Ultimate Ears (UE) has expanded its Bluetooth speaker lineup with the introduction of the UE Miniroll, its smallest model to date. Priced at $80, the Miniroll is available in four vibrant colors: black, blue, gray, and pink, and will be available for purchase at ultimateears.com starting September 9th.
One of the key features that distinguishes the Miniroll from other UE Bluetooth speakers like the Wonderboom and Everboom is its integrated silicone strap. Similar to the design employed by Marshall on its Willen II portable speaker, this strap allows users to conveniently attach the Miniroll to clothing, backpacks, or even bike handlebars. UE assures users that the removable and replaceable strap can accommodate tubular shapes ranging from 20mm to 35mm in diameter.
Despite its compact size, the Miniroll manages to deliver impressive sound quality. Housing a 45.6mm driver and a 37.75mm by 65mm passive radiator for enhanced bass response, the Miniroll produces a soundstage that belies its dimensions. The speaker delivers clear and rich audio, effectively avoiding the tinny sound often associated with smaller speakers.
The Miniroll’s most innovative feature is its PartyUp mode, powered by Bluetooth Auracast. This mode allows users to connect an unlimited number of additional Minirolls, creating a synchronized audio experience. The only limitation is the speaker’s Bluetooth range of 131 feet. While the PartyUp mode doesn’t work with other UE speakers, it’s worth noting that the Auracast broadcast generated by PartyUp is private and can only be joined by other Minirolls. This means you won’t be able to share the Miniroll’s audio with other Auracast-capable headphones or speakers.
The Miniroll takes approximately three hours to fully charge via its USB-C port, and UE estimates a battery life of 12 hours. However, it’s important to note that a USB-C cable is not included in the box.
The Miniroll boasts impressive durability, featuring an IP67 rating for both water and dust resistance. It’s also drop-proof from heights of up to 4 feet. However, unlike the Wonderboom, the Miniroll does not float, so it’s not recommended for immersion in water.
In terms of sustainability, UE has incorporated recycled materials into the Miniroll’s construction. The speaker features 100% post-consumer recycled polyester fabric and a minimum of 40% post-consumer recycled plastic parts.
Overall, the UE Miniroll presents a compelling proposition for those seeking a compact, powerful, and versatile Bluetooth speaker. Its PartyUp mode, durable design, and impressive sound quality make it an excellent choice for individuals who value portability and immersive audio experiences.
