We already love their hearing protection, so why not an Axil Speaker? Check out the new Axil XPHERE – a weather-proof Bluetooth speaker from the folks who know audio. It’s the perfect companion for indoor or outdoor use. Not only does this speaker offer excellent sound quality, but it’s packed with the kind of smart features you’d expect from Axil.
XPHERE Axil Speaker Specs and Features
At just over 8-3/4″ high, and 3-1/4″ in diameter, it’s roughly the size of a one-liter soda, making it packable and portable. Weight is 26.7 ounces. Charging is done via a USB-C port, and it’s got a USB-A port for keeping your other devices topped up. With a battery capacity of 8,000Mah, it delivers 20+ hours of music between charges. Utilizing 5.3 Bluetooth gives it a range of 120+ feet, more than enough for most users. An IP67 rating assures it’s completely dust and water-resistant. Use it with confidence outdoors, even on a bad day.
Inside, there are a pair of 2″ full-range speakers rated at 15 watts each. On the top, you can see a waterproof bass resonator as well. With a signal-to-noise ratio of >80dB, and a dynamic frequency response range of 60Hz-20kHz, it delivers impressive sound in a small package. On the back are audio controls and a charge indicator. Underneath is a 1/2×28 socket, similar to those on camera tripods, for creative mounting options. An included mount which threads in has a hole for a small carabiner or maybe some paracord, so it can be attached to a backpack or hung up in a tent.
Charging and Pairing
When the XPHERE first arrived, I used the included USB-C cable and left it to charge overnight. Charging time normally takes 5 hours for 20+ hours of run time. Fully charged, I pressed the power button for a few seconds, and it came to life. Pressing the power button a second time got it into pairing mode. Checking my phone, it showed AXIL XPHERE, which I selected. Done. Another nice touch is that my phone displays the state of battery charge while it’s connected.
Though I only had this one Axil speaker to test out, it’s possible to pair two XPHERE speakers for true stereo sound. Even better, you can connect more than 100 of them and throw one heck of a party. I’d like a pair, or perhaps four, for backyard parties. My neighbors may not be as enthusiastic though.
The XPHERE Axil Speaker in use
After listening in my office while writing some other reviews, I knew the XPHERE would be a great outdoor companion. Parking it on our picnic table, I listened to all my favorite tunes while grilling dinner. When it was time to clean the garage, I used it there too. And yes, it came with me on a few range trips. While shooting outdoors with a suppressed rimfire, it was nice to have a little music in the background.
Sound Quality and Volume
Whether next to me on my desk or workbench, or across the yard, the Axil XPHERE puts out enough volume to be heard clearly. Switching up my music, I listened to everything from classic rock to top-ten hits to some dark Beethoven (Piano Sonata No. 14 in C sharp minor, AKA Moonlight Sonata). Recognizing that the sound quality may be limited by my streaming service, Spotify, I still have no complaints.
Setting reasonable expectations for the pair of 2″ full-range speakers, I was not disappointed. Vocals came through clearly, as did most musical instruments. When listening to slower classical music, the violin, piano, and kettle drum were quite distinct. Songs like Metallica’s Creeping Death may strain those speakers, but not to a level that was objectionable. Deep bass is lacking, but that’s par for the course with small speakers, not a design or technology flaw. Overall, the XPHERE has great sound quality for its intended use.
Onboard Controls
On the back of the speaker body is a vertical panel with all the controls. At the top is the power button, which is also used for the initial Bluetooth pairing. Below that is the “Broadcast” button, used for multi-speaker setups. Moving downward, there are volume +/skip buttons, play/pause, and volume -/skip buttons. Then there is a four LED array with three green lights and one red, indicating battery charge status.
Lifting the silicone rubber cover, there’s the USB-A output, for charging other devices. Right under that is the USB-C port for charging the Axil XPHERE. Note that the cover needs to be pressed firmly in place to ensure that it meets the IP67 rating. Although I appreciate having the controls on the speaker, I’m more inclined to use my phone’s controls. The downside is that there is a tiny delay in volume changes.
What About Phone Calls?
Taking phone calls is the last thing on my mind when shopping for a Bluetooth speaker. Yet I felt obligated to test out this feature, since it’s included. While I could hear the other party, I needed to be within about four feet for them to hear me. Keeping in mind that I speak pretty softly, this is reasonable. If you’re okay with yelling at your speaker, you’re fine with phone calls at greater distances. My solution is to just never answer my phone. Unless it’s my wife.
Overall Impressions of the XPHERE Axil Speaker
Axil has plenty of experience with audio, specifically when it comes to hearing protection. So when given a bit more room for batteries and speakers, it’s no surprise that they came up with a product that really delivers. It’s durable, yet compact, making it easy to take along on adventures. Offering 20+ hours of battery life covers a long weekend for me. Most of my friends rate the sound quality as excellent, and I agree that it sounds great for what it is.
If you’re looking for a single portable speaker, there’s a lot to like about the XPHERE at the full retail of $249.99, and it’s even more appealing when on sale. Should you be planning on linking several speakers together, this Axil speaker system won’t let you down either. Find yours at goaxil.com.
As always, I’d like to thank Axil for providing their XPHERE for my testing and evaluation. I’m already protecting my precious hearing with their ear pro, and this Axil speaker is just a natural extension of their technology and innovation.
Looking for a coupon code for Axil products? Use the code INDUSTRYSAVES for 15% off regular prices at goaxil.com