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Sony's cheap portable Bluetooth speaker attaches to your bag

The SRS-XB01, a mini wireless speaker, will only cost $35 and includes a strap for easy toting.

David Carnoy Executive Editor / Reviews
Executive Editor David Carnoy has been a leading member of CNET's Reviews team since 2000. He covers the gamut of gadgets and is a notable reviewer of mobile accessories and portable audio products, including headphones and speakers. He's also an e-reader and e-publishing expert as well as the author of the novels Knife Music, The Big Exit and Lucidity. All the titles are available as Kindle, iBooks, Nook e-books and audiobooks.
Expertise Mobile accessories and portable audio, including headphones, earbuds and speakers Credentials
  • Maggie Award for Best Regularly Featured Web Column/Consumer
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David Carnoy
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The SRS-XB01 will retail for $35 and comes in four color options, including red.

 Sony

Typically Sony's entry-level mini Bluetooth speakers have started at $50. But the upcoming SRS-XB01, due out in October, lists for $35 (£30; AU$50). That's pretty inexpensive.

I haven't had a chance to try it yet but it has a water resistant design with an IPX5 rating and its battery life is rated at 6 hours, which is fairly standard for this type of tiny Bluetooth speaker.

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A handy carrying strap is included.

 Sony

It also has a built-in microphone for hands-free calling and includes a strap for attaching it to backpacks or hanging it from a tree branch.

The SRS-XB01, which is part of Sony's Extra Bass speaker line, also has a built-in microphone for hands-free calling and will come in four color options (blue, red, white and black).

I'll let you know how it sounds as soon as I get my hands on a review sample. 

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