For those seeking a Bluetooth speaker that prioritizes a true-to-life analog audio experience, the Orange Box may be your ideal companion, assuming you have minimal additional demands. A veteran in manufacturing guitar amps since the 1960s, Orange holds onto its traditional formula rather than veering towards commonplace plastic Bluetooth speakers loaded with modern features. The distinctive bohemian design with its striking orange exterior is a refreshing deviation from the norm. However, be prepared to trade some useful features for superior audio quality and slightly less durability compared to other portable options.
Hardware
This portable, battery-powered version perfectly embodies the company’s rich history of amps and speakers, featuring iconic elements such as the orange Tolex (vinyl) exterior, logo badge, speaker mesh, wood framing, dials, and other details. The satisfyingly mechanical ‘thunk’ of the on/off toggle and retro-looking domed orange power light adds to the charm.
Photo by Jon Turi / BuyTechBlog
Top panel dials allow for manual volume and EQ adjustment, with the bass and treble set to neutral at the 12-o’clock position. These can be boosted or reduced according to preference, although the dial positions can be tricky to read unless viewed directly overhead. The Bluetooth control serves as both a pause/play button and a pairing light indicator, flashing blue when pairing. For those who prefer louder volumes, especially heavy bass, the orange overload light might be a familiar sight.
Additional features include a 3.5mm minijack at the top and a DC charging port at the back. The 2,600mAh battery can be charged for up to 15 hours of playtime, or the speaker can run directly on mains power. The power indicator doubles as a battery level light, indicating red during charging, green when fully charged, and flashing red when the battery dips below 10%.
Photo by Jon Turi / BuyTechBlog
For those planning to take the speaker on the go, investing in the $60 Gigbag carrying case might be wise, as the device lacks an IP rating or waterproofing. The speaker, though portable, weighs over 6.5 pounds but can conveniently fit into a backpack.
Sound
The hallmark of the Orange Box is its vibrant and warm output. Boasting both digital Class D and A/B analog amps, the speaker delivers a crisp and punchy sound from a 4-inch sub and dual 2-inch high-frequency drivers. The speaker excels in songs with live instrumentation or those benefiting from an analog touch, while some modern digital music genres may not perform as well.
Capable of significant volume, the 50-watt speaker functions effectively as a personal boombox in parks or homes. It can comfortably handle background music for small outdoor gatherings. The bass output is respectable but might not be as prominent at a distance, especially in windy conditions.
The speaker can handle maximum volume without noticeable distortion. However, frequent activation of the overload light is a gentle reminder to regulate your levels. Constant illumination of this light could lead to distortion and potential damage to the drivers, but in such cases, users can seek assistance from authorized repair centers.
Features
The Orange Box does lack some features common in other speakers. For instance, it doesn’t support multipoint or pairing with another Orange Box for amplified sound, nor does it offer an app. It doesn’t auto-sleep after disconnecting Bluetooth, which can slowly deplete the battery if left on overnight. Without USB charging, it’s essential to keep track of the original power cable.
On a positive note, the speaker includes onboard analog amps and supports aptX, enhancing the audio experience. The Bluetooth 5.0 range matches or surpasses other speakers in this category. Plus, there’s no processing delay when using the 3.5mm input jack, ideal for tiny DJ monitors. Eco-conscious users can appreciate the availability of repair services and replacement parts until 2030, ensuring the speaker’s longevity.
Photo by Jon Turi / BuyTechBlog
Final Thoughts
While not precisely an audiophile speaker, it certainly caters to analog or Orange Amp enthusiasts. The distinct design of Orange Amps, practically unchanged since the 60s, is for me a breath of fresh air. For those with vintage turntables in luggage cases, it could be an attractive companion. Despite its size and lack of rain resistance, with careful handling and tracking of the dedicated charging cable, the speaker can be a great asset.
The sound and style might not appeal to all, but it’s nice to have options, especially one from a legacy brand. Priced at $299, the Orange Box seems less transient than many other products. The Orange Box, its $60 Gigbag, and its larger stationary sibling the Orange Box-L ($345) are all available from the Orange Amps website. And for those preferring a less flashy color, there’s also a black version.
Specs
Style: Orange peel Tolex, acoustically transparent grille
Drivers: 1 x 4-inch bass driver, 2 x 2-inch high frequency drivers
Amplifiers: 1 x 30-watt sub, 2 x 10-watt full range
Frequency Range: 35Hz – 20kHz
Weight: 3 kg / 6.62 lbs
Dimensions: 28 x 17.5 x 17.0 cm / 11 x 6.9 x 6.7 inches
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, 3.5mm aux input
Codecs: aptX, AAC, SBC
Battery: 2,600mAh, 3 hours to full charge, 15-hour runtime
Extras: Vegan-leather carry strap, 3.5mm aux cable, 19.5V power supply
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Orange Box Bluetooth Speaker
What is the Orange Box?
The Orange Box is a portable Bluetooth speaker designed and produced by Orange Amps. It’s designed to deliver a warm and bright analog audio output. Its design elements borrow heavily from the brand’s iconic guitar amps.
How is the design of the Orange Box?
The Orange Box incorporates many of the design elements from the brand’s history of amps and speakers. These include an orange Tolex (vinyl) exterior, logo badge, speaker mesh, wood framing, dials, toggle switches, indicator lights, and more. Its overall appearance is a bohemian design with a bright orange exterior that is quite unique.
Does the Orange Box have good battery life?
Yes, the Orange Box has a 2,600mAh battery that, once fully charged, provides up to 15 hours of playback. However, like any other portable speaker, it’s recommended to keep the power cable handy for long outings.
How is the sound quality of the Orange Box?
The Orange Box delivers warm and bright output with both digital Class D and A/B analog amps. It provides a front-facing sound from the 4-inch sub and dual 2-inch high-frequency drivers, with a frequency range of 35Hz to 20kHz. Its sound quality shines especially with songs that have live instrumentation or can benefit from an analog touch.
Is the Orange Box waterproof?
The Orange Box does not have an IP rating or waterproofing. If you’re planning to travel with it, consider getting the $60 Gigbag carrying case to help protect it.
How much does the Orange Box cost?
As of the writing, the Orange Box is priced at $299 and it’s available on the Orange Amps website.
What additional features does the Orange Box have?
The Orange Box includes manual volume and EQ dials, Bluetooth 5.0, and aptX support. However, it doesn’t support multipoint or pairing with a second Orange Box for more sound. Also, there is no app available for the speaker.
More about Orange Box Bluetooth Speaker
- Orange Amps Official Website
- Bluetooth Speakers Guide
- Bluetooth 5.0 Explained
- Audio Quality and aptX Support
5 comments
The Orange Box sounds ideal for my vinyl setup. those dials remind me of my old guitar amp. so nostalgic, man.
Wow, that orange box looks dope!! Love the vintage style. a bit pricey tho… i might save up for it
No multipoint or pairing feature is a bit of a letdown for me. but that analog sound might make up for it. gotta hear it to decide!
Interesting. I’m more of a modern tech guy, but this does seem appealing. would like to test it out. and 15-hour battery life is nice
man this orange box looks sick. love the analog style. but no USB charging… bummer