Sometimes, choosing a speaker comes down to aesthetics, and Bose seems to have embraced that with the $219 SoundLink Home. From the moment it was unveiled, the speaker caught attention with its mid-century modern-inspired design, standing out not only from competitors but even from Bose’s own lineup. It’s the kind of device that draws comments — a rarity in a sea of generic cylindrical speakers.
A Design That Feels Like Vintage Bose
The SoundLink Home’s standout design features a fabric housing wrapped in a brushed aluminum band, exuding a premium, vintage Bose vibe. The attention to detail in its materials and design is refreshing, especially considering Bose’s recent focus on functionality over form. This speaker is as much a decorative piece as it is a functional gadget, blending effortlessly into any modern living space.
Familiar Sound with Some Caveats
If you’ve heard Bose’s SoundLink Flex, you already have a good sense of what the SoundLink Home sounds like. The two speakers share a similar tuning, offering detailed, clear audio with crisp vocals and a touch of warmth for acoustic instruments. Even at high volumes, distortion is minimal. However, bass enthusiasts might find the Home lacking; its performance in low frequencies doesn’t compare to the more powerful (and pricier) SoundLink Max.
Notably, the SoundLink Home outputs mono audio, which is common in portable speakers of this size but feels a bit underwhelming given the price. On the bright side, you can pair two units to create a stereo setup, significantly enhancing the soundstage for those willing to invest in a second speaker.
Limitations in Customization and Durability
One surprising omission is the lack of a companion app, meaning there’s no way to adjust the speaker’s EQ settings. While the default sound profile is pleasing, the inability to fine-tune it will disappoint those who enjoy customizing their audio experience. For a speaker in this price range, this feels like a missed opportunity.
The SoundLink Home is also strictly for indoor use. Unlike the ruggedized SoundLink Flex, it offers no water or dust resistance, making it unsuitable for poolside gatherings or outdoor adventures. Even bathrooms are off-limits, according to Bose. If durability is a priority, brands like Ultimate Ears, JBL, or Soundcore offer weatherproof alternatives at comparable prices.
Features That Stand Out
Despite its shortcomings, the SoundLink Home has a few tricks up its sleeve. It supports USB-C audio input, allowing you to connect it to devices like laptops while remaining paired to a phone via Bluetooth. This dual functionality is convenient for multitasking, such as taking calls or using a voice assistant while listening to music. The multi-function button atop the speaker can summon your phone’s voice assistant, whether Siri or Google Assistant.
The USB-C port is positioned on the side, which can make plugged-in cables look a bit awkward. However, Bose includes a 90-degree USB-C cable to keep things neat. Battery life is rated at up to 9 hours, though higher volumes will reduce that figure. A full recharge takes around three to four hours, which feels slow given the relatively modest endurance.
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A Speaker for a Specific Audience
The Bose SoundLink Home isn’t trying to be an all-purpose speaker. It’s designed for those who value aesthetics and are willing to trade ruggedness and customization for a device that blends seamlessly into their home. It delivers solid audio quality without any glaring tonal weaknesses, but the lack of EQ settings and weatherproofing might be deal-breakers for some.
If you’re seeking a gift or a speaker that stands out from the crowd with its unique design, the SoundLink Home is a compelling option. It’s not the most versatile or practical choice, but for style-conscious buyers who appreciate Bose’s attention to detail, it’s a speaker worth considering.
