The Tenqa SP-109 ($49) is a wireless Bluetooth speaker compatible with the iPhone 3G/3GS or any device that supports Stereo Bluetooth A2DP. It’s basically a single-function device: a powered wireless speaker for Bluetooth devices—there is no dock, radio tuner, alarm clock, etc. Overall, we found the SP-109 a convenient accessory to have around, and set up was quick and easy, but its sound quality left much to be desired.
The SP-109′s best feature is its convenience and ease of use. Setup was a snap—I had the speaker broadcasting music from my iPhone in under two minutes after plugging it in. To connect it to the iPhone, simply turn on the speaker, go to the Bluetooth settings in the iPhone’s Settings menu, discover the device, enter the password, and you’re ready to go.
While the SP-109 delivers solid volume levels (much louder than the iPhone’s own speakers), the robustness of its sound reproduction is disappointing. Audiophiles, in particular, should look elsewhere, as the speaker delivers a narrow range of sound that lacks bass. We see the speaker most useful for listening to online radio or podcasts, or soft music by the bedside. But you wouldn’t want it as your sound system for your next party.
Besides the Bluetooth stereo compatibility, there is a line-in jack on the side to plug in wired audio devices. There is also a volume knob on the device, which leads me to an annoyance of Bluetooth audio in general on the iPhone. You cannot control the volume using the iPhone, you must use the Bluetooth device itself. This has been the case with other Bluetooth iPhone accessories as well. It’d be nice if volume control could be a two-way street, with controls on both the iPhone and the accessory.
We liked the sleek modern look of the SP-109, although its mostly made out of common black plastic with a hard plastic mesh covering the speakers. Its front is curved with no visual disruptions other than a small plastic antenna that sticks up on the top left and a glowing blue light in the bottom left. The light may be a problem for those who want to use the speaker bedside—it glows solidly when the device is on and there is a Bluetooth connection. A piece of black tape may be in order.
Conclusion
The Tenqa SP-109 makes a decent bedside or desktop speaker for your iPhone. We could envision it appealing to anyone who has already invested in a powered iPhone dock and want to add powered speakers without purchasing a whole new docking device with speakers (ie, iPhone alarm clock). Its ease of setup and use allows us to recommend it, but don’t expect it to power music for a party. The SP-109′s premium price does not make it the best of values, so try to get it on sale.
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