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Will Kinivo’s compact M2 Bluetooth 2.1 speaker system sound as good as it looks?

By Alex Tretbar March 11, 2014

A 2.1 speaker setup is nearly quaint these days. At least, it might seem that way when considering everything else that’s available today – from portable powerhouses to full-on surround systems. You figure: Six speakers are better than three, right? Well, technically speaking, they may be louder and perhaps more immersive. But this doesn’t trivialize the 2.1 systems. Two satellite speakers and the right subwoofer can definitely still provide a room-filling blast, a fact that Bellevue, WA-based Kinivo stands behind.

Equipped with NFC for quick pairing, the company’s M2 Bluetooth speaker system allows users to easily connect their Bluetooth-enabled devices for significantly enhanced sound, be they PCs, laptops, tablets or iOS/Android smartphones and more.

Included are two 14-watt satellite speakers and a 6.5-inch, 28-watt sub for a 56-watt (RMS) system total. In addition to Bluetooth is a 3.5mm auxiliary input jack for traditional wired playback – just tap the source button. Aesthetically intriguing with copper-colored accents, the M2 also has a large lighted volume dial and bass and treble dials for subtle adjustments — the satellites actually reminded us of Boston Acoustics’ SoundWare XS-SE system from a couple years back.

The product’s press release points out that the M2 is designed to visually blend in at the home or in the office.Backed by a one-year warranty and available for just $70, the M2 could be a good bargain as a backup set of speakers for your on-the-go gaming laptop rig, or for simply less-serious auditory endeavors. Given the rig’s looks and promised power, $70 seems like a pretty great deal, but without lending an actual ear or two, it’s impossible to say. Some user reviews appear to be mostly positive so far.

If you’re already sold, you can order yours at Amazon now.

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Alex Tretbar, audio/video intern, is a writer, editor, musician, gamer and sci-fi nerd raised on EverQuest and Magic: The…

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