This little monster packs in a thump
The Rocker Armor XL from France-based ZOOOK is a portable Bluetooth speaker that competes with the likes of Harman Kardon, Bose (costing upwards of `10,000).
The speaker is about the size of a large pencil box, which is highly portable but not as convenient to carry around in your pocket or purse. It is best tagged around when going on trips, camping, hiking, or alike. It has a metallic speaker grille protecting both the front and rear. The top and bottom is wrapped around by a rubber layer, with tough plastic support for the frame, giving it a good grip, further preventing from being damaged when mistakenly dropped or slipping off the table when playing aloud. It features an AVRCP (Audio / Video Remote Control Profile) control panel with sealed rubber buttons, while the rear sports a micro USB port and a 3.5mm AUX port. Rated IPX5, the speaker will not be easily damaged with minor splashes from liquids.
The Armor XL measures just 79mm high and 203mm wide with a total weight of 650g. Rocker Armor XL boasts of a massive 30 Watts of audio power in total. It features a 2.1channel driver system with two 50mm subwoofers and a 45mm driver that delivers higher frequencies.
The speaker is powered by a 4400mAh battery and can deliver continuous music for about 8 hours. Its really, really loud and the clarity is great! Yes, the speaker delivers an impressive audio punch, which is generally not easily found in conventional Bluetooth speakers available out there. The speakers can pack a good thump when it comes to bass heavy audio.
The mid-range is good, and watching movies to vocals in classical music are very clear and audible. However, we did find a little lack in high frequencies which was a tad put off. The speakers are also directional and you need to make sure they face towards you for pleasurable audio. As far as the bass is concerned, you need to ensure you are not in a very large room or outdoors. For loud music, the speakers are great, but for enjoyable or pleasurable music, use in personal rooms is recommended. Rocker Armor XL is available for a street price of `3,399. As compared to conventional speakers in the market, the price may seem a bit higher, but the audio quality, design, and IPX5 rating does justify the price. It is pretty portable, you could fit into your backpack, carry it around in your luggage or car, but definitely not an everyday object for your purse. The speaker is built rugged, and hence you would find it a bit heavy. It’s a perfect Bluetooth accessory for ‘house-party’ animals. We definitely recommend the ZOOOK Rocker Armor XL for those looking at cheaper alternatives with great audio quality.