Bayan Audio Soundbook X3 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker Review

Who is Bayan Audio? Back in 2011, an UK-based company started that had the sole intent of creating high quality products that produce phenomenal sound out of natural materials, that you can take with you wherever you may go. You may recognize them from a previous report we did a few weeks back, when we took a look at the Bayan Audio Soundbook Wireless Bluetooth Speaker.

Today, we have the privilege of taking a bigger and better look at the Bayan Audio Soundbook X3, the big brother to the previously reported Soundbook.  One thing to keep in mind before we dig into the X3, is that we are looking at a wireless bluetooth speaker. More often then not, you ‘get what you pay for’ when it comes to wireless bluetooth speakers. The cheaper wireless speakers are typically comprised of a lower grade material, which will further inhibit the performance of the speaker, but the opposite also remains true. What really impresses us is when a company creates a product that is not only of high quality, but doesn’t break your bank as well.

SPECIFICATIONS AND BUILD

Similar to the previously reviewed Soundbook, the Bayan Audio Soundbook X3 features a 2.1 stereo configuration with a total output of 25w, which is a 10w increase. However, the X3 features four 1.5″ long throw neodymium drive unit and one 3″ passive bass radiator. When comparing battery life, there is no difference between the two units. It strikes the thought that both products feature the same type and size of battery. However, Bayan Audio does note with the X3 that it can achieve longer battery life when using FM radio and the auxiliary input.

If your looking to blast out your tunes, the Bayan Audio Soundbook X3 gives you three ways to do so: via bluetooth, FM radio (with built-in antennae) or 3.5mm auxiliary port. The X3 features the latest Smart BlueTooth 4.0 with aptX. aptX technology  essentially takes the audio that is being streamed via Bluetooth, and removes the unnecessary components from the audio. Sounds simple enough! Remember though, to fully experience the aptX technology, you would need a playback device that features this technology, such as a Samsung Galaxy S5 or an Apple Mac computer. Bluetooth also allows us to pair our smartphones up to the X3, which can let you stream your music, but also let you take that important phone call. Going one step further, you can even connect your Soundbook X3 with another audio equipment.

To further enhance your audio experience, you can quickly and easily pair your smartphone to your Bayan Audio Soundbook X3 by utilizing the NFC connectivity built-in within the unit. You could even plug your smartphone or MP3 player into the X3 to charge while your listening away.

PACKAGE CONTENTS

Inside the packaging you will find the Bayan Audio Soundbook X3 charging cable with universal plug attachments, a 3.5mm audio cable, and of course the instructions.

DEVICE OPERATION

Similar to the Bayan Audio Soundbook, the X3 features input and output ports on the back of the unit. As seen in the image below, from the left, there is a 3.5mm line-in input, a 3.5mm line-out output to a external Hi-Fi receiver, the power adapter port, and an USB port.

Looking at the top of the unit from left to right, we have the frequency up and down for the FM radio, the power button as well as mode selector (short press to change mode), volume up and volume down. The power button on the top and center, turns the device on and off, as well as switches the audio mode from Bluetooth to FM Radio, to Line In.