a compact size. The result is improved sound dispersion and reduced distortion, ensuring a clear and accurate audio reproduction.

However, at high volumes, some users have reported a slight loss of clarity and a tendency for the bass to overpower the other frequencies. While this may not be a deal-breaker for most, it's worth considering if you frequently enjoy your music at maximum volume.

Build Quality

The Sony SRS-XP500 boasts a sturdy and well-built construction. The speaker is encased in a durable and water-resistant housing, making it ideal for outdoor use or poolside parties. The rubberized edges provide added protection against accidental bumps and falls, giving you peace of mind while on the go.

Furthermore, the speaker features an integrated handle, making it easy to carry around. The handle feels solid and comfortable, and it adds to the overall portability of the device. The control buttons on the top of the speaker are responsive and well-placed, allowing for convenient and intuitive operation.

One minor gripe with the build quality is that the speaker is a bit on the heavier side compared to some of its competitors. While this may not be an issue for most users, it's worth considering if you prioritize extreme portability.

Battery Life

The Sony SRS-XP500 comes with a built-in rechargeable battery that offers exceptional battery life. With up to 20 hours of playtime on a single charge, you can enjoy your favorite music for extended periods without worrying about running out of power.

In addition, the speaker supports USB charging, allowing you to conveniently charge your devices while enjoying your music. This feature is particularly useful when you're on the go and need to charge your smartphone or other USB-powered devices.

However, it's important to note that the actual battery life may vary depending on factors such as volume level, audio content, and usage patterns. Some users have reported slightly shorter battery life than advertised, especially when playing music at higher volumes.

Features

The Sony SRS-XP500 is packed with a range of features that enhance its versatility and functionality. One notable feature is its wireless connectivity options. The speaker supports Bluetooth and NFC pairing, allowing for seamless wireless streaming from compatible devices. Bluetooth connectivity is reliable, and the speaker maintains a stable connection within a reasonable range.

Additionally, the speaker offers a USB port and an auxiliary input, providing multiple ways to connect your devices. This versatility ensures that you can enjoy your music from various sources, whether it's wirelessly or through a wired connection.

Another impressive feature of the SRS-XP500 is its Party Connect feature. This allows you to wirelessly connect multiple compatible Sony speakers to create a multi-room audio setup or enhance the sound output at a party. The ability to synchronize multiple speakers adds another layer of immersion and makes the speaker a great choice for hosting gatherings or events.

Styling

In terms of design, the Sony SRS-XP500 exudes a sleek and modern aesthetic. The speaker features a matte black finish with metallic accents, giving it a premium and sophisticated look. The control buttons are backlit, adding a touch of elegance to the overall design.

The compact and portable form factor of the speaker makes it easy to carry around, while the integrated handle adds convenience. Whether you place it on a bookshelf, take it to the beach, or use it as a centerpiece at a party, the SRS-XP500 blends seamlessly into any setting.

What's in the Box

When you purchase the Sony SRS-XP500, you can expect to find the following items in the box:

• Sony SRS-XP500 wireless speaker
• AC power adaptor
• Quick start guide
• Warranty card

Comparison to Competitors

When comparing the Sony SRS-XP500 to its direct competitors in the same price range, we find that it holds its own in terms of sound quality and features. Competitors such as the JBL Xtreme 2 and the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ offer similar sound performance and portability. However, the Sony SRS-XP500 surpasses them in terms of battery life, with up to 20 hours of playtime compared to the JBL Xtreme 2's 15 hours and the Bose SoundLink Revolve+'s 16 hours.

Additionally, the Sony SRS-XP500's Party Connect feature sets it apart from its competitors. While both the JBL Xtreme 2 and the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ offer wireless connectivity options, the ability to synchronize multiple speakers wirelessly gives the Sony SRS-XP500 an edge for those looking to create a more immersive audio experience.

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Conclusion

The Sony SRS-XP500 is a powerful and versatile portable wireless speaker that delivers impressive sound quality and a range of useful features. Its durable build quality and water-resistant design make it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. While it may be slightly heavier than some of its competitors, the exceptional battery life and Party Connect feature make up for it.

Whether you're a music enthusiast, a party host, or someone who simply enjoys high-quality audio, the Sony SRS-XP500 is a solid choice. It offers a well-rounded package that combines excellent sound reproduction, convenient features, and an attractive design. With the Sony SRS-XP500, you can elevate your audio experience wherever you go.

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications