IK Multimedia iLoud
Over the last few years the Bluetooth speaker market has gone from non-existent to absolutely amazing. At GearFest we listened to a number of speakers that were loud, paired easily, and sounded great. Today IK Multimedia released iLoud, another of the cool products revealed at CES. iLoud brings the musician’s sensibilities and needs to the world of Bluetooth speakers.
Here are some of the features:
Loud and Clear
The iLoud speaker is indeed very loud. In fact, it’s 2 to 3 times louder than comparable size speakers — a blasting 40W RMS of power. But iLoud is extremely clear at all volume levels thanks to an onboard DSP processor and a bi-amped 4-driver array of high efficient neodymium loudspeakers, that provide accurate, even response across the entire frequency spectrum for unbelievable realism of sound. For deep bass response iLoud’s bass-reflex allows frequencies to go down to 50hz, an amazing low-end for this small enclosure.
iLoud is the ideal speaker for musicians and audiophiles who demand an accurate reproduction of a wide range of musical styles from rock, hip-hop and electronic dance music, to more nuanced and sonically demanding genres like jazz, classical and acoustic.
Ultra-Portability
About the size of an iPad and only 6cm (2.3”) thick, iLoud fits easily into a laptop bag or backpack. iLoud is powered by a high-performance Li-Ion rechargeable battery with smart power-management features that reduce its power consumption so that it can be used for up to 10 hours without recharging. This makes iLoud the perfect portable speaker solution for mobile musicians.
Wired and Wireless
iLoud supports Bluetooth operation for wireless audio streaming anywhere and everywhere from a mobile device such as an iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Android smartphone or tablet for casual listening. For sound sources like MP3 players that do not have Bluetooth capabilities, the iLoud also has a stereo 1/8” mini-jack input for connecting line-level devices such as home stereos, DJ gear, mixers, MP3 players, and more.
Plug and Play Convenience
iLoud also offers the ability to connect a guitar, bass or dynamic microphone directly to the speaker and process the sound with a multitude of real-time effects apps on iOS devices. It features the same circuitry as IK’s iRig – the most popular mobile interface of all time – and allows users to plug in guitars or other instruments and access AmpliTube or other audio apps on their mobile device for practicing, performing and recording. The input also accommodates dynamic microphones, making it possible to run an app like IK’s VocaLive for real-time vocal effects and recording.
IK Multimedia also released a few videos pairing iLoud off against a few popular Bluetooth speakers, highlighting the clarity and power their product brings.
iLoud vs other popular speakers – Part 1
iLoud vs other popular speakers – Part 2
iLoud vs other popular speakers – Part 3
You can check out more videos at the iLoud video page.
iLoud is priced at $299.99 and is available now from IK Multimedia as well as Amazon, Sweetwater , Musician’s Friend, and other retailers worldwide.
Check it out – and look for our review coming soon!
