Philips cuts the cords with deluge of fresh wireless audio kit
The Dutch company debuts new speakers and headphones galore at CES, most of them using Bluetooth for wire-free sound
Good news, music fans: Philips has unveiled a bevy of new audio gear at CES, most of it wireless.
The Dutch company kicked things off with the E2 Fidelio Wireless Studio speakers, an elegant pair of Bluetooth and aptX-equipped columns that can be painlessly paired with mobile devices via NFC. They also feature an HDMI connection, which means you can easily hook them up to home cinema or gaming sources. Look out for the E2 package in the spring, priced at around £300.
Let’s go outside
Next up is the BR-1X speaker, a portable model designed for both in- and outdoor use (it features modes designed for both environments – indoor focusses on detail and clarity, outdoor on loudness). Each speaker comes with dual two-inch drivers, and you can daisy chain several of them together for a bigger sound. They’ll be out from this month, priced at £100 each.
The final speaker, and the most portable of the lot, is the Dot. It’s a palm-sized speaker that’s battery-powered, ruggedised and splash-proof and can be turned off quickly by simply turning it upside down. Despite its dinky size, Philips claims it can pump out powerful audio, so all in all it sounds ideal for camping or beach trips. It’s out in February, priced at £60.
Foldies or Frames?
Also announced today are two pairs of headphones: the Bluetooth-equipped Foldies (out April, £100) and the Frames (out June, £100-£110 depending on finish). The Foldies are wireless and “inspired by vintage road bikes”, while the Frames are more lightweight. Both sets of cans fold up for easy storage and feature 40mm drivers.
Look out for our reviews of Philips’ new generation of audio kit in the coming months.
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Sam Kieldsen
Contributor 
