I do a lot of business travel. For a couple of years, I've been using a pair of UE Mini's (with and without wires) to bring some decent sounding music to my hotel room. However, the total lack of bottom end leaves me wanting more. I'm shopping for a new solution.
These speakers are going to have to fit in my carry-on, so they cannot be too big or too heavy. And, it isn't like I'll be able to crank the bass in a hotel room anyway. So I want something more than the 1" woofers in the UE's, but larger than 3" probably isn't a great option. I mostly play jazz and classical in the room, just for reference.
While there are lots of "wireless" or "bluetooth speakers", I don't really want to waste space, weight, or cost on a big battery on the unit. These will plug in whenever I need them
Here are my limitations (mostly firm, with a little wiggle room):
1. Two wired but separate stereo speakers (no need to waste space, weight or dollars on batteries)
2. Built in amplifier (for ease of setup and tear down)
3. Both speakers (and built in amp) should weigh no more than 5 pounds
4. They should not be any larger than necessary. I know there is a trade-off between enclosure size and bass output, so any larger enclosure has to result in better bass.
5. Total cost should be less than US$300
I would consider removing the requirement for separate speakers, as a single unit would certainly help with setup and tear down. But I do enjoy the stereo separation of my current rig.
So far, the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitor seems like a good choice. Other recommendations?
Many thanks!