Ryobi 18V ONE+ VERSE™ Clamp Speaker

As an avid user of Ryobi products, I was excited to get my hands on the 18V ONE+ VERSE™ Clamp Speaker. This speaker, part of the renowned Ryobi 18V ONE+ System, is designed to provide a seamless Bluetooth streaming experience with a range of over 250 feet. The ability to connect up to 100 additional VERSE speakers without the need for an app is particularly intriguing, making it a versatile option for various settings, from job sites to backyard gatherings.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my eye was the design. The speaker is compact, standing at 10 inches tall and 5 inches wide, and weighs a mere 1.3 lbs without the battery. The integrated clamp, pivoting head, and rotating base make it incredibly versatile in terms of placement. Whether you want to clamp it to a 2x4 or set it on a flat surface, the speaker holds steady.

However, the buttons are a bit of a letdown. They are black with tiny symbols, making them hard to see, especially in low light conditions. A slight color change or text below the buttons would have made a significant difference in usability. Despite this minor flaw, the overall build quality is robust, and it feels like it can withstand the rigors of a construction site or an outdoor party.

Setup and Connectivity

Setting up the speaker was straightforward. I turned on the primary speaker, connected it to my phone via Bluetooth, and immediately heard music. Connecting additional speakers was equally simple. With the primary speaker on, I turned on the secondary speaker and pressed the connect button on the primary speaker. A red light indicated the primary speaker, while a green light signified the secondary one. This intuitive setup process means you can have your speakers up and running in no time.

One of the standout features is the Bluetooth streaming range. I tested the 250-foot range claim, and while it performed admirably in an open space, walls and other obstructions did slightly reduce the effective range. However, even with some obstacles, the connection remained stable up to about 150 feet, which is impressive.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of the VERSE Clamp Speaker is good but not exceptional. The audio is clear with decent bass, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres and even talk radio. However, it does struggle a bit at higher volumes, where some distortion can creep in. This isn't a deal-breaker for me, as the speaker performs well for most casual listening scenarios, but it's something to be aware of if you're planning to use it in a very noisy environment.

One of the best aspects is the ability to link multiple speakers. I set up a few around my backyard and was impressed by the synchronized sound. This feature is particularly useful for larger areas where a single speaker might not suffice. The individual volume controls on each speaker also allow for a customized audio experience, which is a nice touch.

Battery Life

Battery life is another area where this speaker shines. With a runtime of over 32 hours on a single charge, you won't have to worry about the music stopping midway through your event. I used a 2Ah battery for my tests, and even after several hours of continuous use, the battery still had plenty of juice left. This efficiency makes it a reliable choice for extended use, whether on a job site or during a weekend BBQ.

Versatility and Portability

The integrated clamp and rotating base make this speaker incredibly versatile. I clamped it to various surfaces, including wood and metal, and it held firm every time. The pivoting head allows you to direct the sound where you need it, which is particularly useful in a workshop or outdoor setting. The compact size and lightweight design also make it easy to transport, so you can take it wherever you go.

Areas for Improvement

While the VERSE Clamp Speaker has many strengths, there are a few areas where it could improve. The sound quality, while good, could be better at higher volumes. Additionally, the black buttons with tiny symbols are not user-friendly, especially for those with less than perfect vision. A redesign of the button layout would enhance the overall user experience.

Another minor issue is the occasional sync problem when multiple speakers are connected. While this didn't happen often, it was noticeable enough to mention. Ensuring a more consistent connection between multiple units would make this system nearly flawless.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the 18V ONE+ VERSE Clamp Speaker is a solid addition to the Ryobi lineup. Its robust build, long battery life, and versatile mounting options make it a valuable tool for various settings. The ability to link multiple speakers without an app is a standout feature, providing a customizable audio experience that can adapt to different environments.

Would I recommend this speaker? Absolutely. While it has a few minor flaws, the pros far outweigh the cons. Whether you're a professional looking for a reliable job site speaker or someone who enjoys outdoor activities and gatherings, this speaker delivers on its promises. Its ease of use, combined with the ability to create a network of speakers, makes it a versatile and practical choice for anyone in need of portable, durable audio.