Fender Audio Makes Its Debut with Versatile Speaker and Amp Hybrids Fender Audio, a new venture from the iconic guitar company operated by Riffsound, has entered the consumer audio market. Its first products are the Elie 6 and Elie 12 portable Bluetooth speakers, priced at 300 and 400 dollars respectively. These devices aim to blend sophisticated design with pro-audio features, offering a unique mix of connectivity in a portable form. The most striking aspect of the Elie speakers is their design. They sport a refined, almost retro look that stands apart from the typical brightly colored or flashy portable speaker. All controls are clearly labeled physical buttons and dials, making them intuitive to use. Where these speakers truly differentiate themselves is with their connectivity. On the rear panel, both models feature a combo quarter-inch and XLR input with 48V phantom power, allowing them to function as compact amplifiers for instruments or microphones. They also support two simultaneous wireless microphone connections and have a 3.5mm line out. This array of inputs is uncommon for speakers of this size and directly leverages Fender’s musical heritage. A dedicated three-way switch for single, stereo, or multi-speaker pairing also simplifies the process of linking units compared to finicky Bluetooth procedures. In terms of sound, the standout quality is clarity. Both speakers deliver crisp, detailed audio across genres like bluegrass, alt-rock, and metal. The Elie 12, with its six drivers and 120 watts of power, offers more volume, bass, and instrumental separation than the two-driver, 60-watt Elie 6. However, the overall sound signature and clear presentation are consistent between them, providing a wider soundstage than many competitors. There are some notable drawbacks. The physical controls are limited to play and pause, with no track skipping options. Only the larger Elie 12 has onboard bass and treble dials, leaving the Elie 6 with no sound customization. Fender Audio has confirmed a companion app is in development, which is needed to unlock EQ settings and better manage the multiple audio inputs. The volume dials on both speakers could be improved. A listenable volume level isn’t reached until the dial is at the halfway point, and adjustments have a slight delay. While both speakers carry an IP54 rating for dust and water splashes, their wooden top panels seem vulnerable to moisture, making the rating somewhat confusing. Portability is another consideration. The Elie 6 weighs just over five pounds, and the Elie 12 is a substantial 8.8 pounds, making them heavier than many rivals. Battery life is rated at 15 hours for the Elie 6 and 18 hours for the Elie 12, which is solid but falls short of some competitors that offer 24 hours or more. In conclusion, Fender Audio has crafted two versatile and handsome speakers that make a strong first impression. The blend of pro-audio inputs, clear sound, and distinctive design is compelling at their price points. While the lack of an app and some control quirks hold them back from greatness, the Elie series offers a unique proposition for those seeking a portable speaker that can also serve as a capable compact amplifier.
