The Edifier MP 230 Bluetooth Speaker is a portable, retro-styled speaker that promises to deliver quality sound in a compact form. With its wooden enclosure and vintage design, it certainly stands out aesthetically. However, as with any audio product, it’s important to evaluate its performance, features, and value for money. Here’s a balanced review of the Edifier MP 230.
Design and Build Quality
One of the most immediately striking aspects of the Edifier MP 230 is its design. It embraces a retro aesthetic, complete with a wood veneer finish that gives it a timeless, classic look. The craftsmanship is impressive for a speaker in this price range. It feels sturdy and well-built, which is a nod to Edifier’s reputation for solid hardware. The tactile buttons on top are another nice touch, adding to the overall sense of durability and quality.
However, while the design will appeal to those who prefer a vintage look, it may not suit everyone’s tastes, especially if you’re after a more modern, minimalist style. In whcih case, remember there is also an sleek black version, with more modern stylings. Some users might also find the speaker a bit bulkier than other portable Bluetooth speakers, making it slightly less convenient for travel.
Sound Quality
In terms of sound performance, the Edifier MP 230 delivers fairly well for its size. It’s equipped with two 48mm drivers, and the output is quite impressive given the speaker's compact form. The sound is clear, with decent highs and mids, which is ideal for casual listening. It shines particularly with vocals and acoustic music, offering a balanced and pleasant audio experience.
The bass, however, leaves something to be desired. While it isn’t weak per se, the low-end lacks the punch that some users might expect from a speaker at this price point. If you’re into bass-heavy genres like EDM or hip-hop, the MP 230 might not fully meet your expectations. The speaker performs better in smaller rooms where it can fill the space with its sound. For outdoor use or larger gatherings, though, the sound may feel a bit underpowered.
Connectivity and Features
On the connectivity front, the Edifier MP 230 supports Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring a stable and reliable wireless connection with minimal latency. Pairing with devices is quick and easy, and the Bluetooth range is respectable, offering a solid connection even when you’re a fair distance away from the speaker.
In addition to Bluetooth, the speaker also features an AUX input, which is a useful option for connecting devices that don’t have Bluetooth capability. The inclusion of a microSD card slot is another bonus, allowing users to play music directly from the card without needing to pair a device, which can be convenient in certain scenarios.
Unfortunately, the speaker lacks some modern features that are becoming more common in Bluetooth speakers, such as smart assistant integration (e.g., Alexa or Google Assistant) or multi-room pairing. While not necessarily a dealbreaker, it does place the MP 230 behind some of its competitors in terms of functionality.
Battery Life
Battery life is one of the strong points of the Edifier MP 230. It boasts up to 16 hours of playtime on a single charge, which is more than enough for most listening sessions, whether you’re using it at home or on the go. Charging is done via USB-C, which is a welcome feature for quicker and more convenient recharging.
Price and Value
Priced in the mid-range for portable Bluetooth speakers, the Edifier MP 230 offers solid value for those who prioritize design and a balanced sound profile. Its retro aesthetic and build quality set it apart from more generic options on the market, and the long battery life is a major plus. However, the lack of deeper bass and some modern smart features might make it less appealing to those who are after a more immersive or tech-forward experience.
Conclusion
The Edifier MP 230 is a well-designed, reliable Bluetooth speaker that offers good sound quality for its size and price. While it isn’t the most feature-rich or bass-heavy option on the market, its combination of vintage design, decent audio performance, and long battery life make it a solid choice for those who want a stylish, portable speaker for casual listening. If you’re looking for deep bass or smart features, you might want to explore other options, but for its target audience, the MP 230 is a charming and capable device.
From £51
Available from amazon.co.uk