Boult RetroAmp X40 Review: A Beautiful Amalgamation of Class and Tech

The charm of the 90s tech is undeniable, whether it's a gramophone or an FM radio, and there is something special about their old-school look with a sense of simplicity and premiumness. Boult Audio is rejuvenating this nostalgic appeal to the modern world of audio with its retro-inspired speaker - the RetroAmp X40.

Priced at just Rs 1,999, the Bluetooth speaker features a classic rugged leather body with copper accents, which looks straight from the early 90s. Offered in Vintage gold colour, the RetroAmp X40 can double as an audio gear and an aesthetic piece.

PROS

• Classic vintage style design
• Multiple connectivity options including AUX, USB, and TF card
• FM Radio and Karaoke Modes

CONS

• The audio isn't too loud
• Lacks fast-charging
• Battery life could be better

The RetroAmp X40 has been my bedside companion for the past few weeks, and here's a detailed review of this retro-looking speaker which will help you decide if it can also be a part of your life.

Boult RetroAmp X40 Design: Retro Aesthetics, Modern Functionality

The RetroAmp X40 stands apart with its subtle but attractive look and finish, featuring a rectangular shape with rounded edges, which in a way also mimics expensive Marshall speakers. It has a dual-tone finish with the sides and top having a black leather-like texture, and the front grill is a metallic finish, made of aluminium with a golden strip running along the bottom edge, adding a touch of elegance. The branding "BOULT" is featured on the front panel, and below the grill is also done very tastefully.

The master control panel includes a power button, volume up/down buttons, a play/pause button, and a mode button for switching between Bluetooth and AUX. While the Type-C charging port, USB, AUX, and Type-C charging port are placed together on the backside.

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The Boult RetroAmp X40's compact design makes it easy to carry around, perfect for those who love to carry their speaker while travelling. And suppose you're someone who enjoys decorating your room. In that case, it can be a great pick with a vintage aesthetic that can elevate your living room's look while delivering an impressive audio experience.

Boult RetroAmp X40 Design: Performance and Connectivity

The Boult RetroAmp X40 is equipped with dual dynamic drivers, claiming to deliver a maximum of 40W sound output; however, the audio is not too loud. Don't get me wrong, it delivers clear sound and can easily fill a small room, but even at the highest volume, it definitely lacks that punch. In fact, most of budget Bluetooth speakers lead to audio distortion in full volume, I haven't encountered such things with the RetroAmp X40.

Its sound profile is more focused on quality than loud volume. This makes it perfect for those who prefer a refined, balanced listening experience, especially to listening gazelle or vocal-heavy songs, as the mid-range audio performance is fantastic. It's an ideal pick for your bedrooms or living rooms; however, if you're looking for a speaker for outdoor gatherings, the RetroAmp X40 might not be the best choice.

Bluetooth 5.3 ensures quick connectivity and its wide range of compatibility includes smart devices like laptops, TVs, mobile, gaming consoles, and projectors, making it versatile and giving flexibility to users for different usage.

Moreover, the RetroAmp X40 also supports Karaoke singing modes and FM radio, the latter can be accessed by pressing the Mode button for a while, which can also be considered as a retro functionality. It's also worth noting you should connect an AUX cable while using FM Mode.

Boult RetroAmp X40 Design: Battery Life

The Boult RetroAmp X40 delivers around 10 hours of battery life on a single charge. Though you can enjoy uninterrupted music throughout the night, this could be a drawback for those who frequently travel and rely on portable speakers, considering speakers that are much smaller than the RetroAmp can last all day. It takes more than five hours to reach a full charge, which is slow compared to available other Bluetooth speakers, but you can use the speaker even when it is charging.

Boult RetroAmp X40 Verdict

The Boult RetroAmp X40 is a stylish Bluetooth speaker with a retro design, that adds a touch of nostalgia to your living room. The speaker's compatibility with various devices and support for FM radio are also signature aspects.

While the audio quality is commendable, delivering clear and balanced sound, its battery life could be improved. If you prioritise design, the Boult RetroAmp X40 is an excellent choice.

For fast charging and some other additional features, you can explore other options in the market before picking one. However, finding a retro-designed Bluetooth speaker in this price range can be challenging.