X-Mini RAVE (WAVE) – Rocking the Airwaves

X-Mini RAVE (WAVE) – Rocking the Airwaves

Power-Packed Capsule

Often imitated, but never duplicated, Singapore-based X-Mini made a splash in 2006 when it introduced its unique capsule-shaped speakers which produce surprisingly loud sound despite their tiny size. The succeeding models since then have expounded on the innovative design, improving the sound quality. The latest generation of their products now have added functionality. Among them is the new X-Mini Wave.

Traditional Look, New Feature

At first glance, the X-Mini RAVE (WAVE) looks exactly like the original X-Mini, with its accordion-like resonance chamber and single, 40mm magnetically-shielded driver unit. A closer look reveals that it has an FM radio built in, with a small LCD and two tuning buttons. On the opposite side, you have the control switch for changing from regular audio mode to radio mode.

The speaker’s audio jack, cleverly tucked away underneath the rigid rubber bottom is quite short, so X-Mini throws in a longer 3.5mm/miniUSB combination cable, which acts as an audio and charger cable at the same time. Another interesting feature of the new X-Mini speakers is the “Buddy Jack”, which is an audio out port which allows you to daisy chain a group of X-Mini speakers together.

Ever the Overachiever

In terms of audio performance, it does very well not just for its size, but also for the fact that it is a mono speaker. It was able separate the sounds effectively despite not having two separate channels. The sound quality did deteriorate however, when the volume was maxed out. We recommend not going more than 80% volume. The built-in radio performed well too, with generally crystal clear reception which, unfortunately, degraded rather quickly when we moved indoors.

Final Thoughts

X-Mini speakers have become very popular as a low-cost and space-saving audio solution. So much so that numerous copies have sprung up in the market. None of them however, can match the surprisingly "big" sound of the original, and with the added bonus of an FM radio, we think that the X-Mini RAVE (WAVE) is a great way to enjoy and share your music wherever you go.

For more on X-Mini's line of speakers, head on over to their official website.