Fender’s New Bluetooth Speaker Plays 4 Audio Sources at Once
▼ Summary
– Fender Audio, a new consumer electronics brand from the guitar maker, is debuting at CES 2026 with portable Bluetooth speakers called ELIE.
– The ELIE speakers come in two sizes (ELIE 6 and ELIE 12) and can be wirelessly synced in large numbers or paired for stereo sound.
– A unique feature allows users to mix audio from up to four different inputs simultaneously, including Bluetooth and wired instruments.
– The smaller ELIE 6 costs $299.99 with 60W output and 18-hour battery, while the larger ELIE 12 costs $399.99 with 120W output and 15-hour battery.
– Both models offer quick-charge capabilities and are available in olympic white and skyscraper black color options.
Fender, the legendary name behind iconic guitars and amplifiers, is stepping into a new arena with the launch of its Fender Audio brand. The debut lineup, unveiled at CES 2026, includes a pair of wireless headphones and the standout ELIE portable Bluetooth speakers. ELIE, which stands for “Extremely Loud Infinitely Expressive,” promises a uniquely flexible audio experience centered on a powerful multi-source feature.
Available in two models, the ELIE 6 and the larger ELIE 12, these speakers are designed for both personal use and expansive sound setups. Each unit can be paired with a second to create a stereo system, or users can sync an impressive network of up to 100 speakers for massive, coordinated audio coverage. The most distinctive capability, however, is the ability to mix audio from four different sources at the same time. This could include a Bluetooth stream from a smartphone, a live instrument or microphone connected via the built-in XLR/1/4-inch combo jack, and two additional devices using Fender’s own proprietary wireless technology.
Both speaker versions provide individual volume controls for each of the four audio inputs, putting creative mixing power directly in the user’s hands. The step-up ELIE 12 model enhances this further by adding dedicated bass and treble controls for finer sound shaping. The speakers will launch in two classic color options: olympic white and skyscraper black.
The $299.99 ELIE 6 stands 7.7 inches tall and packs a 60-watt sound system driven by a subwoofer, a full-range driver, and a tweeter. It is built for portability with a battery rated for up to 18 hours of playtime. A quick 15-minute charge provides approximately 90 minutes of additional playback. For those seeking more power, the $399.99 ELIE 12 offers a substantial upgrade. Although slightly shorter at just under 7 inches, it is much wider at 11 inches and doubles the speaker array to include two subwoofers, two full-range drivers, and two tweeters, delivering 120 watts of output. The increased power draws more from the battery, reducing rated life to up to 15 hours, but a 15-minute quick charge extends playtime by two hours.
With this launch, Fender Audio is not just selling speakers; it is offering a versatile platform for musicians, hosts, and audio enthusiasts to blend multiple sound sources seamlessly, whether for a backyard gathering, a small performance, or simply enjoying music at home.
(Source: The Verge)
