The Wren V5BT Bluetooth speaker provides full sound in an attractive package. This assessment comes despite a caveat from the makers that their AirPlay and Play-Fi models are superior.
So why go for Bluetooth? To avoid any buyers' remorse to be incurred with a switch from iOS to Android or vice versa. Either way, the V5BT will serve handsomely.
At approximately 6 x 4.25 x 16.5 inches, the Wren V5BT is svelte enough to slip into a decent-sized nook or cranny on a desktop or bookshelf. It'll fit seamlessly, too, as it's constructed with a bamboo or rosewood casing and is lusciously curved.
The speaker isn't particularly portable given its size and weight (about 6 1/2 pounds), but can still be moved from room to room easily. The wood veneer is offset by retro silver plastic edging and a matching grill.
V5BT’s power button is illuminated white, and it turns to orange in standby. Another light flashes to indicate volume changes; two more lights indicate whether it's in Bluetooth or wired mode. Pairing is as simple as pushing the "setup" button and linking via device. There is no remote control, however, so volume is adjusted with the paired device or by the buttons on the speaker.
Sound-wise, the speaker triumphs. The 50-watt V5BT delivers CD-quality music when attached to an iOS device — this despite the warning that non-CSR aptX-enabled devices aren't going to sound as good as when connected to an enabled device (Motorola, HTC, Samsung, e.g.s).
Bass is strong without being overpowering, and highs and mids are clear even at higher volumes — loud enough to fill a large room. As a bonus, there are inputs for charging USB-powered devices as well as for analog input.
Ultimately, the Wren serves its purpose like the traditional loudspeaker it's patterned after.
The Lowdown
The Good
> Clear sound, hefty bass
> Easy to connect
> Beautiful chassis
The Bad
> Device buttons support volume, but not skipping or rewinding tracks
> Heavy
> Pricey
Bottom Line: The V5BT is an all-in-one Bluetooth speaker that sounds as good as it looks.
Image: WRENSOUND