CMF Speaker S And Speaker M Bring USB Audio To Affordable Portable Speakers
CMF by Nothing has launched its first portable Bluetooth speakers, the Speaker S and Speaker M. Both have a milk-carton-inspired shape, physical playback controls and USB-C audio, so they can move between phone listening and a wired desktop setup.
The smaller Speaker S costs £49, while the larger Speaker M is £99. Both contain their own amplifiers and rechargeable batteries: add a phone, tablet or computer and you have a complete little listening system.
Quick Reference
- What: Two portable powered speakers.
- UK Prices: Speaker S £49; Speaker M £99.
- Power: 10W for the S; 35W for the M.
- Connections: Bluetooth 6.0 and USB-C audio.
- Battery: Up to 18 hours under Nothing’s test conditions.
- Availability: Launched in Dark Grey, White, Orange and Turquoise.
Two Sizes For Different Spaces
The Speaker S uses a 45mm full-range driver and two passive radiators. It weighs 334g and has a carabiner hook for carrying or attaching it to a bag.
The Speaker M uses a 70mm woofer and a separate 16mm tweeter, with a built-in handle and a weight of 602g. Its two drivers divide the job of reproducing lower and higher notes.
Both have removable panels, a rotary control for volume and playback, and separate buttons for power, Bluetooth and Auracast. Their IP68 rating covers dust and water resistance, with water testing carried out in fresh water at up to 1.5m for 30 minutes.
More Than A Bluetooth Connection
USB-C audio lets either speaker connect directly to a compatible computer or other source. Nothing quotes less than 60 milliseconds of delay through this connection, which could be useful when watching videos or playing games.
Two matching Speaker S units, or two matching Speaker M units, can form a left-and-right stereo pair. Auracast Party Mode can link compatible speakers for wider coverage.
The Nothing X app provides four sound presets and custom equalisation. Both speakers can stay connected to two devices, making it easier to switch between a phone and a laptop. The 18-hour battery claim was measured at 50% volume; actual listening time will vary.
What The Terms Mean
Passive Radiator: A moving diaphragm that helps reproduce bass without having its own amplifier connection.
EQ: Equalisation, which adjusts the balance of bass, midrange and treble.
Auracast: Bluetooth audio broadcasting that can share a stream with compatible receiving devices.
IP68: A dust and water resistance rating. It does not mean a device is safe in every type of water or situation.
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