Hands on: Pure's Jongo modular speaker system
updated 10:18 pm EST, Wed January 9, 2013
Flexible system uses Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
Pure recently announced several products destined for the US market, the Jongo modular audio system. The lineup enables users to enjoy synchronized audio in several rooms throughout the home, streamed from iOS or Android devices and manageable through dedicated apps. Electronista stopped by Pure's booth at CES to experience the new system ahead of its official release.
The new system consists of the Jongo S340B portable speakers, each packing four tweeters, a single upward-firing woofer and an integrated battery for up to 10 hours of completely wireless operation. We liked the speaker placement on both sides of the small cube, enabling the device to be placed on a table and enjoyed from any angle. The sound is surprisingly robust for such a compact design, pushing a maximum of 40 watts.
For even more audial fulfillment, the company offers the larger Jongo T640B with 100 watts of power shared between the drivers. We were again impressed by the audio quality and volume capabilities, driven by two full-range 5.25-inch drivers. If users don't like horizontal orientation, the speaker can be placed vertically.
The last component, the A140B, provides the same wireless capabilities as the other components, but provides RCA outputs rather than integrated speakers. This is a big plus for anyone who is already in love with their existing equipment but wants to expand with multi-room audio.
All of the modules can be used as standalone devices or as part of a wider arrangement in many rooms or a single room, taking advantage of an existing Wi-Fi network or Bluetooth rather than requiring buyers to start with a master unit before adding satellite speakers. The company is also planning to offer a software update that will split the stereo signal between two of the S340B modules.
The iPad app has been redesigned with an attractive interface and straightforward management capabilities, providing on/off and volume control for each of the speakers in a home. The company is set to bring its content network to the US, enabling users to purchase millions of tracks directly from within the app. In the meantime, the app can stream local content or a long list of Internet radio stations.
The S340B will sell for $230 when it arrives in the first quarter of the year, while the A140B brings the price down to $160. The T640B will be available for approximately $400.
