We’ve been spending a lot of time around ruggedized Bluetooth portable speaker systems this year at Busted Wallet HQ. Today we have our hands on an offering from AUVIO (Radio Shack’s in-house audio brand) which is not meant for taking a physical beating but instead, aims to provide a better beat for your listening enjoyment. Does the increased refinement translate to a better auditory experience? Let’s find out…
AUVIO HBT6000 Amplified Bluetooth Speaker
With 6 speakers, a built in amplifier, wireless connectivity, and room filling 360 sound, this home speaker is a force to be reckoned with.
Whole Home Audio
This monolithic black box is packing some serious power. 2 massive 75MM drivers accompanied by 4 large 50MM drivers provide the full range of sound you usually only get with larger tower speakers. With a frequency response range of 100 HZ – 18,000HZ, you’re not going to miss a single note.
Key Features:
- 6 Speakers
- Built-in amplifier
- 360 degree sound via Sonic Emotion Engine
- 60 watts of power
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Aux-in
- USB charging port
- Wired power
- Remote Control
Specs:
- Bluetooth: Version 2.1
- Audio Output Power: 6 x 10W
- Speaker Driver: 4 x 50mm, 2 x 75mm
- Peak Power: 120 watts
- AC Adaptor
- USB Charger Output 5V/1A
– AUVIO HBT6000 Review –
Design:
(8 out of 10) The design of this speaker may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but you’d be hard pressed to find someone who completely hates it. It’s sharp angles and mate black finish should blend into nearly every home decor, especially the more modern ones. Perhaps the more controversial feature of this speaker’s design is the sanddune-like arching wave pattern found on the front and side speaker grills.
Those sharp angles cut into the face of the device are not just for looks either. The angled portion coupled with the Sonic Emotion Absolute 3D engine allow the speaker to propel sound in every direction. On the bottom of the unit are padded, grippy feet at each corner. A welcome addition that lets the unit be set down softly, hold its position easily, while dampening any vibration.
Audio Quality:
(9.5 out of 10) The sound reproduction of this device is truly surprising. I was a bit skeptical prior to a test run due to the price of the unit, but I came away thoroughly impressed. I’ve been using an old Logitech portable unit that I’m quite fond of for years, the HBT6000 is a masterpiece in comparison. In fact, I’d go so far as to say it equals or bests mini systems costing over twice as much (I’m looking at you Bose) when it comes to audio quality.
The Sonic Emotion Absolute 3D enhancement feature is worthy of a review on its own. You’re given the ability to enable and disable the feature via a button on the remote and one on top of the device. With the engine on, you get stunning, room-filling 360 sound that creates a sound stage far beyond what you’d expect out of this system. Placing the box at the center of a room, you can walk around the entire perimeter and hear nearly the same sound quality everywhere. It’s awesome. Turning it off serves a purpose as well – if you’re trying to listen to music without disturbing others in the house, the sound becomes directional and aimed just at the listener.
Functionality:
(9 out of 10) Let’s face it, wires are a real pain when you’re trying to control your music. By including Bluetooth audio in this unit, you’re free to cary your source around with you and easily switch up the music right from your pocket. AUVIO made a good decision by sending the device into pairing mode as soon as you power it on. This avoids any additional steps or confusion for those unfamiliar with bluetooth pairing. Also, with Bluetooth 2.0 and greater, you don’t need to enter a password, it’s just touch and connect, easy.
The HBT6000 also includes an AUX port allowing you to attach any device with a headphone jack in order to play music in case you don’t have Bluetooth. You also get a minor improvement in audio quality by utilizing the AUX port. Additionally the unit supplies a USB Output port for charging your devices, a real convenience for travel! Simply connect you charger to the unit’s USB port and you’re good to go. It even provides an A/B switch for the USB port to specifically charge Apple products. The included remote control is also handy for skipping tracks and controlling power, play/pause and volume up/down. There are also dedicated buttons on top of the speaker system for when you eventually loose the tiny remote… which you probably will.
The 1 point we docked the unit is solely for its need to be plugged in via an AC adapter. Considering the size and power of the unit, that is completely understandable however.
bought this and love it! It has great sound quality and is very attractive.
Glad we could help!
I got this on eBay for 39.99 an my friends could not believe it well I should say they don’t want to believe it because they put out big money for beats an jbl.I didn’t no much about pairing so my Verizon dealer at his store showed me an when I was there I checked out there devices an I am happy with my purchase over anything they have in the store an yes they have Bose.lol
Just read your review of Auvio Blutooth HBT6000 Speaker from 6-25-13. Can this be used as a hookup to a TV?
Thanks from a confused buyer.
I think it’s a great idea to post this review. I actually love to know about it.
Thanks a lot for sharing such a nice review about the amplified bluetooth speaker. I definitely appreciate. Keep posting more updates on your page.