Audiophile Experience: Bang & Olufsen Beolit 17 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Review

Introduction to Bang & Olufsen Beolit 17

Bang & Olufsen (B&O) represents the pinnacle of audio elegance, merging innovative technology with exquisite design to craft speakers that not only sound fantastic but also serve as artistic centrepieces. In this comprehensive review, we will dive into the Beolit 17, a premium portable Bluetooth speaker and see if it lives up to B&O’s sterling reputation for audiophile-grade sound performance.

Design and Build Quality

The Beolit 17 exudes sophistication with its minimalistic Scandinavian design. The robust build, featuring a durable polymer base and a stylish aluminium grill, provides both visual and tactile appeal. The leather strap adds a touch of class while offering practicality for easy transport. A careful balance of function and aesthetics, the Beolit 17 is clearly designed to make a statement in any environment.

Sound Performance

At the heart of the Beolit 17 experience lies exceptional sound quality. Equipped with B&O’s signature sound technology, the speaker delivers astounding clarity and deep bass. With True360 sound dispersion, it ensures immersive and uniform sound coverage, making it ideal for filling your space with rich, lifelike audio. The Beolit 17 doesn’t just play music, it envelops you in it.

Battery Life and Portability

The Beolit 17 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 24 hours on a single charge, outperforming many competitors in the portable speaker space. This longevity, combined with the speaker’s relatively compact size, makes it a perfect companion for long day trips, beach outings, or backyard barbecues. The leather strap is not only aesthetic but also practical, facilitating easy carrying from one place to another, defining the essence of true portability.

Connectivity and Features

Connectivity is seamless with the Beolit 17, thanks to its Bluetooth 4.2 which provides a stable and swift pairing process. Moreover, the speaker possesses smart features like connecting to two devices simultaneously and remembering the last device connected for quicker setups. It is also compatible with the Beoplay App, which offers additional customizations to enhance your listening experience, including adjusting sound profiles to fit your preference.

User Experience

The Beolit 17’s user interface is intuitive and user-friendly, with straightforward controls that make it easy to navigate. Users have noted the ease with which they can control the volume, play or pause tracks, and skip songs. The tactile buttons provide a satisfying feedback that contributes to the overall premium experience that B&O is known for.

Comparisons to Other Speakers

When compared to other speakers in its class, the Beolit 17 stands out for its superior sound quality and design. While competitors like the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ and the JBL Xtreme 2 are noteworthy, the Beolit 17 garners attention for its attention to detail in both sound reproduction and build quality. It seems B&O has carved out a unique space for lovers of both aesthetics and audiophile-grade sound.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality with True360 sound dispersion.
• Premium build quality and stylish design.
• Long battery life and portability.
• Intuitive controls and user interface.
• Seamless Bluetooth connectivity and smart features.

Cons:

• Premium price point may be a barrier for some.
• Lacks water resistance, which some portable speakers offer.
• Beolit 17 can be heavy to carry for extended periods.

Verdict

The Bang & Olufsen Beolit 17 is an investment in premium sound and design that is meant to last. Its unparalleled audio performance, coupled with its attractive looks and user-friendly aspects, justify its price tag. For those who desire a portable speaker that does not compromise on any front and serves as a benchmark for quality, the Beolit 17 is an excellent choice. Whether you are an audiophile or a design enthusiast, the Beolit 17 is sure to exceed your expectations and enhance your audio experience in every facet.