Wireless speakers run the gambit from excellent to barely average. Given that the people who make them also craft some of the best musical instruments, it’s safe to say the new Fender Bluetooth Speakers ($200-$350) belong to the first category.
Modeled to look like their legendary guitar amps; complete with the protective grill and amp-like control knobs, the two new Fender Bluetooth speakers also have built-in microphones and AAC music file support. The larger Monterey includes a double set of woofers and tweeters as well as a quad driver system. It also has a 3.5 mm input and two RCA jacks. It does, however, require a wall outlet for power and is not portable like the smaller Newport model. Providing 12 hours of play, the Newport features two full-range drivers and a 30W tweeter. It also has a USB port for charging mobile devices while you are on the go.
The two new speakers don’t come cheap but, with the promise of that superb, “signature sound” and that iconic Fender amp look, they are still quite a bargain.
