Roadie Portable Speaker System Review

Franklin Electronic Publishers, you know, the guys well known for educational gadgets, dictionaries, and translators; recently released a fun and innovative travel gadget known as the Roadie.

As soon as I heard the description of the product, I was more than willing to test it and give an unbiased review of it.  So here is my take on the Roadie.  (Please note that there are no affiliate links here, nor there was any compensation for this review)

What is the Roadie?

In simple words, it is a small, modular Portable Speaker System that uses any flat surface as a diaphragm, turning it into a speaker.

How does it work?

Basically, if you’re holding the device, it sounds like any regular/low quality laptop speakers would, but as soon as you set it down on any flat surface, a highly enhanced sound takes over. The Roadie uses the flat surface as a diaphragm that amplifies each sound vibration.  Through this method the Roadie radiates the sound 360 degrees, something normal speakers fail to do.

The Roadie is designed in a three-piece modular design that allows you to stack and tailor the device to your specific needs regardless of location.

- The base speaker, USB powered with a built-in microphone for VoIP (great for Skype calls), plugs into any audio device such as a mobile phone, MP3 player, computer, etc.  It can also be powered with AC power (it includes an international plug set).

- The second module consisting of a rechargeable battery, SD card slot (can contain all your music), and MP3 Player for a self-contained listening experience not requiring any separate audio device.

- The third module consists of an equalizer and a hi-frequency tweeter plus AC power to enable a second amplifier stage for an even more thunderous sound.

What I liked the most?

For me the best thing about the Roadie is its size (about the size of a Coke can), sleek design, and features.  Roadie is a small, modular Portable Speaker System (about the size of a Coke can) that uses any flat surface as a diaphragm, turning it into a speaker. The idea is that portability and size don’t have to compromise magnitude of sound

What I didn’t like?

Overall I fell pretty satisfied with the Roadie, my only concern is based on its weight.  While it is pretty light for its features, it might be considered a little heavy for serious light-packers.

How much does it cost?

On its own, the base Roadie Portable Speaker System EVS-2000 retails for US$49.99.  Combined with the second center module, Roadie Unplugged Portable Speaker System EVS-3000 retails for US$79.99.  And all three modules together, Roadie Amp’d Portable Speaker System EVS-4000 is sold for US$99.99.

Personal opinion

While testing the Roadie, I placed it on various flat surfaces to see how the sound was amplified and affected by surface type (table, tile floor, wood floor, counter, etc). When the sound is amplified, you actually feel its vibrations on the surface, so I was impressed to see how the sound was hugely amplified (low and high frequencies).  But at the same time, the frequency levels are highly dependent on the type of surface, so if you’re an audio aficionado, this might not be for you.  The best sound quality and versatility is achieved when all three modules are together.

I personally like the Roadie for its multitasking abilities (things most backpackers use while on the road).  I see myself using it to play some nice background music while hanging on a hostel with other travelers, watching a movie on my laptop, or placing a Skype call to loved ones.

Check out the Roadie Portable Speaker System.

Note: there are no affiliate links on this post nor was there any monetary compensation for my opinion.