Hands-on review: iLuv Bluetooth Aud Mini Speaker with LED Light Show

I've tried a lot of Bluetooth speakers and many are almost identical. Finally, I've found something completely different.

iLuv is a brand of accessories that initially were iOS centric. Today they produce everything from smartphone cases to battery packs.

This Bluetooth speaker system supports any devices with Bluetooth, including Android phones, Windows phones, and iOS devices and laptops.

The device has a ruggedised case made of soft rubber. The only parts that aren't rubber are the front of the speaker and the hard plastic back.

There are five buttons on the top of it: power, play/pause, lights and volume buttons. The play/pause button also works as the 'accept phone call button' if you wish to take a call through the device's speaker and small microphone.

You can also plug the speaker directly into your laptop or other device through a standard 3.5mm speaker jack. This cable isn't included, although almost all users will choose Bluetooth for wireless connectivity.

Connecting via Bluetooth is just as easy as any Bluetooth device. You simply turn on discovery on your device and the speaker at the same time. Its instructions have great diagrams.

Charging the unit is also crazy easy. It includes a simple USB cable with it, which enables you to charge it directly from your computer or most smartphone power adapters.

The entire unit is small at just 90mm high and wide, yet the speaker is surprisingly loud. It's perfect for a small party or taking with you at a picnic.

One of it's key features, however, are the party lights on the front. You can set them to six different modes using the lights button on it's top. The lights respond to your music's beat.

Overall, it's a great little speaker, well designed, easy to use and fun. The lights could add a bit of disco to your barbeque or small party, and for just NZD $49 it's a great present. Well done iLuv on another great product.