Sony SRS-XV500 Review
Overall, the Sony SRS-XV500 presents a compelling option for users seeking a versatile and feature-rich portable speaker. With its refined design, enhanced sound quality, and comprehensive connectivity options, it caters to a wide range of audio needs, from casual listening to impromptu karaoke sessions. While it may not excel in every aspect, its combination of portability, performance, and functionality makes it a worthy contender in its price range.
In a world where portable speakers vie for attention with flashy features and booming sound, the Sony SRS-XV500 emerges as a high-end, refined option. As the latest addition to Sony’s acclaimed lineup, the Sony SRS-XV500 builds upon the success of its predecessors, promising an elevated audio experience in a more portable package. With a focus on enhanced design, comprehensive features, and improved sound quality, this speaker sets out to captivate music enthusiasts and party aficionados. I tested out the Sony SRS-XV800 (review) last year and was generally pleased with the performance. So, naturally I have high expectations this time around too.
In this review, I delve into the intricacies of the Sony SRS-XV500. I explore its build and design, features, sound performance, and battery life, uncovering whether it stands out amidst a crowded market of portable audio solutions. Priced at ₹31,990, the SRS-XV500 isn’t exactly light on your wallet, so let’s see if it’s worth the investment.
The Sony SRS-XV500 marks a refined addition to Sony’s lineup, boasting a sleeker and more rounded design. Since it is slightly smaller than the Sony SRS-XP500, it is more convenient for on-the-go use. However, at 11.2 kg, it is still quite a heavy speaker to lift with ease.
The Sony SRS-XV500 features capacitive control buttons which are now illuminated. So they enhance usability, particularly in low-light environments.
However, it’s primarily plastic construction and thin metal grill is prone to scratches and dents. So, handle it with care. I personally saw the speaker gather a few scratches from only using it for a week or so. Additionally, the absence of a speaker stand mount may limit placement options.
The Sony SRS-XV500 is equipped with Sony’s signature light feature, so it offers visual flair akin to its predecessors. The customisable lighting modes, accessible through the Fiestable app, add ambiance to any setting. I had a great time playing around with all the light customisation options in the Fiestable app.
The XV500 also supports dual-device connectivity, so if you have two of these speakers, you can play stereo sound with one acting as the right channel and the other as the left channel. The speaker can also be connected to other Sony SRS series of speakers; the connected speakers then sync up and play music simultaneously. Pretty cool stuff.
There’s also support for various audio codecs such as SBC, AAC, and LDAC, however, if you’re an Apple user, you cannot use LDAC codec since iPhones only support AAC. The speaker also has Sony’s DSEE technology for better sound quality and fidelity.
The Sony SRS-XV500 has multiple input options such as a USB-A port and dual mic inputs. So it caters to karaoke enthusiasts and musicians since you can either connect two microphones or a microphone and a guitar. However, the absence of an optical port means it cannot be used as a soundbar for your TV.
I also found the EQ customisation to be quite limited since it is only a 3-band EQ, which may disappoint some users. Regardless, the Sony Music Center and Fiestable app provide tons of customisation options which will satiate most users.
The Sony SRS-XV500 features two front-facing woofers and two front-facing tweeters. The tweeters are larger than the ones present on the XP500. In terms of sound performance, the XV500 offers a more balanced and open sound signature, a notable improvement over its predecessor.
With enhanced instrument separation and detailed highs, thanks to the newer and larger tweeters, it delivers a pretty captivating listening experience. While it may not prioritise bass as strongly as other models, its sound profile remains versatile and adaptable to various music genres. Users can further tailor the sound with EQ adjustments, although the stock setting is generally pleasing.
Do note that when the speaker is plugged in, it demonstrates a significant performance boost, amping up the volume and bass response, which is ideal for hosting gatherings or parties. The bass response and volume are pretty good even when unplugged, but the boost is pretty noticeable when it is plugged in.
The XV500 boasts an upgraded battery life over the Sony SRS-XP500, offering up to 25 hours of playback on a single charge. However, real-world usage scenarios may vary, especially when factoring in volume levels and additional features such as the light display and mega bass. With the light feature turned on, I got about 12 hours of playtime.
While stamina mode extends battery life by sacrificing certain features such as light and Mega Bass, users may find themselves needing to recharge more frequently during extended use, particularly at higher volume levels.
Overall, the Sony SRS-XV500 presents a compelling option for users seeking a versatile and feature-rich portable speaker. With its refined design, enhanced sound quality, and comprehensive connectivity options, it caters to a wide range of audio needs, from casual listening to impromptu karaoke sessions.
While it may not excel in every aspect, its combination of portability, performance, and functionality makes it a worthy contender in its price range. Whether for indoor use or outdoor adventures, the Sony SRS-XV500 delivers an immersive audio experience that will please music enthusiasts and partygoers alike.
