Soundcast VG1 Bluetooth Speaker Review, $149
Sound Advice Speakers Review By Don Lindich
Manufacturer website: gosoundcast.com
Overview
The Soundcast VG1 is a premium quality weatherproof Bluetooth speaker with a retail price of $149. It has speakerphone functionality and battery life is rated at 15 hours.
Unboxing
Soundcast said their goal was to provide a premium experience with the Soundcast VG1, and it shows from the moment you unbox the speaker. The packaging itself is beautiful and definitely the nicest I have ever seen in a small Bluetooth speaker product. The included cables are of extremely high quality and a small pouch for them is provided.
Construction and workmanship
The VG1 feels as solid as a small, rubberized brick, though of course it is not as heavy. Soft-touch rubber buttons on the top provide positive feedback and respond quickly to the touch.
Sound quality
I have heard a lot of small Bluetooth speakers to date and to put it simply, the Soundcast VG1 has the best sound I have heard out of s speaker of this size. It does not have sound I would describe as warm or sweet, yet it conveys the soul and character of the music in a way that is emotionally involving. Vocals are absolutely clear and crisp, details are rendered with impressive definition and bass is solid and accurate, no boominess here. It is also very dynamic and never sounds constrained at all.
Sound radiates from both sides of the speaker and disperses widely through the listening area without requiring especially specific placement. It can be a bit strident when played at loud volumes at close range, but this is not an unusual event with any speaker. Play it at the proper volume for the room size and listening distance and you will be rewarded with great sound that will have you swinging along with the music.
Speakerphone operation
In a word, impeccable. The person on the other end was heard absolutely loud and clear, and they reported hearing me perfectly as well.
Value
The $149 asking price is at the top of the range for a small speaker of this size. The Soundcast VG1 may be expensive, but it also looks expensive, feels expensive, sounds expensive and operation is flawless. You get what you pay for here.
Conclusion
You will have a hard time finding a better sounding, higher quality speaker in its size or price range. If you can foot the asking price you will definitely be pleased!
Overall: 4/5
Performance: 5/5
Value: 3/5
Comments or questions? A review you would like to see? Contact me at donlindich@gmail.com.