I've used many gadgets, but the Bose speaker SoundLink Mini has always been among the leaders. So, I'm thrilled that I had the opportunity to review its successor, the new Bose SoundLink Mini II portable speaker.

Bose SoundLink Mini II - Reviews

For two years I have been using the first model of mobile speaker, and it accompanies me everywhere. I use it at home, on trips and on weekends. I will not exaggerate if I say that the equipment has become very close to me.

Appearance of SoundLink Mini II

At first glance, the Bose SoundLink Mini II speaker is no different from its predecessor. We are dealing with the same anodized aluminum body. Its dimensions are 5.10 x 18 x 5.8 cm, and the speaker weighs only 670 grams. Compact size and its low weight allows you to use the speaker absolutely everywhere. This is completely mobile equipment.

The case consists of a single, slightly rounded piece of metal at the corners that surrounds the devices. Using a thin rubber gasket, a mesh was attached to the column, which prevents anything from getting inside. Its cells are small, but sand can easily pass through them. I learned about this hard during my stay on the sea coast.

To avoid scratching the coating and for stability, the speaker was made on very large rubber feet. Bose SoundLink Mini 2 has good adhesion, so despite very powerful bass, the speaker does not move. This is very important, especially during long listening sessions.

I know many speakers that, after a few hours of continuous play, simply fall off the table or countertop. Bose SoundLink Mini bluetooth Speaker II, even if it plays very loudly, will stand like a rock and will not budge. This is one of those details that determine the quality of the equipment.

Bose SoundLink Mini II sound

However, the Bose SoundLink Mini 2 owes its stabilization to more than just its rubber feet. It is worth noting that the masking grid is located on both sides of the column. This unusual design move was due to the fact that the speaker plays in two opposite directions. The membranes vibrate in two directions simultaneously, so the speaker does not move in any direction. This is not only a very simple, but also an extremely effective solution.

Although I am not an audiophile, I will try to evaluate the sound quality. This is very close or the same as the previous generation speaker. The sound is very loud and clear. For such a small device, the SoundLink Mini II speaker provides very good low frequencies, but there are also no problems with higher sounds. Vocals are a little less audible, but for portable speaker this is already excellent.

The sound from the speaker is exceptionally warm, but not exceptionally soft. The speaker has proven herself in almost all genres of music, but I think that the maximum of her abilities is demonstrated in rock music.

The high class of the Bose SoundLink Mini 2 is confirmed by the fact that the speaker was able to provide music not only for intimate meetings, but also for gatherings around the fire or barbecue. I was not mistaken, this speaker will easily support a large house party.

What's changed in the Bose SoundLink Mini II

The truth is that everything mentioned above can also be written about the first model of Bose SoundLink Mini bluetooth speaker. It is worth noting exactly what has changed in relation to its predecessor. Firstly, battery life has increased from seven to ten hours. As a result, the speaker can play all day long.

Other changes can be seen after a quick look at the device's buttons. The first generation of speakers had six buttons covered with soft rubber, now there are only five. These are, respectively, on/off, volume down button, multifunction button and volume up button, as well as a button responsible for communication.

Using the multi-function button you can, among other things, stop the music, resume it, receive, reject a call and limit switch in between. The first and last versions of the speaker have LEDs that inform the user about the device's charge level and what type of communication is being used.

The Bose SoundLink Mini 2 portable speaker also has many commands that have been polished. If we add to this the fact that the new speaker can be connected to several, up to eight devices at the same time, it turns out that this is a very convenient solution. Moreover, in order to start playing music from another device easily and quickly. Simply stop playing music on the first device and start on the second.

The last and, in my opinion, most important change is that the Bose SoundLink Mini II wireless speaker can be charged via a micro-USB port. The previous model also had this port, but it did not support the charging function, so it was necessary to use a special connector and charger.

Bose SoundLink apps

The Bose SoundLink Mini speaker was a great product that had a few drawbacks, such as the inability to charge it using a USB port and the lack of a built-in device speakerphone. The American company decided to release a hit by softly updating the product two years ago and making it perfect. Not only has it lost its annoying drawbacks, but it has also added new features and functionality that make it a pleasure to use. of this device.

Bottom line

If you are looking for a portable speaker High Quality and are willing to spend up to $200 on it, you should just go to the store and buy a Bose SoundLink Mini II. It is difficult to find such a stylish, colorful and well-made speaker on the market. This is the kind of equipment where you really pay for quality.

However, are the changes big enough to replace the previous SoundLink? Definitely not. The old column stands the test of time and I have no intention of changing it.

New improved model speaker system from Bose!

New feature speakerphone, as well as a more durable battery that can withstand more than ten hours of battery life: now you have even more time to listen to your favorite music!

Bose Soundlink Mini II remains the same small, it is miniature and fits in the palm of your hand. Richer sound and deeper low frequencies.

Your playlists. Wherever you play music.

Don't leave your music at home. Enjoy your freedom wireless music using SoundLink Mini speaker II. Weighing just 1.5 pounds, it's small and light enough to fit in your bag. The column has a low profile that allows it to be placed almost anywhere and provides a low center of gravity, making it impossible for it to tip over.

Don't let a long day trip keep you from listening to music - with up to 10 hours of battery life, you can create a playlist that plays all day long. And when you're at home, the charging cradle lets you enjoy music indefinitely while the speaker charges, so it's always ready for your trips and travels.

Any song from almost any device

What devices are compatible with SoundLink Mini II? Smartphones and tablets. Or your friends' smartphones and tablets. If it's a Bluetooth device, you have everything you need for any song you want to hear. SoundLink Mini II remembers your last 8 devices, so it's easy to connect and navigate through DJ controls. You can enjoy all this high-quality audio wirelessly with a reliable range of about 10 meters.

Designed for travel

Small portable speakers are usually known for their high performance. But the SoundLink Mini II is not your typical Bluetooth speaker. What's the key to turning small volume into big sound? Exclusive technologies that are built into this case.

Dual passive radiators

Provide amazingly deep low notes and collide in opposite directions to minimize vibration.

High efficiency converters

The transducers in the SoundLink Mini II speaker move twice as much air as their own size: more air movement means more powerful sound.

Best Design

The SoundLink Mini II speaker is designed in a minimalist style. Its unibody aluminum body is durable and ultra-compact. You can control the speaker from your Bluetooth devices, and it features a built-in microphone for taking calls and accessing Siri or Google Now™.

Key benefits of Bose SoundLink Mini II

• Has the ability to store more than seven mobile and other devices for connection and data transfer.
• The body is one-piece, made of high-quality durable aluminum, has small dimensions and weight.
• You can connect the system to two devices at the same time to quickly switch from one to another and listen to your favorite music.
• A new feature of the Bose Soundlink Mini II is speakerphone. Thanks to it, you can now make calls even without using your hands.
• Voice prompts are customizable and can be paired via any Bluetooth enabled device.
• Convenient audio messages in Russian notify you about a possible low charge, as well as about connected devices.
• Added improved lithium battery, which significantly increased the operating time of the acoustics, up to ten hours.
• The charger itself can charge speakers not only from fixed network, but also from any device with a USB connector.
• There is a special convenient stand for charging, which can also be used as a convenient throne for your acoustics.
• Contains a connector for playing music through any audio devices.
• This model has only two color options: carbon and pearl color.

Equipment:

• Column
• Charging station for speaker
• USB charging cable
• Charging for socket
• User guide
• Warranty card

*In case you have any specific needs for technical compatibility, appearance, technical specifications goods and so on, please be sure to request them from our managers by phone or email listed on the website. Color and appearance may vary.

Bose SoundLink Mini 2 bluetooth speaker is a stylish and incredibly compact speaker system that, despite its miniature size, provides very rich, lively and dynamic, natural sound with deep, clear bass. Pairing with gadgets is carried out via wireless interface Bluetooth. Listen to your favorite music tracks, watch the most interesting films anytime and anywhere with the new high-tech portable acoustics from Bose!

Compactness

Lightweight and surprisingly compact, the Bose SoundLink Mini 2 Bluetooth Speaker fits into any of your bags or backpacks. Without any doubt, take it with you when going on a trip, to nature, to the countryside, to get-togethers with friends and other trips.

Functionality

Among the advantages of the new Bose SoundLink Mini 2 Bluetooth Speaker system, it is important to note the ability to work in hands-free mode, as well as simple pairing via Bluetooth using voice prompts. In addition, the speaker can connect to two devices simultaneously. Uninterrupted operation time on one charge is up to 10 hours.

Peculiarities:

• Compactness
• Excellent sound quality
• Laconic design
• Wireless connection
• Possibility of working in hands-free mode
• Availability of voice prompts
• Long operating time on a single charge
• Ability to connect to two devices simultaneously

Bose took a chance and changed the sound. I touched the saint.

Last year I called the column best in class. This is not just my opinion: no matter where you look, observers and experts, and ordinary owners are going crazy about sound quality aluminum baby.

Today, the old Mini has several worthy rivals. I still don’t think that any of them plays better, but there are already similar ones. Bose looked at the market and took a deep breath. updated SoundLink Mini before second versions.

What's new, what's old and what's changed

In two years, Mini has not lost its advantages. A few little things were missing to achieve the title of objectively ideal small-sized Bluetooth acoustics. Now there is nowhere to point your finger - everything you need is there and even a little more.

Style you can choose

Bose SoundLink Mini 2 does not change form. The strict, industrial style with an abundance of metal has not gone away. Only one little thing has changed: instead of one color scheme, two are now available.

Silver model strongly reminiscent of the first generation Mini, but uses a slightly different shade of plastic body elements and speaker grilles. As a result, the model became almost monochromatic. Those who still haven't seen old version, they are unlikely to notice the difference. This change is more likely for new buyers, a kind of enticement.

Black model- unexpected guest. Previously, it was not in the lineup, and if you saw a black Mini on the Internet or on the counter, it was always . The body is painted in a curious color: I can’t call it truly black; The “stealth” shade comes to mind, which can be explained by the banal properties of the aluminum body. The official name of the color is "carbon".

The buttons and speaker grille are also painted, and the only bright detail against their background is the light rubber insulation along the edges of the front panel. The combination is no less stylish, even more austere - it will appeal to owners of dark furniture.

Having compared both speakers live, I came to the conclusion: I like the silver one a little more. There is something warm and familiar about her: maybe the poppy-grower who loves the noble shade of aluminum is playing in her soul again. But in the end, for comparison and testing, I took the black version - it demonstrates the difference with the previous generation much better. And, to be honest, it looks more organic on my dark shelves.

Features that were missing

I never denied it: functionality was the weakest point of the first generation Bose SoundLink Mini. Two factors had an impact: the start date of production and the transition period at Bose itself, where they were just beginning to see the future of the acoustics market, but were still betting on classic products like PC speakers. Mini was a milestone, ahead of everyone else in terms of sound. The rest could be nitpicked.

Bose SoundLink Mini 2 is now available maybe much more. No, not like that: now the column everything is possible, what the average owner will require of her.

1. Keys for switching tracks. My old dream came true. In every second review he wrote: portable acoustics must have not only a volume control, but also buttons for switching songs. The prayers were heard first in, and then in Mini 2.

I think you noticed that a new button has appeared on the case. Responsible for switching tracks multifunction key, replacing Mute and Aux on the old model. By default, it simply pauses tracks and resumes them. To switch a song, you need to hold down the button and also click on the “plus” or “minus” - for the next or previous track.

A bit of a compromise solution, but during testing I never noticed any discomfort. The buttons are easy to press, you can even feel them blindly. With iOS 8/9 and Apple Music they work without problems, everything is fine here in a good way predictable.

A small detail: now the volume control on the speaker matches the volume of the connected device, and is not adjusted independently (as on the first Mini). In my opinion, it makes more sense.

2. Built-in microphone for hands-free calling. It was not enough when using the speaker on trips and outdoors. At incoming call iOS gives priority to the new microphone in SoundLink Mini 2, and you can talk to your interlocutor directly through the speakers. You look funny chatting with the column, and the experience itself is strange, but it is what it is :)

I tested the microphone itself, calling to friends and to myself. The voice quality is satisfactory, you can walk indoors and you will be heard normally. In the open air, it is better to keep the speaker nearby or speak louder. By the way, if you hold down the multifunction key, Siri will work! And then you can give her a task through the microphone - for example, tell her the weather or play a specific song.

3. Simultaneous connection of 2 devices. A great help for families or owners of two mobile gadgets. Previously, to switch the sound source, you had to go to the speaker, press the Bluetooth button to start searching for a new device, and hope that the Mini would pick it up. It's easier now.

After pairing two devices at once, the speaker plays sound from the first active source. As soon as it goes silent for at least a couple of seconds, the acoustics will switch to the second stream (and second source) if something is playing there. To the system you get used to it instantly: Essentially, you just press pause to switch sources.

Bose SoundLink Mini II stores up to 8 devices. You can reset it if you exceed it.

4. Voice assistant. We haven't had enough robot voices in our lives :) Bose SoundLink Mini 2 has acquired the same assistant as in the Color headphones and speaker. A synthesized voice pronounces absolutely everything that happens: the battery level when turned on, the start of pairing, the connection of new devices and their name. It even announces an incoming call, including the name of the caller in the phone book.

Yes, and before you ask, there is Russian language support right out of the box. If desired, you can return to English. Or disable the feature altogether.

BATTERY CHARGE LEVEL: ONE HUNDRED PERCENT. CONNECTION WITH IPHONE TWO IS ESTABLISHED.

I’ll be honest: if I was happy about it in On-Ear, I turned it off in the column after two days. Well, a very talkative assistant. And when someone calls, especially with a long name in the address book... At the same time, thanks to the assistant, you can confidently answer calls without an iPhone at hand, already knowing who is trying to call.

Having a feature is always better than not having one. Anyone who doesn't like it will be turned off and that's it.

5. Supports charging via micro-USB. We've waited! Down with chargers and proprietary standards. On the side of the new Mini there is a USB port through which it can charge from any source, either portable accumulator, “plug” from the iPhone or laptop kit.

Now you don’t need to take a charger when traveling, or even depend on sockets. I connected it to the laptop and there it was. The kit includes a thick (well, really, I haven’t seen one like this in a hundred years) proprietary micro-USB cable with manufacturer’s markings, but, of course, any analogue will do.

A USB plug was also included. It charges about a third faster than when connected to a laptop. But I’ve never had a situation where the speaker wasn’t charged 100 percent overnight. There is still a docking station complete with a charging dock: I put a speaker on it and that’s it. The new dock is not compatible with the old Mini and vice versa. It is for information only.

6. Autonomous operation a third longer. Previously it was 7 hours, which was enough for many. But you won’t be able to take me into some forest for the whole day if you only listen intermittently. The Bose SoundLink Mini 2 lasts for 10 hours on a single charge, and we're talking about continuous music playback or conversations.

I noticed that I feel more comfortable taking the speaker with me, most often even without a cable. I’ve never completely discharged the first “mini” to zero, but it’s just nice to know that the new model will definitely withstand several days of work “in the field”.

A sound you didn't expect

Am I the only one like this? Every time something good is updated, I feel distrust of the manufacturer and compare them at the first opportunity. Businessmen love to cut costs and simplify, spoil products under the pretext of releasing updated versions - as the owner of several generations of Sony consoles, I have personally encountered this.

So when the new SoundLink Mini was announced, I began to suspect something's wrong. God forbid they touch it and ruin the sound. This is a failure that will make the column simply “one of many.” I tore the film off the box of the new model, as if it had been rude to me and insulted my entire family. It was interesting.

What's up with the sound in Mini 2?

The first thing I did was start comparing new version with the previous generation Mini. One volume level, set at the same time both there and there from scratch. The same sound source – iPhone 6. The same tracks, which I have already listened to thoroughly and know all the details. And the speakers themselves stand in the same place - on a shelf opposite the wall. Ideal conditions.

Bose SoundLink Mini it was hard not to like, but some people didn't like it because of the powerful (in their opinion) bass. In fact, it wasn’t the bass that was annoying, but the slightly blurred, suppressed high frequencies in comparison with other portable speakers (especially inexpensive ones, where everything crunches and rustles). These same people liked the model much more: in it the sound seemed a little more balanced due to improved speakers and a weakened low-frequency radiator.

So, SoundLink Mini 2 is the son of SoundLink Mini and SoundLink Color. From the first she inherited the legendary design, stylish design, powerful bass and rich mids. From the second - advanced functionality. And yes, a bit of balanced sound was lost.

Compared to old model, Mini 2 sounds brighter and richer: there is an increase high frequencies. The difference in direct comparison is instantly noticeable - this was confirmed by four different people who I blindly tested. The vocals have become richer and significantly more noticeable, especially in powerful, multifaceted compositions.

At the same time, the middle and, in particular, low frequencies remained at the same level. I compared them separately through a special website and did not notice a difference at all. Due to more detailed reproduction highs, the stereo effect of the speaker has also improved: before it was rather nominal, but now it has become more noticeable. It is worth making a reservation here that

External wireless speakers Just a couple of years ago they seemed like a “trick” and not a necessary technique. But the years go by and we quickly get used to the good. Demand is growing, and therefore supply is growing. And if at first the main players in this market were manufacturers mobile devices, then today companies specializing in acoustics are becoming clear leaders. And today I want to tell you about one of the best wireless portable speakers - Bose Sounlink Mini II.

Soundlink Mini II - smaller is not worse

We have several models of portable speakers. SoundLink Mini II, as the name implies, is one of the smallest in the company's range. And here is the same situation when size matters. After all, such speakers should be portable, which means small in size and preferably not very heavy. Frankly, this speaker cannot be called heavy, but it still weighs noticeably. This at the same time creates a slight inconvenience, but also indicates that the guys from Bose worked hard on the quality of workmanship. And here there are no complaints.

Bose style

The column looks amazing. We love laconic and simple things. Quality of materials on top level That the body is made of metal, that the mesh protecting the speakers, that the thick elastic band at the bottom only cause a feeling of good quality. True, there is one “but” with a rubber foot on the bottom; the inscription on this rubber band wears off very quickly during use. Terrible perfectionists may howl at this, but we like it even better without the extra letters.

Controls

There are 5 controls on the top of the column. The first is responsible for turning on. By the way, this key can tell you how much charge is left, and in Russian. Immediately above this button is a charge indicator. Next are the volume control keys. When working with an iPad, the volume is synchronized on the device and speaker; on Android it is adjusted separately. In the center there is a functional button responsible for pausing and starting playback, and paired with volume controls, it allows you to switch the track, which is important. If you hold down the function button, Siri is called up, naturally only when working with Apple devices.

Siri and speakerphone control

What’s nice is that the speaker has a built-in microphone; for Bose, this is the exception rather than the rule. The microphone allows you to issue commands to Siri through the speaker itself. For example, switch the track or voice the weather. Well, of course, with the help of this microphone you can have a hands-free conversation. This speaker is ideal for the office and negotiations. Soundlink Mini II will be happy to tell you who is calling if the number is saved in your contacts book. The last button on the right is responsible for synchronization. The column is capable of connecting to two sources at once. That is, you can watch a movie from your laptop, and when there is an incoming call on your phone, switch to it. Or you can divide the column within the family, as soon as one presses pause, the second can start playing their files. Mini II stores 8 devices in memory, enough for a phone, tablet, laptop, as well as the phone of your wife, friends, etc.

Sound

Well, now the most important thing. A lot of people admire this device. Considering its size, the speaker sounds simply wonderful. Loud and rich across the entire frequency range. Even in relatively large rooms, such as a 60 square meter conference room, the volume was enough for 20 people to admire the Mini's sound. The speaker reproduces low frequencies from the rear, so if you place it close to the wall you will feel a noticeable increase in bass. It is the low frequencies that are the special feature of this Mini. In terms of sound, there are no complaints about the speaker, especially keeping in mind its size. When you hear it for the first time, you are even surprised that such a baby is capable of producing such high-quality sound. Moreover, Mini copes with any genres. This is truly one of the best portable speakers, not just in its segment, but in principle.

Autonomy and price

The manufacturer promises 10 hours of operation on a single charge. We managed to squeeze out 7 hours, but in fairness it is worth noting that it worked at maximum volume and with two connected devices. Soundlink Mini II can be charged from any Micro USB, that is, even from a laptop. Although it would be faster and better to do this using a complete dock with a proprietary charger. The docking station is also made of high quality and can easily be found in its “home place”. We came home, put the speaker on the dock, it continues to play and is charging at the same time. Having looked at a variety of external speakers, I can definitely say that I didn’t want to part with SoundLink Mini II at all. Separately worth mentioning