The product: Like a lot of these Bluetooth speakers that don't feature any sort of dock, the SRS-BTX500 has a clean, sleek look, and the speaker is a classic example of Sony's design prowess. If there's a fault, it's that the matte finish on the back scratches pretty easily if you rub it up against a rough or sharp surface. But otherwise it's really nice. It has a bit of brushed metal on the sides and measures 15.1 inches wide and 6 inches tall, and has a depth of 2.5 inches.
At 4 pounds, 7 ounces, the SRS-BTX500 has some heft to it and it's probably not something you want to be carrying around in your luggage, though it will certainly fit. The speaker seems better suited to moving from room to room and outside onto the patio. Sure, you can carry it wherever you want, but with its more executive styling I don't see this as a speaker you'd want to bring to the beach.
What it offers:
A worthy peer to speakers by Bose and Jawbone, the Sony SRS-BTX500 is one of the best premium portable Bluetooth speakers you can buy.
The advantage:
The Sony SRS-BTX500 is a sleekly designed Bluetooth wireless speaker that offers impressive sound for its size, and has a built-in rechargeable battery for on-the-go use, and speakerphone capabilities. A carrying case is included and there's a USB port for charging smartphones when the AC adapter is plugged in. The NFC pairing feature is a nice bonus for new phones that are so equipped.
The unfavorable:
The speaker's fairly expensive and the battery life is OK but not great.
The price:
$269.99 to $273.34
