Connecting to the Yamaha NX-B02 over Bluetooth is a cinch. To put the speaker into Bluetooth discovery mode, you just hold down the Bluetooth button on the top of the NX-B02 until the normally green LED light below the button begins flashing blue. Once activated, we had no problem getting our laptop and cell phone to recognize and pair with the NX-B02.
Bearing in mind that the Yamaha NX-B02 is not intended to be a platform for critical listening, we found that the audio performance using Bluetooth to be basically as good as plugging an audio source in directly. While in Bluetooth mode, we did notice a faint, high-pitched squeal in the background that was easily drowned out by the music, but could drive you batty over prolonged listening. During testing we found that the Yamaha NX-B02's Bluetooth wireless range could go up to 30 feet without hiccups, as long as there were no solid walls between the speaker and the audio source. We couldn't get the Yamaha NX-B02 to transmit between rooms, however, which makes it a poor solution for someone looking for a wireless speaker system comparable with the Griffin Evolve.
While wireless Bluetooth audio is an undoubtedly great feature to have, the Yamaha NX-B02's portability as a battery-powered speaker is arguably more useful. With a rated battery life of 4 hours and a size no bigger than a super burrito, the mind reels with possibilities. Match the NX-B02 with an ultraportable MP3 player, such as an iPod Shuffle or SanDisk Sansa Clip, and you've got a little, mobile discotheque that can fit in a picnic basket, suitcase, bookshelf, or nightstand.
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Where to buy
Yamaha NX-B02 Bluetooth Speakers (black):
$124.95 - $199.99
| store | price | in stock? | rating |
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$144.96 | Yes |
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$124.95 | Yes |
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Amazon.com Marketplace
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$127.40 | Yes |
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$134.99 | Yes |
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Sears
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$199.99 | Yes |
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