Craftsman Cordless Bluetooth Speaker

As someone who spends a significant amount of time both on job sites and in my workshop, a reliable and high-quality Bluetooth speaker is an essential part of my toolkit. Enter the Craftsman Cordless Bluetooth Speaker (CMCR001B), a device that promises to blend portability, durability, and sound quality into one compact package. After putting it through its paces, here’s my detailed take on this job site companion.

Design and Build Quality

The Craftsman Bluetooth speaker is rugged, compact, and thoughtfully designed. It measures 10.3 inches in length, 6.8 inches in width, and stands at 6.7 inches tall, making it easy to carry around. Weighing in at 4.4 pounds, it strikes a good balance between being lightweight and feeling substantial enough to withstand the rough and tumble of job site environments.

One of the standout features is its compatibility with the Craftsman V20 battery system. For those already invested in Craftsman’s V20 line, this is a significant advantage. The battery snaps on securely, and there’s also an AC power option for continuous use. However, it’s worth noting that the speaker doesn’t charge the battery when plugged in, which seems like a missed opportunity.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound, the Craftsman Bluetooth speaker delivers a robust performance. Equipped with two 3-inch stereo speakers, the audio output is surprisingly loud and clear for its size. The sound quality is balanced, providing a decent mix of highs, mids, and lows. The bass, while not earth-shaking, is adequate for most genres of music and adds a nice depth to the overall sound.

However, the speaker does seem to lean towards a mid-heavy sound profile, which can sometimes make the audio feel a bit muddy, especially at higher volumes. For rock and country music, this isn’t a deal-breaker, but audiophiles looking for crisp, clear sound might find it lacking.

Connectivity and Ease of Use

Pairing the speaker with a device is a breeze, thanks to its straightforward Bluetooth connectivity. With a range of up to 100 feet, you can move around freely without worrying about losing connection. There’s also an auxiliary input for wired connections, which is a nice touch for those who prefer a more stable connection or have older devices.

The speaker features large, easy-to-reach buttons on top for controlling volume, playback, and Bluetooth pairing. This makes it incredibly user-friendly, even when you’re wearing gloves or have dirty hands from a day’s work.

Battery Life and Portability

One of the most impressive aspects of the Craftsman Bluetooth speaker is its battery life. Using a 4 amp-hour V20 battery, I was able to get several hours of continuous use without needing a recharge. This makes it perfect for long workdays or outdoor activities where access to power outlets might be limited.

The built-in handle above the battery pack is a thoughtful addition, making it easy to carry the speaker around. It’s also compatible with the VERSATRACK™ Trackwall System, which means you can conveniently mount it in your workshop or garage.

Durability

Durability is a crucial factor for any job site tool, and the Craftsman Bluetooth speaker doesn’t disappoint. The build quality is solid, with materials that feel durable and capable of withstanding the occasional bump or drop. While I haven’t subjected it to extreme abuse, it has held up well to regular use in a busy workshop environment.

Areas for Improvement

While the Craftsman Bluetooth speaker excels in many areas, there are a few aspects that could be improved. Firstly, the absence of AM/FM/Weather bands is a notable omission. Having a built-in radio would make this speaker even more versatile, especially in emergency situations where staying informed is crucial.

Secondly, as mentioned earlier, the inability to charge the battery while plugged in feels like a missed opportunity. Incorporating this feature would add an extra layer of convenience, particularly for those who use the speaker for extended periods.

Lastly, the sound quality, while generally good, could benefit from a bit more clarity in the highs and a reduction in the mid-heavy profile. This would make the speaker more appealing to a broader range of users, including those who are more discerning about their audio experience.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Craftsman Cordless Bluetooth Speaker (CMCR001B) is a solid addition to any job site or workshop. Its rugged build, long battery life, and ease of use make it a reliable companion for both work and leisure activities. While it has a few areas that could be improved, these are relatively minor compared to the overall performance and value it offers.

If you’re already invested in the Craftsman V20 battery system, this speaker is a no-brainer. Even if you’re not, its combination of portability, durability, and sound quality makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone in need of a dependable Bluetooth speaker for demanding environments. Overall, I would highly recommend the Craftsman Bluetooth speaker to anyone looking for a robust and versatile audio solution for their job site or workshop.