NAMM 2020: VOX Mini SuperBeetle Audio - Guitar amp or lifestyle product?

10 Jan 2020 by Jef |

5,0 / 5,0 | Approximate reading time: 2 Minutes

Vox Mini SuperBeetle Audio. Bluetooth speaker and guitar amp? · Source: Vox

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Iconic sound for your favourite music. The VOX Mini SuperBeetle Audio is a Bluetooth speaker with the classic late ’60s VOX look you would associate with the Beatles. The difference between this Bluetooth speaker and others, is that it also works as a guitar amplifier, perfect for the living room!

VOX Mini SuperBeetle Audio

VOX has announced a new bluetooth speaker that mimics the aesthetics of their Mini SuperBeetle amplifiers. Keeping in lieu with its Beatles reference, the speaker casing has a retro design, which according to the manufacturer, can also be “enjoyed as interior décor”. The speaker doubles up as a guitar amplifier for the casual enthusiast. And the all-classic ’60s vibe and association with the Beatles will only help boost the sales of these new speakers.

Bluetooth & AUX input

The Bluetooth functionality enables wireless playback of your music. An AUX input and headphone output are also provided, making it ideal for a variety of uses. The compact speaker cabinet contains a 1-inch tweeter, 6.5-inch woofer and delivers 50 Watts of power. That should be loud enough for a party or a gathering of friends.

It comes standard with a 3-way EQ (Bass, Middle and Treble) plus Sub-Bass and Volume controls.

Vox Mini SuperBeetle Audio control panel

Vox Mini SuperBeetle Audio Ivory or Black?

Connection for guitar & amPlug

What’s unique about this particular Bluetooth speaker is that it comes equipped with a Guitar In jack that leads to an AC30 modelling circuit. The associated controllers are unfortunately, somewhat cramped. They are limited to Gain, Volume and Tone. It’s unlikely that the speaker will sound quite like their older sibling, which in comparison, is a dedicated instrument amplifier, powered by NuTube technology.

If you prefer a different amp sound, however, you can connect the in-house Vox amPlugs to the dedicated input. A clever idea, although it does look a bit fragile and asking to be broken.

The speaker looks to be targeting living-room or hobby guitarists who just want to plug in and jam with their favourite tunes, or want to practice without annoying the neighbours. I don’t think you’ll be seeing these in rehearsal rooms or stages anytime soon.

Vox Mini SuperBeetle Audio and AmPlug

Pricing?

I was hoping, they will be sub £200-250, otherwise, I thought – “It’ll be game over” turns out they are GBP £349 though, which I honestly think is going to be a bit of an issue. This product doesn’t excel at either of its two main features, so I am not sure there is a huge market for it personally.

Available in both Black and Ivory finishes.

RRP – GBP 349 due out February