MEASURED PERFORMANCE

Frequency response measured relatively flat for a small loudspeaker, our Clio measurement system, pink noise analysis, shows. The small case limits bass extension, but the FS-X reaches down to 200Hz and this is good for its dimensions. If bass is boosted on the player, as if often can be by using an equaliser, the FS-X has the ability to respond with stronger bass. A small mid-range peak at 2kHz enhances the speaker's intelligibility with vocals. Apart from this, frequency response is smooth and it extends upwards well to 15kHz, so there's plenty of clear treble to support cymbals and give a sense of air to a performance.

   The FS-X delivered 93dB Sound Pressure Level at one metre, using full volume on an iPhone or a Samsung Galaxy Note 3 via Bluetooth, so it plays very loud from portable devices.

   Via its analogue input it delivered 90dB at one metre from 1V input  –  the headphone output of an Apple iPad Mini – as shown by our SPL shot below. Maximum volume is 100dB at 0.5 metres the manufacturers claim. Our measurements support this, since a CD player (2V) will produce 96dB through the FS-X at one metre and this equates to 100dB at 0.5 metre.

  The little Frankenspiel FS-X measured well in all areas – it is well engineered.

FREQUENCY RESPONSE

SOUND PRESSURE LEVEL (at 1metre from an iPad)