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CES 2025 it was another breakthrough moment for interesting audio devices. Between new applications for innovations such as spatial audio, to devices becoming smaller and more powerful, to ideas for extra functions or ways to use existing functions, the world of speakers continues to develop .
After my week in Las Vegas, I left the most impressed by these speakers that represent different types of audio experiences (but I do not include soundbars or similar systems).
Stormberg Twin 2 Speaker
Historic audio brand Stormberg-Carlson is making a global comeback with a range of audio devices, including the innovative Twin 2 portable speaker. Available in two sizes, the Twin 2 stands out with its two-in-one design, which allows you to split it into two separate speakers connected by magnets. The split function provides impressive portability and functionality, allowing the speakers to operate up to 20 feet away.
During hands-on testing at CES, the Twin 2 demonstrated strong sound quality, including 20 watts of power and a 2.25-inch subwoofer in each unit. Independent volume control for each speaker and a 10-hour battery life via USB-C add to its appeal. With stylish color options and Bluetooth connectivity, the Twin 2 combines design and performance like no other manufacturer.
Cantu UKI
Due for release in the second half of 2025 for an affordable price of $199/£199 (about AU$320), the Kanto UKI desktop speakers have incredible sound quality. The budget-friendly brother to the Canto Ren and Ora 4, the UKI has a signature Kanto design that is ultra elegant in its available black, white, colbat and sage colors.
Audio is driven by three-inch concave cone drivers, and 3/4-inch silk dome tweeters – plus subwoofer output if you want to add it. When it comes to connectivity, there are options for USB-C, RCA and Bluetooth 5.0 inputs, and a 3.5mm headphone jack for output if you want. They seem ideal for those who want a small but powerful audio option.
Soundcore Rave 3S
Big karaoke speakers are nothing new in this day and age. Of course, the best ones do a fantastic job of blending great sound quality, battery life, and a solid feature set. Soundcore takes things to exciting new levels through the Rave 3S. Priced at $349 when it releases soon, the speaker uses artificial intelligence in an interesting way, including vocal enhancements, reverb and a vocal removal function for each song. This means that any song on your music streaming app can be used for karaoke. Beyond that is a powerful 200-watt speaker with LED lighting that’s designed to fill spaces up to 1,076 square feet.
LG xboom Grab by will.i.am
Musician, producer and tech nerd will.i.am has had a history in audio through his previous ventures with iam+ and headphone brand Buttons. The frontman of Black Eyed Peas is now collaborating with LG for the new range of xboom speakers. The Bluetooth speakers have a neat design, with an angled bottom for optimal sound projection despite being small enough to fit in a car cup holder.
For its size, we think it offers an impressive base with clear vocals and distortion-free performance. Right now, there is no release date other than this year, or price point.
Victrola Zen Outdoor Rock Speaker
Victrola may be best known for its various lines of great value turntables, but it has many varieties of speakers that are packed with the same quality. This includes the Zen Outdoor Rock Speaker which comes in a set of two, but allows wireless connection with up to twenty similar speakers.
It is above solar charging and a rock design that fits perfectly in any backyard or outdoor garden. This latest refresh comes with a smoother design and the ability to connect to an unlimited number of speakers via Bluetooth Auracast technology, which is brilliantly added. It basically allows an outdoor multi-speaker system without Wi-Fi needed. The Zen Outdoor Rock Speaker is set to be released in spring this year for $199 each.
