F&D, also known as Fenda Audio, has been around a lot longer than many of the newer brands that sell audio products in India today. Its products are available online, but it also has a strong presence in the offline space, where its multi-channel speaker systems are popular with buyers looking for affordable home and computer audio solutions. The brand also has a lineup of wireless speakers, with the latest product in the range being the F&D W19 Bluetooth speaker.
Priced at Rs. 2,990[1], this wireless speaker promises a lot, including good looks, loud sound and FM radio. Let's find out if the F&D W19 punches above its price, and whether it can compete in this crowded price bracket for wireless speakers.
F&D W19 design and specifications
Most of the speakers we've reviewed in this price segment have brick-like designs, including the similarly priced Boat Stone 700A[2]. The F&D W19 is different; it's bigger, taller, heavier, and better-looking in our opinion. It looks similar to the much more expensive Bowers and Wilkins T7[3], and we feel that this design is best suited for use in indoor settings.
Unlike some of the competition, the F&D W19 speaker is not water resistant and will need to be used carefully. Included with the speaker is a strap that attaches to the hooks on either side of its body, and can be used to carry the speaker around. With the strap attached, the speaker somewhat resembles a handbag.
The speaker itself is built well and is quite sturdy. It has metal grilles at the front and back, with the front one covering the two 2.5-inch full-range drivers and the back one covering the passive radiator. The buttons for power, mode,...