News May 8, 2012

Eton’s Solar-Powered Rukus Is Ready for the Pool

Warm weather is just about here, which means you’ll likely be spending more time outdoors — hopefully at the beach or pool! Assuming that you are careful about the obvious hazards such as water, sand, and too much sun, the next hurdle to outdoors musical enjoyment is finding a power source.

Sun worshippers who have the new Eton Rukus, the “first portable Bluetooth sound system with a solar panel”, will be able to enjoy their favorite songs streamed wirelessly from any Bluetooth enabled mobile device. They can also keep their device charged through the Rukus’ integrated USB charging port.

It has two full-range speaker drivers, delivering booming lows and crystal-clear highs. The embedded 40 square-inch high-efficiency solar panel harvests the sun’s energy for power (six hours in direct sunlight for a full charge) or Rukus Solar can be charged via the AC adapter, offering two distinct ways to recharge the internal lithium battery.

An eInk display lets you know battery status, whether it is solar charging or not, and other connectivity statuses.

The unique blend of Bluetooth technology and solar power truly makes Rukus Solar the only sound system that will never run of out power,” said Esmail Hozour, CEO of Etón Corporation. “With design features like an E Ink display, multiple charging options and portability, Rukus Solar will surely cause a ruckus wherever it goes, from backyard barbeques to the beach.

There will also be a non-solar version available, but why would you want that? Available in black, bright green and white, the Eton Rukus Solar Bluetooth Sound System with Solar Panel is $150 (for the black model) and slightly less for the other colors. Each version includes a three-month subscription to MOG.

Tags: Apple iPhone and Touch Gear, Audio Visual Gear, Camping and Outdoor Gear, Green Tech, Mobile Phone Gear, Speaker Systems

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About Judie Lipsett Stanford

View all posts by Judie Lipsett Stanford

I have had a fascination with all types of gadgets and gizmos since I was a child, beginning with the toy robot that my grandmother gave my brother - which I promptly "relieved him of" in 1973. I have long been captivated by devices that did anything interesting or served a unique purpose - however silly. I can't tell you how everything works – but I am known world-wide for using a product until I have a full understanding of what it does, what its limitations are, and if it excels in any given area...or not.