Fender Elie Review: Stylish Speaker-Amps Deliver Exceptional Clarity

Fender Audio, a new division of the renowned Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, has recently launched two portable Bluetooth speaker models: the Elie 6 and Elie 12. These stylish speaker-amps aim to make a significant impact in the competitive portable audio market.

Overview of Fender Elie Speakers

The Elie 6 is priced at $300, while the larger Elie 12 comes at $400. Both models showcase distinctive designs and functionalities that cater to a diverse audience. They are equipped with ¼-inch/XLR combo inputs, allowing them to function as speaker-amplifier hybrids. This makes them particularly appealing for music lovers and performers.

Design and Features

The aesthetic appeal of the Elie speakers sets them apart from typical Bluetooth offerings. Their refined, retro-inspired design allows them to be showcased without appearing overly flashy.

Specifications

• Elie 6:
  • Price: $300
  • Weight: 5.1 pounds
  • Battery Life: Up to 15 hours
  • Power Output: 60 watts
• Elie 12:
  • Price: $400
  • Weight: 8.8 pounds
  • Battery Life: Up to 18 hours
  • Power Output: 120 watts

Both speakers feature a range of inputs, including a dedicated three-way mode switch for single, stereo, and multi-speaker setups. This physical switch simplifies usage compared to typical Bluetooth pairing methods found in other portable speakers.

Sound Quality

Audio clarity is a standout feature for both the Elie 6 and Elie 12. They handle a wide variety of music genres exceptionally well, offering crisp sound with good separation of vocals and instruments. The larger Elie 12 provides enhanced bass and volume due to its dual speaker configuration, making it an ideal choice for larger gatherings.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Outstanding audio clarity
  • Multiple input options
  • Stylish design
• Cons:
  • Heavy build compared to competitors
  • Limited playback controls
  • No app for further customization
  • Battery life lags behind some rivals

Battery Performance and Portability

The battery life of the Elie 6 and 12, while reasonable, doesn’t match that of some rival products. The Elie 6 offers 15 hours of use, while the Elie 12 provides up to 18 hours, both falling short compared to competitors like JBL and Sonos.

Both speakers have an IP54 rating for dust and water protection, but their wooden panels may not withstand excessive moisture. The weight of the Elie 6 and 12 also raises concerns for portability, particularly compared to lighter models in the market.

Conclusion

Overall, the Fender Elie 6 and Elie 12 deliver a stylish and powerful audio experience. While they face competition regarding battery life and portability, their unique features and impressive sound quality offer significant value. For those seeking quality and design in a speaker-amp, the Elie series presents a noteworthy choice in the portable audio landscape.