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TJ5921

macrumors regular
Original poster
Jan 5, 2011
238
3
I want both but can't really afford it right now. Both are $200. I just got an iPad Air, iPhone 5s, and I have a Macbook Pro. I currently use the internal speakers on my Sony Bravia KDL40EX500. I think they're alright but I'm sure the soundbar would be much better. Which product is a better investment?
 
They are two completely different products..the bose is a small travel speaker and the soundbar is to have under your TV as an home entertainment sound system.
 
My soundlink mini should be arriving today. I plan on using it for music around my apartment that currently has to be run through my tv. I use my tv as my computer monitor for my mini. It felt like a total waste to have to have my tv on just for some pandora.

I'll also be using it when streaming tv or movies on my computer. That little guy packs a punch, and it plays while in its charging dock. So I'm essentially going to use it as a soundbar for those specific instances.

Note: I have a VERY tiny apartment. It won't require more than the mini to fill the room.
 
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I received the Soundlink Mini for Christmas this year. I haven't had the time to do a lot of audio testing with it, but for me it's just ok. I have other hifi equipment around my home and intend on using this in the barn or basement while doing projects.

Not having used it too much yet, I can say the sound is decently impressive for its small size. Highs aren't as crisp as I would have expected with the small drivers, with most of the sound being in the mid-range area and bass. Speaking of which, the bass is acceptable and much more than on other small BT speakers I've played with (which has been few).

One thing to note with BT speakers is that they tend to have a small audio delay if using it with videos. I tested mine with my iPad watching some movies at my desk while working, and granted I'm OCD, I did notice the audio being off by a few milliseconds. Not enough to really be bothersome, but enough to know.

If you're looking at BT speakers, test a few out if you can in person. I really wish the Bose unit had speakerphone built in.

I'm currently backing a Kickstarter campaign for a BT speaker. These might be right up your alley. Search for "HiddenRadio2" on Kickstarter and check out those speakers. The ability to bridge multiple units would probably work well in a small apartment.
 
Interesting responses. I understand they're different and it ultimately will come down to which better suits my needs but this is the first time I've ever considered upgrading the audio for my TV. Are internal Bravia speakers really that bad or is it mostly audiophiles who buy an upgraded sound system? I watch a lot of TV, blu rays, and play ps4. I have a small apartment also and think the soundlink mini would be great to use with my new devices in different rooms.
 
I received the Soundlink Mini for Christmas this year.

Where are you living? :D

I'd highly recommend checking the Bose Soundtouch speakers. Portable one is $100 more starting at $399. There is one bigger speak in the range for the same speaker. Same price, bigger speaker but not portable. Remember, a speaker is something you want years of satisfaction and dont replace every other month or year.

It connects via wifi (or manually if no wifi) and is absolutely awesome!!!
 
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