Sharp GX-BT60 review

The smallest Sharp Bluetooth is entering a quite though competition of rounded mobile Bluetooth speakers, which are particularly popular for outdoor activities. It stands out with a particularly long battery life – the manufacturer promises 13 hours – and a housing that is just 4 centimeters high. It’s not quite as round as the competition, and it looks a bit more decent with its metal grill.

The space behind it is well used by diaphragm area as a 4.5 centimetre full-range driver plus an oval passive cone are positioned. The latter replacing the common venting port. That’s why the GX-BT 60 is dustproof as well as waterproof according to IP67 and thanks to the included cord, it is also enormously versatile when used outdoor.

Quite a lot to discover

In addition to Bluetooth, the Sharp also handles analogue signals from its 3.5 mm mini-jack input. Behind the rubber flap, you’ll find the input next to the micro USB for the power supply. Operation is simple, the buttons are easy to recognize and there is feedback on the status provided by an LED changing its colour. The system is also capable of activating the correct source automatically, depending on where a signal is currently present.

The GX-BT60 offers a built-in mic for Apple Siri or Google Assistant voice assistants. Two specimen can be wirelessly linked to form a stereo pair, the right one then would automatically act as the master. However, this is only applicable to Bluetooth playback, not with analogue sources.

Since a ´pair´ button is missing, you first have to consult the user manual. This is anyways required due to keys bearing multiple features and easily leading to misunderstanding.

Sound quality of the Sharp GX-BT60

In terms of sound, the Sharp is one of the best of its class, despite its competitive price. Music was reproduced with clarity in the treble region and fine dynamics, voices were even getting a hint of hi-fi feeling. Of course, the bass doesn’t reach really low and plays along rather unobtrusively than being able to unleash hard beats. But if you listen to music that is not quite as impulsives, you will surely be very pleased.

Even more so when two Sharps are coupled to form a stereo pair and placed in some sort of stereo triangle on the table. This arrangement sounds as ambient as a pair of small desktop speakers and offered a surprising transparency to any computer.

What´s the alternative?

If you want to listen to music on the move with a certain hi-fi appeal and at a reasonable price, the Sharp GX-BT60 is the your preferred choice. Especially when you own two and use them as a stereo pair if necessary. If your desire is to have the maximum of dynamic and bass out of a mobile speaker, the Tribit Stormbox Micro would probably be the better choice.

Technical specs Sharp GX-BT60:

• Price approx. 60 $
• Dimensions: 10 x 4 x 10 cm
• Weight: 230 g
• Playback time with battery: up to 13 hours
• Special features: Mic for answering phone calls, Siri or Google Assistant, stereo pairing, waterproof according to IP67
• More at: www.sharp.com

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